Why do you blog?
This prompt appeared on 3rd September and it did appeal immediately. After all, what blogger would not want to share their thoughts on blogging. I’m not sure why the post was never shared … but better late than never, right? The answer to the prompt should form some of the basic pages for bloggers, explaining who they are and why they blog. So it should be straightforward, right?
Once I started thinking about the question, I realised like Shrek describing how he’s like the layers in an onion, this answer was almost more complex. Unravelling layers as I answered.
Reasons for blogging are like the layers of an onion
Why do I blog?
I blog because I like to write. However, if that’s the case then does it matter what form the writing takes? If I’m writing because I like to write, I don’t necessarily need to blog to satisfy that desire. That took me back to the prompt question – why do I blog?
Blogging is more than just writing
The majority of bloggers will tell you that writing and posting on a blog is only part of what a blogger does. Its about reading the work of other bloggers, of engaging with them through the comments – both theirs and ours. So is that why I blog? For the social interaction that comes with the community?
There are two things I can think of to say here:
- not all blog sites provide a community such as Word Press where we can get to know each other through the reader. I’m not sure about many other sites, but having published a little on Medium, there does not appear to be the same community spirit via the comments. So if you blog on WP, then the community could be a factor, but its not universal across all platforms/providers.
- While I enjoy engaging with the community, we can post and engage with other bloggers through their sites. I would venture that it could be possible to be part of the community and engage with everyone without actually blogging myself.
Excitement and Adreneline
OK, so its not simply because I like writing or because I like engaging with the community. What about the buzz from hitting publish, and watching the views, likes and comments arriving? That sounds great – you’ve done the work so it should be great. Everyone likes your post and leaves you valued comments.
The reality is people will like your work without even reading it. My last post had 2 likes within seconds of posting. There is no way they could have read the post. Anyone who has been blogging for any length of time knows that the statistics are not always totally reliable, so while it might be useful to look at trends, I don’t get too excited about individual post statistics.
I do appreciate the comments however. People take time to read my work and then spend time thinking about what to write when leaving a comment. That’s the opportunity to engage with the community. Find out what they like and dislike.
Alongside the excitement of hitting “publish” I find sometimes there is also a bit of apprehension. What if my readers and the wider community do not like my work. What if they disagree with me and my opinions? Fortunately that’s not happened so far, but sometimes you need to accept this could be a possibility, depending on the focus of your posts.
I would have to say that any blogger who blogs for the buzz of publishing and positive statistics will probably be unlikely to maintain their passion for blogging long term as they can be unpredictable and will vary.
Carrying out research
As I dig more into why I blog, I realise its a mix of different factors. Yes, the buzz of publishing – sending my baby out into the world is a good feeling. I do enjoy writing and chatting with the community. But again, its more than that. Until I started blogging I had forgotten how much I enjoyed carrying out research to find facts for my work. Once I started hitting the books, I realised how much I’d missed it. As a lecturer in a college rather than a university, we don’t have the same opportunities for research; blogging gives me that. Again, on its own, this is not a reason for blogging. However, blogging does allow me to share my work with a larger audience.
Sharing my blogging ideas
Blogging is Sharing
While I write because I like to, and rediscovering my enjoyment of books and research has been a happy bonus, I blog because I can then share my work with a wide audience. Had I not started blogging, I may never have started writing again, but even if I had, I don’t think my work would have been shared with such a varied and extensive readership. One of my reasons for blogging is that I’m able to share all my work with others. I don’t think I’m looking for fame or anything like that. I am happy knowing that my work is of interest to others and the study skills I produce may help people. It surprises me, the diversity of people who find it interesting and helpful, not just students.
Blogging feedback
The final reason I think some people blog is to get feedback from other bloggers on their work. To get reactions so we can improve our techniques. That could be blogging, or writing more generally. I hadn’t thought too much about this element, however as I move to more creative writing in the future, I may seek out the advice of trusted friends in the blogging community to help me on that path.
In conclusion
My reasons for blogging aren’t simply because I like to write. As indicated, I don’t have to blog to be a writer. therefore blogging must be associated with a wider range of factors – a passion for writing. An interest in conversing with the community, sharing my work with them and seeking their feedback.
I’ve also not looked at all at the focus of my blog and to what extent that shapes why I blog. That used to be relevant. I’m not so sure any more … see what you think for yourself
Thank you for coming on this little journey with me. If you’d like to read more of my posts, sign up below or follow me today.
