Hi Writer! You got this.

My suggestions:

Go look at the recent updates of pubs and the founding editors who send out the message, "I can recommend boost-worthy stories" - they provide excellent feedback on what they are looking for.

A few I can share:

Deb Hartman (The Narrative Arc)

Jason Provencio (Bouncin' and Behavin' Blogs)

JoAnn Ryan (Globetrotters and In Living Color)

Linda Carroll (On Reflection...others)

Rodrigo (Full Frame)

Sadie Seroxcat (Counter Arts)

--and I'm sure there are many others I'm unaware of.

I find there are a few things at play:

Did the editor like it?

Did the curators agree with the editor that it is boost-worthy?

Know this - if they both agree and boost the story, if that title and the writing don't entice the reader to read it thoroughly - it won't make much of a difference. The editors and curators are just hoping that their "opinions" happen to match what people want to read.

Does it earn more money when they boost?

100%.

I've seen cases where it made a large difference and others where it was just "okay" - because as I said before, the "general readers" simply weren't that excited about it.

Wanting to write a "boostable" post can sometimes get in the way of you just writing a story that comes from your heart and letting it be. By all means, edit it - that's important - but you will be surprised how the one you didn't "overthink" is the one they actually like.

I've said this for months and I'll say it for as long as I keep writing. Do not underestimate the strength and importance of a strong headline. It takes a lot of practice thinking and trying different titles. Make sure and give it the thought it needs because it matters. The more time and practice you give it, you will get better at writing titles.

All the best!