Rae’s Rules to Remember #87: Blogging is NOT a Competition

I’m going to be pretty blunt about this because 1. I feel like I shouldn’t have to say it and 2. it seems like a lot of people need reassurance when it comes to this topic.

BLOGGING IS NOT A COMPETITION.

If you feel that it is, it’s because you’ve made yourself feel that way on your own by comparing your blog to everyone else’s and somehow convincing yourself that if your stats don’t match everyone else’s then your blog “isn’t good enough.”

Quite frankly, that’s bullshit.

Think about the reason that you started blogging. More than likely it had nothing to do with the amount of likes, comments and follows that you would get……and if it was then you started off on the wrong foot.

At the end of the day you need to realize that someone else will always have more likes than you. At the same time many people will also have less. I mean, think about it. There are thousands of blogs out there, from all over the world. Some will get more attraction than others. That’s just the way it is and THAT IS OKAY!

You need to remember that you don’t need to post every single day. You don’t need to review every single book that you read. If you can, that’s awesome but if not, so what. You have a life and sometimes that will stop you from blogging. That’s okay, shit happens.

Now for the more popular bloggers, I’m not saying you can’t be proud of your stats. You absolutely should be. So don’t think that that’s what I mean. But also, don’t go putting pressure on other people.

It’s totally normal to want your blog to be a success but keep these things in mind:

1. Your stats will grow over time, don’t try to force it.
   • Everyone starts at 0. Whether it takes you a week or a year to gain 10 followers does not matter.
2. You do not need to follow everyone who follows you.
   • Only follow the people whose content you appreciate, relate to, enjoy, etc.
3. You don’t owe anyone a response.
   • If you’re busy, your blog can wait. Sometimes comments go unanswered. And you do not need to respond to trolls. Don’t let other people ruin your blogging experience.
4. Do NOT go around asking people to check out your blog.
   • You look desperate. It’s best when people follow you because they want to. So comment on someone’s post about their content. Tell them what you like about it. Start a conversation. Engage. Get to know them. Don’t say “hey check out my blog” because I know a few people who (just like me) will ignore you and purposely not follow you just for doing that.
5. You’re supposed to be blogging for YOU.
   • Sure we all care about out audience and sometimes people may make requests/suggestions. But if you’re not feeling it or not up to it. Don’t do it.

That’s all I have to say for now. I know that this topic is a heavy one in our community so feel free to rant (respectfully) in the comments.

---

Like Bookmark Chronicles on Facebook and follow me on Twitter and Instagram! If you can, consider buying me a Ko-fi!