Hey There ~
For awhile, I've been wanting to chat with other bloggers about how they live out their blogging lives. I've never seen a discussion devoted to personal behind the scenes values and logistics. I find myself curious, fascinated really, to get a peek at what works for you ... and what doesn't.
For sure, there's no one right way to do the blogging life and chances are how you're living it out now has evolved from when you first started ... as well as being quite different from your neighbor's philosophy and practice.
I've thrown a whole lot of questions on the table to get the conversation going, but I really want to hear what's on your heart, the good, the bad, the divine, the not-so-pretty.
As ever, we are all students, listening well to each other's vulnerable stories, respecting our differences, and gleaning from hard won know-how, mistakes and victories.
Iron sharpens iron {Proverbs 27:17}.
Are you an old-timer or a fresh face?
Keep a posting schedule or go with the creative flow?
How many hours a week?
Developed a unique niche?
How do you dream up topics?
Do you participate in weekly link-ups?
Take time off?
Run out of steam?
How do your nurture your community?
And manage the tech stuff?
Do unpleasant emotions make an appearance?
Is this a money maker?
Have interactions been hurtful or harmful?
Embraced a theme, mantra, or mission statement?
How many bloggers do you follow?
Do you schedule time for commenting on other blogs?
What hasn't worked for you?
Impact of other social media?
Spending less morning quiet time with God?
Your biggest disappointment?
Your greatest joy?
What might God want to do with your passion to write, create, nurture, teach, mentor, lead?
Can't wait to hear how you do the ins and outs, the ups and downs of a fulfilling, Christ-honoring blog life ~
Linda
It's the hardest thing that I must do,
ReplyDeleteand what has no appeal
is that I write what I go through,
having to be real.
I hate to have to analyze
this long and painful fall
in which fell times are no surprise;
I don't like that at all!
But there are those who say I've given
heart in their dark days;
and so the blogging life I'm livin'
will go on, and stays
at center of my Christian walk
to do more than just talk the talk.
Good morning Linda! What a great post! So many interesting questions! I can't wait to read the responses! My process is a bit random. I often write based on a line I hear in my thoughts. I keep open notebooks scattered around the house to catch these thoughts before they speed out of consciousness as quickly as they arrived. Sometimes a longer piece of writing develops, sometimes not. Other times I write in a burst. Yesterday's post, for example, arrived in such a burst and inspired by the realization I was feeling groovy. What a word! What evolved was essentially a list of reasons I was feeling that way and the gratitude I feel for where my life is just now. I often write as though I'm writing notes to myself. Reflections. Advice. Encouragement. Always, writing begins first on paper in black Bic pen. I write to make sense of ME, to make sense of what feels like a big, scary world and gather whatever hope I'm able to find in it. I almost always read what I write to my husband before posting and more often than not, I cry while doing so. It's a puzzle to me as to the why of this phenomena as I don't cry while writing. Maybe it's because what I write comes from my truest self and that kind of exposure and vulnerability both awes and humbles me. I want to thank you, Linda for your kind and long-time support. You've meant the world to me and my writing. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteBarbara, onehopefulyear.com
PS I'm having a difficult time commenting as anything but Anonymous. This speaks to your question of technical skill - I have very little! : )
These are questions I am curious about, too! In summary, I'm an old-timer, and have moved my blog three times. Sometimes I've been very consistent, other times not so much due to other life commitments such as my day job, education, and family. I'll entertain the idea of making it a money maker, and have watched videos, or webinars, but don't dive in completely. It may be conflicting with my idea of being a full-time writer, and my blog a place where my own stuff gets out there for those that need it. Or I'm too lazy! haha! I haven't had any negative interactions as of yet, and I do link up with others, and have a handful that I read consistently. Others I'd like to read, but run out of time. Yes, blogging can take over my quiet time with God, especially with my current schedule. Sometimes I consider blogging my devotion time, though, as many blogs are devotional in nature, and I also get deeper in His word when I write for my blog. Being in or learning about nature is where my topics are "dreamed up" generally! Biggest joys are the community, and that maybe my words have helped another feel more connected, calm, and hopeful. Thanks for asking these questions, Linda! It's allowed me to reflect on why I keep blogging when I question the why behind continuing.
ReplyDeleteI will do my best to answer all your questions below 🤞🏼(I blog at http://mylifeinourfathersworld.com & am visiting from #TellHisStory 6)
ReplyDeleteAre you an old-timer or a fresh face? I've been blogging on one form or another since November 2019.
Keep a posting schedule or go with the creative flow? I have some weekly and monthly features but other than that I let God tell me what & when to write. I do try to publish something every day.
How many hours a week? Wow, I have no idea. Between writing and reading blogs I'm sure I spend 2-3 hours a day in the blogiverse.
Developed a unique niche? Hmmm....My prayer is that my posts and comments are encouraging to the reader.
How do you dream up topics? Other than book reviews and foodie posts, I depend on God to give me the words and the timing. so far it is a good partnership. 🌞
Do you participate in weekly link-ups? Yes I do! I have found so many wonderful blogs through them.
