I can do nothing about likes, they are a symptom of writing. Whether someone engages with my writing is entirely their choice, and in any case I can’t respond to them constructively.
Comments however, are an implicit invitation for me to at least say thank you possibly more. This is the beginning of a conversation, and that’s the way human connection works.
It will be a short story, similar to how short-lived the virality was.
My tweet went viral, my follower count skyrocketed, and the comment section and retweets were on fire. Then an online media house reshared it on IG. I thought, “Okay, I made it.” But it attracted all the people who weren't interested in books, poetry or travel. Instead, they wanted more posts about the party life, which was what the initial tweet was about. Slowly, the more I posted about what mattered to me, the more I lost followers and engagements. The viral post didn't help with any sales either.
On the flip side, other posts that had far, far, far less engagement were the ones that got people in my inbox asking questions, making connections and buying books.
Eventually, I deleted the App later on because I was burnt out trying to manage it, plus all the other social media platforms.
I’ve noticed this too. Some of my most heartfelt posts get the least likes, but spark the deepest replies or private messages. It’s a good reminder: not all impact is public, and not all silence means indifference. Sometimes, the words that truly land do so quietly.
Totally makes sense. Thank you for sharing so clearly, once again, Landon. Cheers!
You're welcome! Thank you for taking the time to read it.
Landon, thanks for another perceptive post.
I can do nothing about likes, they are a symptom of writing. Whether someone engages with my writing is entirely their choice, and in any case I can’t respond to them constructively.
Comments however, are an implicit invitation for me to at least say thank you possibly more. This is the beginning of a conversation, and that’s the way human connection works.
What happens after that is where the fun begins.
I love this Gary. We must focus on what we have control over, and we don't control likes or comments or virality.
As the Serenity prayer says about wisdom. The wisdom to know the difference.
Thanks for these insights Landon
No problem!
It's easy to agree with all you explained, especially because I experienced both sides of the viral coin. Spitting truly fire as always Landon!
Thanks Latoya! I'd love to hear your story about it if you're open to sharing.
You're welcome. Sure.
It will be a short story, similar to how short-lived the virality was.
My tweet went viral, my follower count skyrocketed, and the comment section and retweets were on fire. Then an online media house reshared it on IG. I thought, “Okay, I made it.” But it attracted all the people who weren't interested in books, poetry or travel. Instead, they wanted more posts about the party life, which was what the initial tweet was about. Slowly, the more I posted about what mattered to me, the more I lost followers and engagements. The viral post didn't help with any sales either.
On the flip side, other posts that had far, far, far less engagement were the ones that got people in my inbox asking questions, making connections and buying books.
Eventually, I deleted the App later on because I was burnt out trying to manage it, plus all the other social media platforms.
Thank you for sharing!
Are you posting those posts on Linkedin? Facebook also? Instagram?
I used to post there, not anymore. I still share occasional things on Facebook because I have an existing network there from years of going to events.
Likes might lie. Result don't should be on a t-shirt..
I’ve noticed this too. Some of my most heartfelt posts get the least likes, but spark the deepest replies or private messages. It’s a good reminder: not all impact is public, and not all silence means indifference. Sometimes, the words that truly land do so quietly.
You are spot on. That is 100% my experience as well.
Powerful
https://substack.com/@martinzuzak/note/c-129455553?r=3en26e