Building with Purpose: What 13 Weeks as a Creator Has Taught Me

7 approaches I am embracing to nurture a lasting legacy

Sep 08, 2024

When I started my newsletter on Substack in June, I had no idea what I was truly stepping into.

Yes, I had begun putting myself out there on Instagram and YouTube, but launching this newsletter was different—it was a turning point.

What began as a way to share my thoughts became more meaningful.

It wasn’t just about writing or creating; I was building something bigger, with the potential to impact others, foster a community, and grow beyond myself.

And 13 weeks in, this journey, has been one of constant learning, reflection, and evolution.

I’ve had the privilege of meeting incredible creators who have supported me, and each step forward has taught me valuable lessons.

And while there have been highs and lows, every step has left its mark, shaping the future of what I’m building.

It’s helped me see this process—not as a hustle or a quick road to success, but as a path of continuous transformation.

I’m writing this article for creators like me—those just starting—and for anyone ready to pursue something new.

This isn’t about having all the answers; I’m still in the process of becoming, learning with each newsletter edition, each post, and each experience gained.

I hope these lessons will resonate with you as you reflect on your own journey.

1. Adopt Progress Over Perfection

Done is better than perfect

I’ve always been a perfectionist, obsessing over every detail and striving for flawless results.

I’m that person who will notice a tiny piece of paper on the floor and go back to pick it up despite running late for an appointment.

When I began my newsletter, I began to understand that aiming for perfection could be detrimental.

I learned that progress, no matter how little, was more valuable than waiting for an ideal version of my content.

Moving forward is better than standing still.

Focusing on progress rather than perfection allows you to keep moving and continually improve.

No piece of work will ever be perfect. Taking action and learning from each step will eventually lead to growth.

Are you holding back from sharing your work or starting a project because you’re waiting for it to be perfect? What small steps can you take today to start making progress?

2. Find Comfort in Discomfort

Let’s face it—putting yourself out there is uncomfortable.

Starting, I faced a lot of discomfort. I worried about how my work would be received. I felt uneasy about sharing my thoughts and insights.

Then I began to see that discomfort was a part of the process, not something to avoid.

So, what did I do?

I focused on the value I was providing, and this helped me move past the unease.

Questions like "What will people think?" or "Am I exposing too much?" are understandable.

But the key is to focus on the value you’re bringing.

Discomfort is an inevitable part of any new endeavour. By reframing it as a natural part of the journey, you can keep moving forward and stay motivated.

Are you letting discomfort stop you from pursuing your goals? It’s normal. —learn to fade it out and keep going.

3. Get Used to Talking to the Wall

There are days when it feels like I am shouting into the void—publishing content and receiving little to no feedback.

You notice how I use the present tense on this one as it still happens.

Some days, I post and hear crickets.

It is natural to feel discouraged with minimal engagement. However, I have learned that persistence is key.

It feels like no one is listening. I keep showing up.

And, when I don’t feel like it? I keep creating.

I know that what I am building is valuable.

I am positive that great days will come eventually.

Have you faced moments when it felt like no one was responding to your work? Keep your face in the game and continue to create value. Over time, your efforts will attract the audience you’re aiming for.

4. Have a Minimum Courage Formula

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the concept of a “minimum courage formula.”

There were times when I felt overwhelmed by the fear of failure, and it was easy to become paralyzed by these feelings.

I started applying a rule to push myself:

I would take one courageous step forward each day, no matter how small or imperfect it is.

This approach helped me overcome my fears and build momentum.

A minimum courage formula is about finding that small action you can take to move forward, despite fears or uncertainties.

And you have to step out of your comfort zone.

What is a small, courageous action you can take today that will help you move closer to your goals? Push yourself to take these small courageous steps, and you will gradually overcome bigger challenges and build confidence.

5. Foster a community

As I’ve progressed with my newsletter and creator journey, I now appreciate the importance of nurturing a community.

Initially, I focused solely on creation, but I soon learned that engaging with my audience and fostering relationships was crucial.

It dawned on me that my audience isn’t just numbers on a screen; they’re the people who will help me grow.

They are not passive consumers but active participants in my journey.

By connecting with readers, responding to feedback, and participating in discussions, I see my community as a vital part of my growth.

So, my job is to keep them engaged in an inspiring and value-driven manner.

Making a real impact goes beyond producing content and publishing weekly; it’s about creating meaningful connections.

How can you start building and nurturing a community around your work? Reflect on ways to engage with your audience, understand their needs, and forge meaningful relationships.

6. Collaboration is Key

Another concept that used to be alien to me is collaboration.

I am that girl who will think about collaboration after the last option.

While I still love my solo life, I've come to appreciate the power of collaboration.

Going at it alone is good, but teaming up with the right people is awesome.

I’ve seen firsthand how partnering with others can open up new opportunities and bring fresh perspectives.

Watching the Substack creators, I admire collaborate and expand their reach has been eye-opening.

Now, I understand that working together can enrich my content and foster growth in ways I couldn’t achieve alone.

As part of my strategy, I am seeking opportunities to work with publications that complement mine, provide new ideas, and by so doing, mutually reach a wider audience.

If you think we could work together to create something exciting, let’s talk!

How can you integrate collaboration into your own creative or professional journey? Reflect on potential partnerships or opportunities that could enhance your work and help you achieve your goals.

7. Maintain a Beginner’s Mindset

This is by far, one of the most instructive lessons I’ve learned.

The real value comes from staying open to new ideas and embracing the learning process.

My approach?

I remind myself daily to keep a beginner’s mindset, especially when I’m tempted to think I’ve figured it all out.

A beginner’s mindset isn’t about lacking experience; it’s about being willing to explore new perspectives and continuously evolve.

I’ll remain curious, stay humble and keep improving; no matter how far along I am,

New ideas, feedback, and criticism—they’re all opportunities to grow.

So, how can you foster a beginner’s mindset in your endeavours? Recognize that there’s always more to learn, even as you gain experience. Embrace each new challenge as a chance to expand your knowledge and skills.

Zooming Out and Looking Ahead

I realize that what began as a simple way to share my thoughts has evolved into something much bigger—I'm building a legacy.

And with that comes the responsibility to approach it with intention and care.

There is so much potential to make a difference, and I know there's even more out there for me in the future.

I know this today. I’m open to change as I grow.
Things may shift, and that's okay.

We keep going with the flow, we keep learning, and yes, we’re here for the long haul.

I hope these lessons help you see your own path more clearly, offering guidance or sparking a new perspective as you build something meaningful.

We’re all in this together, learning and growing with each step.

So, enjoy the ride, folks—there’s so much more to come!

Stella ✨

I’d love to hear your thoughts—let me know which lesson resonated with you the most or which ones you would incorporate into your own journey.