Take time off? When I will be out of town or busy I either write things ahead of time or invite others to be guest bloggers. It seems to work well as I have also been a guest blogger for others!
Run out of steam? Just when I begin to think it may be time to give up blogging, God puts the wind back in my sails.
How do your nurture your community? encouragement, reblogs, link-ups, sending a private message via their "Contact" page, sending a note via snail mail, reading/review their books, following/commenting on other socials
And manage the tech stuff? My blog crossposts to FB, tumblr, Twitter, LinkedIn & Instagram, I have some features that also get posted to Pinterest. It's a process that I wish I had a better handle on but it is working for now.
Do unpleasant emotions make an appearance? I try to be an open book, so yes, sometimes my words are raw and I have to click "publish" before I lose my nerve. That being said, I try to be sensitive to the privacy of others so I rarely use names or other personally identifying info.
Is this a money maker? No, it is a labor of love. I tried a couple of things to raise funds but the didn't pan out. I'm ok with that.
Have interactions been hurtful or harmful? So far, I have not experienced any negativity in response to my blog
Embraced a theme, mantra, or mission statement? Love God - Love People - It's That Easy!!
How many bloggers do you follow? 340
Do you schedule time for commenting on other blogs? Yes
What hasn't worked for you? I attempted a weekly link-up and it FAILED.
Impact of other social media? Cross posting to other socials definitely drives traffic to my blog
Spending less morning quiet time with God? I typically spend 60-90 minutes in prayer & Bible study in the morning
Your biggest disappointment? Some friendships just don't work out.
Your greatest joy? We raised two amazing children who are doing the work that God created them for!
What might God want to do with your passion to write, create, nurture, teach, mentor, lead I'm not sure, I'm definitely a work in progress. I have dreamed about writing a Bible study with my husband.
What interesting questions, Linda. I look to forward to seeing all the answers.
ReplyDeleteAre you an old-timer or a fresh face? -- I've been blogging since Jan 2016. At first, it was just as something to came, which seemed to be about 1-3 months between postings. Then I started posting bi-weekly.
Keep a posting schedule or go with the creative flow? -- I post bi-weekly, but it's not a hard rule. If things don't seem to work out, that's okay. I'll just skip that week. I do try to hit my schedule as often as possible. Lately, I've had a few misses. As for topics, I don't really have a schedule for that. I've tried it, but it just doesn't seem to flow for me. In fact, I feel a little blocked when I do that.
How many hours a week? -- I probably work about 24 hours a week.
Developed a unique niche? -- I wouldn't say my niche is unique, but it's on my heart.
How do you dream up topics? -- Sometimes I brainstorm topics. Sometimes they're just what I've been thinking on lately. Other times they're when I see others struggling with something I've been through myself.
Do you participate in weekly link-ups? -- Sure nuff. I love my linkups. I participate in a different linkup Monday through Thursday. It's a wonderful to encourage others, while also making connections and remembering we're not alone.
Take time off? -- I usually take time off from Christmas to New Years. Occasionally, I'll take a week when I need to refresh.
Run out of steam? -- I'm not sure if I run out of steam so much as start doubting myself. When that happens, it sure takes the wind out of my sails.
How do your nurture your community? -- Linkups are wonderful for that. Also Facebook groups.
And manage the tech stuff? -- I don't mind the tech stuff that much. I've scheduled out tasks on my calendar. Thankfully in today's tech world, you don't need to know code and such to be successful.
Do unpleasant emotions make an appearance? -- Um, yeah. I seem to be on this loop of doubt myself and pushing through.
Is this a money maker? -- Yeah, no. I'm an affiliate with DaySpring, and I make printables to sell on Etsy, but I haven't made any money yet. I mostly just having DaySpring with the pretty on my site, but I haven't made even one sale. For Etsy, which is more of a side thing, but I enjoy making the graphics for my site, so I decided to put those out there on Etsy. I've sold some, but I haven't made money back.
Have interactions been hurtful or harmful? -- I've been thankful for the support I've received. Comments have been mostly positive and encouraging. I think I've had one all this time that was less than positive, but it wasn't an attack—more of someone hurting.
Embraced a theme, mantra, or mission statement? -- I have several of those probably. For my blog, it's identity through grace. And then there's: 1) You don't have to profound. You just have to write. 2) Everyone doubts their abilities. Not everyone shows up for the work.
How many bloggers do you follow? -- I'm not really sure. There are a lot of great bloggers.
Do you schedule time for commenting on other blogs? -- I use linkups for that, and I have one or two of those each day.
What hasn't worked for you? -- I tried posting once a week, but it seemed overwhelming, and my readers told me they preferred bi-weekly. So I switched back to bi-weekly. I may be the only blogger ever to post so few times in a month.
Impact of other social media? -- Pinterest is always a really good source for me, and my readers seems to like FaceBook. I share my posts to Instagram and Twiiter, but I don't use those too much.
Spending less morning quiet time with God? -- Blogging has probably helped me spend more time.
Your biggest disappointment? -- I'm not sure how to answer this one. Nothing really comes to mind.
