Introvert Hits Publish: Why I'm Putting My Thoughts Out There

Inspirations That Sparked My Journey

One of the pivotal moments for me was reading an article by Ferruccio Balestreri called "Building Friend Catchers." In his article, Ferruccio shared how real-world relationships and businesses were built simply by sharing his thoughts online. He recounts how, as a teenager, he started engaging in online communities, which led to long-term friendships and business collaborations. His concept of "friend catchers" involves creating content or tools that resonate deeply with niche audiences, attracting like-minded individuals​.

I was also deeply influenced by the book Connect the Dots: The Art and Science of Creating Good Luck. The book emphasises that luck is not just a random occurrence but can be created through the deliberate act of connecting with others and sharing your insights. It posits that by putting yourself out there, you increase the chances of serendipitous encounters and opportunities​

The final push came from a podcast episode of "Audience of One" where they interviewed Nicolas Cole. Listening to Cole dismantle my limiting beliefs about writing was a game-changer for me.

Breaking Down Limiting Beliefs

You Don't Need to Be a Published Author

The first belief Cole dismantled was the myth that you need to be a published author or possess a certain level of success to be considered a writer. Cole argues that the moment you hit publish on any piece of content, you become a writer. This simple shift in perspective dissolved the pressure of needing to be perfect or an "expert" before starting. It empowered me to take that initial step and stop waiting to feel "ready."

Everyone Has Something to Offer

The second limiting belief Cole addressed was the fear of having nothing to offer. He argues that everyone has unique experiences and valuable insights to contribute. He introduced the concept of the "Two-Year Test," which suggests writing for the version of yourself from two years ago. This practical approach helped me recognise the wealth of knowledge I've accumulated and the potential to connect with others on a deeper level.

Topics Can Be Revisited

Finally, Cole challenged the misconception that a topic can only be written about once. He emphasised the power of data-driven storytelling, where facts and figures can be used to revisit and re-interpret existing ideas, captivating a wider audience. This inspired me to consider how I can leverage research and statistics to strengthen my future writing endeavours 🤓.

Taking the First Step

Armed with these insights and inspirations, I'm taking the plunge and starting to share my thoughts online. I understand now that I don't need anyone's permission to be a writer, and that my unique experiences and perspectives have value. By embracing the internet as a platform for sharing, I hope to build meaningful connections and maybe even create some luck along the way.

If you're an introvert like me, I encourage you to take that first step too. The world is waiting to hear what you have to say.