Article by Wendy McCance
Have you ever thought about what your life was like before you began your blog and what it’s like now? Has it occurred to you that having a blog can be one of the most inspirational things you can do for yourself?
There have been so many times that I have reflected on where I was before I began my blog and the amazing transformation my life has taken since I really got into blogging. I never realized all of the incredible perks that come along with having a blog.
My blog has been the best thing I have ever done for myself. When I first started blogging, I was looking for an outlet for an overload of emotions. I just needed a place to vent what was on my mind and I figured writing would help me get through my feelings (which it did).
What happened along the way was eye-opening. You begin to meet other people and a bond forms over the common interest of having a blog and what you are trying to express. You gain support and feel lifted up by people you have never met.
The blogging world is unlike anything I had ever experienced. Where else can you have conversations about whatever is on your mind any time of day or night? Where else can you read so many different opinions on a subject and gain so much knowledge about the people around you?
Then come even more surprises. People share your words. The very thoughts you have put out into the universe are being picked up by others. You will hear from those who share your view or add to the content of what you are trying to get across. You will get an opportunity to hear the another side of what you are trying to express. You learn so much. The lessons are invaluable and really shape you into a more well-rounded individual.
Who knew that if you blogged and people enjoyed what you posted, you could get an award and some accolades from your blogging peers? The amount of good feelings a blog creates will raise your self-esteem, put you on a path where you begin to set goals, and ultimately gives you a new outlook on where your future can really go. All very positive and ego boosting.
I have learned what it means to share and support in a way I hadn’t before blogging. I have felt grateful for the people who stop by and say hi. I have been amazed at how much I have learned from links shared by other bloggers and experiences they have been willing to share in the comments below a given post.
I feel like I have more tolerance. I have a softer heart. I am more accepting of many different types of personalities. I feel blessed to have been touched by all of the people who have left their imprint on my blog. People can be incredibly generous, supportive, kind and wise. I am astounded at the amount of effort these people will put into a blogging relationship without knowing someone in person, but because they understanding their heart so well.
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Wendy McCance
To contact Wendy McCance about a writing or social media assignment, interview or speaking engagement, please email her at: [email protected]
Latest posts by Wendy McCance (see all)
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I have been blogging now for three years and you are so right about just how much a blog can change (and save) your life. My blog has helped me through a lot of tough times, and while a journal might have sufficed, it was touching to see people random people that I have never met felt the way I do. Thanks for this post!
Keep blogging and spreading joy in everything you do (the happiness you seek is in your own hands).
Thanks so much.
Reblogged this on Sookton's Space and commented:
Three years ago I began my blogging journey. I can say it has changed my life.
Thanks so very much!!
I think you really nailed the entire experience especially in the realization of what you learn along the journey and the supportive encouragement you gain from a people you have never met. When I first started it was with the nudging of my best friend telling me (daily) that I should write a book. I started the blog as a place to record some thoughts and to “try it out” …a story at a time. I certainly would agree that my blog is one of the best decisions I made. I continue to learn everyday. I stumbled on your article through Linked-In and hope others read your words, become encouraged and take the leap of faith.Just write…the rest will follow. Thanks for a great article.
The Garden Goat
Thanks so much for the comment and the words of encouragement. Comments like your really make my day. All the best. 🙂
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I find that blogging can be inspirational and remind me of concepts that I need keep in mind for daily life. It is a great way to bond with other professionals, as well. Great article, Wendy!
Thanks so much for your comment Kathy.
It’s true about blogging but it is also true that there are some blogs out there that must do more than remain a blog. So let me share a bit why I decided to publish Paul Graham’s blog challenge: Eating Vegan in Vegas. I think there are stories within stories. Paul challenged himself to write a blog for 365 straight days about eating one vegan meal/day in a restaurant in Las Vegas. The fact that he was able to accomplish that was astounding enough. But then his work and the mission of my publishing company also happened to overlap in such a great way. We are both able to see that overlapping need to save the planet as one that we share and thus we value the work each of us does to make that shift happen.
I urge everyone to find that same passion about life and about helping to change how we live today so that there will be a great tomorrow on this planet.
Thanks to all bloggers. You are making a huge investment in getting us all to think.
Deborah Emin
What a wonderful comment. Thanks so much Deborah.