A great read Brenda.
Yes, blogging is a passion.
More than that interacting with like minded readers gives immense happiness.
Sharing our thoughts in response to other bloggers posts via comments can bond the relationship further.
No need to say, encouraging like minded bloggers especially newbies gives immense pleasure.
And you are doing yeoman service regarding this.
Thank you.
Aw thank you Philo.
You are welcome, Brenda.
A great read Brenda. The point you made about people liking posts without even reading it, is quite frustrating. That is one thing about WordPress that I don’t like. When I write, I do it out of the sole purpose of trying to reach as many victims of abuse as merely possible. I want to help as many people as possible through my blog and to bring hope to so many. I know exactly how it feels to feel hopeless and lost and I do not want anyone else to have to experience the hell I went through. Writing has always been a passion of mine, why waste good talent when I can help others.
As far as engaging with other bloggers like myself who share in the same passions and interests, that’s certainly a bonus. Positive feedback from other writers and bloggers is always helpful.
You made some very strong points in this post and I agree 110%!
It does make you wonder why people like when they don’t read a post, but I guess it’s a desperate bid to get our attention. They may succeed, but they end up blacklisted. We’re certainly not encouraged to visit their sites or engage with them.
I agree, it’s so rewarding when we can engage with others. Generally the community is so supportive; we all encourage each other so much. The community spirit feeds itself
Ohhh this is why I’m blacklisted? 😛
I texted you to know how you were doing because I was missing your work. Keep thriving
I’d never blacklist you 😬🙄
Things just seem to have been really crazy – accidents, illness, then getting ready for the October break. So now I’m on holiday and plan to get back on track 😁
I’m just joking 😂
It’s fun sometimes 😛
I’m sure not enough people have courage to do so in real life, especially in class 😅
Please take care, no punching or kicking or anything, be a good girl
I’m on holiday now, so will have fun … and try my best to avoid accidents
🙏🏼
Nice of you Brenda
Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it
True!!
I despise random likes and I can tell them when I get 10 likes in 5 secs. It’s like I am getting a favor.
I could have gotten more followers if I do the same . Random liking and dropping useless comments works sometimes and I’ve seen people growing using that 🤷🏻♂️
However I have few followers because I do care to get a comment and know about people’s story. I interact with me and even if it’s a few, we care to read each other’s work. That’s what community is about.
Keep writing and keep living your passion ✨
I love what you say Devang. The secret key is those special bonds that are created through the interactions. Really taking the time to get to know the community.
I question how sustainable it can be to grow through reciprocal likes. Its better to have an active, engaging community. I think that will attract and keep more people
Actually not sustainable at all.
It’s like you will get attention of a person. They will like your stuff and comment and you will think hey this follower cares about my work, I should do the same.
Then after sometime you will see them very less on your site.
Some big bloggers do follow me and they blog regularly, but they stopped interacting with my work after a point they get a follow back.
I unfollowed them however 😛
I dont think its possible to follow everyone because they follow you. It can be difficult to follow everyone you’d like to, unless you’re a full time blogger. There are only so many hours in a day. It’s better to follow those whose work resonates with you, whose work you really enjoy and then engage with those who engage on your blog.
I agree with you there. Thank you for your kind and encouraging words 😊
And I’ve just realised that I’ve visited your work before.
I must have come around as a random spammer as I actually liked( and commented after reading) on many posts of yours.
I’ve noticed, you do reply if the comment seems genuine.
Next time I’ll make sure that comments are more believable.
Referring to Jenny Frye ma’am 🙂🙏🏼
Ohhh ok. How long ago did you comment on my posts? As far as commenting back if the comments are genuine, yes I do. But I also comment back on all my posts regardless. Thank you for revisiting my posts. Welcome back. I hope you find my posts helpful and inspiring 😊
I will give proper time to them again.
Take care
Keep sharing
Ok. Thank you
Fact
great reflections on this, I’ve often considered this myself, and it’s really a combo of liking to write, and interaction/connection with other bloggers/readers
It really isn’t just one thing, is it? 😁
Right
🩷
Yeah, well said…I do share some of those reasons as well. I especially agree with your point on there being people who ‘like’ posts without even reading them; as you said, certain statistics need to be looked at with some realism and awareness.
Thanks Raveen. I’m always pleased to hear when I strike a chord with others. I guess it’s something I need to return to with my Introductions over Coffee series regularly
Very well said..
