A Blogger’s Dilemma
I hope you won’t mind a little departure from the usual today. Something’s been on my mind lately and I felt like I just needed to talk about it.
Over the last few months, I’ve been becoming more and more overwhelmed here, not with writing this blog (I post every weekday and it comes very naturally to me) but with everything that goes along with blogging. I feel like I spend way too much time online and not enough on real life but on most days, even that feels woefully insufficient. I just can’t seem to stay on top of all the blogs in my reader everyday, leave comments on the blogs I visit, answer all the emails, keep up with Twitter . . . not to mention having to deal with content “scraping” and other unpleasant matters surrounding blogging.
One thing I’ve done is to cut back on commenting and using that time to visit more blogs. That’s allowed me to keep up with more of you, which is a good thing but then, I feel badly that I don’t leave enough comments. So, obviously it’s not a perfect solution. I realize that everyone is busy and pressed for time these days so I’d like to ask fellow bloggers out there how you manage. And particularly those of you with kids and those of you with kids and full-time jobs, I’d really like to know how you do it all. Please share! I’d love to know how much time you spend working on your own blogs, on visiting other blogs and leaving comments, etc.
I know that in the end, it’s just blogging and there are far more important things going on in the world. But blogging is a big part of many of our lives and I’d love to hear your thoughts. I hope we can get a good discussion going here so thanks in advance for your input.
And let me also take this time to thank you all for your time – for your visits, comments, links, and kind emails and for subscribing, following and supporting FTRB. It would not be what it is without you.
*Don’t forget to enter the $100 CSN Gift Certificate Giveaway this week!*
I have been feeling the same way lately…especially since I discovered Twitter! I used to allot a couple of hours every night, after my son went to sleep, to spend on blogging, but I am so committed to trying to increase the readership of my own blog that I find I am spending time at work doing it, as well, which is not good. If my blog was a full-time, paid gig, I would be over the moon! But it's not
The one thing I have been pretty strict about is not blogging on weekends. I don't usually go near my computer on the weekends (even though I am itching to go on come Sunday!), but that has definitely helped. A couple of other bloggers have considered getting interns to help organize, research postings, etc. Would you consider that?
.-= Shannon @ What's Up Whimsy´s last post ..Our 2nd Wedding Anniversay =-.
As full time working, blogging wife and mom of two young boys I certainly understand how you feel. I am making small changes and I have had to start commenting less as well. I am still reading, there are so many great blogs.
I understand COMPLETELY!! It didn't happen to m until I became a new mom a couple of months ago but right after that I dropped of the face of the blogosphere. I'd sit and have my coffee and read everyones blogs but didn't have the time or energy to leave comments or even to actively keep up with my own.
Life first, then blogs. If you don't leave space for life whatever are you going to blog about?
The Townhouselady
.-= Townhouselady´s last post ..The Best Darn Giveaway That I Ever Did See =-.
I don't have kids, but I do have a full-time job (that I loathe and spend a lot of time reading blogs while at "work"). I also run a handmade accessories business. I sell via Etsy (www.acutedesigns.etsy.com) and art/craft shows. My business and blogging/writing are my true loves so I spend a lot of time on both.
I understand how you feel about having time to read/comment every day. So, I just comment when I truly have something useful to say, versus just commenting for the sake of commenting.
Also, I spend about two hours every weekend writing quick posts for the middle of the week when I am too busy. This helps ease my mind to know "I have posted plenty for my readers this week, now I can concentrate on reading the blogs I follow."
I hope this help! I sometimes feel the same way about blogging, but I love it and in a way feel that people signed up to follow my blog, so I should deliver.
Your blog is fab, I found it just a few weeks ago and am so happy I did. I really love it!
.-= Gina´s last post ..Welcome Wednesday =-.
I am also pressed to keep up and I find that what I do is this; I either comment and post less or post and comment less. It is not ideal but it is my way of staying in touch. I can't do it all and have realised that we (bloggers) all understand the demands of everyday life. I would love to respond to all my readers and know their blogs as well as I know my own but that just does not happen….So I have to hope that my content makes up for my lack of comments and then vice versa. Good topic….xv
.-= Vicki Archer´s last post ..the tgv or a funny thing happened on the way to avignon =-.
I'm right there with you… I've been reading more but commenting less. And my blog has been put on the back burner since becoming a mom about a month ago. It's a hard balance.
My blog has suffered because I've tried to limit my time that I spend online. And when I'm online- I find myself wanting to read other ppl's blogs rather than researching things to post on mine!
.-= Brooke @ Blueprint Bliss´s last post ..Niermann Weeks =-.
I am in the same boat as you – overwhelmed by it all and not enough time to do it all in. Or rather, I've realised that I'd like to spend more of my time with my daughter and family than pressed up against the laptop trying to respond to everyone's blogs. Have my comments suffered? Yes. But people still come to read my blog. Hopefully I'll find a balance one day – if you find it first, let me know!!
.-= Margarita´s last post ..I don’t do mornings Or- look at this Garfield poster- =-.
