I looked out the window at the grey clouds and the majestic Chicago skyline. Sitting in that too-warm taxi, heart thudding against my chest, I allowed myself about one minute to freak out. What if my roommates kill me in my sleep? I’m not ready to die. I’m not a real blogger! I don’t even know what on earth SEO is–why did I come to Bloggy Boot Camp? Do taxis take credit cards?
I’ve been blogging for almost four years. That’s like a high school career. A college degree. And funny enough, I’ve learned just as much—wait, maybe more in my blogging education than anywhere else.
As the taxi rounded a corner and the Hyatt Regency came into view I swallowed my pounding fear and powdered my nose. I realized then and there that the most valuable thing blogging has taught me is how to be brave. I swiped my credit card, whirled through the revolving doors, and entered my first blogging conference with swagger.
Blogging has made me brave.
Here’s how:
1.) Leap of Faith
I took that first “leap” into the great abyss when I hit “publish” for the first time. It was scary as heck. Four years later, and I still feel an exhilarating rush whenever I send off a post.
I never really know what sort of response I will receive. Will this post go viral? Will this post be ignored? Is this going to make someone angry? Regardless of the response, each post is a sort of precipice from which I can turn back or leap off.
2.) True Grit
There are many gifted writers, humorists, crafters, photographers, fashionistas and chefs out there who have made their mark in the blogosphere. Those who excel in their craft do so through talent, yes, but more through tenacity than anything else. In blogging, it is not enough to just be a good writer, or a creative crafter, or an excellent photographer.
Showing up, week after week, day after day regardless of feedback is required of bloggers. Of course it’s fun to write new posts when sweet comments and affirmation are waiting on the other side. But this is never guaranteed, and sometimes it doesn’t happen at all. It takes a certain level of grit to show up to practice every day when you never know if you’ll really get to play on game day.
3.) New Things
You absolutely cannot succeed at blogging unless you are willing to learn new things. Since starting a blog I have learned about photography, photo editing, html, WordPress, SEO, monetizing, pitching, and all sorts of networking. I was alarmed and overwhelmed when I learned that there is no overnight method to master these skills. All I can do is chip away, piece by piece, at learning these skills and applying them to my craft. I’m no where near where I want to be, but I’m even further than I thought possible. Does that make sense.
It’s scary to try new things. It’s scary to show up and not know anyone–even your roommate at a blogging conference. You can be afraid of something and still choose to act with bravery. Because really, bravery is measured not by how you feel, but by how you act. Blogging has made me act on my plans and dreams–it has given me the chance to take a leap of faith, to channel true grit, and to try new things. Scary, yes. Fun? Absolutely!
About the Author
Meet Hillary. She’s a wife/mommy blogger who feels the need to share with the cyber world the scoop on her fascinating life. She’s quirky and cynical. You have been warned. You can find Hillary on her blog, Because My Life is Fascinating and on Twitter, @thehilljean.
Keeping Reading
If you enjoyed this post from Hillary, then you’ll want to make sure you check out the below articles too:
- How to Blog Honestly – Without Losing Your Dignity
- Who Do You Write For: Readers, Sponsors, or Yourself?
- How to Find Your Writing Voice
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Twitter: thewahwife
says:
I 100% agree. Such personal, and unexpected, growth comes from blogging. It does a body good.
Angie Nelson recently posted..Monthly Beauty Box: The Best Beauty Box Subscription Options
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
I really believe it has made me a better person
Where would we be without our blogs?
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: FamRamblings
says:
I find it kind of funny that this was posted today because I was just thinking the exact same thing. Blogging has changed me quite a bit, but being braver was never one thing I expected to come from it. I never expected to get so much out of blogging when I started it, but it’s a nice change. I’ve learned a lot about myself and about others through it. I hope that I continue to learn and grow as time passes by.
Felicia recently posted..“You Can’t get Around the Good Book”: Texas Chainsaw Massacre 3D
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
That’s awesome! I know, learning about bravery took me by surprise too.
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: thedosetweets
says:
First of all, I LOVE Hillary’s blog! Secondly, this is an AWESOME post!
