Welcome to my new corner of the internet!
In true Manda fashion, I'm a year (or three) late to Substack.
Don’t remember who I am or what A Longer Table is all about? No hard feelings! Click here to see if you want to continue receiving letters from me.
I’ve been living pretty publicly in person and online for over a decade, but if I’m honest — it’s become harder to show up in recent years.
As I got curious about why that is, I found reasons that were hard to admit, and definitely needed to be addressed:
I want everyone to like me, and it sucks when they don’t. Even more when they’re cruel.
I want people to know my intentions, and being misunderstood is frustrating.
I don’t want to trigger others by living in my truth, but it’s inevitable.
I don’t enjoy saying no to people I love, but my work can only thrive when I do.
The pace and pressures of social media feels defeating.
So, what’s a deep thinker + writer with passion to do?
Make changes.
I started by setting new rhythms — I’ll be solely writing on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Then, I decided on switching to Substack since it’s built for creatives like me. I’m only three years (or more) behind the trend. I could kick myself for not switching sooner!
Additionally, I made a decision and set parameters for it. I will pour my energy into this space before I have none left from the never-ending rat race that is Instagram. It doesn’t mean I won’t pop up on the ‘gram frequently… I still enjoy seeing photos of my friend’s kids and sharing bits of my days there. However, this will be my priority.
I’m continuing therapy and clinging to the words of a mentor, Tim, who sent me this text back in August:
This is the place where I will create for the curious, kind-hearted, cheerleaders and problem-solvers. Not the haters, trolls, or incessant problem-finders. I'm on the offensive - not defensive - team.
Lastly, I finally found a way to make my mission of building longer tables sustainable.
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Did I mention it costs less than the average cup of coffee?
I am so happy to be here, and I would be delighted to hear from you!
Drop a quick comment — tell me if your new year has started off on a good note or if you feel defeated already? How is your table growing longer? Who are you listening to and learning from? What are you most excited about right now?
Love & an iced latte with whipped cream,
Manda
Never heard of substack— loving it! And feeling inspired by your dedication to writing on Wednesdays and Fridays. As a fellow writer trying to find out how to make my practice more consistent— It feels both ambitious and doable. This post feels full of focus and determination. I can’t wait to see what you do here.
As far as who Im listening to lately… check out @raisedtostay on instagram if you aren’t following her already— you’ll love her. I believe she has a podcast too but I haven’t listened to it yet… And her first book is coming out soon. Can you have her on your podcast?? 😝 I’m also really enjoying some perspectives from Mark Sandlin as well.
Welcome to Substack 🎉 Hope it’s a smooth transition and looking forward to reading your words in 2023.