I'm not a blogger, just a reader of A LOT of blogs like yours. I love reading blogs. I love finding new blogs. But do I delete any old ones to make room for the new ones? Rarely…
So it all adds up!
I also have a 3 year old son, a 2 store house to clean, a full time job, an endless love on learning foreign languages (currently italian), an ever growing pile of books I really want to read and thank God some friends to catch up with.
So, speaking for all of us just readers out there, I understand. I don't mind the least.
I prefer small managable posts than long, time-consuming ones.
I prefer quality over quantity.
And finally, alas, you are not the only one in the blogosfera feeling like this. More and more bloggers are managing to cope with everything.
So, my advice, if your blog is not making you any money that you depend on, set a time limit and stick to it.
Your familly and life will thank you!
Hi Ally, I totally understand how you are feeling. What I do is spend a few hours planning my topics and searching for photos, and then "schedule" my posts. So I don't usually create a post each day.
As for visiting and commenting, I visit blogs based on the topic. I admit, if I follow a blog, I don't visit daily unless I'm drawn by the topic. And I usually don't comment every time I visit. I don't want to comment on everything because I don't want to seem ungenuine.
Don't stress too much, blogging is for fun and I don't think you'll hurt feelings by limiting your visits and comments. I'm happy receiving visits and don't want everyone to feel that they have to comment.
.-= erica @ decorica´s last post ..House-napping =-.
You know if you need to take a breather, go ahead and do it. I have only recently started blogging so I don't have much to offer in terms of experience…but I've already caught on to the fact that blogging is time consuming! But, for me, it has opened up a whole new world, and I've "met" some wonderful people I couldn't have dreamed of meeting IRL…. Its time consuming and a lot of work, but its given me the release i was looking for….
I'll still read your blog if you don't comment as much…
.-= GB´s last post ..Drooling over =-.
Oh, I am sure we've all faced this dilemma. Great comments so far. Life has to come first. I have learned to let things go. When I started blogging, I always said that if I got stressed or felt pressure to get a post out every day, I'd just stop. And sometimes I do take breaks. It's good, and then I come back refreshed. Of course, I don't have a ton of readers and I don't have sponsors or anything – that changes the ballgame I suppose. In that case, I think I'd have guest posters or help of some sort. And don't ever feel guilty about commenting. I only comment when I truly have something to say. Like now.
.-= Mary´s last post ..Im an Addict =-.
I completely agree with you and often get stressed wondering how everyone else handles this! I love searching blogs but don't comment nearly as often as I should! With a full time job and chores to do along with cooking and other commitments after work, it's tough. I always say if it becomes too much, then I'll just stop. I often wish I had more time to be creative and do more but right now I just enjoy what i'm doing and take it one day at a time. It's nice to know i'm not the only one who thinks about this! I hope you find your peaceful middlegrounds.
.-= Emily´s last post ..Tie-the-Knot Tuesday purple and peacocks =-.
Thanks for your comments so far. It's always nice to know you're not alone.
I'd just like to clarify that my problem is not with writing this blog. I write new posts every day and it comes very easily to me. It's just keeping up with the blogosphere that has me overwhelmed.
Let's keep this discussion going!
That is exactly what I have done lately. I still read your blog everyday (along with my other faves) but I rarely comment because I just don't have time to. I feel bad because I think that people must assume I stopped following them, but It is too consuming to do everyday.
I just try to comment on posts (like today) that I really feel motivated to say something. If I still comment every so often, bloggers know that I'm still out there lurking.
I feel the same way! There is so much more to blogging than actually posting (that's the fun part!) Responding to readers, answering questions, etc. It can be overwhelming. I too have cut back and it is hard because I love blogging but if you aren't careful it can eat up a whole day!!
.-= Blue Hydrangea´s last post ..Readers Room Part 3 =-.
I agree… it's hard. it's literally like having a second job. here is something I do a lot. if I visit a new blog and love it, i try to follow the person on twitter and then write them a quick message like "hey, just found your blog and love it!" Then, whenever I see that they have tweeted about a new post I try to retweet it or mention it. That way I can support them without having to write a comment every time.
Do you mind if I broach this topic on my own blog? I will link back to you of course… It's such a great topic, but I have my own set of problems when it comes to blogging…
I will spend 8 or 9 hours on a post one day, and then be so burnt out it takes a day or two to get back on the horse. I want to ask people how they would do it. I'm thinking about splitting my post into two or three party, so when I generate a huge block of content I can spread it out…
I also feel like my posts are so long nobody reads them…. bc I usually get "her great picture" no matter what I write… anyway, here I have used your blog to voice my own frustrations. I hope my comment helped a little
-Blayne
.-= Blayne Beacham´s last post ..West Paces Park We Have A Winner- =-.
One more thing, when someone leaves a comment on my blog, I try to make it a rule to comment on theirs….
.-= Blayne Beacham´s last post ..West Paces Park We Have A Winner- =-.
Oh my there are soooo many wonderful blogs out there, it is definitely hard to keep up ! I try not to get lost in too many new blogs during the week (though it's tough) – I save that for my weekend reading, usually early Sunday morning with just my coffee while the hub and 2 kids sleep ! Also, I find there is little time to comment on other blogs right now unless something really wows me.