Your greatest joy? -- That God uses my puny efforts for His glory.
What might God want to do with your passion to write, create, nurture, teach, mentor, lead? -- Good question. I've been asking myself this for a while.
Interesting questions! I'm coming up on 16 years of blogging. I didn't start out with a posting schedule, but one evolved over the years. Yet, I'd be willing to do something different if I felt led.
ReplyDeleteI have no idea how many hours a week. Some posts come together easily--others take more time and reworking to figure out what I want to say and how best to say it.
I come up with topics a variety of ways. Mostly through my Bible reading, but also through conversations, something else I have read that started a chain of thought, observations about life. I keep a running list of ideas as they occur to me on the Notes app of my phone. I try to remember to pray regularly about what God would have me write.
I don't know if I have a unique niche or not. Lots of bloggers write about learning from and applying the Word of God and about books and about everyday life--those seem to be my main topics.
I used to do a lot of "fun" link-ups--Thursday Thirteen, Wordless Wednesday, etc. They were a fun way to meet people but not really interesting to read except for others doing the same link-ups. The link-ups I participate in now are mostly faith-based, a few home-based.
So far, the only extended time off I've taken have been when we were out of town, first due to a son's wedding and then for my mother-in-law's funeral. I post Sunday morning, but the writing has already been done, and then I don't usually post again until Tuesday.
So far I haven't run out of steam. If I can't think of a topic, I'll consult my list of ideas that I've jotted down.
I think I nurture my community by pointing them to God and His Word and trying to write in a coming-alongside manner rather than as a lecturer.
I am not good with the tech stuff and I no longer have tech-savvy sons at home to help, though they help as much as they can if I have a question. That's why I have a blog hosted by WordPress and not one that I host or built myself. I had the free version for many years, but not long ago switched to the lowest rung of paid version to increase my photo storage and avoid WordPress ads.
Unpleasant emotions do come up. Not in every post. Sometimes what I write comes about after God has dealt with me about something, which involves sharing what needed to be corrected. Probably the most unpleasant emotions came up when caring for my m-i-l in our home. I'm sorry to say I did not embrace the opportunity with joy and open arms, and the battle against my selfishness came out often in my blog those years.
When I tried to comment, it said my comment was too long. So I'll see if this works and post the rest as a reply.
Oh--since it's not visible til after approval, I can't reply to my own comment yet. :-) So I'll post the rest here. It said my comment was too long, so I divided it. Part 2:
ReplyDeleteI am not monetized in any way. I've never wanted it to look like I was writing on a topic or recommending a book just to make money off it. But now that I am paying for my blog, I've thought about it somewhat so the blog pays for itself.
Interactions have been overwhelmingly positive. There have been a few trolls over the years, but far more great folks.
My main theme or focus would be applying ourselves to God's Word and then applying God's Word to our lives.
I do follow a lot of blogs, but I don't know how many. I read them through Feedly, and it's just showing me who has new posts--I can't figure out how to get to a list of all that I follow. Most of them don't post every day, so that helps. :-) I also read some through the link-ups I participate in. To me, that's one of the biggest challenges of blogging. There are so many good blogs out there, I could spend all day reading. And, of course, none of us can do that. But I feel blogging is somewhat reciprocal, not just done in a vacuum. So there needs to be some interaction. It's hard to find the right balance.
I don't really have a schedule for commenting on other blogs, but I try to do so regularly.
I don't do a lot with social media, though I have accounts on FB, Twitter, and IG. I use FB mainly for keeping up with family and friends. I have a blog page and personal page, but don't really get much interaction there. I use Twitter mainly to promote others' work. When I see a blog post I really like, I share it on Twitter and then share the best on my Saturday "Laudable Linkage."
My morning time with God is the same amount of time. It's my top priority of the day.
I can't think of any major disappointments or things that haven't worked. One of my biggest joys is the dear friendships made through blogging. But the biggest one is when someone shares that something I felt the Lord wanted me to write ministered to them in some way.
As to the question of what God might do through all this---I have no idea. I hope He keeps using me to touch lives for Him. I am working on one book and have ideas for others--we'll see how that goes. That's another hard thing to balance. If I am ever going to get anywhere with this book, do I need to back off blogging and reading blogs? I don't know. That's something I am wrestling with and praying about now.
Wow, Linda, what a list of questions you've posed for us! I'm going to answer a few. I do blog on a schedule, twice a week. I strive to answer all those followers who comment. I get my inspiration from my experiences - I try to stay in tune with what lessons God is teaching in the moment. The only agenda I have in blogging is to celebrate God's Word and His presence, hoping my words/thoughts will inspire others to seek Him and His will in their lives. And, I do love following so many talented bloggers like you!
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
I am overwhelmed with all these questions and underwhelmed by my ability to answer them all. You know me--I know you--we both like to blog. I really am short & concise . I am on a blog break over here---answering these would closely resemble falling off the wagon.
