How Do I Build a Real Community When I Feel Like I’m Spinning My Wheels?

Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out because I feel like I’m spinning my wheels when it comes to building a genuine author community. Quite a subject for my first post.

I’m consistently creating—writing stories, developing worlds, sharing content—but when it comes to connection, growth feels slow and fragmented. I post, I engage, I try different platforms, yet it often feels like I’m talking into the void rather than cultivating meaningful relationships with readers or fellow writers.

I don’t want to chase numbers or build something hollow. My heart is for real community—people who care about stories, faith, imagination, and encouragement—but I’m struggling to understand what actually moves the needle in a healthy way.

So I’d love to ask:

• What helped you build a community that actually connected?

• Were there habits or mindsets you had to unlearn?

• How did you discern when to keep pushing vs. when to simplify?

If you’ve been in this season before, I’d really appreciate your wisdom. I’m open to learning—I just don’t want to keep running hard in the wrong direction.

Thank you for taking the time to read this,
Trey