This whole blogging thing is still pretty new to me. It was two years ago when I started posting my DIY projects and it started to draw in readers other than my friends and family(which is wonderful, and it means so much to me that people are interested in my projects) and while there are many aspects to blogging I love(one being the supportive and kind readers I have like you), there are a few aspects to blogging I don’t like. One of them is how as my blog started to gain more readers, I started comparing my blog to other blogs out there. The BIG, FAMOUS blogs at that.
Before, when it was a blog read only by family and friends, my only goal was to keep an online journal of our family to look back on, and to update our friends and family at the same time. I wasn’t trying to make my blog big or successful. But now, more goals have been added I’m not going to lie, which is to have it be successful so I can earn a profit from it. It’s not the main reason by any means, but it is a part of it. I realize that’s the goal of most of the other bloggers out there who are trying to make their blog big, and I bet none of the big, famous blogs will keep blogging if they were told they wouldn’t profit from their blog. So I go to their blogs to see what it is that made their blog so big, to check out my competition so to speak. But what I’ve realized is, while I get a little motivated to do better on my blog, I leave their blog feeling mostly jealous and bitter.
This whole jealousy thing is new to me because I’ve always been good at being genuinely happy with the success and happiness of other people. I know them and care for them so if they’re happy, then I’m happy. If they succeed, then it’s my success too! Then enters this blogging world. And getting into the lives of people I have never met and do not personally know. Then it’s a little hard for me to be genuinely happy for their success because I’ve never met them in my life and they’re my competition now, so to speak. So when I read their blogs I’m thinking, “I wish my blog was as cool as her’s!, I wish I had that many followers…, I wish I had that many comments on my blog…, I wish I had that many sponsors…, I wish I was a better photographer, my kids can dress that good if my blog made as much as her blog…” It motivates me to do better on my blog, but it mostly makes me feel discouraged and crappy. Like I’m back in high school all over again and it’s like a popularity contest. Isn’t that what this whole blogging thing is about when it comes down to it?(The blogs that want many readers and have it be successful that is). Being popular is not important and it’s true that, “your popularity ends on the last day of high school”, but this is not high school, we’re all adults now and we all want to make a living in this economy! So it’s basically a popularity contest overkill. While being “popular” is overrated and unimportant, in the blog world, it’s important because it means success.
And that is good enough with me.
Pippa @ BeadsAndBarnacles says
I know this feeling, my blog is a small one like 11 followers :p but I do find myself reading other blogs and being like 'oh I wish I had …' etc.
I just try to shrug it off as I dont have the time to dedicate to making my blog THAT big.
Just be yourself x
Jessika says
I think your blog is great! I always love your updates, DIY projects and pictures (your kids are just way too cute!). I think what drew me in first to your blog was your DIY projects, the clothes you make and the adjustments you do to them are just so cool and creative. I don't really sew, but your posts make me want to break out the sewing machine and try to π So don't feel too jealous, what you have is great and I'm sure it's only going to grow π
Christine says
I don't have a big following yet on my blog and I think your is better than mine:) I get jealous feelings too but I try to focus on my little successes too! I am excited when I get a new follower or get featured on a linky party… although I wish I got featured on the bigger blogs more. I am having fun blogging and hopefully it will grow from that π
Christine @ Projectsaroundthehouse. blogspot. com
Jennifer Urias says
Shoot girl, I am jealous I cannot sew as well as you!It still blows my mind how some people have all this time to make their blogs look so over the top. I spend enough time just reading my fav blogs. Your blog is perfect the way it is. I went through and cleaned up my blog list not too long ago and your blog stayed!I like your blog because you do not make everything look and seem perfect in your life. You seem to be just a normal person sharing your brilliant and talented projects.
Krilafis says
It isn't about getting sponsors or making it "big" in the blog world. It's about capturing life-YOUR life. The life that is given to you and the things you do to give energy to your world. A blog, for me, is a place to tell myself about the miracles found in family and the joy that is written on my heart because of them. I wouldn't have known those feelings if I hadn't written them first. It's a nice way to remind myself that my life is rich and that each moment is a gift–because what if it had never been?
It's about me–by me–for me. The one place that is all me.
Mandy @ Sugar Bee Crafts says
You ARE a big-name blogger – – and amazing π keep up the greatness!
Alyssa says
I can completely relate. I havent started my blog and the main reason is because of my jealousy of the "bigger" blogs. I'm trying to tailor mine to look like theirs and then realize every time that the style doesnt properly represent me. I am in the same journey and I know God will lead me the right way. π
Jacie Saltzman says
You're blog is great! haha so i have to tell you a funny story. I know that you live somewhere in Provo because you've said stuff about that in your blog. The other week I was at my best friend Alyse Bennett's baby blessing, and guess who I saw in sacrament meeting! you and your cute family! haha it was so weird! I'm like I know her! I read her blog! but i've never met you. Then I suddenly felt like a weird stalker lol. I walked right by you and chickened out to telling you I read your blog and think you're adorable. So I walked by you and said nothing. You're husband was talking to one of my husbands friends who'se in that ward as well. small world! too funny!
