Embracing the Freedom and Creativity of Substack: A Reflection
Why Substack is the Perfect Platform for Independent Writers
Hey readers. Today I’m writing about my love for the Substack platform. This is an insiders view of what makes a Substacker tick. For my non-writing readers, I hope my passion resonates with you. For my fellow writers, I hope this post inspires you to continue your writing journey.
We why Substack. Have you ever considered why you write, why you dived into the Substack platform? For a few years, I wrote for a US platform, an established platform with lots of traffic. At the time, I remember being fortunate to write about two of my favourite topics, Premier League football and the National Football League. Initially, it was an exhilarating experience. However, reality soon set in, and the pressures began to mount.
I started to hate the process, especially when it came to generating SEO meta data for the Wordpress plugin. I’d often find myself rewriting an intro just to appease the plugin’s algorithm. The rigidity of layout requirements added to the dissatisfaction. My editor often rejected my articles for not conforming to pagination rules or failing to meet specific image guidelines.
The Constraints of Traditional Platforms
Working for yourself can be lonely, but having the freedom to create is amazing. Switching to Substack was a breath of fresh air. Designing my Substack logos, the colour schemes and my genre was part of the buzz . Substack may not be as customisable as Wordpress, Wix, or Squarespace, but I absolutely love the simplicity of it. I, like all of you, don’t have to worry about paying huge amounts of money on hosting, and fancy email plugins.
On Saturday, I sat browsing through my phone, discussing our next London adventure. Bing! Within a few hours I’d created a logo, came up with a name, a social media account, and of course, a Substack. London Vibe was born. I’m Yorkshire born and bred, but my deep connection to London, a city I have known since childhood, fueled my excitement.
During my commute home, I thought about whether or not I was too hasty to launch London Vibe. After all, there are plenty of publications dedicated to London Life. Then it dawned on me. On Substack, I am not just a writer; I am an editor, content creator, researcher, PR department, and social media strategist all rolled into one. My substacks are a reflection of my passion to create something different.
People make choices, and a some chose to read my work, or like my social media posts. I have the freedom to express myself without worrying about what Yoast SEO thinks about me.
I love working on my MacBook (nothing to do with my surname) and I absolutely adore being creative. This post wasn’t planned, and that’s the beauty of being your own boss.
Feel free to leave a tip in my tip jar here. 👇
Writing is my therapy and I love being creative. The next time you have any doubts about your Substack, open up your laptop and rattle those fingers like your audience depends on it.
Thinking of starting your own Substack? Drop me a note in the comments section.
Hey John, this article totally hits home for me! I remember having a WordPress blog as well dedicated to reviewing different anime shows. It took sooo much work to even get single digit views, that it made the process exhausting and annoying. It wasn't until I found Medium, that I realized the power of being your own creative and not having to adhere so much to rigid SEO guidelines. I'm glad I found Substack, plus I get to connect with other amazing writers like you :)
"launch London Vibe"<--- I thought I inspired you, Lol 🤭
Actually, I'm inspired by you to create another publication on other topic.
Thank you for your enthusiasm.🙏