Choosing Enjoyment Over Pleasure and Supporting Writers: A Path to Independence and Quality

Choosing Enjoyment Over Pleasure and Supporting Writers: A Path to Independence and Quality

Introduction:
In a world driven by instant gratification and the pursuit of pleasure, it is important to recognize the value of choosing enjoyment over fleeting moments of pleasure. Pleasure may be addictive and animalistic, but enjoyment is a conscious effort that brings about a sense of accomplishment and forward movement. Similarly, the world of journalism has undergone a significant transformation due to the internet, challenging the traditional business models. However, platforms like Substack have emerged, prioritizing the success of writers and fostering a diverse range of voices. This article explores the connection between choosing enjoyment over pleasure in life and the importance of supporting writers in the digital age.

The Power of Enjoyment:
Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi argues that enjoyment is something we create through our own effort. It gives us a sense of purpose and fulfillment, unlike pleasure, which merely happens to us. Enjoyment is about savoring the situation and engaging in tasks to experience joy and fun. It transcends the immediate experience and leaves a lasting positive impact. When we prioritize enjoyment in our lives, we reject the addictive and fleeting nature of pleasure, and instead, create a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment.

The Pitfalls of Pleasure-Seeking:
Some individuals fall into the trap of using enjoyment as a means to show others how happy they are. However, research suggests that voluntarily sharing experiences on social media actually diminishes the enjoyment felt during those experiences. The pressure to present oneself positively online hampers genuine happiness. Moreover, a worldview that prioritizes practicality over the enjoyment of seemingly unproductive activities can also hinder our ability to fully appreciate life. Those who view activities like hanging out with friends as wasteful enjoy them less than those who see their value. Efficiency may not always be the key to a fulfilling life.

The Significance of Leisure and Enjoyment:
Josef Pieper, a German philosopher, argues that leisure is only possible when one is at peace with oneself. Enjoying life, whether through spending time with loved ones, reading a good book, or taking a leisurely walk, holds greater significance than merely seeking good feelings. It is a declaration of independence from our base impulses and joyless routines. Pursuing enjoyment is a crucial ingredient in creating a life that aligns with our true desires.

Supporting Writers in the Digital Age:
The internet has revolutionized journalism but has also disrupted its business model. Recognizing this, Substack introduced Substack Pro, a program that allows writers to be financially secure regardless of their publication's performance. By taking on the risk and guaranteeing payment for a year of work, Substack aims to build trust and reliability. In return, Substack keeps a percentage of the subscription revenue in the first year, and afterward, the writer retains a higher percentage. This model emphasizes the success of writers as a measure of the platform's success.

A Business Decision, Not an Editorial One:
Substack's approach to supporting writers is rooted in business decisions rather than editorial control. They do not hire or manage writers, but instead, provide a platform for writers to own and manage their own publications. Substack evaluates writers based on their audience size, engagement on social media, and the respect they garner from readers and peers. The platform aims to host a diverse array of voices, recognizing the importance of a variety of perspectives in healthy discourse.

The Importance of a Free Press:
Substack's commitment to supporting writers reflects the significance of a free press. Writers who say anything important often face opposition, and it is crucial to support them in their pursuit of truth and critical thinking. History has shown that heroes can be vilified while villains can be hailed as heroes. A diverse range of voices ensures that different perspectives are heard and considered, promoting a well-rounded understanding of the world.

Conclusion:
Choosing enjoyment over pleasure is a conscious decision to prioritize fulfillment and accomplishment in our lives. It allows us to transcend transient moments of pleasure and create lasting positive experiences. Simultaneously, supporting writers in the digital age is crucial for maintaining a diverse and vibrant media landscape. Platforms like Substack, with their commitment to writers' success, provide a necessary space for independent voices to thrive. To fully embrace the power of enjoyment and support writers, we can take the following actionable advice:

1. Embrace leisure and unproductive activities: Allow yourself to enjoy seemingly unproductive activities such as spending time with loved ones or pursuing hobbies without guilt or the need for efficiency.
2. Share experiences for personal memories, not validation: Rather than seeking external validation through social media, focus on savoring experiences for your own memories and enjoyment.
3. Support independent voices in journalism: Seek out and support independent writers and publications that offer diverse perspectives, recognizing the importance of a free press.

By choosing enjoyment over pleasure and supporting writers, we can create a life that aligns with our true desires and contribute to a more vibrant and inclusive media landscape.