I think a genuine kind thougtful comment once a week or twice a month is just enough for that writer to know you're reading and loving their content. No need to comment on everything. And for me, I sign into Twitter two or three times a day from my computer – I have no app on my phone right now, and that's helping me stay sane ! As for FB, once a day, that's it ! My priorities remain with the kids right now for the summer since they're home with me, but I'm looking forward to more time for more posts in the fall.
There are only so many hours in the day, and I think it's important to step away from the computer on purpose. I find there is just as much inspiration out in the world as there is on the computer screen.
Always a fan
Kate
Ally, this is a very great question and something that most of us experience. I actually addressed this very issue on one of my blogs because I felt I just needed to. To answer your question, I must first say that I have no children, just a dog, my fiance and a very demanding job – managing/directing an entire dept. I also consult with companies and blog. So my day gets very hectic and the short answer is that you just have to prioritize and be as consistent as you can in keeping up with the blogosphere. When you get a chance, check out the post and I answer all the questions you mentioned today – link below.
http://lifesunnysidedown.blogspot.com/2010/06/wha…
XOXOX
Kiki
.-= Kiki´s last post ..And We Return To Regular Programming =-.
I could have written every single word of this post. Seriously.
I have decided to just back off a bit. I love chatting with other bloggers, but when that leaves me significantly less time to chat with my friends and family in real life, then it's a problem.
If you're a type A person like I am (and I bet you are) then I know it'll be hard for you to let some things go, but even Superwoman couldn't be everywhere at once.
.-= erin@designcrisis´s last post ..ZZZZZZZZZZ =-.
I COMPLETELY understand where you are coming from! Everyday I tell myself to only spend 1 to 2 hours max on social media sites and blogging, but I usually spend more. It does cut into your "real life" quite a bit. We have to all step back and realize that people are not sitting at their computers waiting for us to comment or tweet to them. And that if you don't have a million followers then that's okay! Breath Ally, I'm totally taking a breather with you!
.-= Staci@staciedwards.ca´s last post ..Island Living =-.
The problem is, as always, finding that balance between posting, commenting and visiting. Like you, I'm very pressed and, unfortunately, have as a rule only time to visit great blogs like yours where I'd really love to be be able to leave a comment as well!
Such an interesting topic.
XOXO LOLA:)
This is such a GREAT topic for discussion…I've been wondering myself how other bloggers do it because I'm having a much harder time keeping up with everything now that I'm working full time and trying to start a business. It's so hard to find that balance because I LOVE reading blogs…I read so many of them and want to show my appreciation for their work by leaving comments. But it's very time consuming. I'm finding that I'm spending hours a day just keeping up with blog reading, commenting and answering questions that it doesn't leave alot of time for coming up with my own posts and working on my store.
I think I need to cut back – but that feels hard to do so I understand how you feel. I've met so many wonderful people through blogging, that's been such a great bonus! I think I need to look at it that my blog is not my business or even there to make money. It's there for me to be creative and show things I've come across that I love.
So even though I love it, I need to focus more time on starting my store which hopefully would one day be something I could do full time. But I definitely feel like blogging helps towards that goal.
So many great comments here. I agree that loved ones come first. I guess that's what we need to remember!
.-= Piper´s last post ..back from vacation- =-.
Keeping balance in a womans life is a full time job. I always vote for family first. Blogging is a wonderful creative outlet and creative people need to create so it is a good thing to do on that count. I find if I set out a plan of how much time I spend on blogging it helps keep me balanced and removes the guilt. Same thing with commenting set up a pattern that fits into your lifestyle and stick to it. I think all of us that blog know how much time it takes to do a good post and to comment on others. No apology needed, you are doing great, Keep blogging and enjoying the process, Kathysue
.-= Kathysue´s last post ..My Marble Entry- =-.
I soooo relate. With two kids and a house to maintain, not to mention my sanity – which means me time AWAY from the computer, blogging time is hard to come by. I'm so glad to hear that you visit blogs and don't comment -because lately that's my m.o. too. I simply don't have time. I miss commenting like I used to! Re: how and when? I blog – write, post and read and comment when my kids nap during the day – which is about a one to two hour stretch in the middle of the day, if I'm lucky. I also try to read blogs early in the am and sometimes in the evening…it's hard to make time for everything! Right now my triathlon training and my kids and husband are my priorities, but luckily I'm still finding time to read blogs – because that's my indulgence!
.-= christy´s last post ..From 0 to 17 in two weeks- =-.
Hi Ally,
I found this post through One Sydney Road and this is one of the topics we talked about when we met up for lunch a few weeks ago (my first blogger meetup)!
I totally feel overwhelmed as well and am in pretty much the same boat as everyone else. Blog writing and content comes pretty naturally, although sometimes I do struggle with content on a regular basis. When I first started my blog I had a goal of updating once a week, but recently I have been doing Mon-Fri! However, I have decided that some things in my life have taken to the back burner such as spending time with friends and cleaning my house! So I am cutting back to maybe 3-4 posts a week and don't feel bad about that at all!
