Yesterday, Katie at Bower Power wrote an interesting post about how the internet is like high school, with popular kids and cliques and those that may feel like they’re on the outside. It was funny to read that perspective from a blogger I would consider “successful” – although I don’t really know what that means, because I don’t think you have to have a huge following or be able to quit your job to be a successful blogger. I definitely think there are different and equally valid definitions of a successful blog, and the criteria for that is up to the individual blogger.
represent!*
I don’t expect to ever have a huge following or become a full-time blogger, but I am enjoying the ride. In just five months, this blog has become bigger than I ever expected – not in terms of being “famous,” but in terms of how much fun it has been and the mere fact that I have stuck with it at all. It is “big” in my head (which does not mean my “head” is “big”). 🙂
Sometimes it stresses me out a little – like when I haven’t posted in five days or when it takes me two damn weeks to write about a trip, or to even start writing about it (ahem). But, I had no idea how much I would love the process of writing or that I would care so much about my little corner of the internet. Kendi at Kendi Everyday calls her blog her baby (as she likes to say, it’s a girl), and I know what she means. My blog is by no means special or important, except that it is to me.
Sometimes I over think or question my posts, but I promised myself when I started that I wouldn’t put pressure on my writing because I didn’t want to try to be so perfect that I ended up never posting. I just write what comes and hope it speaks to someone. It’s cathartic for me, and a good challenge. I don’t get thousands of hits a day or a ton of comments, but I appreciate the ones I do. I LOVE the interaction I have with those of you that comment – that is why I have a blog instead of a journal (that and I love the blogging community and I am an over-sharer anyway). And if you don’t comment – I still love you! Whatevs – to each their own!
So, what the heck is the point of all this? Well, Katie went on to say how much she appreciates her readers. Before I had my own blog, I would sometimes see bloggers write something like that and thought they were blowing smoke up my butt. Like, what do they care? Now I know – this is my baby and she may not be the prettiest or smartest or richest, but she is mine and I love that she allows me to interact and connect with all of you!
Day 10: Today, I am thankful for all of YOU (seriously and for reals) for reading my silly ol’ blog and for connecting with me – you really make this fun!
Your turn!
* Source
I feel a lot of what you are writing. For all the reasons I started my blog, the real meaning of it comes from just getting the words/thoughts down and then any bit of feedback or response from readers is BONUS time.
Plus, while it is difficult in everyday life to meet people whose thought process you can (i) immediately see in action and (ii) admire/understand/inspire you – on the blogosphere, you can investigate the inner thoughts of nearly everyone who blogs! For me, that makes me feel more normal (which is good) and part of a community (which is great!).
Given my age, I grew up as computers became part of everyday life, so I am very open to using them to improve my life, but I still remember fun times that arose because I was bored enough to create some fun in my life, so I am hesitant to over-use computers/technology. I brought that hesitation into blogging, but I needn’t have worried. The time I use to blog reduces my time in other computer spheres and brings me much more personal joy!
Today I’m grateful for the day off of work and connections with fellow bloggers!
(p.s. I just left off the comment you left on the “wrong” post)
Pretty much my feelings on blogging too. It’s both cathartic and fun. I write to please myself mainly, but the knowledge that even a very few people are reading is very encouraging too. It might be nice to have 1000 followers, but imagine the resulting pressure to write, read, and reply.
I love reading your blog! We have so much in common and our reasons for writing are similar. And, as you know, I too am obsessed with my cat.
My blog is important to me. It started out small and private but I’m working on growing it. (http://sandypothier.wordpress.com/)
In the meantime, I look forward to your posts…whether they’re dailies or weeklies, I always enjoy them. 😀