Some local writer friends were trying to convince me recently that blogs are a waste of time. They quoted some studies or whatnot. All, well and fine, and I understand their need to feel they're not missing out by not blogging. They are missing out though. This is a fabulous opportunity to network, help other writers who send out an SOS, make friends and learn. Where else is there an Insecure Writers group? Only here in bloggyland.
I confess to some feelings of anxiety and insecurity, despite my bluster above. My dream is to write stories and publish them. I want to keep doing it, and I hope I will. I hope some people will like what I do as much as I enjoy creating my works. So many, many hopes. Like submitting, it's hope mixed with trying not to expect too much. So, I chew on my lip and hold my breath. I took that leap and there's no going back. I must keep moving forward. Must. Anyone want to clutch hands?
What has your stomach in knots?
Major thanks to Alex J. Cavanaugh for starting this group.
35 comments:
I'm glad you didn't listen to the friends that suggested blogging is a waste of time. I've learned a lot of the previous two years through blogging that has helped me on my writing path.
I think many writers feel like the benefits of blogging don't outweigh the amount of time you spend doing it.
Blogging alone doesn't take that much time. Visiting the blogs of others does take time. I agree with you that it is an investment in a network that will provide you with support and helpful knowledge. The one thing every writer should know. You can't be successful in this business alone. We all need a support system!
Congratulations on hitting Amazon!! I need to go over and check it out. I've spent so much on Amazon this week :).
'So many, many hopes.'
I get that.
I think blogging is one way to connect, inasmuch as all other forms of social media are. And like attracts like. I was on Facebook for a brief period and really disliked it. Later, I began to blog and found a true niche. I think blogging is for some and not for others.
I do think blogging suits you quite well, M.
Sounds like we're all in the same boat. Not enough hours in the day, and some days not enough strength in that day! That's why we need blogging, networking, and support from fellow authors who totally understand our 'angst'. Promo is a lonely venture full of self doubt at times...we definitely need that human 'hand-holding chain' just to keep us moving forward! So I say blog away! And treasure the support that comes from that labor of love! :)
Blogging really opens up a new world that no other media can...the blog becomes our beacon of light in a foggy night. I am so glad for you. I do hope you keep writing because your stories have a uniqueness, your writing voice that makes them attractive.
What has my stomach in knots? Had you been on Facebook Saturday morning when I uploaded my novel, you would have seen me have a small nervous breakdown online. Always happens the first time I do anything.
I'll be better next time. :)
There's definitely value to blogging. I bought your book yesterday. There's no way I would have stumbled upon it were it not for this. Every book sold and every reader counts when you are getting started.
On top of that, the support you give to other writers (like me) matters. In the grand scheme I think it matters more than the dollars.
I don't know if having a blog helps to sell books, but it does help to establish relationships with your readers and to meet new and interesting people. Like most things, it's only worth it if you enjoy it. Having said that, keep blogging! I love your blog! :)
*holds hands* I'm getting ready for that leap too (already have taken it really, as there's no turning back now). I think writing is such an act of bravery, publishing even more so.
p.s. your friends are wrong. Blogging is an amazing asset to those that value it (if you don't then you shouldn't blog; ergo they are probably doing the right thing for them). :)
Blogging is NOT a waste of time. I'm glad you kept blogging or we wouldn't have gotten to know you!
I did do the insecure post too..let's be insecure together, lol.
Blogging is so vital because it helps me connect to the world beyond my own city. I'm glad I took the leap and started to blog. I had no idea what would happen or if anyone would even read what I posted, but this has been bar none one of the greatest experiences for me and I have found a whole virtual family that I don't what I would do without.
I didn't "get" blogging at first and looked at it as nothing but a time suck. But it didn't take long to realize the benefits aren't about marketing at all, it's about the amazing inspiration and support you mention here. I'm so happy you blog. :)
It's probably easier for me to list what doesn't have my stomach in knots instead of what does. Insecurity and anxiety are my stock in trade LOL. I so relate to your comments about so many hopes. I'm clutching hands and hoping we all get there!
I like what you write - don't stop!
I bet those people who think a blog is a waste of time spend hours on Facebook playing Farmville.
I get told that blogging is a waste of time, often. I disagree...it is a place where you can get feedback from friends and strangers. And the networking...best thing ever!