But commenting and visiting other blogs as well as keeping up with my Google Reader is really the toughest and most time consuming part! A lot of my friends who don't have blogs ask me how much time I spend on blogging and I always have to explain to them it's not just writing posts for my blog but finding time to comment on other people's blogs too! I would say though that I spend 2-3 hours each day "blogging" as a whole… or maybe even more!
But like I said before, I'm going to cut down my blog posts and make sure they are good content each time. Also, if I am too busy and my Google Reader gets to 1000+, I will just mark as read without reading and start fresh. I think I do need to clean out and organize my Google Reader though someday… I have my daily reads that I will always go to and usually comment and other posts I usually find through twitter now.
Anyways, thanks for letting me get my thoughts out and it's great to see so many others in the same boat!
xo,
Sandy
I find that segmenting my goals into daily and weekly tasks helps me to stay on schedule and not neglect anything, but also prevents me from spending too much time on something that I might burn out on. Keeping my calendar full of reminders helps me create routines. Perhaps carve out one hour per day, for example, to read and reply to friends blogs. Then you're done and don't beat yourself up for not spending more time on it until the next time it pops up in your calendar. Whatever it may be, I find that compartmentalizing my life helps take away that overwhelming feeling and gives me a broad view of what I'm doing, how important it is to me, and how I could manage my time better. I, for one, have zero readership on my blog, so I don't have to worry about keeping my readers entertained, ha ha.
I love to write posts and I love to read posts. The hard part I'm finding is how to keep it up when my "real" life suddenly turns upside down and I immediately become overcomitted to things or feel overwhelmed. Lately, I've been giving it a lot of thought since I went two weeks with only two posts. No solution as of yet. Leaning towards two or three times a week regular posting with at least one post being about a current project. and the comments…whew! that is a task all by itsself and I've been known to cut corners sometimes and just post a sweet thank you to everyone that has left me nice notes and only comment on the things that really catch my eye. By doing that you'll eventually make it around to everyone again. I like to think that all bloggers understand.
Hopefully!
Good luck!
Wow I so relate, Ally. I do find that to avoid having blogging feel like a chore I adhere to the following rules (a) no blogging on weekends (or even reading blogs!), (b) I only blog when I'm inspired, (c) I only follow blogs I love and while I try to comment regularly (as I know how much I appreciate that feedback), I read/comment on blogs in groups so like Group A is MW and Group B is TTh. That way, I'm not reading 50 blogs a day; just 25.
I'll admit though when I have kids I'll probably back off further…it's already tight enough blogging with a day job!
.-= Averill (Odi et Amo)´s last post ..Out of the Powder Room and into the Closet =-.
blogging, work and kids are very time consuming….realizing we can’t do it all is essential to you’re happiness…prioritize with the 5 most important things in your life and let go of the rest. 1. family, 2.career, 3. health…..and so on…..and then don’t feel guilty when you cut out the things that aren’t on your list…you WILL be happier and more sane…easier said than done, I know…but make your list TODAY and start living your values!! now!! this will align your focus with your objectives and not on what’s not working….get focused and start living again…do that list now!!!! best of luck, maureen lynne
.-= maureen lynne´s last post ..pillows- pillows- pillows =-.
This post is so timely. I spent two hours last night glued to my computer going through twitter, multiple blogs, and writing out my own blog posts. It's like Blayne said, blogging is a 2nd job. With a full-time job, finding time to blog, photograph blog subjects,and stay on top of friends' blogs, it's a daunting task. Sometimes I just make it a point to limit the sites I visit. Recently I've decided to sign up for blogs via email. That way, I don't have to visit each blog all the time to see when posts have been updated.
.-= katie o.´s last post ..White Trash Wednesday- Corn Dog Casserole =-.
I know I am a new blogger…but I have to find a balance already. Like right now, I should be reading Wyatt a book instead of typing this! Also, I don't Facebook or Tweet (that word cracks me up), so that helps a little. My husband isn't loving how much I am on the computer. I need to learn how to limiit it….but I am having so much fun (but I want to be a good wife, too). I guess I don't have an answer. I don't read as many blogs as I'd like because I like to comment. I love when people comment on mine…it is like a dialogue…so I like to do the same.
I leave comments in the middle of the night! lol…we are all so busy:)
.-= Hilary´s last post ..Metamorphosis- Girl’s Room =-.
Ally, I think you've done your commenting duty.
Design blogging should be getting easier and less prone to burn out. But it's a Catch 22. And mixing it with brand building sure kills the fun sometimes.
It's terrible when fun turns into work. I'm working on something that may help a little.
.-= Terry´s last post ..Our 4th party births a baby- kind of =-.
It is a LOT of work, non?
