Last night my mom told me that my blog was getting boring. She said this lovingly, of course. And she offered up some good ideas for new features, and interesting topics that I could post about.
(Hey, do accountants’ parents tell them how to do their jobs? Just wondering. No reason!)
(Okay, in fairness, I am not a professional blogger.)
(So… do accountants’ parents tell them how to do their hobbies?)
(Kidding!)
(Mostly.)
I thanked my mom and said I’d think about her suggestions — which I will — but I also explained that I’m comfortable with where my blog’s at right now. Yes, maybe it’s “quiet.” Maybe it’s not attracting dozens of comments or likes or retweets. But I purposely don’t define its success that way. I don’t define my success that way.
(I consider that a perk of not being a professional blogger.)
Like the tide, most blogs seem to experience a natural ebb and flow. Rather than chase the waves, I’m going to focus on my edits, on getting my manuscript into tip-top shape so I can wow agents when I’m ready to query. I’m going to figure out how to avoid the sharp wrist and back pains I’ve been getting. I’m going to immerse myself in riveting stories and heartbreaking prose. I’m going to spend time with my friends and family and dog.
Meanwhile, the blog is going to continue doing its thing, even if that thing is “boring” for awhile. I think that’s okay.
…
Note: One thing my mom suggested, which I’ve been considering for some time now anyway, is bring back weekly or biweekly fiction. I came up with a fun new idea, but I’m concerned about whether or not I can balance the demands of a serial with my editing workload, and also uncertain whether or not anyone is actually interested in reading webisodes here. If you have thoughts — and I promise I won’t be offended if they’re not in favor of this idea — please feel free to share.
12 responses to “Ebb and flow”
1) Not boring, actually. :-)
2) I think you know how I feel about serial fiction. (Go for it!)
Gotta love moms.
Great post! And as a long-time blogger I understand!
I love the idea of webisodes! They’d be fun to read – and maybe a nice break from RevisionLand for you?! Whatever you decide, I’m sure your blog will continue to be compelling, insightful, and thought-provoking. :)
Ha, I’ve actually been running a rant through my head, directed at a friend of mine who has given me advice on what book 1 of my series “needs.” This rant is for my own benefit–I’m hoping that by enjoying it in my head, I will be able to refrain from saying it to her. I may or may not have made the point: “when you’ve written a book, then we can talk about it…” ;)
Anyway! I’m not personally a big fan of serial fiction, but that’s just me.
I would never engage in a new story while I was still working on another one. The new, sexy one would take over all my time and energy. Especially if the other option was the dreaded editing. But again, that’s just me!
I love your blog just as it is. I know that may seem cheesy, but, you’re the only one who knows what you can do and what your workload looks like. If you feel like you can add something that will fit in with the feel of your blog – hey, go for it! But you don’t have to please us; we’re here to support you. :)
I’d like to see some fiction on here, like Shari said it might be a nice break for you.
And no, accountants/doctors/any other non-artsy profession don’t have moms telling them how to do their job :) my mom does it to me too, along with like half of my extended family.
Thanks for the advice and input, everyone! I haven’t made up my mind yet, but your comments are helpful to me in coming up with my decision!
I really think flash fiction/webisodes are a great idea. Of course, I’ll read either way.
I think weekly fiction is a great idea, but I do know that it can take time away from other writing projcts, so it’s a hard call. If you enjoy doing them, that might be a way of getting yourself energized again!
Yes, Webisodes, please.
I’m in the same place with my blog and I’m okay with that. I’m trying out some new things but I’m not taking it too seriously. I think blogs are slowing down in general anyway. They’ll probably come back around and when they do we’ll be rested and refreshed. :-)