This is me holding out my hand to you, Mary! Perhaps we can form a long, long line that circles this virtual world.
I posted my own insecurities today for Alex's IWSG. That in itself helps ease my worries. Drop by and leave me a line!
Blogs are not a waste of time. That sounds like a negative nancy trying to drag you down (to me). Think of all the emotional and mental support you receive from people who can understand what you are going through. I for one support you and I also will be buying your book. That in itself (I think) makes blogging worth it.
I agree that blogging is a waste of time if you don't do it right. I've seen plenty of blogs where I think the blogger is wasting their time because they aren't networking or they aren't posting anything that's worth a crap. It's like anything else-it's only worth as much as the investment you make. You can find studies that cite anything and I've seen more that advocate the usefulness of having a blog.
Lee
Tossing It Out
blogging is so not a waste of time. I have gained so many new friends through blogging. I've gain critique partners and amazing support, and I've learned so much.
Let's grab hands and jump!
I don't think I ever would have FINALLY finished that first draft if I hadn't started blogging. So many inspirational writers out here. And a fantastic support system.
I can't wait to read my copy of your book! eeek!
Congrats on your Amazon release! That rocks!!
Stomach knots, you ask? Prepping for NaNoWriMo 2011 has turned up the anxiety. I want to win this year. I'm even taking an online prep course through Pennwriters to prepare. Unfortunately, it's not making the approaching Nov. 1 start date any less frightening. And, you're right. There's a great writing community in the blogosphere for just these moments.
First of all congratulations on your release. I'll be hopping over to check it out next! Secondly, I've been hearing that blogging is "over" as well. I hope not. I love connecting with other writers this way.
I'm holding your hand! Yes knots are necessary, sorry~ Blogging over?!
who started that rumor, I know someone who doesn't blog!
One thing blogging isn't is a waste of time. And my hand is always free for clasping :)
My full ms is out with an agent at the moment. I'd clutch hands with you, but my fingers are all crossed -- will you hold my wrists?
On another note, I disagree that blogs are a waste of time. I just released my short story THE DOLL on Smashwords and Amazon. And guess where my first buyers came from? Yep, you guessed it -- they were my blog followers! I love you guys! *muaks*
Oh dear me yes blogging is very time consuming but it's not a waste of time. The community is so supportive and I am sure I have grown in my writing maturity by doing regular challenges and I have learned so much over the past year. I'll clutch hands with you and say. Good for you and good luck with your writing dream.
oh, everything. And feeling like I missed my opportunity. Or it was never really there to begin with.
but I love these posts. Kudos to Alex and to all of you who participate~ ((hugs))
Congrats! This is fab news about your book. And as for your friends that don't blog...we'll it's not for everybody. :)
I enjoy blogging. It's the best way I know how to share online what I've learned.
Congrats on your book launch.
I think it depends on how much time you have. I've seen plenty of indie authors without blogs hit the bestseller lists (though a lot of them do guest post on other people's blogs). If you work full-time, have a family, and only have an hour a day (if that) to write, then you're probably better off focusing on getting more work out there. But if you have time to blog, then it can certainly have benefits.
Authors who do it correctly can sell books that wouldn't have otherwise sold, purely because of their blog, and you never know how much the site you start building today might help you a couple of years down the road. Traffic generally grows as time passes.
Anyhoo, let me cut that off before it becomes a ramble (too late?). Congratulations on getting your work out there, and good luck!
I did hear that having a blog was a good idea for aspiring authors, and that's why I started mine. It isn't really why I'm continuing with it, though. That is rather because of the awesome people I've met through blogging, the fellow writers who are ready with words of encouragement, commiseration, whatever I need at any given time.
Congrats on your book release!!
The whole marketing aspect of what we do is the part that keeps me tied in knots. I know that I'm a writer for the long haul and that gives me encouragement to keep moving forward.
I'll clutch hands with you, lady. I'm wishing you the best. I'm still trying to make it around to the support group here...there are so many. Let me tell you this, you come across as a wonderful person. Anyone like that has dreams that are as vast as the stars...and these can not be ignored. You're going to take the world by storm...or in your case...meteor shower. :)
My hand is free!
I've been thinking more about what blogging is worth, recently, since it takes a lot of time. I'm not about to stop, though--I really enjoy "meeting" other people through blogs and learning things through them. :)
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