Being a full-time mama (happily), running an online business as well as a side business of organic cake baking, yoga, hubby time, cooking, etc. ~ blogging seems to fall in the middle somewhere. It is a wonderful creative outlet for me, but I also feel much guilt when I do not visit other blogs and comment often. I've come to organize my blog posts to three times a week (wish I could do more, but I can't right now) and to comment/visit at least 2-3 hours a week (I spread this out from Sunday PM – Friday afternoon). I tend to shut down the laptop and all online work from Friday at noon until Sunday at 8PMish. It helps me recharge. I love the community/friendships/inspiration I receive from blogging, and I want to keep it a happy place and not feel burdened or guilty. We are all very busy, so I'm sure it is an universal understanding throughout blogland when it comes to comments, visits, and posts.
~Melissa
.-= Melissa´s last post ..A PUBLIC Wish =-.
I find it so hard to find a method that works for me. It is quite difficult to keep up with everything and, sadly, it's my blog that tends to suffer. I feel as if I have the opposite problem!
.-= Bekah Mae´s last post ..hello- neglected little blog =-.
I'm scanning down through all these comments…and almost everyone feels just the same way. There isn't enough time to do it all, so you have to compromise! I just did a post, apologizing to everyone for not responding or commenting often enough!
I think we all have to remember: it's not a contest; it's not a test; and it's not a job. We are here to learn from each other, and really,…. to have fun! There is so much pressure today to get everything done and do it well: relax and it will happen!
.-= An Eye For Detail´s last post ..EDDIE ROSS TAG SALE REVISITED =-.
I had a moment of clarity on this recently…when I was reading Anna's post about blogs she loved http://www.doorsixteen.com/2010/06/11/three-blogg… she mentioned how she only subscribes to 62 blogs and I started thinking…"geez…I'm following over 100…no wonder I feel so overwhelmed" so that very day, I cut back significantly…no more AT and many of those biggies that post 10 times a day. When I have time, I check in, but taking ones that I didn't LOVE out reduced my guilt and stress about "keeping up" somehow.
.-= ModFruGal´s last post ..Pork of July =-.
hi Ally – You have always been a great supporter of blogs, I am guessing you probably follow at least 400 !!! No wonder it is challenging.
Like everyone else, I find it hard to keep up. As you know I have job, children, blah blah so there is not much time.
These are my rules:
1. no FB and no Twitter. I can't cope with that stuff.
2. I only post 2 -3 times a week. I don't stress if I don't.
3. DON'T FEEL bad about not commenting. Just comment occasionally. It's not a prison sentence.
4. Don't feel compelled to read every single blog you follow. I don't. It takes too much time.
5. Family first. Blogging can be a bit addictive. Recognise that and all will be well. xoxo
.-= Jane´s last post ..Its Not About the Bike =-.
If you are ok with the time and effort you put into your own blog and the issue is simply the fact that you can't do as much blog hopping/comment leaving – relax! That's an ok problem. If a blogger gets irked because you haven't commented in awhile so what? I have so little time and have backed off the blogging a bit for the summer. It stressed me out at first, but then I realized I was beating myself up over something that was not on the really important list. I'll get back to it in the fall when the kids are in school and my life has more of a regular rhythm.
.-= Pemberley´s last post ..Clubhouses =-.
i totally feel you on this one. sometimes i have to say to myself-seriously get off the computer! i feel like part of it is that it is summer and it's not as convenient and there is so much more to do outside! i don't do weekends and i visit some blogs everyday (like yours) and others i rotate every other day because if i didn't i would be on the computer til 1am everyday!
.-= alison @semi-fab lane´s last post ..current obsession- horns =-.
Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and advice. You all are just the best!
Great discussion, Ally. I may be in a little different place. I own a design firm, and I started blogging as a marketing opportunity for my company. I originally was blogging to reach my own clientele and make myself know to others in my area. So I've always looked at my blogging as a part of my work. I will admit that I spend at least 4 hours a day either blogging, commenting, connecting, using facebook and twitter. But that's what marketing looks like. I am seeing my business pick up, and I've noticed that my clients are paying attention. I realize we all have to find our balance, but for me, it's pretty important to stick with it for the sake of my business. Blogging has been responsible for so many good things for me, and I feel like it's almost bad manners to read and not comment. I read those blogs that are interesting to me on a given day, and I always leave a comment. Communication is at the core of blogging, and if we don't leave comments, then it's a totally one sided conversation. Blogging will become passe' if people aren't connectiing. That's been the best part for me. So I would recommend you read less and comment always. It's what keeps us going.
Keep up the good work, Ally!
I had the same feelings recently and decided on the following:
1. Post everyday only if I have something to say, I do as it turns out
2. Be brutal and cull my blog list – I have found I don't miss those I have culled, there are always links to many blogs I have blogged so I get to pop in occasionally anyway
3. Only comment if I have something relevant to say, not comment just for the sake of commenting, I better appreciate thoughtful comments on my blog rather than amount
These rules have really helped me return to living in the real world (being a stay at home mum to 2 little boys, one with special needs) rather than online, it was getting ridiculous for me.
.-= Engracia´s last post ..Packing =-.
we all love you..and most of us feel the same… just a pop in here and there works… we cant do it all… all the time!
(i keep telling myself that anyway!) xoxo
I am just a reader that stumbled onto your blog ,my son once told me if you are popular online then it means you have no life ,be happy ,save blogging for when you dont have a life ,his comment was made to me when myspace was the place to be before facebook and now I can reflect back on it and say he accually saved my life ,good luck .
