What strategies do you usually use for growing your social media and newsletter when you stagnate?

A few weeks ago, I started to feel like I had hit a plateau on social media, especially with my Substack newsletter. I couldn’t seem to get past a certain number of subscribers (stagnation).

In similar situations, I’ve noticed that people often either:
– run a giveaway
– pay for ads

These techniques are generally fine, but I don’t want to rely on external incentives like giveaways. People are usually only motivated to follow for a short period – and mainly because they want to get something "for free". They get used to that kind of reward quickly.

Instead, I decided to try a different approach:

• I started posting in communities on X (instead of just posting to my feed)

• I began collaborating with other creators for newsletter content

• I joined private Discord communities where there’s more connection and support among creators (smaller communities can also be powerful because you get to know each other better)

Do you have any tried-and-true strategies for overcoming stagnation on social media or with your newsletter?

Looking forward to them.

P.S.: For those who celebrate,

Happy Easter! 🐣