Why Are You Never Viral?

Does it mean you're not a great writer?

My kids have chickenpox. It’s only been a few weeks since they recovered from Covid-19.

No wonder the word “Viral” is bothering me today!

“My stories never go viral.”

I hear this a lot from writers. It’s the ultimate, right? To go viral—Wow! How great would that feel!

Okay, yes. I’m not going to tell you it’s awful. Who doesn’t like a little ego stroking? It feels pretty great for a day or two. That’s about how long a viral article lasts.

But it’s also a mixed bag, because…

those catchy viruses are all about situation and luck:

• A catchy title.

• Being in the right place at the right time.

• Coughing up the right topic.

• Getting spread around by a pushy algorithm or because of controversy.

You can learn to write better titles.

You can research topics that MIGHT be popular.

You can be more controversial (if that’s your thing).

But a viral article doesn’t necessarily mean you’re a good writer.

In fact, I see terribly written viral articles every day.

So…Here’s the good news.

A viral article (or lack of one) has nothing to do with how good a writer you are!

“What should I aim for then, Kelly? How do I know I’m any good?”

Throwing the tough questions at me! That’s okay—I’ve got you.

Let’s start with this:

“Am I a good writer?” is a hard question to answer and we can ALWAYS improve. Let’s throw that one away right now.

Stop asking yourself that.

Try this one instead: “Does my writing connect with my readers?”

And if you want to sell stories: “Do editors like my writing?”

It’s ALL about that feedback loop.

If you have eight readers, are any of them telling you they enjoy or related to your story?

Great! You’re doing well. Now, how can you connect even better? That’s the question to ask yourself.

If you want to sell your stories, are editors or clients buying? How can you sell more?

Those questions are far more helpful than “Why aren’t I viral?” and “Am I good?”

Kelly xx

P.S. Has anyone told you they connect with your writing or given you positive feedback? Tell us about it in the comments.