“I have accepted fear as part of life – specifically the fear of change… I have gone ahead despite the pounding in the heart that says: turn back….” ― Erica Jong
Sometimes you can’t turn back, so what else can we do, other than go ahead? Changes in life often make us reflect and reconsider. It seems as if our lives here at Wag ‘n Woof Pets have been undergoing changes for over two years now, some big, some small, ever since we moved to our new home. Heck, it’s been constant change since I started this blog, with our pet family getting smaller and smaller all the time. I think the move might have been the one big change that we planned, and that had the most positive impact on our lives. The transition wasn’t easy, but it was worth it in the long run.
Some changes we make by choice, others are thrust upon us. I’m still figuring things out since losing my regular job last fall, a change I didn’t ask for. Yes, I know, I’ve been whining about this for a while, but after being in the same job for over 20 years, it’s hard to figure out what to do when that ends.
I’ve always known that even if I hadn’t lost my job, I wanted to do more with the farm. It’s been in the back of my mind that when the busy springtime got here, I was going to have trouble keeping everything going – bookkeeping work, farm, blog. I’ve been trying to get myself more organized and hopefully using my time a bit more efficiently. There still doesn’t seem to be enough of it, and on top of that I’m still looking for a bit more work (for financial reasons only….the farm is still new so not even breaking even yet)!
Something has to give, and I always knew it might be the blog, because next to the farm, it’s the one thing that takes up the most of my time for the least financial reward. Wait – don’t panic – I’m not giving it up completely! I could not. This blog is my passion and my outlet and I’d be lost without it and the community blogging has created for me.
Blogging isn’t just about the writing and the photographs. It’s about promotion, marketing, and giving to the community as well as taking, especially if you want – need – to make some money doing it like I do. I couldn’t expect my blog friends to come read my blog all the time if I’m not willing to read theirs. Well, I could, but that’s just not me, and reading other blogs is enjoyment for me, and can be inspiring as well. I had loosely planned that I would cut back on posting when spring got here, but the truth is, I’ve been resistant to doing that. Losing Cricket really got me to thinking again. Would life with only one dog and one cat give me enough to write about?
It still does. I’m not short on subjects, I’m just short on time. Therefore, I needed to come up with a plan. Years ago, I posted 6 days/week. I don’t know how I did it! Eventually I cut back to 5, and then to weekdays only, still all 5 days. A while ago, I decided to cut Tuesdays out because they seemed to be a slower day.
I’m not sure I can do it, but now my plan is to cut back to 3 days/week. Mondays and Fridays are easy, but I couldn’t decide which other day to cut out. Wordless Wednesdays were an easy day, with mostly only a photo needed, but the Thankful Thursday blog hop is a favorite. I just found out last week that there will be no more BlogPaws Wordless Wednesday hop (another change!) so that made it somewhat easier, though I like the idea of every other day, and not skipping two in a row. I’ve basically decided to just go with the flow and do whatever I feel like that week.
I prefer to be consistent with my days, but there are a lot of successful blogs out there that are not even consistent with how often they post, so I’m trying to let go of that. Last week I skipped my Thursday post because Wednesday was a gorgeous day and I decided to spend time outside instead of inside writing. In addition, I have an early evening meeting every Wednesday (bookkeeping client) and that’s often the time of day I put my posts together.
One thing I don’t think I’ll ever be able to change is getting posts done ahead of time. I work better under pressure, and if I write posts ahead of time, I often change my mind and post something else at the last minute! With my new e-mail notification system, I can’t be posting at the last minute in the mornings either, which I also often did! The email goes out at 7 am so posts need to be scheduled before that.
My hope is to have one big post per week, on one of our favorite subjects such as training, health and wellness, or a more in-depth product review. Sometimes it might be on a more personal subject. We’ll be joining some of our favorite hops as always such as Thankful Thursdays, Flower Fridays, and there’s a new hop we want to try, the “Pet Photo Fails” hop, which is only once/month.