Hi Ally, What a great post, and such a great discussion. It's great to know I'm not alone. Sometimes the blogging pressure can be so overwhelming. It's a catch 22 because I'm trying hard to grow the readership of my blog, and so I try hard to comment (genuinely) on blogs that I enjoy, and to be honest, although I understand that not everyone can or will comment back, it can be demoralising when you don't get any response. On the other hand, I have my own full-time retail design business, a husband and 2 young children, and although I love blogging, and the blogging world, I can't afford for it to take over my life. I wish I had the answer! Amanda
.-= Amanda´s last post ..whats your lucky number =-.
I hear you, Ally! With summer holidays and children at home, I definitely have less time to potter (hope it's not disrespectful to call blogging that!) as well as work and all. So I still read all my regular blogs, but don't comment as often. And I don't mind at all when people don't comment at my place (it's all such a fairground, blogging, isn't it?), but it's a joy to see old friends popping up with thoughts and witticisms once in a while.
And that 'mark all as read' button in the Google Reader definitely gets a go once in a while, as there's no way I will let leisure browsing be a chore.
.-= pretty far west´s last post ..planning to be poetic =-.
Hey Ally,
This is a great post. I feel the same way everyday. My life is so crazy right now. I actually feel guilty spending a lot of time online. I need to spending time with people in "real" life and pulling the weeds out in my backyard. Blogging is supposed to fun, but I find myself overwhelmed. I have people waiting for design boards and I find I just don't have time to design them.
I want my readers to stay interested in my blog! If you don't post often enough you lose people. It is really hard to find a good balance. I really only follow about 6 blogs all the time. Others I just stop by every great once in awhile. There are so many great blogs out there,…but there will NEVER be enough time to read them all and leave comments. I don't know how you have time to read all these comments. lol In a nutshell, I like to "design" my blog. That is the main reason why I do it. I just try to keep it fun. Sometimes I can't blog for 5 days at a time! Your true readers/fans will NEVER go away.
Again, great post. It is like you read my mind.
Love,
Jessie
.-= Jessie´s last post ..Thrift Store Mirror Made Beautiful- =-.
yep, you're certainly not alone. I'm a single parent with a pretty intense career and two young boys that live with me pretty much all the time (they visit their dad's farm once a fortnight on hte weekend).
i'm always feeling time poor! i create posts over the weekend about the things i've found on the weekend or during the week before and schedule them to post on auto throughout the week. and then during the week i try and visit a handful of blogs every day. but its only a handful. i too feel bad at not giving back as much as i feel i get, but i can only cover so much territory. and to me the territory i do cover and the comments i do leave are because something's really grabbed me and inspired me. but somedays its just all too much and i think i'll get there tomorrow, and that's ok too.
i just mostly try and keep my eye on the priorities in life. kids, friends, work. i post because i enjoy it, above anything else about blogging.
i think just do what works for you, and either people are ok with that or they're not. either way it doesnt matter, you have to do whats right for you and your family first! : )
cool topic – thank you! jxx
.-= jules @ The Diversion Project´s last post ..About A Girl =-.
I have done the same thing: I read more and comment less. Hopefully all of my favorite bloggers (including you) know that I'm still out there and how much I enjoy their blogs, even though I only comment once every couple of weeks.
.-= Marsi @ The Cottage Cheese´s last post ..Sputnik =-.
well well well, this is a very pertinent post. i'm a fairly new blogger (less than a year) and one very little thing i do since a started is that i comment only when i have something to share, something to give, something to add, something to actually comment. to blog has been a very important part in my london life, "socially", personally and of course, professionally. i would love to have millions of comments and followers (everytime i've a comment or a follower i feel fulfilled) but i honestly feel better when i'm actually sharing something, because in the end of the day, blogging is exactly that.
you know, someone once asked me why i post only my photographs (rarely i don't) and that i could do more if i post already images online – the answer is simply because i want to contribute with something new to the blogosphere, even if very little things no one find. perhaps one day…
it's difficult to come up with a final answer Ally. just keep up truthful to your blog (and blogging) phylosophy.
(for the record, it took me half an hour to write this comment, and i hope i'm sharing something here
).
you are not alone!
a lot of times i don't comment on a great blog post because i feel like i can't come up with something clever or funny or smart to say at that moment.
i wish all blogs had that little "thumbs up" like on facebook — it would mean, "i read your blog today and i liked your post."
i spend way too much time on the internet….that might have to change very soon.
Well, I totally empathise here and as you'll know from my blog, i actually went on Irish national TV last week – partly because of my addiction to my laptop and blogging. I don't tend to comment that often on blogs and indeed, only visit some every few blog posts and comment on the one that I like most – there just isn't enough time!
I actually have to timetable in slots and try to stick to the allotted time for all the social media, otherwise I get side tracked and 15 mins turns into an hour and no work has been achieved!
Loads of comments here – only time to read a few
Sorry, that should read last year re going on Irish TV!
