Why not throw in the towel

By Jessica Albon

Long time, no see–I’ve missed you! I hurt my back right around the time of the last post and since then, typing or any sitting at the computer, has been cut to the bare minimum so that I could recover. Which meant giving up some of my very favorite things–like writing to you–so that I could make sure I kept my clients taken care of and projects on track while letting my body heal.

I’m finally starting to feel better, and though it’ll still be a bit longer before I’m back to my old self, I could not wait any longer to say hello. So, hello!

Today, I’m wondering why the heck you do a newsletter (or a blog, if you do that instead). Is it a way to “pay” for your readers’ attention and goodwill so they’ll feel indebted and buy from you? Is it a place to sell more stuff?

Or, is it a place to try out new ideas, ask questions and explore your field? A place where you can gather feedback and have a conversation with some of your favorite people?

Is it a mashup of all of this?

Or do you just plain do it because the gurus said you had to and you wish you could stop? Or, perhaps, do you do it because you actually enjoy it?

As we look towards changing the calendar and discovering ourselves squarely in 2010, I’d love to know what it is that motivates you to publish–why you do what you do. What role does it play in your business, this participating in writing great content and sharing it?

Now, I know you’ll “mean” to answer these questions I’ve posed. You’ll even give them a bit of thought. But today, I want to challenge you to write the answers down and, to make sure you take action, send your answers to me (either by email or as a comment on the blog).

I know this kind of reflection is challenging, but as you consider 2009 and map out 2010, determining the role publishing plays in your business will absolutely shape the way you approach your clients and readers. And, what’s more, giving some serious thought to your expectations, and challenges when it comes to writing a regular newsletter will help you expand your business and reach more people with your message in the coming new year.

So, tell me: why do you publish and how can you do even better in 2010?

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Jessica Albon


I'm Jessica. Award-winning writer and designer. Since 2001, I've helped companies all around the world get seen, get heard, and Thrive their Tribes.

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