… how do you write what people actually want to read?
Easy. You write the things you would put in your second blog — the one where you’re not worried about who’s reading, who’s offended, or whose dinner party invitation mysteriously disappears from your mailbox.
Do I actually want a second blog? No. I can barely keep up with this one, my “real” job, the trilogy I’m writing, and the nine hours of sleep my body insists on like a diva. But if I did have another blog, it would be the place where all the interesting stuff lives — the overheard comments, the whispered gossip, the innuendos people think are subtle, the stories that make you wonder whether little Johnny’s mother is reading this right now and clutching her pearls.
(For the record, I have never written an entire post about anyone’s “little Johnny.” Calm down.)
I’ve always wondered why some bloggers hide behind pseudonyms while others use their real names. I use mine because I’m a writer — published books, hundreds of articles — and I want my work connected to my actual identity. Which means when someone asks, “Who’s the one person you wish didn’t read your blog?” I don’t have an answer.
Except maybe “little Johnny.” Then maybe I’d get my dinner invitation back. Whoever taught that little pipsqueak to read anyway.
But here’s the truth: People want to read what feels real. Not sanitized. Not performative. Not written to avoid offending the PTA.
They want the stuff you’d write if you weren’t worried about who’s watching.
And that’s how you write what people actually want to read.
Cover image created with Jetpack.
If this spoke to you, be sure to “like” and share it over social with someone who’d appreciate the flavor …
DISCLAIMER: These are my personal experiences and opinions. Nothing here is medical, nutritional, or therapeutic advice. Also, I’m a writer and an editor. And I try my best to make sure every post is articulate and free from errors. However, being that I edit my own work—and it’s next to impossible to properly edit your own work—I admit, occasionally there may be an error or two I miss. But doing so doesn’t make me an idiot so don’t be mean. Just smile, pat yourself on the back for finding an error and be glad you’re not the only one who makes mistakes sometimes … xoxox
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