Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Competition or Community?

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There are times where things in the blogging world get frustrating and somewhat mentally taxing. I have seen a lot of posts lately about bloggers comparing themselves to other bloggers. I feel like we all have our unique voice and position in the matter. I, myself, took a lot of time trying to figure out who I am on this blog. The same could be said of myself in my real life. I definitely want to be someone who is sure of who she is, in all aspects. I do not think that a blog should reflect the entire person, because honestly, how could it? I think who we are on our blogs is who we want to be. I find inspiration in all kinds of places, including other blogs. 

If I feel reflective one day I look to Aunie Sauce.
If I feel particularly creative one day I look to The Kinch Life
If I want to seriously laugh my ace off I read Living in Yellow or The Daily Tay.
If I wanna see pretty things I look to Embracing the Everyday or My Polished Side.  

We all can find inspiration from each other. We can't all be the same and we need to do what works for us. I think as a blogging community we need to find more ways to commune rather than compare, or compete. I don't think that all bloggers can or will earn an income. I don't think we can all create 100% amazing photos 100% of the time, or have the most clever content. We all are human. We all have imperfections and flaws and I think we should find more time to be who we are. Be real. If you don't have an immaculate house, or a fancy wardrobe, or the latest gadget, that's okay. I am not sure, but I think things have become most important in the world of blogging. I am guilty of it too. But, I refuse to let it define who I am. I can no longer try to be that person that only talks about or wants things. Things have no value compared to integrity, compassion, or character. 

Just like everything else in life, I see the face of blogging changing. I see it becoming something of purpose instead of possessions. Be focused on who you are in life, not just on your blog. I have to tell myself that everyday. My dream is to do this full time, but I can't risk or jeopardize who I am for it. I am sure we would all love to be full time bloggers {well those who are obsessed with it, like me ;)} who can live comfortably on our blogging earnings, but we all have to be realistic. I can't be the next so & so, or what's her face. I can just be me and that is okay.
 
What do you think? Am I totally off here?
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4 comments:

  1. I have felt down in the dumps before, too. I have since (tried to) stop comparing myself to other bloggers. Great choice in blog readership up there! I have a new blog hop happening...come link up! :)

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  2. I think that bloggers need to stay grounded and keep it real! Just because someone else has something exciting going on in their life doesn't mean you do (not you lol).

    Thanks for sharing those blogs! Most of them daily reads for e, but I didn't know about the inspirational one! Just what I need some days!

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  3. First of all, totally honored that my little ole' blog made your post. Thanks! (insert sheepish grin and shrug) Second, I completely agree. I often struggle with comparing myself to the BIG bloggers out there thinking how can I copy or be like them when really I need and want to stay true to myself. Thanks for a great post and for always challenging us bloggers to really evaluate why and how we blog. :)

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  4. Absolutely love this post, girl! (And thanks so much for mentioning me...I feel so honored!) It's so important to stay YOU, have your own unique voice, and not hold yourself up to the success of others. Everyone is different, and that's what makes the blogging world so great!

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