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
Debby here....fabulous questions! I'm taking a close look at the responders. Keep leading the way, friend! Are you an old-timer or a fresh face? Old-timer (early 20000’s)
ReplyDeleteKeep a posting schedule or go with the creative flow? Schedule weekly post (in the beginning I posted most days)
How many hours a week? Probably more than I realize, maybe 3
Developed a unique niche? You tell me ;)
How do you dream up topics? What wonders in my mind; of the moment usually
Do you participate in weekly link-ups? Not in a few years
Take time off? Yes
Run out of steam? Nearly every week!
How do your nurture your community? Not enough
And manage the tech stuff? I’m fairly techie but changes/updates can be frustrating
Do unpleasant emotions make an appearance? Not so far
Is this a money maker? No
Have interactions been hurtful or harmful? No
Embraced a theme, mantra, or mission statement? I try but fear I don’t stay on track
How many bloggers do you follow? 4-5
Do you schedule time for commenting on other blogs? No
What hasn't worked for you? I think I’ve given up on making it “work” and try to hold it loosely. It’s much less stressful for me this way.
Impact of other social media? Unknown
Spending less morning quiet time with God? No
Your biggest disappointment? Unrealistic expectations in earlier days
Your greatest joy? Making a connection/lifting another’s day
What might God want to do with your passion to write, create, nurture, teach, mentor, lead? To encourage others, instill hope, love justice and mercy and walk humbly with Him
My first comment was too long and it wouldn't publish. This is coming through in several. Here you go, my friend. I copy and pasted your questions into my writer. These questions a wonderful learning opportunity I'm happy to participate.
ReplyDeleteAre you an old-timer or a fresh face? In 2016 I had to take early retirement from my beloved Social Work due to my disabilities overtaking me. I thought I had lost my purpose; I had severe anxiety and sunk into a deep depression. I felt God calling me, but I couldn't recognize for what. Then as I began to seek and draw into him with all of me, suddenly, in November of 2019, I realized what he was calling me for "but I'm not a writer," I said. Well, I hem hawed around for a while, but he won. And I'm so happy I listened to him because he gave me a new purpose. To share him.
Keep a posting schedule or go with the creative flow? When I first began blogging, I sought out Christian blogging how-to websites. Let me tell you how anxious I was; my anxiety knot was back. Then within that mess of anxiousness, I actually was able to hear his whisper, " let me lead you." What started out as me seeking out topics to write about and becoming anxious soon became me waiting for him to touch my heart with what HE wanted me to write about.
How many hours a week? Um.. Maybe 5 to 10 ( remember I have to wait for him to put on my heart what he wants me to write about).
Developed a unique niche? Not really, Here's my thought. I believe all of our words matter. I may never know who my words touch, and that's okay. But God does, and that's what matters.
How do you dream up topics? Well, since I wait for him. Sometimes he touches me with what I'm reading about in his word; when I'm outside in nature, what I'm reading or the little TV I watch, he may touch me there too.
Do you participate in weekly link-ups? Yes
Take time off? Well, I should be more intentional about taking short intervals off, like a week or two. It's usually when I'm down, like last summer when I fell and broke my ankle and wrist, or when I had COVID that knocked me down for over a month. I'm learning the importance of rest in him and for my body. I'm working on it, LOL.
Run out of steam? Sometimes
How do your nurture your community? I try to impart encouragement, inspiration, inspire, and energize. I try to be authentic. I want to show the real me and what God is teaching me so others will share their authentic selves too and share what he is teaching them too.
And manage the tech stuff? Yes, it's taken a bit of time, but I'm learning.
Part 2. Run out of steam? Sometimes
ReplyDeleteHow do your nurture your community? I try to impart encouragement, inspiration, inspire, and energize. I try to be authentic. I want to show the real me and what God is teaching me so others will share their authentic selves too and share what he is teaching them too.
And manage the tech stuff? Yes, it's taken a bit of time, but I'm learning.
Do unpleasant emotions make an appearance? Sometimes. Sometimes it takes me time to write about a hardship Jesus has put on my heart to share. I have to process, and sometimes I get anxious. A post may be sitting in my writer, and I may take time off and on to work on it. But I do eventually post it.
Is this a money maker? NO
Have interactions been hurtful or harmful? No. I've had nothing but positive and encouraging experiences with other bloggers.
Embraced a theme, mantra, or mission statement? My words matter. I may not know who my words touch, and that's okay. But God does, and that's what's important.
How many bloggers do you follow? That's a tough one. I follow others on WordPress, Blogger, and am signed up for some newsletters and posts by email.
Part 3. Do you schedule time for commenting on other blogs? Not necessarily. I don't schedule time, but I am intentional in supporting others who have touched me in some way as well. When I participate in weekly link-ups, I just visit them several times a week and comment, then check back in later to see if anyone else posted that I can read and comment. I also show love and support and share others' posts on Twitter and such.
ReplyDeleteWhat hasn't worked for you? Not that something hasn't worked for me. But I would say when I first started out, NOT following the Christian blogging how-to sites that to be successful, I had to buy this buy that, but this SEO, use a blog schedule. Things like that.
Impact of other social media? I find other Christian social media posts encouraging.
Spending less morning quiet time with God? No. I always start my day off with him.
