The Art of Showing Up: Why Likes, Comments, and Restacks Matter More Than You Think

Are silent readers killing Substack?

"Funny enough, I used to think Instagram was too performative, but in a way, Substack is a stage too. The difference? On Instagram, applause is watch time. On Substack, it’s engagement that actually matters—real people responding, sharing, and lifting each other up."

I spent time on Instagram, learned how to make reels, and even found some joy in creating. Only, it didn’t really fuel my soul. Every time I try a new recipe I think I should be dressed, made up, clean kitchen, and filming for my Healthy Experiments account. But it isn’t just that, I’m an introvert. While I don’t get hung up with being on camera, I am much more comfortable behind my keyboard. I think that is why Substack was such a welcome relief. Here, the audience is thoughtful, will read past the three second hook and stick around a minute when the content is relevant. This is the environment where I can share what is on my mind without changing who I am. This is how I Align & Thrive!

But here’s the deal, too many people consume without acknowledging creators. Instagram provides time-watched metrics to let creators know what is resonating with the audience. On Substack, our only feedback comes from views, likes, comments, and restacks—and those don’t come as easily

What if we treated Notes and articles like a stage? Imagine pouring your heart into a song, only to have an audience sit in silence. No claps. No cheers. Just quiet stares before they walk away. That’s what silent reading feels like to a writer.

We can build something special in our Substack community by being the audience we'd want for ourselves - one that responds, engages, and shows genuine appreciation. Instead of just chasing numbers, let's focus on lifting each other up. We don't need more silent observers in empty seats. We need an engaged audience that believes in and champions each other's work. That's the kind of community worth building.

It looks like many of you agree with me!

Here is a challenge for you. Spend 10 minutes a day of your Substack reading time supporting your fellow Substackers.

• Do you agree or find value in a message? Give it a ❤️

• Does the post raise thoughts or related memories. Drop a comment. 💬

• If you think, “yes, this. Everyone should read this”, it’s a great time to Restack 🔄

Taking these actions will help the community in many ways. First, it lets the author know someone is reading and appreciates their work. It will bring light to great content that may be lost in the algorithm. It will help shape the community to be a place where we can all Align & Thrive. When you engage, you build relationships. You connect with people who will, in turn, engage with you. You become part of a community, rather than just another voice in the void.

The best communities aren’t built by algorithms. They’re built by people who show up. Will you be one of them?

💛 Enjoyed this post? Let me know by tapping the 💜 (heart) button—it helps more than you know!
☕ Feeling generous? You can support my work (or fuel my caffeine addiction) on Buy Me a Coffee. Every bit means the world!