How to Write Your LAST Instructable

How do you know that it is time to quit writing Instructables?

Look at the Data From the Author's Point of View.

I've written 42 Instructables in 17 months.

Six of these have been featured.

That leaves thirty-six that were NOT featured.

Twenty-six of the unworthy Instructables were just variations of little storybooks. I never expected them to be featured. Subtract twenty-six.

So that leaves ten publishing experiences that caused me unhappiness and only six that brought me joy.

Look at the Data From the Reader's Point of View.

Readers have gifted me with about fifty little "favorite" hearts.

Those brought me joy.

Over the seventeen months, my Intructables received over 7,000 views...but fewer than twenty comments.

No joy.

.

Examine the Data More Closely.

Nobody really wants those little books.

My grandchildren like them.

Nobody else does.

Remove the twenty-six little books from the pool and the data DOES look better...

Ask the Important Questions.

Does publishing an Instructable bring me joy?

Yes. I enjoy the creative process.

Does looking at the statistics bring me joy?

No. The statistics make me feel rejected, depressed, unappreciated, worthless and very very sad.

But what about SHARING?

I like to share. But if the process of sharing makes me unhappy, I need to find a different way to share.

Are the joys of creating and sharing worth the inevitable pains of rejection?

Hmmm.... a few hours of enjoyable creativity, followed by a few hours of hopeful anticipation of receiving positive feedback, followed by a few hours of sleeplessness and feeling rejected...

Evaluate.

Are the joys of creating and sharing worth the inevitable pains of rejection?

No.

Make a Decision.

It is time to say Good-bye.

(Then, remembering her manners)

Thanks to all who encouraged me along the way.