I like this write up.
Cheers to building community! 🥰
Hey Vicki 🖐😘
❤️🥰❤️
i agree with your point💯
Thank you
Ahhh lovely!!
I agree with things that you’ve said.
The community is the major part why I’m still blogging after 2 years. I enjoy it because of the people and environment I get. I feel like home, here no one is strangers.
Yes, there are strict people like you 😅
But sweet overall 😛
I’ve seen on LinkedIn, the community is not same at all. There people doesn’t care.
I do find joy in writing and just like you I spend time in researching and yes it’s like sending my baby out there. I have 150+. And I’ve worked hard on them( more or less in some)
Thanks for being a part of this family.
Stay healthy, stay happy 😁
You’re right, LinkedIn is very different. I’d maybe need to explore more alternatives, but I think WP is pretty special because of the community. You’re right, it feels like home – like a family. Does that make you my little brother? 😝
You cannot find alternative trust me
I’ve seen others, people don’t interact like this.
Little brother is fine, big sis brenda 😛
🤣🤣🤣😘
I think the best part about blogging has been the way it connects and resonates with people from all around the world, which helps us gain new perceptions too. I wholeheartedly agree with you, Brenda!
Thank you Blackjack. I agree, I love meeting and getting to know people from all around the world. It’s good to develop an understanding and appreciation of different cultures, different values
We’re birds of a feather, my friend. I blog for the same reasons you do; however, I also enjoy sharing our trips with friends and family who can no longer travel. You do a great job with your posts, Brenda.
Thanks Kellye. You’re right, I really enjoy sharing my journeys, visits etc with everyone. I’m hoping I’ve a few I’ll be able to catch up with while I’m on holiday.
My reason is definitely the community created. I feel that I know some of my readers as if I have met them IRL even though we have never been in each other’s presence. I tend to be pretty selective about the blogs I follow…I was never looking for a huge number of readers, nor do stats mean a thing to me- just the real people who connect with my words and share theirs with me.
Thanks Deb. I think I’d worry that if we focused too much on the stats etc, it could quite easily affect what and how we write as we’d be focused on writing for results/reactions rather than writing from the heart.
the Shrek and onion layer comparison fits so well with what you say.
your posts are always enjoyed and saved to read later by me as you know by now. 😁
Ah… the multiple likes within seconds merely just taking up your like count.. I think that’s something that will be ongoing. 😬
good to be reading this. hope you well, Brenda 🤍🙏🌹
Love the layered like an onion analogy, Brenda! I’m glad you blog!
Aw thank you Wynne. I’m glad you’re part of the community too 😁
I agree with you Brenda on the reasons for blogging. We have a wonderful and supportive community here which is not on any other blogging platform
Hi Sadje. Lovely to hear from you, and delighted that you agree 😁. Hoping you are well
Hi there Brenda!
I’m good my friend
Glad to hear it 😁
Thanks 🙏🏼
I blog to make something, to get ideas out of my head. The community aspect is definitely icing on the cake. Good point to publish when you’re most doubtful of how it’ll be received.
Thanks Finn. You’re so right about blogging/writing as a means of expression to get ideas (and in my case sometimes nonsense) out of my head. I’d say writing as it doesn’t all make it to my blog.
Thanks for stopping by
With great passion comes some struggle. The struggle comes and goes, but the passion to share our words in a way that speaks volumes is what keeps us going. Don’t give up just yet. There’s still light at the end of the tunnel ahead!
Thank you. I will continue with the struggle 😁
Hi Destiny. Sorry, Askmet put your message in spam. Glad you enjoyed the Shrek reference. 😁 I agree about the serial likes at least they can only like each post once.
I’m good, now on holiday for the week so hope to be about and catching up
Hey Brenda, Because I like to write is reason 99 on why I blog. I do this to share. Cannot say I’ve ever not pressed publish for fear of how it would be recieved. I have pressed publish with the excitement of a small child on Christmas morning, only to be dissapointed because I was the only person enthused Oh well, hasen;’t stopped me yet.
The kid on Christmas morning I can relate to. If I hot publish before bed sometimes I can’t sleep; excited waiting to see the reactions. Glad you’re not put off by anything 😁
There’s a lot of truth in this article. I started sharing my personal experience on another platform two decades ago and even though it was extremely popular back in the day, it was doomed to vanish entirely. There was only a limited number of people who actually read other posts and wrote thoughtful comments. The vast majority used to click without reading for attention’s sake. I wonder what the percentage of that kind of bloggers is.