Wendy….thank you sooo much. Yes, I have just started a few months ago. And everything you wrote I have felt and wondered. It’s nice to know I am not alone. After a lifetime of TV anchor, radio show host and more…I found myself at a brink wall….no employment and deep depression…I was literally inspired…a calling you might say..to do this. It has become my passion….to share life’s lessons….opinions…and sites, books and people that inspire ….I guess this is where I am going…the blog has a life of its own!! LOL…..Ijust would like to make a little money….any advice would be appreciated!!! YOU ARE A LIFE SAFER….thank you thank you for your wonderful words of advice!! Linda
Hi Linda, your description of why you began sounds just like what I experienced. I feel I have found my calling. I have never been so passionate about something, but like you, I am still finding my way. I am still unsure what direction my blog will take me or where the bulk of the money will come from. The best thing I can add is that things have just fallen in my lap. I was asked to freelance for a financial blog, I was offered to have a free website built if I would recommend the web designer. I think when you are passionate about something it shows and people begin to reach out. I hope that helps. If you find the answer, please pass it my way. I would be thrilled to know. 🙂
See, Wendy…Live your passion and the money will come..at least that’s what Richard Branson says and he seems to be able to pay his bills!!!!! Your response just was wonderful…kindered sisters in search of our authentic selves!!! If you every need an honest “atta girl”….let me know..and by the way..there are no accidents in life….the fact that my women’s intuition told me to respond to your great blog..is proof…..maybe should colaberate on “I am lost….and I can’t find my Keyboard.”
I have been saying for decades and I mean decades that I was going to write a book….first it was gong to be called “Two size D Batteries wil Never break your Heart”, then it was “when I turn 40, I’m going to dye by Hair Red” then it turned into “Is it hot or is it me?”…..NOW..it’s “If I were Queen of the WOrld, there’d be alot of changes around Here” !!!
Linda, I just love your spirit. same back to you, by the way. If you have questions, need support etc… reach out I’d be happy to help where I can. Just really lovely meeting you. 🙂
Hi Wendy, I began blogging about a year ago, for the purpose of honing my craft. Little did I realize that I would connect with so many bloggers as you, who continually inspire orhers to forge ahead, in any situation. At the onset of this journey, I was a bit apprehensive, due to my lack of experience. During this past year, however,I have learned much, from what I consider, the best. Thank you for your continued, and positive contributions. Blessings.
Your so welcome. I hadn’t even used any social media when I began. I had no idea what I was doing. The response from other bloggers still blows me away. They are the most positive group of people I have ever encountered. 🙂
Me too find a reason to be more happy through blogging. Its change my life in many ways. Due to this I am able to know myself in much better way. I just love it <3
Hope of Light
http://hopeoflight.wordpress.com/2011/08..
That’s wonderful!!
So true! Thanks for reminding me Wendy. My blog is indeed my therapy as well as a way to reach out and share inspiration, hope and ideas with people I would never have the chance to connect with if I was doing it. In many ways my blogging is an extension of my journalling…I stated doing Julie Cameron’s “Artist’s Way” daily pages years and years ago and still write them 5 days a week. What happens is many of the thoughts and ideas that are generated in my journalling then get fleshed out even more in a blog post. While it does take effort and determination to keep going-I’ve been at it almost 2 year now-the reward is MORE than worth it. Thanks for the reminder!
That’s fantastic. I have heard that most people abandon their blogs within a few months. 2 Years is a lifetime in blogging years. Very impressive and inspiring. 🙂
You are so right blogging has changed my life in many ways and all good ways it is now just part of me…………………I love to blog
I’m so glad you enjoy it so much too. 🙂
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I am fairly new to the blogging world and I’m just starting to experience some of the things you talk about. The support I’ve received so far has been amazing and I wish I’d done it years ago! Once I found the initial bravery to be honest about my thoughts, feelings and experiences, the rest has been easy. I’m off to read a few more of your posts!
i’m so glad you have had such a good experience with blogging. Thanks so much for your comment.
Laura, you might want to go to the opportunity page and submit the link to your blog. That way you can get some additional traffic. 🙂
Ooh Wendy, this is very exciting - thank you! 🙂
You are so very welcome. 🙂
Oh gosh yes. I feel the same ans so much more. It has brought back to my drawing and being more creative. My husband has often said if it does nothing else than that, then it has been worth it. 🙂
I really think that you find the most true side of yourself. 🙂
Thanks again. I hope you are also aware of how fortunate you have been to have been discovered by so many. The timing & other readiness factors aligned ideally for you. Many, many others of us have been ‘less discovered’; and I suspect that some who read this article will feel that you are perhaps unaware of how rare & special it is to have gained the audience you have. The authenticity of your voice & spirit undoubtedly has called to others … many who feel they too have deserving voices, spirits & messages. I offer this comment in support of you, hoping it will further anchor your gratitude. Thanks again. Continue on …
Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts. I believe everyone has a voice that others want to hear. It just takes a little bravery in putting the authentic you out there and having kindness towards those who reach out to you. 🙂
I totally agree. Can I also add that when I look at the time I wonder where the day has gone! No points for guessing that I have been sharing it with my virtual friends.
Thanks for your comment. 🙂