My 10th Reading Journal of 2025
Words by Jeong-Yoon Lee
This book found its way to me a little differently than usual. Most of the books I read—probably 99% of them—are ones I come across through the content shared by people I follow. But this time, I was browsing the new arrivals on the Seocho-gu Yangjae Library website, and one title instantly caught my eye. The phrase “content I want to read” pulled me in from the start.
As someone who writes across various platforms—although not professionally—I couldn’t help but feel drawn to that phrase. I say “not professionally” because to call it a profession, it should at least support my livelihood. And to be honest, I make less than 100,000 KRW a month from writing. So for now, I guess it’s more of a side gig—if that.
The Joy of Documentation
I’ve been running a blog consistently since 2007. Even while working as a graphic designer for over 15 years, I would often take the initiative to create company blogs, run their social media channels, and plan content—just because I enjoyed it. At some point, I realized this wasn’t just a hobby; it was something I was genuinely good at. That eventually led me to hold the title of “Editor-in-Chief” in one of my jobs, where I focused on content.
After that, I kept gravitating toward content-related work. I participated in planning and producing YouTube content, and later, I was asked to manage a blog as a part-time job—which eventually led to a full-time role. I became the brand communication manager and watched the company grow, which brought a sense of joy. But I was also worn out—mentally and physically.
Finding My Way Back to Myself
And now? I’m back to being a home protector—a freelancer in between chapters, deeply contemplating my career. I ask myself over and over, “Is there something I can do alone?” or “What is it that only I can do?”
But if there’s one thing I’m sure of, it’s this: I love documenting, and I want to get better at it.
That’s why The Editor’s Way of Keeping Records felt so timely. It made me reflect on just how much of an “editor-like” life I’ve already been living.
And yes, I’ve come to a conclusion—I am an editor.
Collected Quotes
There were a few lines in the book that I wanted to hold on to—like sticky notes I’d stick in my personal journal.
“An editor is not a writer. While they do write, they’re more like content planners—connectors between people and between people and content.” (p.061)
Reading that, I nodded. That’s exactly what I’ve been doing. I write, yes, but most of my time has been spent planning and connecting.
“An editor is someone who observes and discovers. An editor curates and connects.” (p.077)
Creating content isn’t just about writing—it’s about collecting inputs. Without enough input, there’s nothing to discover or connect. Even the best documentation means little without raw material.
“An editor uncovers the context of information, finds meaning, and connects it all holistically. Sometimes, you have to step back and see the big picture. Other times, you need to zoom in and examine the details.” (p.084)
That “big-picture” moment is my favorite part of content work. Maybe that’s why I enjoy news and current affairs so much—I love making sense of the broader narrative.
A Lesson from Slowalk
One lesson that stuck with me was from Slowalk’s third principle: Quality. I’ve been thinking about that a lot lately. Yes, recording and documenting is important—but what matters more is refining that into content with real substance and value.
If I want to create content that I truly want to read—authentic, well-crafted, and intentional—then this book will be an invaluable guide.
And so today, I write one more line, hoping that someday, I’ll confidently put Editor on my final career name card.
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