I love it! It is SO TRUE!!
thedoseofreality recently posted..I Will Cut You If You Bother Me While HotSean! Is On T.V.
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Hiiiiii! Thanks for that sweet comment
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: Vmtwriter
says:
It’s a brave new world out there for bloggers. I’m glad you’re sticking with it. Great post.
Vicki M. Taylor recently posted..I’m Over 50, Now What?
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Blogging is quite a world of its own!
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: shari_lynne
says:
Great article Hillary..Blogging does take us to new height’s doesn’t it..I love it too!!
Blessings!
Shari Lynne @ faith filled food for moms and grandmothers recently posted..Easy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Thanks, Shari! I’m excited to see what the new year holds
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
This is so true. There are new things to learn everyday.
JDaniel4′s Mom recently posted..Child Reading- How I’m Growing a Reader
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Sometimes its overwhelming how much there is to learn!
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: sandpaperglue
says:
great thoughts…. it is so super scary whenever I go beyond the DIY stuff I usually post and write about me. I call it the “what if I get picked last in gym class” syndrome, lol.
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
That is an amazing way to describe it.
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: jmroubinek
says:
Blogging sure does take a lot of bravery. I hate the moment after I hit publish with a pit in my stomach. Not fun. But all of the good moments make it worth it.
Jamie @ Roubinek Reality recently posted..2013 Blogging Goals
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
It’s always a trifle scary not knowing whats on the other side. But it sure makes for a fun adventure!
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: kidsyogateacher
says:
True, true and true.
Congrats on keeping up with your blog for four years.
Young Yoga Masters recently posted..Kids Yoga Teachers of the World – Unite
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Thank you! There were many times I almost called it quits. I’m glad I powered through though–its just getting more fun now!
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: anotherjenb
says:
So true! I felt the same way when I went to BlogHer ’12. Talk about overwhelming! But, yes, there’s something about blogging that makes us a bit braver.
another jennifer recently posted..Wordless Wednesday: “Christmas Tree House”
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Was that your first conference? I almost went to it, and I am so glad that I waited and had my first one be BBC.
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: anotherjenb
says:
It was my first blogging-specific conference. Talk about big – 5,000 bloggers! I’d like to attend a BBC as well. They sound like fun!
another jennifer recently posted..If I had a book deal (my first vlog!)
Twitter: katekhronicles
says:
True true true!! I haven’t been blogging as long as you have; I’m only in the infancy stage and still scared as heck! May I borrow some of your bravery???
Kate Burt recently posted..School After 50 – What Am I Doing Here?
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Haha! This bravery came on unexpectedly. I think it started when I finally realized that if I wanted to be successful I would have to bite the bullet and start making things happen on my own.
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
So true! I have learned so much about computers and the Internet in the past almost 2 year years I’ve been blogging. And bravery, gained some of that too! (But I still haven’t made it to a conference…)
OneMommy recently posted..First Trip to the Dentist
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
You need to go to a conference! I definitely recommend BBC
It was the greatest thing I did all year!
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
I keep expecting the angst I feel when I am about to hit publish to go away over time. It doesn’t. My writing is often raw. I offer up a piece of myself in a very real way. Even when I love what I’ve written and am confident it will be well received, there is that nagging, “What if they don’t like me?”
Great post.
misssrobin recently posted..A Moment in Church
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
I think raw writing is the best kind. Keep at it!
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: copilotmom
says:
I love this! I relate to feeling the fear. (I was so scared to hit ‘publish.’) But each new thing I have learned has helped boost my confidence. So true!
Kim@Co-Pilot Mom recently posted..Sing
Twitter: vinobaby1
says:
Very true! Nothing like that deep breath before you hit “publish.” We’ve all become brave.
Kerry Ann @Vinobaby’s Voice recently posted..Fifty Shades of Chicken: Book Review and Recipe {Go Get the Butter Breasts}
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Yep, and then there’s that sudden intake of breath when you realize you have about five spelling errors in that post. ahah
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: AleciaSimersky
says:
I was thinking these same things, how much of a different person I am since blogging. I’m definitely more brave and confident!