ThirstyGirl says
what an open and honest post. this is why I'm such a fan.
Beth says
I don't remember where/when/how I first stumbled across your blog, but I was enchanted with you, your family, and your way of writing about them… so I bookmarked you. Now I check in every week or so just to see what piece of clothing you creatively and artfully transformed or to see what sort of adventure your family enjoyed. I think all bloggers have some sort of blog envy… I know I wish I had the motication and energy to post as often as you!
punkychewster says
Hi Sarah!
Your post strikes so close to heart! When i first started out blogging, I experienced the same niggling feelings and emotions. I try to post everyday and go to different sites and add blogs in hopes they will add me (gosh, i sound so terrible!) But after awhile it got tiring trying to as they say "keep up with jones". I just didn't have the time and energy to do this! I stopped posting for awhile, went back to doing the things i stopped doing because i was spending too much time on the computer. I came to realize blogging is for ME to share my daily experiences with people that care to read. I don't have to take awesome pictures (as long as I can edit on Flickr and have FUN with that) and I don't need to post about make-up or fashion tips just because so-and-so is doing it. I post about the weirdest things, but it makes my heart burst with joy when i write about gardening, and birding and crafting (and failing) and nerdy stuff like book lists(!!) Most of all i trimmed my Blogger Reading List to a few close blogging friends I'd found and a handful of others i read for inspiration and interest-related topics.
And then, blogging became fun again! I became myself in my posts and I don't stress over having nothing to write.
So thank you for posting this to remind me what I've experienced, and how much I've learnt.
xx
Chui
summersun says
Jealousy is alright! I tried starting a blog and majorly failed – so kudos to you for keeping it going for 2 years! I would always look at some people and be like – I don't get how this person has more followers that I do, her pictures suck, or he's kind of a b*tch… but eventually I learned it's better to just love and enjoy what they are doing and embrace it (and learn off of it for if I ever want to start another blog)
I want you to know that I come to your blog everyday to read about your life and your family. I love you all! I love your hiccups in life and fun adventures.
After your blog post about a year ago (i think) about wanting to quit blogging because you weren't sure if anyone actually looked at your blog or cared. I wanted to start commenting to prove that there are people out here that read your blog every day and love your family! But just like my blog, I failed and quit commenting. Although I still check every weekday to see what you are upto!
Keep it Sarah! We love you! (and your family)
Ei8ht says
I love your blog, it's absolutely enchanting.
Jackie says
Oh Sarah…you are the most famous person I know. Your blog is amazing…and guess what? Sooooo many people out there are jealous of you! You're honest, beautiful, have/make gorgeous children, you have a husband who adores you, oh…and you can sew anything!!! Seriously, you are an amazing woman and I am grateful to know you. Keep blogging, you're an example to all of us mamas. Love you.
Tonja Keene says
Your blog IS amazing! I don't even remember how I came across it, but I just love it! Once I had ideas of being a great blogger with tons of followers and whatnot. It never happened. Mine is still only read by family and friends, but whatevs. I will keep it up because I already appreciate my old posts and the records I've kept!
Vale says
We all love you and your blog Sarah!
Besides I live on a tiny island in the Indian Ocean and I absolutely love your blog!
International Fame may I say (:
steph nelsen says
i love your honesty and style : ) you also have an amazing ability to connect with your readers. i've witnessed your encouragement of other women and watched you lead by example through overcoming the challenges of parenting toddlers; all the while looking fabulous, being a devoted wife, and finding time for creative outlets. it's what keeps me coming back. you were the first blogger to ever comment back on one of the comments i left – i felt so awesome, haha, it was pretty big time for me! jealousy is a natural part of life, it seems. i struggle with jealousy toward women i think may be better mothers, have less cellulite, decorate their homes like i wish i could, etc., but it is usually fleeting as the reality of my blessings shine through. i'm sure it will be for you too. the blogging world is definitely enriched by your presence.
Carisa says
I know exactly what you mean! I do this all the time but then i remember i have amazing loyal readers and i should just be grateful….its hard though!
Keep up the awesome work you are a fabulous blogger!
Sarah says
Thank you. I think it's so true, just be myself. π
Sarah says
You are so sweet, thank you! And you should definitely break out the sewing machine! π
Sarah says
Thanks for your comment Christine! It makes me feel better that I'm not the only one. π I'm off to check out your blog now!
Sarah says
Oh, I'm so flattered that you kept mine! Thank you for your comment!
Sarah says
Hi! I'm so glad your blog is that and only that. Mine started off just like that but it has changed over time. But the main reason I do write is for me and my girls, since they won't remember this age much when they get older. Thanks for your comment!
Sarah says
Mandy, you are always so, so sweet and it makes me so happy when I get featured on YOUR big-name, famous blog. π Thank you!
