I get that in the wild times of the internet in its current state.
We’re all shouting from the roof tops trying to be seen. Whether it’s just for attention (Which is the new currency btw) or whether we need to get people into our creative worlds so we can share our things and stuff with them.
It’s easy to do but it’s not simple. It takes consistent work and effort and a certain level of ruthlessness you need to weave into your system. Like when grandma gave you tablespoons of cod liver oil whenever you went over to visit. It may have tasted gross, but it was good for you.
So how do you do this you may ask?
Well…
You need to craft an interesting persona and origin story for yourself as a creator.
Build a mystique around your creative process. Engage your followers and readers curiosity about the person behind the work they love.
You do this by telling stories and sharing processes, it also goes a lot deeper with your characters and stories you write. The paintings you and drawings you make or even the music you write and share.
There needs to be back stories and emotions attached to it. You need to write it all. Yeah might write a love song or song about something but why? Go deeper. Were you feeling a certain way? Was it just cause you were bored? Details matter. Even if you don’t share it. It’s there so in your mind you can attach and pull from it with future work.
The thing is. It’s not difficult. It’s just a lot of work that needs to be done. Yet when you carry on doing work this way. Your work will automatically be infused with more magic and authenticity than the creatives who just create something with minimal thought.
It’s why some authors can write a single book. With a single character and rope in millions of fans.
A prime example would be Jack Reacher from Killing Floor by Lee Child
Lee has such an amazing approach to developing his characters, you can’t help buy think that you know that character in person, even though it’s pure fiction. Yet if you read the books. You learn about every single detail there is about the character, warts ‘n all.
This is something I actively think about the things I post and share on social media and with my fellow Silly Goose Society.
This is how I want you to think about creating if you are already making the jump or plan to make the jump in the future. Either way. I’ll have your back if you need advice or tips or be pointed in the right direction.
Stephen Walker.