Blogging can be a lonely way to spend your time. On the other hand, it can be rewarding and bring lots of new acquaintances (even friends) your way. I’ve been doing this blogging thing for well over two years now and have noticed something: Blog life is very short for some. I often catch myself thinking, where did that blog go or I wonder what made her stop writing. And, you know what, I really miss some of the blogs that are nowhere to be found. Of course I miss them. I wouldn’t have subscribed in the first place if I didn’t see quality and true self-expression. So, I ask, “where do good blogs go when they die?” Not sure. I guess that depends on whether the blogger continues to pay for hosting. Some do-some don’t. The blog graveyard is really full…I’m sure. The bad thing is you can’t go visit. You can’t bring them back to life. You can’t even send them digital flowers or post a comment for a job well done…
I guess my real point for sharing this thought is this: Longevity is a key to creative success. I understand that it’s hard to continue something that takes up lots of time and may not be “giving back” as much as you want; however, giving up something that is so personal to you (like a blog) has consequences. Each time you quit, you lose a part of yourself. I rather think it much more useful to take a break, center yourself, make a list of what you want to get out of your endeavor, and ask, “how am I going to do it?” By focusing on what you want, you can then find the path that leads you to it…and all without giving up on your creative dream.
Concerning blogging, each of us have a responsibility to present quality content to our readers. And, let me tell you, it’s no walk in the park some days. It’s work. I am a believer that hard work eventually pays off in one way or another. You might have to change some things along the way, but longevity is a long term way to make your mark on the world. I heard a saying once that stuck with me. I don’t remember who said it, but here it is:
[sws_grey_box box_size=”630″] “If you do something for an hour a day for five years, you will be an expert at it.” [/sws_grey_box]
- Five years is really a pretty short span of time, considering how long some people go to school to become a professional “this” or “that”. Bottom line is to stick with your goals until they are met.
- Make changes to your methods if you need to. If that means hiring a consultant or coach, then do it!
- Use a measurable scale of success. A simple 1 to 10 scale is a good one. If you don’t know where you are to begin with, how will you know if you’re making progress?
- Celebrate victories! Giving yourself some back pats for a job well done is imperative…that is if you want to reach your goal. You might be getting outside kudos, but if you don’t believe in yourself and learn to celebrate your accomplishments, you will find a way to sabotage your efforts.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
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Hello, Bill. I just happened to ran into your blog. I’ve read only part of it and I liked it. You post a lot of interesting stuff. In comparison to yours my blog is just a baby, a recently born one, and I realy would want to have more visitors to my blog to be able to share with other women what I have to share. If you could post the link to my blog on yours I’ll greatly appreciate it.
The link is http://womenslifeblog.blogspot.com/.
Thank you,
Galina
Good words Kellie. I noticed that I hadn’t touched my blog since November! Some days it is daunting to think of anything significant to contribute.
You are correct that a defined focus or direction will keep you moving when to don’t have adequate inspiration. You have to work at it, which means doing it even when you don’t feel like it.
On Monday I picked up my blog where I dropped it. I will keep working it.
Keep up the great work!
I’m glad you got my point, Bill. and, yes, your blog is one that I miss. Keep pushing through the tough, uninspired days.