I launched my newsletter exactly one year ago (!) *Go shawty, it’s your birthday* It’s been a phenomenal journey and I learned A TON. Here are 13 short, powerful lessons I learned going from 0 → 5k subscribers: 1. Write to solve one specific problem for one specific type of person. 2. Consistency can’t be overstated. Never skip a week. 3. Great writing is concise — cut as many words as possible. 4. The best way to “find your voice” is to write every day, even if for just 15 minutes. 5. Writer’s block isn’t about having nothing to say, it’s from lacking a repeatable process. 6. People love listicles because they’re easy to read and can provide immense value. 7. Don’t underestimate audience feedback. They’ll tell you what they want if you know what to listen for. 8. Promoting your work is necessary, but focus on THEIR desired state vs my ask. 9. Don’t shy away from being vulnerable — personal stories are relatable. 10. Write like you talk. It’s more fun to write and more fun to read. 11. Always proofread before publishing, and never after 10pm! 12. That said, typos will happen. You’re human. It’s all good. 13. Have fun and enjoy the ride, and your audience will too. Huge shout out to all the Reeders who’ve been riding with me! I appreciate you saving a spot for me in your inbox. And if you haven’t subscribed, but want to level-up your content strategy and creation, come join us. Each “episode” is less than 5 min to read and completely free. I’ll drop the link in the comments to subscribe (also in my bio and banner). Hope to see you there. #writing #contentstrategy #contentmarketing
Devin Reed - never proofread or post after 10pm?
Just curated to include in a future issue of Opt In Weekly.
Congrats, Devin! "5. Writer’s block isn’t about having nothing to say, it’s from lacking a repeatable process." Very true. I think I first heard this from Stephen King.
Yours is the *only* email I read consistently every.single.week and I learn something every time. Thank you, Devin! I have a Devin file in my inbox so I can refer back as needed... And I am working towards writing every day. Adding in " for 15 minutes " actually makes it sound so much more manageable.
Congrats, Devin! The one newsletter I actually read every week.
Happy Birthday Reeder! Knowing you’ve learned these during the last year is encouraging. Like, so eventually will do I 😅
Devin Reed incredibly happy for you, not surprised with this success you G! Also another 100% engaged audience member here; it’s had a tangible impact on me.
NEVER after 10pm 🙋♂️🤦♂️ Have learned a lot from you and always look forward to Saturday mornings. Congrats and keep going!
Head of Content, Clari | Founder, The Reeder
1yFree marketing and writing advice every Saturday morning: thereeder.co