It’s not a big change, but I hope it’s enough of one to leave me feeling a bit less overwhelmed. Once I get through the busier time of year for the farm, who knows, we may go back to our four day per week schedule (and occasionally I may throw an extra in there anyway). I want to try to be on social media sharing photos and little stories more too, so be sure to follow us there (you’ll find the links in the upper right corner of this page)!
As writers and bloggers, I think many of us are affected by other factors in our lives, and we all struggle with how those changes affect our lives and our blogs. Our friend Jodi recently wrote a post about change and her blog as well (Heart Like a Dog – Change is Inevitable). I was relieved she is sticking with hers too!
OK, that was all my really long-winded way of saying I’ll be posting one less day per week! More changes are probably on the way; and I hope I can learn to just roll with them better. One thing I will always have is this blog. Even though we may tweak things here and there, I will not give up my passion for writing about pets and enjoying the community of readers and other writers out there.
“Some changes look negative on the surface, but you will soon realize that space is being created in your life for something new to emerge.” ― Eckhart Tolle
I have confidence – or at least hope – that is true, but sometimes it just takes time to figure out what those new things are, and how to make them all work together along with the old. All we can do is make a plan, keep going ahead, and hope we get there.
I’m so glad to hear you aren’t going anywhere! I know how hard it is to keep up with regularly posting–I’ve been failing miserably this year between being busy at work and being in agility trials. There just aren’t enough hours in the day to write everything I want to write!
I’m glad it’s not just me! The worst part right now is that I had two weeks of reduced posting, and I’m still behind on everything! 🙂 But we’ll just keep at it, and do the best we can, right?
Your prolific posting has been impressive. But I hope that giving yourself permission to post flexibly keeps the blog fun for you.
The trend for people who want to make money from their blog is to spend less time writing and more time promoting–especially older posts. You might actually find it very satisfying to promote some of your older posts.
Although I’m normally very hard on myself, I’ve been really pleased to find how much I like old posts. Although I hate working with pictures, I do find it satisfying to replace my terrible old pictures with nice, new ones. And to see old posts I’ve written getting some fresh love.
Anyway, count me as one of the mob of people relieved that you’re keeping the blog going.
Thank you! And thanks for that advice, that is something I will definitely think about doing.
I am feeling the same way that you are – overwhelmed! Yet, I’m a creature of habit… so I’m not changing quite yet. I am impressed with the logical way that you approached this! I hope that it relieves some of the pressure. I’m so glad that you’re not quitting… because I would miss you!
I totally understand why you’re resisting the change too….it took me a long time to talk myself into it! But so far I’m glad I’ve done it, even though I’m still way behind on everything and still trying to catch up!
I totally understand. When I started blogging, I was posting something, even if it was just a photo, every day. Even that became too much…trying to take photos, edit, come up with something to write about. So I switched to 4 days a week…and any special occasions that may come up. That has worked out okay…I may even cut back to 3 days. You have to do what works best for you. Your readers will be there no matter what. ~Island Cat Mom
That is great advice, and I’m glad you’ve found a schedule that works for you too.
I did notice that you weren’t blogging every day which I was surprised because I knew how committed you were to it. But I’ve been in the same situation with life getting in the way. I stopped blog hops awhile ago because I don’t join if I can’t read everyone else’s blog. Then there’s the photo only blog which I stopped because there is no way to use SEO or at least I don’t know how to. Lately I’ve been deleting all my photo only blogs as I have to up my server space at my host. They don’t really serve a purpose, I have the original photos somewhere. I think you’re doing the right thing but I know how much writing means to you. So good luck no matter what!
You are right about the photos only and the SEO. I remember learning that in one of the conference classes last year. Plus I used to hear that your posts shouldn’t be too long, but it turns out Google likes long posts! That’s why I’m hoping to get more long ones out there.