.-= Lorna – Garrendenny Lane´s last post ..House and Home’s new website and blog =-.
Totally, totally relate – and am so glad you took the time to express this!
I've been battling with the same thing for quite some time – working full-time, another big design related side project, plus the blog – oh ya, and also a bit of a life!
Sometimes I feel though that as soon as I'm ahead with one thing, I'm behind on another and re: commenting I do feel guilty sometimes even spending time on a new post when I may not have caught up on all my visiting, because I genuinely appreciate it so much when people take the time to visit and leave a comment.
I've been trying different tactics to cope – like you, trying to visit as many as possible but not always having the time to leave comments each time. Or splitting the numbers and visiting every other day to try and devote a little more time.
Hope you know that while I may not comment every single time, I always love following along with your posts. I think we share alot of similar tastes, you're definitely one of those people I wish I could get to know in 'real life' too
I'm not sure what the correct tactic is, but I'm so happy you've opened up this discussion, as it's been something that's been on my mind (and I'm sure many others) for quite some time…
xo
Ally you made me feel better in knowing that fellow bloggers (& great ones) have the same issues. I'm unanimous about all points. I feel this huge guilt when I don't comment/read all the great blogs out there & all the the wonderful followers that comment. The numbers keep growing & so does the issue. It's a perpetual circle. I find that the less I comment the less I get readers & comments. Could have much to do with the quality of my posts?! Having had taken 4 wks off recently I'm not getting the readers I had prior. Then it hits you in the pride category.
I guess it's a good dilemma just one that needs a good balance. At least we all are not alone!
.-= Deborah Milne´s last post ..Wild West of America =-.
I am somewhat glad to hear that other people have trouble juggling all this blogging stuff. I say somewhat because I was hoping my problem would end after I got the hang of blogging more. Sounds like that may or may not happen.
I have just started to feel slightly overwhelmed and only just started blogging last month!
I know, newbie so how could I possibly relate. My complication comes with the full time job(that I don't particularily love anymore)where my schedule is just insane busy. I am wondering why I even started sometimes but am the type of person to charge on through.
Ally, Thanks so much for posting this. It has been super helpful to read all of the comments and get suggestions from the seasoned pros.
.-= Lissa @ After Adornment´s last post ..Catch Up =-.
Ally, you are not alone! Sometimes I find myself wondering the very same thing. Now, I'm not married yet, so I don't have to worry about a family, but I am juggling several things at one time, to be truthful—and I rarely, if ever have a complete day off. I love to be busy, though, but sometimes, I do feel bad that I can't visit more blogs.
The only secret that I can possibly share is this: if you have an idea for a post, do it, right then, because if it's a classic post, it won't matter when you post it. I have about 15 posts on average that are "classics" that I store as drafts at one time… if I'm really busy, I will post it. Sometimes, it is my most classic posts that get the most attention.
Ally, you have such a lovely blog, and I think most of us would understand if you cannot leave comments all of the time — I have had a few blogger say the same thing. I think it's reciprocal — no matter what, we will always visit
Thinking of you,
Sarah
.-= Sarah Klassen´s last post ..Forever Chloé =-.
everyone has mentioned some really great tips. one thing that i do is after i've read as many posts as i can by friday, if i have some left over, i just mark them as read in reader. otherwise you could have thousands piling up. it does get a bit overwhelming but it really is a balancing act. good luck! your blog is one of my very favorites so you're always on the top of my list!
.-= Brittany´s last post ..The Birthday Party =-.
yup, right there with you as well! I find writing and researching my posts easy and so fun…its the other stuff that can be overwhelming…even just now, this conversation is so compelling, but I don't have the time (its late) to read every comment here. When my kids start yelling at me to "stop zhushing" I know its too much!
But seriously, I need to get better time management skills…on line and off line as well. This (the blog) has become my new procrastination tool…
.-= The Zhush´s last post ..Time For A Cool Change =-.
I find it's not the commenting that takes time, it's reading the 61 comments (for example) ahead of yours so that you don't repeat what has been said and to learn from the other commenters. Because of lack of time, I don't read all of the comments (as Zhush said) but in posts like these, the value sometimes is in the comments (so may come back!)
I know it's bad when my husband says "come spend time with us 3-dimensional people" or my daughter says "aww, not the blog again."
I take frequent blogging breaks and only post about 3 times a week – I try to do every other day but it doesn't work sometimes. Not sure how people can post every day (more than once a day)and still have time for family, friends, work, exercise, etc.
I know some people comment on each and every post of their favourtie blogs but I don't think that's necessary – once a week or as time allows maybe?
I also love short posts from my favourite blogs with inspirational images and not a lot of words.
Sorry for my ramblings, I'm avoiding my big TO DO list…
.-= Vanessa@decor happy´s last post ..Prettying Up the Powder Room =-.
Yah….lately I feel like I should visit so many blogs that I have no brain space leftover for my own inspiration, etc. I have no problem posting but – leaving comments is so time consuming!
