It’s frustrating but a lot of people scan read. It’s easy with the scrolling on phones. I often save articles that intrigue me for reading later too. So that could be an element maybe?

If it’s any consultation average reading time is low on my articles too. I write in the vein of personal development because that style works on this platform. I did a lot of experiments with different styles but have not tried fiction unfortunately… so don’t have much insights there… I do know that when I participate in the community and support other writers, my articles perform better. At the same time I want the select group of writers I enjoy reading to feel appreciated so that they continue to write!

At times I have really struggled on this platform and when articles don’t gain traction, for whatever reason, it is easy for doubts to set in. At those times we need steely resolve. You may not have access to the right audience just yet.

We have to consider why we write and what we want to get out of Medium too. I didn’t even know you could make money here when I joined… I wrote for a while for free – fancy that ;)

I think a lot of people are soul searching just now. My poetry has been devalued to the point where frankly speaking it is a labor of love. And you know what? That’s okay.

Anyhow, I don’t know if any of this is helpful or not. But just wanted to underscore why I clap and support occasionally. I selfishly hope you keep writing!

Cheers