” Blogs Are So Last Year! ” This is what someone said to me in the midst of a conversation about a Perk I’d received from a Sponsor. She asked me how I had come across it and I replied, “through my Blog”. Never did I expect that to be her reply. I know a lot of people may have misconceptions of what a Blog is and even about the Bloggers behind them but I must say her response stunned me.
I was actually speechless for a few moments. A few. After my shock wore off, I wanted to know why she felt that way, has she ever read a Blog, did she know any Bloggers, etc. Now, let me just say I consider this person to be a friend so I know she most likely meant to offense in her statement yet for whatever reason my Blogger Pride was definitely stung.
I have defended my Blogging to family and friends before but mainly because they didn’t understand what it was I do or even why it actually takes ‘work’. To them a Blog is more of an online journal or a way for me to surf the net and not feel like I’m not doing anything. They couldn’t be further from right. Still they always approached me with curiosity instead of judgment. So I never felt threatened.
I think that’s where this felt different. I dedicate myself to the quality and content on my Blog. To me my Blog is my Brand, a digital representation of who I am and who I want to be as a business. When I speak about my content, brands, etc. I do so as I would for any job I have had in the past. Professionally and with Pride. Perhaps that is why my Blogger Pride was hurt. I am proud of what I have created and what it stands for. I know the work, hours and at time tears I have put into it. I see MrsTeeLoveLifeLaughter as an extension of myself and not only a way to let our my inner voice but also a potential income for my family.
Is your Blog or my Blog any less respectable than any other entrepreneurial pursuit? If we were selling services or goods would we have more respect than sharing our thoughts and opinions? If someone were to answer my friend’s question by saying they received ‘perks’ from their 9-5 would she have said “9-5s Are So Last Year!”? Probably not. So where is the difference?
I strive to present my site and role as a Blogger as so much more than a hobby or even distraction. This is my passion. I am dreaming and working to make those dreams come true. No I’m not in a typical office or even under a traditional pay roll. Yet this is still work. I have daily tasks to complete, goals to meet and commitments to uphold. So if I expect a level of respect for it am I wrong? I say no. I have decided even if I have to break down stereotypes, give insight and fight for that respect, I want it just the same.
Blogs are NOT last year!
We are current, we are valuable and we have influence across many different areas of people’s lives, goods and daily commerce. So to my fellow Bloggers out there be confident in your craft, art and passion. They are a part of who you are, they are your Brand and they are current.
Have you ever had anyone describe your role as a Blogger
as nothing more than a hobby or a ‘phase’?
How did you react?
“Believe in yourself, your passions, and your dreams. Your voice is unique - build on that. Embrace what is different about you and make it your greatest asset!”
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84 thoughts on “Blogs Are So Last Year!”
I think that people just misunderstand blogs. A few years ago, blogs were silly things on blogspot.com where people shared their ideas. Now, blogs are websites. Sources of information. I bet your friend reads a lot of "blogs" but doesn't even realize they are blogs. They are professional websites.
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You know what I never even thought of it that way. You’re right they probably haven’t noticed the evolution of today’s Blog and most likely don’t even realize when they are reading something that is actually someone’s work, dream and passion and not just an online journal.
My husband did for the first year, until he realized that I made money from it. It was disheartening because I wondered what he thought of all he time I was spending on it, but he thought of it as a hobby. Now that he doesn't feel it's a hobby, I feel added pressure to get it to produce. I'm working on making real $$. It's going well. Thanks for linking up with Creative Style!
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I think I place more pressure on myself than he does but I know what you mean. Something to show as proof of your hard work.
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Wow! Thanks so much! I’ll be by Monday…
It sounds like there's a little jealousy behind her comment. If she knew the statistics on the number of blogs out there, she would have thought twice about her comment. Fortunately, I blog for me and I love blogging, so I don't hear many comments one way or the other. Forgive, forget and move on. Sometimes you have to leave people with their own comments/thoughts.
There are many times we don’t know why people say the things they do. I usually give them benefit of the doubt and in this case I tried to give her a bit of knowledge on what a Blog truly is. Thanks so much for coming by and for your encouragement 🙂
I am amused by this since I have been blogging since 1997. LOL. What an odd thing to say!
Wow!! That\’s is definitely an inspiration!!! Thanks so much for coming by to visit me 🙂
Hi,
When I see blogging mentioned, I rush to explore the post, so I hopped over to your blog from Turn it Up Tuesday and I am so delighted! Wow, this topic really hit a high note with other bloggers. I love blogging and really don't care what others say. Keep up the great work! All the best, Deborah
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Hi Deborah! Haha so do I 🙂 Thanks so much for coming by to visit…it really has but rightly so because it can be so hard trying to explain what \’we\’ do to non-Bloggers. Thanks so much, I will!
Love your response to that comment, I think many people who don't blog or read blogs really understand what it's all about. I had a close friend who was surprised to learn that people make an income from blogging. The important thing is that your fellow bloggers and businesses understand how valuable blogs are and I don't see blogs going away anytime soon! Voted for you at Mommy Hot Spot and now following on FB and Sverve. 🙂
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Thanks Bernadyn! They really don\’t but I am definitely willing to take a minute and explain it… LOL Thanks for the votes! I truly appreciate it…every click counts 🙂
Wow. I can't imagine someone saying that to me. I don't know what I would say, other than they have no idea what they're talking about!