Your biggest disappointment? As the saying goes. I can be my own worst enemy. It's more like keeping in the here and now that when I try to do things my way, I fail.
Your greatest joy? I'm just a girl whos totally in love with Jesus. I am so Joyous sharing him and blogging for His Kingdom.
Part 4. What might God want to do with your passion to write, create, nurture, teach, mentor, lead? Well, he has put writing a small devotional book heart on my heart; I started it and work on it from time to time. I also just learned how to make printables for my site and offer them free. I like to create printables and social media graphics.
ReplyDeleteLinda, I also want to add an extra note. I also have another website A Blessed Mess, over on Blogger. I had made the website in October 2021 and jumped from Weebly, Wix, and Squarespace until I found what suited me. I wanted simple, so I settled on Blogger. This space is where I write not only about Jesus & Faith, but I will be focusing my chronic illness writings and some homey things there too. I just put everything on Blogger last week, and it's up and running now. @ https://www.ablessedmess.me
Also a thank you for linking up with Sweet Tea & Friends this month.
So many thoughtful questions you've asked, Linda! I'd better just answer a few. (I see a follow-up post in your future, after you read all the responses to this post. Which questions got skipped the most?! You could repost those!) I've been blogging nearly ten years, beginning shortly after I retired from teaching. Getting acquainted with other bloggers has been especially delightful; I've even met two face-to-face which I NEVER expected when I began. They lived so far away! But God engineered our encounters. I keep a running list of potential ideas; many never get used. Some posts take much longer than others to write, so the hours I spend vary greatly. My routine includes a new post every Thursday. Reading other blogs is also a time-commitment, but the mental, emotional, and spiritual input from other sisters (and a few brothers!) in Christ keeps me encouraged and mindful of Him.
ReplyDeleteLinda, I truly enjoy your blog post and have always felt your place was a place of safety for fellow bloggers to speak or share. I pondered over your questions. WOW! So much to think about.
ReplyDeleteAre you an old-timer or a fresh face? Old timer and I have honestly forgot how long I have been blogging. I did take about a year off. But have been blogging for some years.
Keep a posting schedule or go with the creative flow? Years ago I tried so hard to post at least three days a week and quickly learned that it was too much for me with working. I only post once a week and I try to do that on Sunday afternoons. Even with being retired I have found that once a week posting is good enough for me.
How many hours a week? I probably use about an hour or less to make a post. It really depends on what pictures I want to post.
Developed a unique niche? I am not sure my niche is unique but I often save my pictures I want to show throughout the week so that I know those are what I call my "blogging pictures" and it takes less time when I have that organized on my laptop.
How do you dream up topics? Not really. I am a "all about family blogger" though I do share other things at times but when it comes to my family I don't have to dream up post. I am living them.
Do you participate in weekly link-ups? No I don't. I have tried doing that off and on but to be honest, I found it so time consuming and never had nearly as many do the courtesy of replying to my link up post as I did them. It became disheartening honestly.
Take time off? I do when I am on vacation or out of town for some reason or another.
Run out of steam? I will be honest, though I only post once a week there has been times that I have run out of steam. Not sure if it was due to the busyness of life or the mere fact that I do truly try to put my family first in all areas with God being first and foremost. I am learning the older that i get that time is precious in life and even my ME time. (If this makes sense)
How do your nurture your community? I hope that I do by way of showing how important family is. How we should never take the many blessings of God that we have for granite. I try to share Jesus in my life with my words and encouragement.
And manage the tech stuff? As far as tech goes, well, my answer would be sorta! Depends on how important it is to me to learn.
Do unpleasant emotions make an appearance? Rarely. Well, if you mean my posting.. I may post something that we have went through that I found unpleasant but never rude based on my emotions.
Is this a money maker? No.
Have interactions been hurtful or harmful? No. I have a kind and supportive small blogging family that I feel that knows my heart so no hurt or harm has stemmed.
Embraced a theme, mantra, or mission statement? I guess my theme would be simply be family and my life. My mission statement is pretty much summed up on ABOUT ME on my blog.
How many bloggers do you follow? Quite a few but some have not blogged in years. I did do a clean out a few years back. Probably need to do another one now that I think about that.
Do you schedule time for commenting on other blogs? For me, it's off and on throughout my week when time allows.
What hasn't worked for you? Well, I am not sure how to answer this one. But, I can say this, what has worked for me is simply being me and not trying to be someone else.
Impact of other social media? I really have no impact on social media with my blogging. I do not share my blog on FB or IG or etc. I just simply blog.
Next part: Spending less morning quiet time with God? I always spend time with the Lord in the mornings. Actually that is my favorite time especially since I have retired. I have my devotional, bible reading, praying, praising, and lots of coffee with Him in the mornings and not all in that order daily. I listen to my Soul Space (todays message) and I participate in a online bible study which brings me much joy. My mornings have become my favorite time of the day to be honest. But not too early. LOL! I am truly not a morning person.