I gulped very hard as I began reading your post and then was selfishly thrilled you’re still going to be around. Life comes at us hard at times and we must learn to adapt with the ups and downs of life. I LOVE your posts and have learned much. And your photos are always the best. Hang in there and know we’ll continue to support you. Oodles of poodles hugs and tail wags. 💖
Thank you so much!! That means a lot to me, and I definitely need that encouragement! ♥
So glad you are staying with some blogging, sounds like cutting back though will help you, and you have much support for all your plans of some change, yay!
I hear you and understand completely. Thanks for the heads up on wordless Wednesday’s. Boy have things change since I started.
They sure have, haven’t they!
You scared me, I thought you were giving up. I am glad you will still be blogging.
Sorry for scaring you, but I appreciate that so much!!
I totally understand. I used to post every single day and it can be overwhelming. A Monday thru Friday schedule is working for me now but in August, we are getting a brand new granddaughter! Helping with a two-year-old and a newborn might alter that schedule too. LOL! Maybe a new grandma blog?!?
Just enjoy that new granddaughter! But we sure wouldn’t mind seeing photos! 🙂
Glad you’re sticking with it!! 🙂
Your support and encouragement always helps to keep me going! ♥
I will continue to enjoy reading what you write whenever you write it !
Thank you so much, Mary! ♥
I always look forward to what you post and seeing what Luke is up to. Happy to hear we will be still seeing them. Thank you 🙂
Thank YOU for sharing that with me, Maggie! ♥♥♥
I just want to let you know how much I enjoy reading your blog. We all need balance in our lives – sometimes the scales are uneven – then it is time for a change – a positive change (easier said than done sometimes)
WHen I first started reading today’s blog, I was worried you were going to stop. Glad you are continuing and look forward to your blogs.
I am sure Luke will be happy to have more time with you!!
Thank you so much for leaving this comment, Susan! It really helps me to confirm I’m making the right decision to keep going.
That’s another factor I didn’t really mention too much – that I also want to focus on giving Luke the attention and time he needs. We are finally getting a daily walk in (other than days I have to be gone completely), and I know that is so good for him. But I love sharing him with others too, and that’s another reason the blog means so much to me.
I think that sounds like a plan. Around January or so i blogged about cutting back as well (on Cody’s blog)……..I try to make sure on his (his is my flagship blog) that I post a minimum of 3 days per week (sometimes I do less, sometimes more)…….and Dakota is lucky if there is ANYTHING on his. I used to worry about that, I no longer do. I do what feels right for me.
As for not being at a job that you had for 20 years…trust me, I know. Granted, when I moved to Michigan I resigned to move here (I had been at that job for 21 and a half years), then when I came here I had a total of 9 jobs from 2001 til 2007……(crazy)…..I know how hard it is to find something else, trust me, I also know about wanting to make money with the blogs.
In Michigan, substitute teachers are badly needed (not sure if it is the same there), and now you only need 90 hours of college (instead of a degree in Education). I do have a college degree, just not in Education, so in July I may apply to be a sub in Elementary Schools.
I am trying to keep blogging at least through year 10 (don’t know how BP says they had their 10 year anniversary when they started in 2009 as I did….I think they are actually counting the first year instead of counting 2010 as year 1). I will be technically starting year 9 (I think) in the Fall since I began blogging in 2009. While I enjoy reading everyone’s blog, if I didn’t cut down the number of days I blog it was becoming tedious and a chore and I wanted it to be fun again.
I think your plan sounds great!
I’m glad you found a way to cut back on things and get it back to being fun for you. That really should be the point, right? If it just becomes like a job we don’t enjoy, then it probably is time to move on.
I hope the substitute teaching works out for you! That sounds like a really good option.
Before I found my last job, I rarely stayed at the same job for more than a year or two, so I totally understand 9 jobs in 8 years!
One of the reasons I like doing multiple things is that it keeps me from getting bored, which I do way too easily. I just wish all the things I love doing most paid better! 🙂
Phew, I’m glad you’re sticking with it. Thank you for the shout out and the link to our post. I think you’ve really hit the nail on the head here, to a lot of the way I’ve been feeling.
