I took off a little time from the blog after returning from Bloggy Boot Camp in Chicago. Not only was I on information overload, I wanted to think a bit and reflect on what I learned without jumping into writing about it. The conference itself was excellent. I expect nothing less from The SITS Girls. There was a ton of information and awesome speakers and much to take away.
I loved listening to people who have made a business from their blogging beginnings. I think many of us toy with the idea of using our blog as a springboard into something more. Some of us want to write a book or become a successful freelance writer. Some of us are social media savvy and can use those skills to manage social media for others including big companies. There really are so many things you can do and the Brand Edition of Bloggy Boot Camp gave us first hand accounts from those who have done all of these things.
I think I’ve mentioned before that I have thought of writing a book. I’ve thought about a memoir type book as well as fiction. I still think one day I will.
But one thing became clear to me after the conference. I won’t be one that makes a living from my blog or from whatever my blog could lead to. I have a good “day job” and no intention of leaving it. Blogging and all that I am doing surrounding blogging is, for me, supplemental. It is, for lack of a better word, a hobby.
That isn’t to say it is not important. Quite the opposite. It is very important to me and is something that I consider “mine, all mine”. That is one reason why I wouldn’t want to make it my job. I like that it is a getaway for me. Something that isn’t part of the daily grind but, rather, something that I do for fun.
I see myself writing about my life and my experiences. I see myself sharing things I love which may include products that I may partner with brands to share. I see myself as being a brand ambassador which would mean I partner with a brand to share what I love about them on a continuing basis. And I see myself continuing to work with The SITS Girls as a Community Lead because I love connecting with and working with such fabulous people.
I am so glad I went to Chicago for this conference. I learned so much that I can use and learned more about myself as well. I figured out how I wanted to refocus my energy so that my blog remains true to what I love doing.
I love this, Denise. I think that it’s so important to be realistic and recognize what your blog means to you – along with what the whole experience is about, ya know? I always write for me, even when I’m doing a sponsored post.
Thanks for sharing and I’m off to read your other post, as well!
Twitter: acctodenise
says:
I have to remind myself sometimes. I would live to do it all but I have to ground myself and figure out what makes sense.
Twitter: L8enough
says:
I think it’s awesome to know why you blog. Whenever I’ve gotten confused, it sucks and my blog sucks. At this point I’m sticking with I love to write and I love my freaders and I sell out for my kids. I’m pretty sure it’s all going to work out from there.
Twitter: acctodenise
says:
That sounds like a good plan to me.
Twitter: OneLoCoMommy
says:
Yes, knowing yourself and why you blog is so much more important then getting a buck or a freebie. Though those Waterpiks are mighty fine.
Twitter: acctodenise
says:
There are fine indeed
I actually get hits on my Waterpik post nearly everyday which I find neato.
Twitter: KristenPGIP
says:
I love that you took away something so valuable from the conference. I feel like The SITS Girls help me refocus all of the time. They help remind me what paths I am ready for, what paths I want to get to and the ones that are not for me. We all have different reasons for blogging but it is so very important for each of us to remember why we do it.
Twitter: acctodenise
says:
It was great that I was able to take away things that still help even if I don’t make a career out of it. BBC always has such great info.
Twitter: AlisonSWLee
says:
It’s wonderful that you know why you blog and where you want to take it (or not). Yay!
Twitter: acctodenise
says:
The key is to keep reminding myself