How to Break Out of Your Writing Rut and Build an Audience That Cares

Becoming clear on who you write for and why

Photo by Florencia Viadana on Unsplash

Ever feel like you’re writing into the void?

You pour time and energy onto the page, hoping your words will reach someone who needs to hear them. But somehow, it feels like they never land. No readers, no engagement, no clicks. Just silence.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

So what can you do about it?

Get clear about why you’re writing in the first place. What’s your purpose, and who do you serve?

Lack of clarity around this question is a common struggle for us writers. And without a clear direction, it’s impossible to build a meaningful audience.

I’ve been there. Trying different things. Hearing crickets.

Then one day I was knocked out of my seat when the post I spent the least time on brought the most engagement! No doubt because I was so close to the topic that the words just flowed out of me. And readers picked up on that authentic voice.

What I was writing about meant something to them.

So don’t worry—finding your unique voice and audience is possible, even if it feels a bit out of reach now.

Here’s how to start getting clear on your purpose so your words connect with the right people.

Step 1: Uncover What Lights You Up

Let’s start with who you are.

What topics could you talk about for hours? What makes you lean in, feel excited, or want to share more? When do people ask you for advice?

These are clues. They show what aligns with your values, interests, and life experiences.

I pay attention if I see the words create, thrive, innovate, or make an impact. They're my magnets.

Think about yours.

Action Step: Brainstorm without Limits
Take 5-10 minutes, grab a notebook, and jot down anything you’d love to write about.

Passionate about helping people become their best selves? Write down a few ideas.

Can’t stop talking about travel or wellness? Make up a few post headlines.

Your goal here isn’t to be specific yet—just to capture topics that energize you. The more you enjoy your content, the easier it’ll be to stick with it. And draw in others who feel the same way.

Step 2: Define Who You’re Writing For

Think about one person who’d value what you’ve got to say. Picture them as clearly as possible.

What does she worry about?

What does she want?

What does he dream of doing one day?

This is your ideal reader, the one person you’re writing for.

Action Step: Write a “Reader Bio.”
Write a short description of this person. Give him a name or clip a photo from a magazine. For example, if you’re writing for a busy professional in their 50s who wants to feel fulfilled, call him Alex.

What’s Alex going through? How could your content help him?

Having a clear reader bio lets you write for him only, making it resonate more. You’re not talking to everyone, because if you do, Alex will feel ignored or less seen for who he uniquely is.

Every time you sit down to write, think, “How can I help Alex today?”

Step 3: Identify Your Core Message

What’s the big idea behind your writing? What do you want people to take away after they read your work?

This isn’t about being “all things to all people.” Instead, focus on one thing you’re passionate about that your ideal reader needs.

Action Step: Complete This Sentence
Try this fill-in-the-blank exercise: “My writing helps _____ feel/be/do _______.”

It could be “My writing helps busy, jaded professionals in their 50s live with meaning and purpose.” Or “My writing helps busy, overwhelmed professionals in their 50s find evidence-based tools to manage stress.”

Your core message should be something that you’re obsessed with and that has insane value for your ideal reader. This will give your writing direction, making it easier to come up with ideas and stay on track.

Step 4: Experiment and Get Feedback

Finding clarity is a journey, not a one-time decision. It’s totally fine if you need to try a few topics before things click.

Experiment, but don’t stop there; ask for feedback. Ask readers what they enjoyed most. Check the analytics on your platform to find the most engaging posts.

Does any topic always spark a reaction?

Action Step: Post 3 Test Pieces
Write three short pieces on topics from your brainstorming session.

Share online—on a blog, LinkedIn, Substack, or X.

If no response, ask a fellow writer or friend for honest feedback. This can be eye-opening and help see whether you’re well aligned with that topic. They may suggest something that’s a far better fit for you.

Step 5: Commit to Consistency in Your Focus

Once you have a clearer idea of what resonates with you and your readers, do more of that!

Pick a core focus for your writing and stick with it, but don’t go too narrow too early. You want to have room to breathe and not feel restricted.

Consistency helps build trust and familiarity, even if your audience starts small (btw, everyone's did!)

Action Step: Choose a Posting Schedule
Commit to a realistic schedule, even if it’s just once a week. Set a day and time, and stick to it. Consistency builds momentum, which attracts the right readers and strengthens your voice.

Takeaway

Gaining clarity about your purpose in writing isn’t an overnight process. But each step you take brings you closer to a writing path that works for you and your audience.

Clarity is more than finding your voice—it’s about shaping a message that your reader can connect with and rely on.

When you focus on what matters to you and your ideal reader, your words become magnetic. Audience problem solved.

In November, I’m running a challenge to Write Your Ebook in 4 Weeks. If you’ve been writing for a while and have a body of work to draw from, DM me for the details.