For me, I’ve been blogging for 7 1/2 years now and I’ve seen (as I know you have) a lot of changes to blogging. Some I like and some I don’t. There are a lot of things I’ve struggled with, and some of those struggles continue. For some reason I just cannot articulate it, without sounding like a whiny little bitch, so I’m just not saying it. 🙂
I think as we continue to grow and change, it’s only natural that our blog does as well. As long as you are good with it, and you aren’t leaving us….that’s what matters. 🙂
My biggest fear is that blogging could go away completely as a thing, and everyone moves over to social media. I just feel like social media is too open to “trolls” and that’s one reason I don’t really try that hard to increase my numbers (especially on FB).
Anytime you want to share your struggles through a private message, feel free! I don’t mind listening to whining at all. 🙂
I find it easiest when I prepost.I can move posts if needed but I’m more likely to get posts up when I post a bunch ahead.
I was sad to see Blog Paws Wordless Wednesday go. It was a good way for pet bloggers to meet. We will have to see what other changes are in store.
I really wish I could get ahead, but I just can’t seem to get there! 🙂
I love hearing about the farm, and what you are doing. I had to totally let go of the “scheduled” blog. I too use to write almost daily, but i just can’t do that. I write on a whim now. Sometimes I have something to say, sometimes I don’t. I can’t force it if there is nothing there.
That is a great way to look at it!
I can’t believe you post as often as you do! I post around once a week, but if I’m out of town or things are crazy busy, it may be less. I have dropped bloggers who post too much – several times a day – because I don’t have time to read that much and they are usually shooting for quantity rather than quality. I prefer quality. So cut back if you must, it’s okay! The idea is to keep blogging fun, and when becomes a chore, it takes the joy out of the whole thing.
I can’t believe anyone has time to blog several times a day! LOL You are very right that keeping the fun in it is what’s important.
OMG, you had me worried for a minute there! Thanks for clearing it up! 🙂 Life happens, and sometimes it just gets in the way of our best-laid plans (and other things). It’s been MONTHS since I’ve been able to post anything to my blog and I’m getting “antsy” about it. But at least it has given me a new appreciation for what and who I have in my life. Whether you write 7 days a week or just one, I’ll be here waiting to read each post.
I’m so glad we get to talk personally, or I’d really be missing you! I am missing seeing your girls though!! ♥
it’s a good idea to cut it back a little bit… I decided that my weekends are for phenny. I sadly learnt it the hard way how important every day is what we have together…. and I think it was a good decision to have more “real life time” with the pup ;O)
I agree that’s a good decision, and how important every day is. It’s so tough when we get reminded of that the hard way. 🙁
Luke seems happier now that we’re having a daily walk, even if it isn’t a long one every day. I still need to make more time for other fun for him though.
We’re glad you’re still gonna be here, it just would be the same without you. Yep, change makes changes sometimes. Hey, Luke sure does look happy in the one photo!
Thank you! Yes, Luke is a happy boy these days. We’ve settled into more of a routine, and I do think he’s pleased about that.
Blogging–writing and promoting your own posts and visiting friends’ blogs–does take up a huge amount of time. I sometimes wonder how much longer I’ll be able to keep up with posting 6 days a week, but I enjoy it all so much it’s hard to know what to cut. You’ll find a new balance soon–one that leaves room for all the parts of your life. Thanks for mentioning Pet Photo Fails–hope to see you there! 🙂
I just realized I had deleted some of my bad photos recently, but I imagine there are still some that I missed, so I do plan to be there!
You need to do what works for you as it is your blog. Mom is totally over extended with work, us, sports, and the blog, but she loves the blog too much to cut back on it. Time is far too short these days, but hopefully a solution will hit us one of these days.
I know I always say this to you, but I don’t know how your Mom does it! I guess the farm takes more time than I realize, and it’s one thing that I enjoy just as much as the blog.