Is It Time to Pivot Your Substack Publication? Try This 3-Step Pressure Test

Not all ideas make great publications — but yours can evolve.

More than 120 people have downloaded my digital guide, Speak From the Ground You Stand On, to explore what it really means to publish the publication only they can write.

If you’re one of them, you’ve already started the deep work of uncovering what makes your perspective distinct. But maybe you’re still feeling stuck — wondering:

• Am I writing about the right topics?

• Why does my topic feel harder to sustain than I expected?

• Do I need to refine, expand or completely shift directions?

If those questions are on your mind, you’re not alone. Many Substack creators hit a point where they start second-guessing their concept. But that doesn’t mean your publication is failing — it might just need a pivot.

That’s where today’s 3-Step Publication Pressure Test comes in. It’s designed to help you:

✅ Check if your topic has staying power
✅ Find gaps in your concept that might be holding you back
✅ Decide if it’s time to refine, expand or shift directions

Now, let’s see if your publication is still the one only you can write.

Step 1: The Longevity Check 🔄

Do you have enough to say, long-term?

A strong publication concept should evolve with you, not lock you into a box. If you’re struggling to come up with fresh ideas, it might be a sign that your concept is too narrow, that you’re writing from a space that isn’t energetically or emotionally sustainable — or that you need to expand into new angles.

Ask yourself:
✅ Have I struggled to come up with new ideas lately?
✅ Do I still feel curious and energized about this topic?
✅ Do I have the mental and emotional resources to keep writing about this for the next year or more?

🔍 Quick Test:
Fill in the blank → “Even if no one was reading, I would still be exploring _______ because _______.”

💡 If this feels hard to answer, your publication might need a fresh angle or a broader scope to keep it sustainable.

Step 2: The Differentiation Check 🌟

Am I still creating the publication only I can give?

It’s easy to slip into “default mode” — writing what you think people want instead of what truly reflects your unique voice. If your publication is starting to feel generic, it might be time to recalibrate.

Ask yourself:
✅ Does my publication still feel personal and distinct, or could anyone be writing this?
✅ Have I fallen into writing what’s expected, rather than what I’m genuinely excited about?
✅ What’s something only I can bring to this topic?

🔍 Quick Test:
Fill in the blank → “Most people writing about this focus on _______, but my perspective is different because _______.”

💡 If you’re struggling to define what makes your publication unique, you might need to refocus on your personal lens or explore a fresh direction.

Step 3: The Commitment Check 🔥

Do I still want to be writing this publication?

If you’re dreading writing each issue, or if it feels like a chore instead of an opportunity, your publication might need a shift. The best topics fuel your curiosity, not drain it.

Ask yourself:
✅ Am I still excited to sit down and write each issue?
✅ Are there aspects of my topic that I’d love to explore more, but haven’t yet?
✅ If I had to reimagine my publication today, what would I change or expand?

🔍 Quick Test:
Fill in the blank → “The parts of this topic I’d love to dive deeper into are _______, because they connect to my curiosity about _______.”

💡 If your publication has become something you have to do rather than something you want to do, it’s time to tweak the format, focus or structure.

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What’s Next? Adjust, Expand or Pivot

If your publication passes all 3 tests, you’re likely in a great spot! But if you’re feeling gaps in any area, here’s what to do next:

• If you’re running out of ideas → Expand your scope. Look at adjacent topics or fresh angles within your niche.

• If your publication feels generic → Reconnect with what makes your voice distinct. What’s your real take on this subject?

• If you’re losing excitement → Consider tweaking your format (e.g., shorter posts, interviews, themed series) to make it more fun.

💬 Today’s comments are a private workshopping space for paid members.

I hope you're putting this 3-Step Pressure Test to good use! If you'd like strategic and editorial feedback as you refine your publication concept, join us in the comments. Paid members can share their ideas (new or pivots!), and I’ll be here today to offer feedback and support.

👉 Upgrade to tell me what you’re exploring.