ReplyDeleteYour biggest disappointment? To be honest it's when i feel others do not comment on my blog post when I am so faithful to visit them. But, another lesson from our Lord that others may not do unto you as you do them and I try to remember that instead of being discouraged. I've always felt that even if another person post did not interest me in way of content that I could still let them know I visited by some word of kindness being shown. That is called courtesy to me.
Your greatest joy? Oh I wish I had the time to share the joy I have felt. I have made so many new friends, sisters in Christ, and even have been able to minister to others with intercessory prayer or simply by praying with them on their posts. I have made friends with those I have never seen but yet we connected in such a way that there was no doubt that we were soul sisters. Friends that I have been able to be ONLY a part of their blogging life and has passed on but yet, I know I will see them again one day in heaven that I grieved over their passing. I have had much joy.
What might God want to do with your passion to write, create, nurture, teach, mentor, lead? Is this a trick question? LOL! I pray that God will show me what He would have for me to do for Him. I have done all the above.
My blogging is actually a journal of my life for me. Linda, your post with these questions today has surely made me think about some things. I do appreciate your time, your blogging friendship and most of all your love for our Savior. Thank you for always allowing your readers to reply with honesty. Hugs and blessings, Cindy
This is an interesting topic and I look forward to both answering and reading others' answers, at least some. I'm an old-timer (I started in 2007) and I go with the flow. I try to post twice a week but on rare occasions its more and sometimes less. When there's nothing to say, why say it? I probably spend about four hours a day most days between writing and reading blogs, as well as commenting personally to those for whom I have an email address. Sometimes I'll start one ahead of time -- or two or three -- so I have a lot of partial drafts in the file. I write mostly about my real life -- and that includes books I read, painting/art/creativity, family, holidays, home, nature and the life at the lake. I have no specific niche. Topics just come to me -- sometimes from an article or discussion I've been part of, an inspiring person, or just life.
ReplyDeleteI participate in a few link-ups, but it all depends on their theme and my posts. I've only taken time off when traveling, though I might post less during times when I'm ill. I don't advertise and for the most part, don't follow blogs that do (with a few rare exceptions -- for the most part, my ad blocker knocks the ads out anyway. I'm no techie, but I've figured it out and don't hesitate to ask other bloggers if I'm stumped. It's a wonderful community and I'm happy to help out people who need it if I can -- They have also helped me. I've never really had any negative interactions; a few differences of opinion but nothing uncivil. And the bloggers I've met in person (probably about 15) or have had off-blog relationships (pen pals, phone pals) have all been wonderful experiences. I probably follow about 40-50 bloggers, maybe more but that's pretty close. It seemed like there was a time when a lot of people were going to instagram. Oddly enough, the numbers of followers and comments on my blog actually went up when that happened, which I still can't explain. I don't do instagram. I do have FB but as me, not as my Marmelade Gypsy. I have loved meeting people from all over the world and have found those I've met in person to be very much who they are online. I wouldn't trade that experience for the world.
Linda, I love this! It's fun reading others' mindsets about blogging. I wasn't going to answer all the questions . . . but I did. ;)
ReplyDeleteAre you an old-timer or a fresh face? I’ve been blogging for over nine years.
Keep a posting schedule or go with the creative flow? I keep a schedule. I’ve had to figure out how much time I could invest in blogging along with my other writing pursuits and real-life living.
How many hours a week? For writing and uploading most posts—probably 4ish. For commenting on others’ posts—3-6 hours/week
Developed a unique niche? Not sure?
How do you dream up topics? I pray and ask God to show me possible themes for each month of the year. But I also try to be aware of what is going on around me and the themes that may come up in the comments people share in response to my posts.
Do you participate in weekly link-ups? Yes. :)
Take time off? I usually take off most of December and often 2-3 weeks in the summer, or when there’s too much real life going on.
Run out of steam? Sometimes.
How do your nurture your community? On occasion, I am able to share photos and other resources, but my hope is that taking time to visit peoples’ blogs is nurturing.
And manage the tech stuff? I’ve been learning LOTS about this stuff! Sometimes, I deal with it when something goes wrong, but when I see ways to improve or update my website’s look, I have fun with that.
Do unpleasant emotions make an appearance? Definitely.
Is this a money maker? No. Maybe someday?
Have interactions been hurtful or harmful? I’ve never had attacking comments, but there have been a couple over the years that have felt confrontational
Embraced a theme, mantra, or mission statement? My blog’s theme, in general, is encouraging women in their relationships with God and those in their circles
How many bloggers do you follow? Not sure
Do you schedule time for commenting on other blogs? Definitely! I both love to read what others are sharing, and I like to practice “good etiquette” by visiting those who so kindly comment on my posts.
What hasn't worked for you? Not sure
Impact of other social media? I get some people who come from social media to visit my site.
Spending less morning quiet time with God? Occasionally.
Your biggest disappointment?
Your greatest joy? Meeting so many amazing, thought-provoking bloggers! I love reading other peoples’ perspectives and experiences
What might God want to do with your passion to write, create, nurture, teach, mentor, lead? I believe blogging is a ministry. It’s also something God is using to teach me skills for the publishing industry…like meeting weekly deadlines. ;)
Great questions!
