12 Comments

Thank you for a beautiful workshop. Really recommend watching it back if you weren't able to join us live. I learned a lot.

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Thank you, Clare! I know you're working on something really special at Beyond Survival, so I'm glad to have you join.

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Aug 14Liked by Amanda B. Hinton

Thank you, Amanda. That was a beautiful and thoughtful workshop. I have gathered so much information about next pathways to move forward. First step is scaling back a little and working on scheduling connection days. I'm so grateful I found you!

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I'm so glad to hear this, Eve! Keep us posted on how these changes feel — and what you notice is different around how you feel connected to your readers.

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Amanda, terrific workshop and so provocative! You got me thinking in several different ways about what I'm writing, and when, and how I'm organizing my editorial calendar. The idea of being motivated by what my reader needs or wants (rather than worrying about my own writing stamina) is one I want to wrap my head around. Also, that readers don't care about my deadlines. Wow! My deadline to publish every Friday is what keeps me on track, but maybe there's another way to think about that. One more takeaway was to think about a monthly theme. So much to ponder - thank you!!

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This was an energizing experience for me on a day where my energy was low. I’m so glad I was able to make it and feel excited to start using this simple calendar planning tool for my writing!

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Thank you, Angel!! I’m so glad to hear this. ☀️

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Aug 16Liked by Amanda B. Hinton

I just watched the workshop replay and I want to thank you for your honest and heartfelt guidance, Amanda! I'm recovering from a (mild) burn-out and had to suddenly stop everything I was doing in June. Right now, looking at how to start things up again in the coming weeks/months, this workshop helped a lot to hopefully prevent this from happening again. Question: Have you ever had a time when suddenly your readers didn't hear from you for a while and how did you deal with that (without feeling incredibly guilty, even though I only have free subscribers)?

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Shirley, I'm so pleased to hear that the workshop was supportive to you! Also, sending warm wishes in your post-burnout recovery. I'm familiar with this season, as well as that wise caution not to recreate the cycle again. To answer your question, I have taken time away for a few weeks and have also observed others who approach these sort of unplanned/planned sabbaticals.

Unless you haven't published in 4 - 6 months, I probably wouldn't even draw attention to the fact that you've gone MIA. In reality, and I say this with a LOT of kindness, readers likely haven't noticed that you slowed down in your publishing. They just don't keep tabs on things that closely. Plus, the summer is such a flexible time for everyone, and I think you can confidently publish the next exciting thing you have planned for your readers. I don't think there's any need to distract them with an apology for something that doesn't need a repair in relationship. What do you think?

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Aug 20Liked by Amanda B. Hinton

Thank you so much for your kind response, Amanda! I really appreciate it. I was thinking the same thing and I'm very glad to have heard your thoughts on it. Also, just really happy to be part of your community. ❤️

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Aug 21Liked by Amanda B. Hinton

Well, this is why I spent my birthday money on the workshop. I've been on the sidelines as a reader on substack since i deleted all other social media in November, trying to muster up courage to share my voice as who I am now. I gave myself a deadline to post by my birthday, but I had no structure or way to make sure it happened........my birthday was yesterday.

Your "low tech/high intuition" format...GODSEND. I immediately blocked in my first post for Monday since I missed yesterday. AND THEN the themes/colors idea clicked so immediately, I (super loosely) planned out the whole rest of the year!

Keep the "aha's" coming, my girl. You're just the shiniest little gem in my aspiring writer's toolbox/treasure chest.

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Sep 9Liked by Amanda B. Hinton

Lovley workshop. Enjoying the idea for colour coding by effort and nudges. I find consistentcy really challenging so planning never seems to work for me, even though great at making detailed ones that I never follow! Looking forward to trying this gentler version of planning to keep the creativity flowing and not feel so hemmed in.

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