My life is way too busy. Currently on my list are the following: 1)full-time job which involves frequent international travel (back last week from Egypt and off next week to Mali) 2) Wife and Mom to 2 kids 10 + under 3) Opening a guesthouse in Marrakech 4)Running a carpet business and 5) writing a book for a US publisher (and starting my second book) 6) blogging/Twitter
I manage my work by using the pomodoro time management technique and having a life coach. These have been life savers for me. I have cut back to blogging 2x a week. I very rarely read other blogs with the exception of Design Sponge sneak peeks. While I love design blogs, I feel like there is a huge amount of repetition/use of the same images and find myself wishing that people would blog less but blog more all original content. I definitely like reading more about people's own homes and own projects.
I subscribe to 1 blog – yep, that's it. The fact is that if I blogged more/read more blogs, I would definitely have less time to complete my other tasks. And I have decided that reading blogs is low on my priority list. It might not be very pretty to say but it's honest and I think that people's time is much better off spent in working in their area of comparative advantage. I bet that the readers of most Blogs would far prefer the bloggers to spend time developing better posts rather than reading other blogs.
.-= Maryam in Marrakech´s last post ..Cairo- and a tale of the Church of Saint George =-.
Well, i don't have kids *but I do have two high energy dogs*, I work full time, I have an Etsy shop, a fiance and a blog. Needless to say, there's no way I can comment on every blog, I visit and I've had to learn to let go a lot when it comes to my own blog. I found myself putting so much pressure on blogging that I wasn't enjoying it so I've narrowed down my regular blog list and I've tried to find times of leisure (like now) where commenting is something I want to do as opposed to something I feel like I have to do. It's all about balance but finding that balance is definitely the hardest part.
.-= Down and Out Chic´s last post ..Be Present =-.
I 100% feel you on this one. I don't have any good tips…ha…but I do want to say that you nailed it. Exactly how I'm feeling!
.-= carlee´s last post ..lazy river =-.
Well….as you can see, I'm a little behind on reading this post and the others before it. Even as a new blogger, I am finding it hard to balance all the components. I will say that committing to a M-F post system gives me that breathing room so that I don't HAVE to post daily. I love reading other blogs, like yours, but find that it can be days before I get around to them.
So, I think, just know that we're probably all struggling to some extent, but at the same time intent on participating as fully as possible.
I like the thumbs up idea, so you can know people are reading and liking!!!
Hang in there! Or take a break – that's ok too!
xo Elizabeth
.-= pretty pink tulips´s last post ..Drumroll- please =-.
I generally follow the principle of quid pro quote: You comment on my blog and as far as possible, I will comment on yours.
.-= Bromeliad´s last post ..Simple personalized wrapping paper =-.
Sorry about the late reply to this post..
I have read some great comments above and agree that this is a dilemma we all share in this crazy and lovely blogworld.
I have cut back on the number of posts I do per week, in favour of visiting and leaving comments on more blogs. I feel the comments and exchange of thoughts is what makes the blogging so worth while and having the dialogue rather than the monologue makes a huge difference.
Perhaps cutting back one post per week and using that time to visit, read and comment on your favourite blogs would help?
Hang on in there.
x Charlotta
.-= Charlotta´s last post ..I will never forget you Marija! =-.
this has been so interesting to read!
Blogging is tough because its definitely about self promotion, which doesn't come comfortably to me. When I first got into it, I tried to comment on everything. But recently my design work has really picked up and That, along with my family are most important.
So here's what I do- NO twitter or facebook- I'm on the internet enough! And I only follow along with blogs I love. It makes my reading list smaller and the whole process easier. Am I missing out on great blogs? Probably. But life is too short, and too busy. And honestly, I think staring at these screens is going to make all of us sick….
.-= Naomi@thirteenandsouth´s last post ..Sit- but just for a little while =-.
You aren't the only one that feels this way Ally. I, myself, find it hard to stay caught up and get overwhelmed at times, especially now that I've had my daughter. I set aside 2 days a week to read the blogs I follow. Would love to do it more days but 2 days is all I can manage. I think you do a great job commenting. You are a wonderful blogger and you should be proud of that. Your niceness, wittiness and great posts are what keeps me coming back to your blog again and again!
Happy blogging!
.-= Anna´s last post ..Wishbone Dining Set =-.
Hey girl. I’m sooooo glad you asked, because yikes. I have a REALLY tough time keeping up. My BFF from high school and I co-write our blog, and are trying to monetize it currently / get sponsors and ad revenue, and in order to do that, we have to get our traffic up… and getting traffic up means not only posting relevant, fun stuff every day, but also networking, keeping up with other blogs, searching and researching, taking pics & uploading pics, etc etc. I love it, but it is overwhelming. And it is difficult to justify spending a lot of time on when it’s not super revenue producing. So I feel ya.
I’m not quite sure yet how to navigate it all, but whenever I have an idea about something for a post, I write it down – usually as a draft… and if I have extra time, I will def stock up on content to post whenevs. We’re also looking into hiring an intern.
Not sure if that helps at all, but I just wanted you to know that you’re not alone, and to thank you for bringing this up, because I have been wondering the exact same thing myself.
XO
Steph @ Covet Living
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