ReplyDeleteKeep a posting schedule or go with the creative flow? Definitely a schedule girl, now down to weekly posts.
How many hours a week? No idea.
Developed a unique niche? I am committed to helping women become confident God followers and students of the Word.
How do you dream up topics? My reading enriches my writing.
Do you participate in weekly link-ups?
Faithfully
Take time off?
Run out of steam? Not yet!
How do your nurture your community?
Sharing the resources that are enriching my life and the grace that carries me.
And manage the tech stuff? Oh, ugh… I just keep trying to stay on top of the details.
Do unpleasant emotions make an appearance? I don’t think so…
Is this a money maker? My paid writing and speaking opportunities have come to me through my blog.
Have interactions been hurtful or harmful? No
Embraced a theme, mantra, or mission statement? See niche question above
How many bloggers do you follow?
Fewer all the time
Do you schedule time for commenting on other blogs?
Every day
What hasn't worked for you?
Profligate guest posting
Impact of other social media?
Maybe it helps to get more exposure, but no avalanches, for sure!
Spending less morning quiet time with God? I think my writing keeps me more accountable.
Your biggest disappointment?
I guess I see everything as gift.
Your greatest joy?
Influencing and encouraging others for a closer following.
What might God want to do with your passion to write, create, nurture, teach, mentor, lead? I’m in, whatever happens!
Linda, these are wonderful questions and I have enjoyed reading responses. I will get back tomorrow on my responses. I am tired and ready to call it a day.
ReplyDeleteHi there! I can't get my stuff to let me log in for some reason, but not the point.
ReplyDeleteFor me, I use WordPress for all my blogging. I can't afford a paid page, but my intent isn't to gain followers as much as it is to spread a message of Jesus from time to time. Truth be told, lately it's been more about sharing my self-published novella I've been working on for several years, but I do actually post a message from time to time
How fascinating to read all the comments. And great questions too. I am an oldtimer been blogging since 2009. One thing I would add to this conversation is be willing to try new schedule. I used to post three times a week, the twice, now once a week. Whatever works best for you and your reader. And I do like creating a list of idea - sometimes monthly themes ahead of time to help when I begin to write but am always aware of what life is happening around me to write about too. I follow a workable schedule; I write the next week's post the week before and have it scheduled to go public on a Tuesday. I like not getting behind. And as you know I do like some recurring post ideas like the Four Somethings we both began thsi year. Great post idea here, Linda. Thanks!
ReplyDelete🥰 Well, WOW, you guys! When I threw a few questions on the table, I never dreamed you'd go into such depth, share such insights, and tell your blogging stories in such a detailed way. Thank you, thank you!
ReplyDeleteYou've served up so much rich meat to absorb and savor and I can't do it justice by commenting on each post. Expect a follow-up conversation as we talk about all YOU'RE teaching me. And where I'll confess to several major downfalls I've experienced in my almost quarter century {OUCH!} years of blogging that none of you have mentioned so far.
Again, thanks for investing major time in reflection and your patience in navigating Blogger so we could all glean from your wealth of experience and wisdom!
And if you're reading this and haven't told a bit of your own blogging story, the floor is open for you, the welcome mat is out. The dialogue continues! Do tell ...
xo
This is a great conversation, Linda! It's so interesting to read people's thoughts. I'll have a go at giving some answers!
ReplyDeleteAre you an old-timer or a fresh face? Over 6 years
Keep a posting schedule or go with the creative flow? I generally post on a Monday and also take part in Five Minute Friday
How many hours a week? No idea - I think it varies
Developed a unique niche? I tried but I have too much to say on other topics!
How do you dream up topics? Usually sparked by a conversation or interaction (which is why my blog dried up so much in lockdown)
Do you participate in weekly link-ups? Yes!
Take time off? When life is too busy or I have nothing to say
Run out of steam? Definitely several times in the last two years
How do your nurture your community? Responding to comments and visiting and commenting on others' blogs
And manage the tech stuff? Just do the basics
Do unpleasant emotions make an appearance? Occasionally
Is this a money maker? No
Have interactions been hurtful or harmful? Only once that I can think of in six years of blogging
Embraced a theme, mantra, or mission statement? Speaking truth, sharing hope
How many bloggers do you follow? Not sure - probably about 12-15 that I visit regularly
Do you schedule time for commenting on other blogs? I don't exactly schedule it but I try to make time for it
What hasn't worked for you? Building up my blog page on social media - I know the theory of how to do it but I just find it draining and tiring
Spending less morning quiet time with God? Not because of blogging
Your biggest disappointment? Can't think of one
Your greatest joy? Connecting with so many wonderful people in the blogging community
What might God want to do with your passion to write, create, nurture, teach, mentor, lead? Who knows? I have so many ideas and not enough time so we'll see what happens!
This is great, Linda! I'm enjoying all the comments!
ReplyDeletePersonal behind the scenes values and logistics. “Iron sharpens iron.” ~Proverbs 27:17
Are you an old-timer or a fresh face? Semi-new; approximately a year and a half.