Twitter: SoniaBarton
says:
Totally makes sense. It’s hard to know all the stuff you just don’t know about blogging that at some points it’s almost amazing that you realize you are actually ‘getting it’. I’m not there yet but I just keep showing up.
Sonia Barton recently posted..Do you have Children?
Twitter: ThriftShpComndo
says:
First off, blogging is my only creative outlet right now so it gets my full attention.
Three ways blogging has made me brave:
1. Mainly in the fashion realm, I am taking more chances in combining ensembles AND wearing more color.
2. I am posting pictures of myself in my outfits – that takes guts to put your image out there.
3. You do have to keep current with technology to keep the blog skills sharp.
Twitter: MyPixieBlog
says:
Yes, yes, and yes. Blogging is incredibly scary and nerve-wracking but liberating at the same time. It has helped me to step out of my comfort zone and become a much braver person.
Now if only I can calm the nerves enough to attend my own bloggy conference…
Charlotte recently posted..the benefit of not making any resolutions
Twitter: Stepfordska
says:
Wow, this sounds familiar! Since I started blogging, I feel and act differently and often my friends don’t understand me (none of them writes a blog). But it’s easier for me to tell the truth, in that way I’m definitely braver.
The Stepford wife recently posted..The cardboard drums
Twitter: SensualSierra
says:
When I was reading this, I felt like I was reading myself. The fear of the unknown, of what is out in cyber space. Too often all we hear is the negative and although it is out there, we forget how scary it can be go share a piece of ourselves. I do often wonder every time I push the send button, if anyone will read what I wrote, or if they like what I wrote.
Then I remind myself that when I write, my blog is my outlet. A place for me to voice what’s going in my world.
I didn’t realize how brave it is to write and put out into the unknown, that piece of vulnerability we all have.
Sierra recently posted..Deep within my mind….
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Beautifully said! There is a whole separate post to be written on how blogging makes us vulnerable. maybe you should write it and send it over to the SITS gals
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: SensualSierra
says:
Wow! Thank you for the compliment! I don’t know where I would start lol!
Sierra recently posted..Deep within my mind….
Twitter: lightscameramommy
says:
blogging is liberating! and yes, i learn something new every day. i’m just starting to blog and vlog so i feel as if i’m always lost BUT it’ll get better.
Nicole recently posted..Auditions, Callbacks and Positive Vibes
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Vlogging was a whole new level of bravery for me!
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: straddlinggap
says:
I’ve only been blogging about a year and a half, so I’m still very much a newbie. I still don’t get much feedback, so it feels like I’m tossing my thoughts into the Grand Canyon. However, I have seen my views go up little by little, so someone is reading (even if it’s only my friends and family!). I am happy to say that thanks to a friend who’s going with me, I’m attending my first Bloggy Boot Camp this spring! Thanks for making me feel like a part of the community.
Cindy @Straddling the Gap recently posted..Catherine Wheel Crochet Scarf
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
BBC will change your life! And your blog
You’ll see a huge growth afterwards. Excited for you!
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: LollygagBlog
says:
Speaking as a gal who got to meet you in real life at that conference…I’m wicked glad you were so brave.
Keely recently posted..Nora Likes Wednesdays.
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
I’m wicked glad I got to meet you! And now we’re leads together! Woot woot!
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: wegotkidz
says:
Amen! There IS an element of bravery that goes into being, not just a blogger, but a successful one. You’ve said it here beautifully.
Keep doing what you do
Kesha of We Got Kidz recently posted..Extreme Makeover: We Got Kidz Edition [Part I] “Decorating for Dummies?”
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Thank you so much for your sweet words!
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: toysinthedryer
says:
I am SO glad I wasn’t the only one freaking out about my first blog conference (and I even knew a ton of people there!). I had no clue you didn’t know anyone in Chicago. You fit right in! Yes, blogging does make you brave!
Jamie H recently posted..The Mommy MD Guide to the Toddler Years Review
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Well that’s a relief! I found friends within minutes of being there. I felt like everyone in the room was a friend
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: spincycleblog
says:
Look at YOU, girl! Excellent words of wisdom. xo
Sue – The Spin Cycle recently posted..A Resolution Revolution
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Can you believe they let me on here?
hilljean recently posted..Freezer Cooking: What You Need To Know Before You Start
Twitter: buhlegoslar
says:
Great post. Facing your fears head on, taking chances, putting yourself out there .. It all happens with blogging.
