I didn't start out to be a blogger. I originally had a LiveJournal page that I posted life updates on but that was the extent of my online presence. Then I was introduced to Facebook and was obsessed with it for a while. Then I joined Twitter. Then I decided, after reading a lot of articles and blog posts, to create a blog of my own specifically dedicated to my writing, my thoughts on various topics, and a little bit of my personal life as well.
Blogging is a great way to get ideas down that you might not be able to express elsewhere. It gives you a venue to express yourself and get other people's opinions on your ideas. You can talk about politics without inciting a riot - although I don't mix politics with my blog often. You can talk about your writing projects. You can talk about religion, personal beliefs, world events, etc.
Your blog is really your way of expressing your thoughts to a world wide audience. I've seen blogs where literally thousands of people logged in every day to read someone's blog post. I can only hope that one day I'll get to that point. Though I'm not sure I'd like to be THAT famous. Maybe get my blog following up to 100 readers or something like that would be better.
Writers can use their blog to build their platform early on so when they do go to get published, they've already got a following. When the books come out they've potentially got a ready made audience. They've got people who're willing to buy the book and even post a review.
Another thing that blogs are good for are book reviews. I've got my own book review blog. It's got one follower right now and I haven't been as assiduous at updating it as I have been my regular blog. I find it hard to write book reviews because I don't want to hurt another author's feelings. I've been rather disappointed in many of the books I've read and tried to express that disappointment without being too insulting.
A blog can be a powerful tool. It can bring people close and introduce you to a world of new friends. Or it can create a lot of drama and cause issues for other people. It's all in how you use your blog and what you have to say. So...make it interesting and play nice if you can. Or if you can't, make sure the snark is there to make it a fun read. ;)
Hello!
ReplyDeleteDropped by from the challenge.
Getting to 100 followers are easier than you think. ;-) After all, you're half way there.
I agree with you that the potential of a blog is limitless.
Have a great weekend!
I came to blogging just last year. I have enjoyed the comments people have posted and been flattered when they chose to follow. But I would blog even if no one followed or commented. Blogging for me is a personal outlet - a way to express myself while I am living a life that is somewhat restrictive. Caregiving to an elderly parent can sometimes make you feel very alone.
ReplyDeleteAs a future published writer, I can see how blogging would help you.
You are so right. I enjoy the fluid nature of blogging. I believe it helps me in my writing. Happy AtoZing - hope you get lots of followers!
ReplyDeleteGreat post! Stopping by from A2Z to let you know that you are now officially half way there - I'm your 50th follower!!
ReplyDeleteI love blogging, originally it was used to share my photography with family and friends that we lived far away from... I have made so many friends, all over the world and right in my own back yard!
ReplyDeleteI'll be follower 51.. now you are more than halfway there!
B is for Balance
Came for the challenge, stayed for the words!
ReplyDeleteKeep on blogging.
Jan Morrison
Blogging is great to keep the creative juices flowing. It's also a wonderful way to meet great like-minded people.
ReplyDeleteI feel the same way about blogging. It has become one of my favorite things to do. Great post!
ReplyDeleteSheila Staley : Reviewer & Writer
Book reviews and Author Interviews at my blog at http://whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot.com/
I think your right. Blogging is the best way to reach readers and connect with other writers. Great thoughts here :)
ReplyDeleteSarah Allen
(my creative writing blog: B is for Bowie)
As a book fellow review blogger I understand not wanting to hurt an authors feelings. Luckily the books I have read have been very enjoyable so it hasn't been a problem. Good luck with the a-z challenge.
ReplyDeleteI have been blogging just under a year. I had absolutely no idea why everything thought it so interesting but I love the give and take of ideas and am finding up that it is more than a hobby. It is an obsession. Loved your blog. Will be back to "C" what else you have.
ReplyDeleteI just came into blogging as a way of "putting myself out there." But I really enjoy it for so many other reasons. And it's nice knowing you have someone reading every day.
ReplyDeleteGreat post! Nice to meet you!
You are so right in everything you say. I started blogging last May and have revelled in it ever since!
ReplyDeleteEllie Garratt