You have to admit, blogging is a weird concept. It’s modern, trendy and often misunderstood by people. Particularly by those who have never heard of the term before.
I think blogging can be very misconstrued. Also, “blog” is a weird word to say (or write, for that matter). Before I began blogging or even reading blogs (3-4 years ago) I assumed bloggers were either a) fashionistas or b) recluse computer nerds. In my mind those were the only two categories. I didn’t understand why someone would keep a public diary and want to connect with people they had never met…and will probably never meet.
Admittedly, I bought into the stereotypes. I believed that bloggers were anti-social and in need of friends.
To say I was wrong is an understatement.
Bloggers are some pretty cool people. First, they have busy, exciting lives in the “real world.” They (can) publish relatable, useful and inspiring content. They share knowledge and opinions and provide insight on their topics of speciality (determining the qualifications of bloggers giving advice/knowledge is for another post. I have thoughts on that). Overall, they aren’t the “freaks” I thought they were.
I’ve mentioned this before but other than my immediate family and one friend, I haven’t told anyone about my blog. I have a separate Twitter and Instagram account and I don’t have a Facebook page for my blog.
My reasons? I’m embarrassed.
-I’m embarrassed to have people I know in “real life” read some of my vulnerable thoughts and experiences. I’m afraid I’ll be judged by what I write.
-I’m embarrassed to admit that I feel a bond with people (other bloggers) I’ve never met.
-I’m embarrassed by my old posts from when I first started (hello awful pictures and random formatting).
-I’m embarrassed that I willingly spend time and enjoy writing, brainstorming, reading other people’s opinions and having conversations over a topic/issue.
-While this has nothing to do with embarrassment, I feel like people I know will comment on posts and voice their approval just because they know me. Not because of the content.
Are these concerns valid, I’m not sure.
But I feel like I’m Hannah Montana, keeping a deep dark secret from people. Ok, that was a self-indulgent thought. I may only share bits and pieces of my daily life here, but blogging has undoubtedly become part of my life. When I told my friend about this blog I said it out of shame. Like blogging was a bad thing.
I’m learning more and more that blogging is not something to be embarrassed about. In fact, that’s the opposite of what I should feel. Being able to generate thought-provoking and/or helpful content is something to be proud of. At least I think so!
In general, and if used properly (not as a forum for criticizing, spreading false information, or comparison), blogging is pretty darn awesome.
Sure it might be “weird” to an outsider but who really cares? As long as I’m writing this blog for ME and using it as a creative outlet, which it has been phenomenal at, then I think it’s something worth sharing to friends and family.
Look out, world. We’re really going public now.
Linking up to Thinking Out Loud. Thanks, Amanda!