Something is changing in my obsession with blog views. I’m still setting goals and trying to reach them, but it hasn’t taken over my life. I don’t live and breathe it. It’s a hobby and something that helps me relax and get away from the pressures of life. It’s fun.
But now I think less about how many views and likes I’m getting—though I do check throughout the day ;). What I think about more is this:
- What are my blogging friends up to?
- Will they comment about a book we’ve both read?
- Will my friends read and reply to the comments I’ve left on their blogs?
So what exactly is changing? It’s the sense of community. The positive feedback. The friendships. You might not get it if you don’t blog, but blogging is the best form of social media out there. In five years of blogging, I have experienced none of the following:
- Feeling inadequate
- Feeling unpopular
- Receiving snarky comments
See what I mean? Blogging, if you can get through the first couple years of figuring it out, defining your “brand” and writing posts, you will begin to understand. Most blogs, like new restaurants, don’t survive the first year. But the reward is all these connections.
So here’s what I say as I wonder whether the odometer on my car will reach 100,000 miles before I reach 100K on my blog:
“Hop in people, we’re going for a ride!”
Thanks for visiting – come back soon
Book Club Mom 
I think that’s they way we should all approach our blogs, as a form of entertainment and relaxation, a place where our voices can be heard without criticism or judgement.
It’s very true. Thanks for reading, George. Hope all is well with you.
I love this – and yes, I’m more interested in the interaction. If I comment on a post I want to have a conversation. I don’t comment on everything because sometimes I might not have anything to say but if I do I want to have the discussion with the other blogger and that’s what I’m hoping for.
Lynn 😀
Same here!
Feeling inadequate and unpopular. The bane of every blogger! I often feel that way add in thinking what I write is utter crap too.😂
Yeah, totally agree. It’s a hobby and something that we should try and enjoy.😀📚👌
Normally, it’s the people who don’t question the quality of their work who should be questioning the quality of their work, so I’m sure you’re fine.
Agreed!
The main problem I have is that I am impatient. It a bad habit. But I agree with you about building a community.
It definitely takes time and patience. I didn’t know it would happen so I wasn’t waiting for it. That helped! Thanks for reading.
The blogging world is definitely a supportive place to be, one of the most supportive out there. If it didn’t take so much time, I’d post more often. It’s a really nice place to hang out. 🙂
Definitely the right approach and I agree blogging is the best form of social media – by far.
I completely agree, Barbara. The blogging community is the most encouraging and supportive form of social media out there. People who stress about their stats, won’t enjoy it as much, so just write and enjoy the interaction. I’m happy you wrote this, today!
Totally agree – great post!
I agree, Barbara. Community is what makes blogging worthwhile and enjoyable. It’s great to connect with like-minded people.
I agree with what George said. Blogging should be about fun and enjoyment. If it becomes a burden, stressful or makes you feel guilty, then change the way you blog, or move on.
So very pleased to hear you’ve not had any snarky comments. However, beware the trolls. They are out there. If they do visit, then simply ignore them. They will soon move on.
Great post! Barbara, I consider you a wonderful blog friend! You have always been so supportive and kind to Explore Newness!!! I haven’t been blogging much, or even reading many blogs lately — but when I do, I always check in with BookClubMom and read previous posts to see what you’ve been up to. I love all your good book recommendations and other wisdom. Keep up the good work! I’ve missed keeping up with my own site and need to get back at it (once you’re out of the habit, it’s hard to get back with it). :o) Take care my friend!
Right there with you! When I began blogging I was infected with all the standard advice: have a specific theme and stick to it, watch (obsess) over your click-throughs, etc., etc. Now I write what I’m moved to write, while guided by the responses of my readers and fellow bloggers — and you’re so right, community is the most delightful and unexpected result. It’s what keeps me going week after week, and the reason I would miss hearing from you.
Cheers!
When I began blogging, I had no idea that forming great relationships with people from all over the world was part of the package. It was a surprise, but a very happy one!
Blogging is my favourite form of social media, hands down. Keep it up, Barbara!
I totally agree, it should be fun and it still is for me 🙂 Great post 🙂 Lynne
I was so surprised when I first started blogging and putting my (real) name out there how nice everyone was. I don’t know if I was expecting to be immediately attacked or something, but I wasn’t. The blogging community—especially the book blogging community—is actually pretty darn friendly, it turns out. 😃
Good luck on reaching 100k views!
I rarely check my views and other stats, but I LOVE getting comments. Like you say, blogging should be about building community and interacting with readers/followers. It does seem to be a challenge to get that interaction started, but once you do it’s makes it fun to see what people will say.
What an inspirational post and I absolutely agree with you. I love to see what people are reading or where they have been. Everyone is just so lovely on here and it’s supportive.