Keep a posting schedule or go with the creative flow? I post once a week – on Friday.
How many hours a week? I’m not sure. When I started, I researched for two days, then wrote for two days, then did linkups and encouragements on the fifth day, and had weekends off. Now, I research a day and write a day, and sprinkle writing, administration, and encouraging comments throughout the week – with Friday still being my main comment/encouragement day.
Developed a unique niche? Faith-Based/Christian Living/Relationship with God
How do you dream up topics? I sit before the Lord, hear His heart, and try to follow where He leads.
Do you participate in weekly link-ups? Yes.
Take time off? I take 2-3 weeks off at Christmas/New Year’s when I have a lot of family visiting. And I take off the week of Thanksgiving.
Run out of steam? Sometimes, I feel at a loss of what to write, but I just fall on my face and cry out to the Lord.
How do your nurture your community? I encourage through my writings, and through my comments on other people’s blogs.
And manage the tech stuff? I have a family member who helps me when I run into issues.
Do unpleasant emotions make an appearance? No.
Is this a money maker? No.
Have interactions been hurtful or harmful? No.
Embraced a theme, mantra, or mission statement? Audience of One and serving others.
How many bloggers do you follow? I’m not quite sure.
Do you schedule time for commenting on other blogs? In the beginning, Friday was my link-up and comment day. I still do the majority of my comments on Friday, but now I do sprinkle a few comments throughout the week.
What hasn't worked for you? After retiring from teaching, I tried using a lesson planner to organize all my blog post ideas and social media postings, but it was just too time consuming.
*What has worked for you? I use excel sheets to keep track of my blog post titles, link-ups and comments, etc.
Impact of other social media? Instagram is inspiring; I find Twitter brings non-faith based people that increases my bounced rate; FB seems neutral in regards to other people sharing my posts and response. I don’t really use social media to promote my posts, I just use link-ups.
Spending less morning quiet time with God? No. Blogging/Writing is a separate part of my day.
Your biggest disappointment? I struggled in the beginning with the lack of encouragement/comments from others i.e. I sowed a lot of comments, but received very few in return. I’ve branched out to other link-ups now, so all my sowing isn’t in one basket. And I give grace to other’s who may be in a hard season and need the encouragement, but don’t have the time to reciprocate. And I keep records of commenters/non-commenters, and eventually stop sowing into those who seem to be takers only. So that has been my one area of disappointment and how I overcame it.
Your greatest joy? Walking this writing/blogging journey with Jesus!
*My second greatest joy? Meeting wonderful people on the same path and experiencing iron-sharpening-iron with such beautiful people!
What might God want to do with your passion to write, create, nurture, teach, mentor, lead? I believe loving Him, surrendering to Him, trusting Him, obeying Him, and following Him wherever He leads in this writing/blogging journey – brings glory to His name! And I trust that He encourages others because that is Who He is – an encouraging, life-giving God.
Are you an old-timer or a fresh face? I've been blogging since 2009 - so 13 years.
ReplyDeleteKeep a posting schedule or go with the creative flow? I try to post on Mondays. I used to post 3 X a week now only one; rarely two unless it's a recipe.
How many hours a week? It depends on what's going on in the everyday ordinary.
Developed a unique niche? When I started I was a mom-blogger who discussion everything from the politics of raising children to God in the raising and the feeding of them.. As the years have I think it has become more of living the daily with God - all that entails.
How do you dream up topics? God gives them to me. That's the only way to explain it. Often, it is about encouraging someone who is going through a challenge, a lot of it is preaching to me.
Do you participate in weekly link-ups? Yes! I think relationship building is what makes our community so valuable.
Take time off? When I need it or the words don't come, I will step back and go quiet.
Run out of steam? Sometimes God just wants me to listen.
How do your nurture your community? I think commenting builds community. If you're not commenting, then you're not trying to build relationships - and that is where authenticity comes in.
And manage the tech stuff? I am learning more and more each year.
Do unpleasant emotions make an appearance? Not really.
Is this a money maker? Heavens no!
Have interactions been hurtful or harmful? No!
Embraced a theme, mantra, or mission statement? My mission statement is to show my boys how to grow old loving the lord - so that encompasses a lot.
How many bloggers do you follow? I couldn't tell you. I visit quite a few and have made real life friends with many!
Do you schedule time for commenting on other blogs? Yes! I try to do at least 6 hours a week.
What hasn't worked for you? I've never been good at promoting myself - or doing things like twitter. It seems I can either write or promote but not do both.
Impact of other social media?
Spending less morning quiet time with God? It helps me spend quiet time with God.
Your biggest disappointment? People who are more interested in numbers than relationship
Your greatest joy? The wisdom I have gained through other women, the encouragement from them, the relationship building - and that I am doing what God designed me to do - that has been very fulfilling.
What might God want to do with your passion to write, create, nurture, teach, mentor, lead? One day at a time, one step at a time. When God opens a door, I'll go through it. When He closes one, I respect that.
I have got to come back to this when it's not time to make dinner and answer and see other's answers. I am also curious!
ReplyDelete