Anyway, thanks for being the inspiration you want to see in this world!
I understand the ‘push like’ response within seconds of ‘push publish’. The banner drops within the blink of an eye and the evidence exists. I unrealistically think to myself. They know they are going to enjoy my posts every single time! So push ‘like’ because they await the new word story journey with a wonderful anticipation and ‘like’ the fact I’ve put out another blog out there……..Not! Or. A photographic memory exists here and the post is read in the blink of an eye! Maybe. I knew someone who could do that. Even asked her what word was third line down, four words in from the left. She got it right! Great post Brenda. And I did read it all. 😊
You’re right – I know I am happy when I see my favourite bloggers posting and look forward to reading their work. I think we’re too self-critical, I should have more faith and confidence that others look forward to reading my work too
I think a lot of us look forward to your uploads Brenda. 😊
Great
Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it
Great post. ☺️
Thank you.
Most welcome 😁
Very fantastic. I love research and fact checking too. Keeps my brain engaged😊
Thank you. Glad to have found a kindred spirit 😁
I totally agree with the other comments — this was a great read! 🙌
Maybe the readers that like your posts as soon as they’re published are doing so because they enjoy your work? I think I’ve definitely been pretty swift to like posts from good writers on WP.
Hello Lia. I agree, some people will read and like quickly. But I once had 40 likes from the same person within minutes … I dont think they were reading
You have described the inherent confused approach about what drives one to blog in a perfect way! I am still trying to gain a sense of blogging on my end- with good progress as of now. Hopefully I will also figure out the truth behind my passion soon enough.
But yes, more than anything, fact checking is so engrossing. It has rather become a necessity in today’s world- with any kind of information spreading about untethered
I’m glad you’re finding some sense of blogging. I think it can be quite movable, which makes it more challenging – but I’m enjoying the journey and wondering where it will take me next
My advice is to enjoy the journey
Thank you so much for the advice 🙂 I shall keep it in mind
:😁
Ah, yes, the serial ‘likers’. You described them well, Brenda. All they are doing is trying to get attention without reading posts. I only wish the ‘like button did not show up for at least one minute after opening a post. That would soon put an end to many of the serial likers.
I’m certainly glad you blog. And it’s good to hear you’re doing oit for the right reasons.
Thanks Hugh. That means a lot coming from you
The joy of letting the world know your opinions and thoughts in a couple of words is quite appealing. I don’t just blog because I love to write, I want to change the way people think. Love this post :)))
Thanks for sharing Avantikaa. I hadn’t thought about the influence on other people – changing the way people think 🙂 I really hadn’t thought about that, but I can see that our blogging does make people stop and think and sometimes can change their opinions or ideas.
I really appreciate how you’ve reflected the blogging journey. been wondering why I do it and it feels more than just loving to write. By reading your post I resonate to so much I had not given thought. thanks for this insight
Thank you Cloud Cuckoo Kiss – sorry your message was placed in my spam folder – but now rescued. Thanks for reading and sharing your perspective – I’m always happy to engage with like-minded bloggers 🙂
Thanks Gray. Your message went into my spam – this seems to be happening a bit. I’ve been told to advise that you should watch to see if this is happening with other comments you post and if so, report it to WP
Hi Julie, I’m glad it resonated. It sounds like my post came at the right time for you – happy I was able to help.
‘Your comment went into my spam folder. This seems to be happening quite a bit – I’ve been advised by another blogger to recommend you check if any of your other comments are going into spam, and if so, you should report it to WordPress’ happiness engineers
Great post blogging has become a soothing healing process for me writing and helping others very therapeutic.
Hi. Glad you enjoyed the post, and that you are finding the personal benefits of blogging for yourself
Nice
I blog because I have a story to tell, experience to share, bringing clarity where light is sometimes not shine, sharing such experiences allows a person to see they not alone in situations and a hand and or shoulder is there if needed.
I’m glad you have a good focus for your blogging. It really does make a difference, doesn’t it when you are clear about why you blog, and what your intentions are. It sounds like you are making a difference to your readers through your blog and your helpful, supportive approach.
Thank you for sharing your perspective
I do blog because I like to write and because I want to share a bit of myself. But I’m also afraid of sharing a bit of myself so my blogs post at four am.
You must definitely schedule your blogs then. 😀
Yes. Usually every Monday morning at 4:05 am.
