I wrote lots, organized tons, and thought about what blogging means to me. I needed to view this form of social media with a fresh set of eyes.
So I've made changes that are probably not obvious--the biggest being my outlook. I also removed some numbers and counters and tried sprucing the place up. Simply doing that reduced the pressure and fatigue I was feeling.
I'll blog from a good place, on my own timeline, and cultivate the awesome on-line relationships I've made over the years. I don't want to get sucked into the "numbers matter" vortex again--it messes with my head, feels unhealthy, and in the end doesn't mean squat. Not really. Not when it comes to reaching my future YA audience. Not when it doesn't feel authentic.
Truth be told, it always comes down to the writing. And the writing is part of my bigger dream. And I need to do what it takes to nurture that, always.
It feels good, this new start. Hope you're doing well, too!
p.s. That pic is of my Little Bean (sticking his tongue out at me) on his first day of school. :-)
11 comments:
Totally understand! And I think the "numbers matter" bubble has broken! :)
Wonderful post! It seems more and more authors, no matter what stage of their career they happen to be in at the moment, are making this choice. To focus more on the writing than the publicizing/networking/whatever you want to call it.
My little guy (who is not so little anymore) had his first day of school yesterday, too, and I used that as a starting point for a new writing routine. It feels good to have a fresh start.
Best of luck to you, too!
Laura--that would be great if it did. *pop pop pop* :D
Ha! Great picture!
Reducing clutter and concentrating on writing always makes me feel better too. Keep writing!
Sometimes taking a break is the best medicine. So good to have you back!
Welcome back! Numbers matter far less than personal relationships.
Off to reduce the clutter on my desk!
Shelley
I love your outlook. I also try to keep away from thinking numbers matter, and just blog when I feel like it. Good for you. I'll keep coming back no matter how often you post.
I am facing the beginning of a new school year, too, and from a different perspective. Last school year was difficult for many reasons (and some of them still exist this year) -- but there are also some changes, and I am hoping this year will rekindle some of the zest for teaching that was sucked out of me last year.
I love that photo of your son! :)
And yes, blogging should be fun! Better to do it at your own pace then feel like it is another deadline.
Can I help pop the number bubbles? Please? :D
Welcome back, Christina!
What you said about "the writing" is so very true. In this business it's truly the most important thing.
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