I love it!
Buhle Goslar recently posted..Defending the ‘chick flick’
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Absolutely! It’s been the best self confidence booster
hilljean recently posted..A Golden Day For Mom
Twitter: kastanton01
says:
This is a great post! When I first read the title, I thought to myself, there is no way I’m a brave person. I’m about as wimpy as they come. But after reading this, you’re right! There are certain things we do as bloggers every single day that make us brave.
And may I just add that I never knew taxis take credit cards?
Kristen recently posted..Midweek Randomness
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
If you’re putting yourself out there, you’re brave. And you know what? The more you push yourself, the braver you’ll become.
I was so scared that the taxi driver would make me find an ATM. Phew.
hilljean recently posted..A Golden Day For Mom
Twitter: pinkasaurus
says:
I can agree to all of it… I didn’t know I needed a blog until I started blogging. How is that for taking a leap of faith. I HAD to learn new things especially a new way of thinking in order to write and even seek out guest authors. And the biggest thing as far as learning and leaping was my first Bloggy Boot Camp On-Line and I WANT to do it again. And Grit… well, I have to figure out how that fits in but… I’m sure I have it…
Thanks for this post.
Carla K. recently posted..5 Tips to Help You Relax, Unwind, and Refresh
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
k, now you need to go to one IRL! It was the most fun I had all year
hilljean recently posted..A Golden Day For Mom
Great post, Hillary.
Blogging has made me brave in other ways too -I’ve opened up about topics I didn’t think I could write about. Opening my heart and mind, has been a great gift from blogging.
Alison recently posted..Labels Are Bullshit
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
It is such a wonderful tool, and a gift that keeps on giving.
hilljean recently posted..A Golden Day For Mom
Twitter: itskatslife
says:
Love the blog Hillary – and yes, I do believe it makes you brave, but it also causes me to have writers block/anxiety and then not write. So frustrating…
Kat recently posted..Top Tens of Fall 2012
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Ha! I feel you there. Once blogging starts to become a pressure the writing freezes up. I struggle with that too.
hilljean recently posted..A Golden Day For Mom
Twitter: ticklesandtots
says:
Great Post Hillary! When I first started blogging several years ago, I was a newbie and not sure what my niche was. After trial and error I am proud to say that I have grown and learned so much about blogging. Stepping into new territory is always frightening at first, it is through this experience you learn who you really are and what you are made of. Attending conferences and networking events are great ways to expand your blogging knowledge. Positive feedback always helps and confirms you are making a difference!
Tickles & Tots recently posted..Bold As Love-Book Tour
Twitter: TOItweets
says:
my heart is at peace after reading this because it’s truth blogging is pushing out of my comfort zone and it’s scary but lovely!
happy day my fellow sitsgirls!
TOI recently posted..Are You Milf Ready?
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
It really is a continuous education
hilljean recently posted..A Golden Day For Mom
When I first started blogging, I felt like I was speaking and no one was listening, pretty much the reason why I started blogging in the first place. I didn’t have a clue about how it all worked, mostly it was trial and error! My most open and honest post was this one:
http://lyndylou-whocares.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/could-you-do-it-if-it-was-asked-of-you.html
Lyndylou recently posted..So what does 2013 hold for you?
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
Oh my. I just went over and read that post. I cannot even imagine what that must have been like for you. I am sending up prayers right now. You are a very strong woman, and a wonderful mom. I know we’ve never met, but just after reading that post I can see your heart, the heart that you feel is breaking. I pray for restoration, peace, and the right people at all the right times. Keep writing. Your story and Jacks and Holly’s need to be heard!
hilljean recently posted..A Golden Day For Mom
Yes, I agree. Great article. I definalty try more things since I have started blogging!
