Things I’ve Learned

As part of Writing 101, I decided to focus Assignment #2 on a list of things I’ve learned over nearly a year of blogging.  There have definitely been some ups and downs.  Overall, I have learned a lot about blogging, writing, and what works for me.  So here’s my list:

• Proofreading:  Ok, I can get in a panic sometimes.  I’ll look at my blog and realize I need to post something today, and I’ll write something as quickly as possible and hit that post button as soon as I can, only to have to edit it all later.  I know there are still a ton of grammatical errors that I’ve overlooked, but I’ve learned to take some extra time to proofread (and have my fiance edit it as well).
• Post regularly:  I’ve learned this, over and over.  There have been huge periods over the past month I didn’t post at all.  I don’t really have a schedule yet, but that is something I am also working on.
• Don’t really worry about the stats all the time:  Sometimes I obsess over the stats, but more and more lately, I go out of my way not to look at them more than once a day.  They are quite useful, which brings me to my next point.
• Use the stats to determine which topics are the most popular: I never would have thought board games would be our most popular topic.  That’s why we write about them a lot now.
• Read and comment on other blogs: It really is the key to building a community
• Don’t be afraid: I used to be afraid of posting fiction, but now I’m more confident.  It’s a safe place to get honest, but useful criticism
• Enjoy myself: If I can’t do this, then it’s time to stop blogging.
• Participate in events and regular features: Not only does it help introduce me to new blogs and introduce readers to my blog, I can stretch my writing muscles a bit with trying something different.
• Take a break when I need it: If I don’t feel like I have much to say, I don’t have to.  It doesn’t need to sound forced
• Get out and have new experiences to write about: If I’m in a lull and can’t find inspiration, if I get out and find something to do, it can always fall nicely under the Personal Category.

During November, I decided to sign up for Blogging 101 (since I actually failed to finish it back in January due to a crazy schedule) and Writing 101. I’m also participating in NaNoWriMo for the first time this year, working a part-time retail job in additional to my full-time position, AND trying to maintain my health and figure for a wedding dress I’ve preemptively purchased 6 months before the set date.  So, while there are a few things I have learned over the last year, not biting off more than I can chew wasn’t one of them.