Hey Temi, as someone who grapples with similar thoughts about his own newsletter. I want to share my perspective, as a writer and one of your readers.
You seem like a genuine dude who’s a true artist. What do I mean by “a true artist”? Someone who shares their work and vulnerabilities. That’s what I respect and like about you.
I think its thoughtful of you to ask your readers about what they want to read, I’ve done it myself. However, I think it’s a trap. I think you have loads of content that only you can create. I’m not religious; however, I wouldn’t mind reading your experience with faith because it’s a huge part of your life. I’m not a graphic designer, but I appreciate your spin on things. Being yourself I think is the best formula. Which is something you do better than many.
You might lose a few readers in the process, but they’re not the right readers. I’ve personally sacrificed a few subscribers to save my substack if ya know what I mean.
Writing about things that don’t move you, like crying in front of a recording camera doesn’t move the internal needle.
Hey Justin! Thanks for sharing. I hear what you mean! You're right about the trap! I'll be mindful of that but thanks for the kind words again. I really appreciate it & thanks for sticking around.
Thank you for your vulnerability Temi! I look forward to your newsletter, it helps me feel less alone in my thoughts as a designer. We can be critical of ourselves and forget what's important, to explore and be open to what life brings.
Great thoughts to me I echo the relationship piece. It seems the older I get the smaller my circle becomes lonely. This has been a serious opponent. I too am out of stage what I crave genuine relationship with just dope like minded people
Thanks Javier! Yeah man circle is getting smaller as I get older lol. I’ve finally been ok with calling people an acquaintance vs friend. I use to think it was rude lol
Hey Temi! I’ve been reading this when I can and this newsletter left me with many questions. I think an AMA would be awesome. You hit on a lot of topics that I’m still seeking answers for. Especially when it comes to authenticity in relationships. It’s no secret that we all crave true connection and support from people outside of ourselves. This includes creating a safe space for others to feel vulnerable, to express genuine joy, but also challenge and push each other to be the best versions of ourselves (like, maybe not crying in front of the camera, but encouraging someone to use DMs/texting instead?). I’m curious to know your perspective on this: what kinds of things can we say, ask or do to build genuinely safe, creative spaces like this?
Also, I have thoroughly been enjoying the Metro Boomin Spider-Man Album. It’s been on replay for me this past week!
Temi, I think your bullet points are super strong like musical hooks that bounce around my brain when i’m trying to be aware of the adventure. A broken crayon still colors 🥰
Hey Temi, as someone who grapples with similar thoughts about his own newsletter. I want to share my perspective, as a writer and one of your readers.
You seem like a genuine dude who’s a true artist. What do I mean by “a true artist”? Someone who shares their work and vulnerabilities. That’s what I respect and like about you.
I think its thoughtful of you to ask your readers about what they want to read, I’ve done it myself. However, I think it’s a trap. I think you have loads of content that only you can create. I’m not religious; however, I wouldn’t mind reading your experience with faith because it’s a huge part of your life. I’m not a graphic designer, but I appreciate your spin on things. Being yourself I think is the best formula. Which is something you do better than many.
You might lose a few readers in the process, but they’re not the right readers. I’ve personally sacrificed a few subscribers to save my substack if ya know what I mean.
Writing about things that don’t move you, like crying in front of a recording camera doesn’t move the internal needle.
Sorry I don’t engage more often. I’m busy doing my own shit. I love your work though.
Hey Justin! Thanks for sharing. I hear what you mean! You're right about the trap! I'll be mindful of that but thanks for the kind words again. I really appreciate it & thanks for sticking around.
Thank you for your vulnerability Temi! I look forward to your newsletter, it helps me feel less alone in my thoughts as a designer. We can be critical of ourselves and forget what's important, to explore and be open to what life brings.
You're so welcome! Thanks for reading!
Great thoughts to me I echo the relationship piece. It seems the older I get the smaller my circle becomes lonely. This has been a serious opponent. I too am out of stage what I crave genuine relationship with just dope like minded people
Thanks Javier! Yeah man circle is getting smaller as I get older lol. I’ve finally been ok with calling people an acquaintance vs friend. I use to think it was rude lol
Hey Temi! I’ve been reading this when I can and this newsletter left me with many questions. I think an AMA would be awesome. You hit on a lot of topics that I’m still seeking answers for. Especially when it comes to authenticity in relationships. It’s no secret that we all crave true connection and support from people outside of ourselves. This includes creating a safe space for others to feel vulnerable, to express genuine joy, but also challenge and push each other to be the best versions of ourselves (like, maybe not crying in front of the camera, but encouraging someone to use DMs/texting instead?). I’m curious to know your perspective on this: what kinds of things can we say, ask or do to build genuinely safe, creative spaces like this?
Also, I have thoroughly been enjoying the Metro Boomin Spider-Man Album. It’s been on replay for me this past week!
Temi, I think your bullet points are super strong like musical hooks that bounce around my brain when i’m trying to be aware of the adventure. A broken crayon still colors 🥰
Thanks so much Jonathan! What a great analogy haha I love it