Julie @ Naptime Review
http://www.thenaptimereview.com
julie marling recently posted..PB&J Smoothie Recipe
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
I think I’m gonna have to be brave and try that PB&J smoothie you posted about
hilljean recently posted..A Golden Day For Mom
Twitter: MsWhit62
says:
Blogging makes me take a good look at myself. I’ve always said it was self medication.
Whitney recently posted..Pinterest Wednesday
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
It’s the best medication!
hilljean recently posted..A Golden Day For Mom
Twitter: dreamupstudios
says:
Great article! Blogging really does make you brave. Blogging is the reason I started my graphic design business and it’s turned into something I LOVE so so much!!
Ashley recently posted..Project: Lauren Luquin
Twitter: kimparcher
says:
Such a great post! The line you used: “I’m no where near where I want to be, but I’m even further than I thought possible” makes perfect sense, for that is exactly how I feel too! I have yet to go to a blog conference, but it is on the list of things to do – but unlike you, I am not sure I would have the nerve to do it alone…I may have to try and convince someone else to go with me
Kim recently posted..Online learning tools
I completely agree with you… 100%!! I’ve learned SO many things through blogging for the past 4 years. And made such wonderful friendships too. Great post!
Tree Lindsay recently posted..Calling All Yoplait Yogurt Lovers – #Giveaway
Twitter: TheMomCafe.com
says:
Well look at you!!!! LOVED your post (as usual) and SO excited to see you RIGHT HERE!!!!! I am scared… brave in other areas but scared to go to a conference. I think it’s because I seriously don’t understand the tech side of blogging…and basically that will kill me as a blogger. I know I NEED to learn, but I truly (I’m not stupid- but kinda in this respect) don’t get all the numbers and codes and blah blah blah. Oh how I wish I did!!!
Chris Carter recently posted..Woman Versus Man
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
I am not techy at ALL either. And that did hang me up for a long time with blogging. But the wonderful thing about going to those conferences is that people will sit down with you and walk you through it. It’s so inspiring to be in a room full of people all passionate about the same thing. You really MUST go to one. And tell me which one you’re going to so that I can try and be there too! I wanna attend a bunch this year
hilljean recently posted..A Golden Day For Mom
Twitter: carpoolgoddess
says:
I learn something new everyday with blogging. It never gets boring!
Carpool Goddess recently posted..The Decade Of Dressing Badly: Fashion Mistakes Of My Youth
Twitter: thehilljean
says:
It’s so much fun, isn’t it?
hilljean recently posted..A Golden Day For Mom
Twitter: SongsKateSang
says:
! I love ths! Excellent advice
Kate @ Songs Kate Sang recently posted..Beauty Discovered | Happy New Year
Twitter: babesrockinmami
says:
Awesome post! I still don’t know about SEO haha, it’s a goal of mine for the year!
Stephanie @ Babe’s Rockin’ Mami recently posted..Ermagerd A Baby Will Be Here Soon!!
Twitter: Blended4Purpose
says:
I agree 100%. Blogging does make you stronger. I haven’t been blogging that long but some of the things I’ve shared about my life has given me confidence in areas I did not think possible. Much sooner than I anticipated at times. I’ve read such exciting things about the Blog Conferences. Prayerfully I will be able to attend this year. Great post!
Blessings~
Alethea
Alethea recently posted..Submit to YOUR Husband
Twitter: HPofStyles
says:
This resonated with me since I started blogging last summer. Setting up my blog and then moved from Blogger to WordPress all by myself was nerve wrecking but it’s worth it. It is challenging but ‘m learning a lot. Blogging certainly taught me to stop procrastinating (relates to no. 1) and just be bold and fearless. Really enjoy this!
Fauzi @ Hodgepodge of Styles recently posted..New Addition
Twitter: TheLadyTrainer
says:
This is a wonderful post and there is a great deal of truth in it. The lack of feedback was the hardest part of blogging for me. It was discouraging at first. But, there came a point where I had to decide if I wanted to blog because I enjoyed blogging or because I wanted feedback. Once I made that decision the feedback didn’t matter to me anymore and strangely once I stopped looking for feedback I started to get feedback.
Paulin recently posted..4 Healthy Smoothie Recipes High In Folic Acid
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