Sarah says
Thanks for your comment Alyssa! I think what you said is so true, I think keeping it original with your own style will draw in more faithful readers. π
Sarah says
So I went on your blog and yes, I remember seeing you! Haha, that is so funny! You should've said hi, there's no need to be chickened out! π Thanks for reading my blog and for your comment!
Sarah says
Thank you so much for reading my blog and for your comment, Beth! It means a lot to me. π
Sarah says
Thank you for your insights! That is where I'm at now, I don't care how many comments I receive(even though it does make me happy of course:), I enjoy writing every post and it makes me happy and that's all that matters! And if you enjoy writing it, then that means people will be able to sense that and also enjoy reading it as well. π
Sarah says
Oh, thank you for reading my blog and for always leaving comments. I always enjoy reading your sweet comments. π
Sarah says
Hahaha, you sound exactly like me! I think, her blog isn't even that great, why is she so big, that girl seems like a snot, etc. And then I feel terrible for thinking that haha. And it means so much to me that you come to my blog everyday, it's humbling. Thank you for your comment, I appreciate it more than you know.
Sarah says
Enchanting, what a compliment, thank you! <3
Sarah says
Oh, Jackie, stop it. I hope no one is jealous of me! And can we please not say I'm famous hahaha, I'm not a celebrity or anything, just a girl who blogs! Nevertheless, thank you for your sweet comment.
Sarah says
Thank you so much Tonja! And yes, a blog is a great way to keep a journal of our lives. So I don't think it goes wasted. π
Sarah says
Wow, thank you for reading my blog all the way from an island in the Indian Ocean! It sounds so magical and romantic. π Thanks for taking the time to comment!
Sarah says
Steph, that was such a heartfelt comment, thank you so much. I got a little teary eyed reading it, hehe. And yes, realizing my own blessings makes the jealousy go away when I realize how lucky and blessed I am. And you are too. π
Sarah says
I think the same thing too and it makes me feel so much better every time. π Thank you for your comment!
Vale says
It is, do come by some day!
Sarajolie says
I think you are incredibly creative! I love your blog! and 3000 followers is nothing to sneeze at π
Sarah says
Thank you for your comment, and yes, it's good to focus on what I do have, and it's 3000 amazing readers like yourself. π
Joyous says
Hi, Sarah!
I just wanted to say that I enjoy reading all of your posts. I appreciate your ability to tell it like it is. Some of your blog posts leave me in tears, in a good way! I read them, and I feel connected to you as a mother and a friend. Please, keep up the fabulous work! π
Sarah says
Thank you so much for your words. You have no idea how much that meant to me. thank you.
Rhinestone Beagle says
I just found your blog through your post at our weekly link party and am already a fan. One thing I've found as a reader, also with some jealousy issues at times, is that I continually go back to read the blogs that are written by people like me. Without the seemingly picture perfect house, clothing, and life. I can get that any day on TV. I much prefer my quirky fun unexpected life. Maybe that's why I have dogs. π Keep up the good work.
Elena S. says
Hi, I just found your blog… a couple of hours ago… I am supposed to be working right now, but instead I keep reading your posts, looking at the pictures and seriously, this is by far the best blog I've found in many months(and believe me, 'cause of my job, I spend a LOT of time online)… It gives me a sense of freshness, light, purity, cleanliness, moral sanity, beauty… It feels so good to come across such beautiful and simple virtual "places"… and it's so rare. It's like a breath of fresh air. I am from Romania (imagine!) and a mom, and only wish I could do what you're doing with this blog. Right now I feel so inspired by your work and it doesn't happen to me too often (jealousy happens more often though :)) …). So, keep up the wonderful work and enjoy the wonderful family God blessed you with. π
Elena
Sarah says
Thank you so much for your comment! I should stop reading those blogs too…but it's just so hard, hahaha. π
Sarah says
Oh Elena, thank you so much for your comment, it means so much to me. It's when I get comments like this that I think people really do read my blog and appreciate it and it makes me want to do better on my blog. So thank you for that. Your comment was one of my favorites I've ever received! May God bless you too!
culdesacetcie says
Oh my! You can't be jealous of other bigger blogs! No way, yours is perfect the way it is… And I'm the one comparing my blog to yours ha! You are funny, have loads of inspiring projects, 2 way too cute little girls and nice looking photographs. Reading your blog is one of my pleasure even though I'm not much of a commenter, i try to be more π but I can relate, I fel all giddy when I get more than 30 views in a day! I've still lots of stairs to climb but I've decided that I was blogging for the pleasure of it and because it obliges me to work on the picture thing! But I would be lying if a little part of me wants to be popular… But i ush it quickly because it takes all the fun out of the blogging experience!
JosΓ©e
Sarah says
You are so sweet, thank you so much for your words. It's comments like this that keep me going and motivate me to make my blog better, so thank you!!! And I'm totally with you, when I don't focus on being so popular, I really love blogging. So that isn't my focus anymore. Thanks for the reminder. π