Because you love to…

Everyone loves to be liked. To feel part of something. To belong. To receive the support and encouragement of others. To be surrounded by a group of cheerleaders. And those who write and blog are no different.

For most, if not all, bloggers, the stories and passion behind our writing comes with strong, purposeful intent. To make an impact. A difference. To share struggles. Celebrations. Relatable stories. To be an encourager. Cheerleader. We tend to pour our hearts-and-souls into our carefully-chosen words. And more often than not, the same recurrent feelings rush in as we prepare to click the “publish”/”post” buttons…

~Does anyone even care about what I am writing and sharing?

~Will anyone like what I have to say?

~Will I “hear crickets” with this one?

Yet, nonetheless, we continue persevering. Digging deep within our souls. Writing. Publishing. Sharing. Even though we know that sometimes, our posts will receive little feedback, and yet with others, the “likes”, comments and “shares” will pour in, with abundance. And honestly, maybe that it what keeps us going at times. Because no one wants to continuously hear those crickets. But on the flip side, we also realize that most of our posts will fall somewhere in the middle. No matter what, in our hearts, each-and-every piece we share is meant to impact in some special way.

I am a people-pleaser. To a fault, no doubt. I despise giving anyone a reason to dislike me. Because most everyone, in my mind, is worth getting to know. Everyone has a story. Each of us holds a special purpose. And I would consider myself an amazing listener. So, when it comes to pouring my heart-and-soul into a post, I crave that feedback. Even from a few sweet friends. I want to know that others can relate. That I am inspiring. That my time is being well-spent, and most especially, that my writing is worthy to others willing to spend their time reading my words. For a long time, as I first revamped my blog, the “likes” were what kept me going. And I soon realized why…

One of my favorite things about blogging is that there is room for anyone to join! There are s.o. m.a.n.y. different genres. Personal blogs. Fashion blogs. Tech blogs. DIY blogs. Mommy blogs. Inspirational blogs. Educational blogs. The list goes on-and-on. And that’s the beauty of it all. But for me, as I worked to search for the “perfect” direction with my blog, I realized that I was dumping my heart and thoughts into posts that weren’t really making the difference I had hoped to make. As a woman. As a teacher. As a mother. So, I prayed. Fervently. For guidance. Direction. For a hand to hold.

And although it took some time, I finally discovered my “perfect” niche, and I shared my first “fitting” post: “Embracing this Season”. This was the one, sweet friends. The post that prompted the “likes”, comments, and shares that blew me away. And I realized. I had found my path. I was not meant to be a fashion blogger. Or a Pinterest-inspiring blogger. I was meant to inspire other women. Especially moms. New and seasoned. Encouraging them in their daily tasks. Letting them know that “it’s okay”. The struggles. The changes. The worries. The whirlwind surrounding it all. And I fell in love.

Before I knew it, I had finally stopped worrying about the “likes”. And I started listening to my heart. And continued to pray for the words that God would want me to share. And He has yet to fail me. The writing has only become easier.

If I were to offer any piece of advice to other bloggers, most especially those who are new…it would be “don’t worry”. Write because you love to do it. Not because you expect a reaction. Write what may feel uncomfortable at times. Don’t hold back. Because, more often than not, those are the impact-creators.

Vulnerability very frequently holds us back from reaching our dreams. Aspirations. Goals. Because with vulnerability comes fear. They tend to talk hand-in-hand. But once you push through, and you find your “comfort zone”; you will undoubtedly discover incredible responses from others. Because it won’t feel forced. It will be natural. (Maybe a bit scary.) It will be “you”. And then the added bonus of your writing being “liked” will all too soon become an added perk.

You are amazing, sweet blogging friends. Everyone has a story to share. And yours is beyond worthy. So, don’t ever give up. Keep persevering. Hold steadfast to your faith. And know that your words matter.