Great post 🙂
Thank you 🙂
[…] Reflections on my blogging motivators […]
amazing!
Thank you. I’m glad you enjoyed it
I wouldn’t usually encourage posts such as this as comments should only relate to the post you’ve been reading. Many bloggers consider requests to visit websites/blogs etc as spam and will delete them. However, I have had a look at your website and it looks good, interesting. Trying to grow your blog is best achieved through engaging in meaningful comments on blog posts you read … eg why did you like/enjoy the post. Also, I have noticed that it’s not clear how to leave comments on your posts from your website – I’d suggest you have a look at that. But as I said, the best way to attract followers/readers is to engage with the community. I’d also recommend you read my Introductions over Coffee series with hints etc for new(and less new) bloggers
Great read.
Thank you
Good
Thank you
Holaaa
Hola. 😁
Well done! What do you think of my posts? Give your ideas and thoughts over them among the comments there.
I originally started blogging to start building an audience who might want to read my novel someday, when/if I ever get it done. However, lately I’m wondering if blogging is ‘enough’ in itself. I don’t NEED to be a published author and I’m a little apprehensive about even trying to be one (something I’m still trying to work out in my own mind).
Blogging gives me a community of other writers where I can share my works, enjoy theirs, and build relationships across the world through the comments. Some of my posts are nothing more than entertainment and some challenge me to stretch my comfort zone (usually through a prompt). Others are simply thought provoking questions or my view on something that was rattling around in my head…with those types of posts, my hope is that they resonate with or help even 1 person (which without the outlet of the blog the thoughts would linger in the dark recesses of my desk).
This is really interesting Dawn. I know what you mean with getting the ideas in our heads out and sharing with others. I find the more I write, the more ideas I have to get on paper. So many stories to write. I think I need to retire so I have the time to write everything
AGREED! Those stolen moments here and there are NOT enough time!
I’ve realised (took me a while) that I’m allowing work to take over, encroaching on all available time. Time to take back time for writing/blogging
I’m going into my busy season at work, until the end of the year, it’s going to be crazy. But in January.
I can shift my focus back again.
I’m hoping mine will start to settle a bit now
[…] “Reflections on My Blogging Motivators” […]
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Thank you Brenda, That’s a great question. Why do you Blog? Makes me think for myself: why blog? I stumbled on to your Blog through one of your other posts (Topic: AI & Searches). So, I clicked on your Account/Page to learn more about what you write about. And came upon this article/one. Which was “Why?”… That is a good question. Simple. And important. I’ve been taking a lot of time before posting/blogging on this/my particular site/account. I want to “get it right”. Perfection. However, I just have to write, right! This may even be my first comment on someone else’s page (your page). Personally, I like to write. Tonight, I wrote a paper letter to a relatively new pen Friend. We met through his YouTube Page, then by email, then by snail mail. It’s been turning out very well… And besides that… I’d like to learn how to write Essays, and one day a book(s). But, Brenda, back to you. I’m going to follow you on here through WordPress. Read some more of your writing. Best wishes to you! Thank you. See you around 🙂
Hey. Thank you for stopping by. It’s difficult to get started, isn’t it? I also think our ‘why’ changes over time and we need to review our purpose and make sure it still reflects what you want to achieve. I had never thought about writing a book even though apparently my mum was convinced that from my teenage years, that I would become an author. Funny how life has brought me back to my writing and who knows, perhaps to publish in the future, but for now, I’m enjoying the journey
Excellent
Excellent blog post Brenda. Indeed these reflections on your blog are worthwhile, engaging and so damn true.
Firstly, blogging is a skill and it takes time to be an exceptional Blogger , it is more than just writing but it is showcasing creativity, critical thinking and adding value which helps the Reader resonate with your blog post and even get great advice from it.
Also, I know that there are those Bloggers who will not even press the like button, some don’t even comment but that is fine, not every reader on WordPress will like your work just like not everyone will love you in real life. One just has to have a burning passion for blogging and the results will speak for themselves, just roll with the flow and love your blog💯👏👏
We need to love our blogs and our own work first, or no-one will. I so agree that not everyone will agree, but that’s OK. There’s no point fretting about that, in life or in blogging … and certainly not in class 😁
One student made my day yesterday when she said she can’t wait til we start the HRM units, as they’re her favourite 😁
Haha, She is a keen student, I will gibe her that😂😂😂👌
Definitely is