It is really one of those situations where you have no idea how you\’ll text until it happens. That would definitely be a great place to start for a response 🙂 Thanks for coming by today Karen…
My family doesn't really understand my blogging either. They just can't wrap their head around making money as an affiliate. "You don't have stock? How are you going sell them then?" I used to write a weekly article for a newspaper back in the day and they all read it and commented on it. Virtual articles seem to be different – none of them bother reading it – even a cousin who has contributed ideas and photos for me to use! Weird or what?!
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My family gets it and my Hubby is totally supportive it\’s friends and such who seem to be baffled by it…LOL Yes, it is weird 🙂
Oh NO she didn't!!!
I think that is the very reason, I don't broadcast that I blog…. I don't want to deal with people's ignorance. Trust me I have, but I'd rather not deal with even more.
Some people love to belittle what they do not know.
Blogging is a PRODUCTION, we have SO much going on behind the scenes, and time is always ticking.
That comment would've stung for me too, but you know your worth, no need to justify.
Likers gonna Like, and Haters gonna Hate 🙂
XOXO
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LMBO..yes she did! It is ignorance I think. They speak on something without knowing much about it. I still brag on my Blog to anyone who will listen and to those who don\’t… oh well 😉
Likers and Hater…BEWARE! LOL xoxo
It sounds like this friend really doesn't understand blogging, at least what it is for you and so many other people. Sure there are people who do it for fun and maybe it is an online journal, but for many people it is so much more. I think sometimes my husband sees my blogging as more of a hobby that part of my job since I haven't really made money from it directly, unlike the jewelry side of my business. However, through my blog I have made connections that have led to more jewelry sales, so I do see it is a very important tool. And as you mentioned, my blog is part of my personal brand.
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She really didn\’t and I wasn\’t even sure if she wanted to. She seemed to feel that Blogs were just a passing phase that had little to no impact on anything important. Little does she know! Well she knows a bit because I certainly did share… 🙂 You\’re right especially for a business a blog can be such a useful extension. I am my Blog it is my Brand.
Awesome post, Tiffany! Other than taking care of the kids and home, Idon't think I've ever put this much time into any other job. Most people may not get it, so that's why it's crucial to find support! 🙂
Thank you Dee! I don\’t either…being a SAHM and a Blogger is definitely double duty..I could never do it without my Hubby\’s support 😀
Great post! I do get a lot of slack from friends about blogging because they see it as "oh she's always on her computer. why doesn't she go get a real job?" Interestingly, my family totally gets it and supports me. Often at family gatherings they'll ask about my latest campaigns and collaborations.
Thank you! Yes, I hear it too ‘you live on your phone and laptop” Yes, it’s part of what I do! 😀 I get a lot of curiosity from most of my family they are slowly starting to get what I do and why it is so important to me.Luckily even if my Hubby doesn’t totally get it he does totally support it. Thanks so much for coming by today… 🙂
Great post, Tiffany! In some ways, I think that my hubby kind of thinks this way about my blog. More like it is kind of a joke, which does kind of hurt, but I know different. It makes me feel good and is definitely something that I take total pride in the doing. Hope you have a wonderful coming week!
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Thanks! My Hubby doesn\’t really get how much it means to me either but the bonus is he is still super supportive and makes sure I have everything I could need to be what I\’m striving for. I think that means a lot since I know in my heart he still doesn\’t \’get it\’ with the whole blogging thing…LOL
Wonderful share!!! Totally agree thank you for saying things I have been thinking for a while xo!!
Thank you! I think many Bloggers feel this when a non-blogger makes an assumption about what we do (or don\’t do)…
Only people who blog know truly how much time, effort and passion goes into it! My best worst comment was my Uncle when I had just started out, who said "Really though Julie, who is going to want to read that?" I have been able to take great pleasure in showing him my stats from time to time to demonstrate "Quite a few people as it turns out!"
Luckily my husband and kids are super supportive and they are the ones who really matter!
So true Julie! Wow, what a best worst statement that is. LOL I\’m glad you\’re getting a chance to prove that your words to have impact and reach. I agree, the support of your family, the ones impacted by your dedication the most, is what matters…whether they totally \’get it\’ or not 🙂 Thanks so much for coming by today!
I just started blogging 3 months ago, and I still haven't told most of my family about it, for this very reason. People who don't blog can't understand I guess. I'm loving it so far, and can't imagine that changing. Have a great weekend!
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Congrats Lana! 3 months and your doing great! Most of my immediate family knows and is curious about what I actually do but I\’m not sure they totally understand either. I\’m glad you love what you do and can\’t wait to see where you\’re headed! Happy Sunday!
I would have felt the same way as you. Lucky all my friends and family support me and my blog. My one friend even told her 7 year old daughter that my blog was my job.
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I have certain family member who are highly supportive mainly because they too are pursuing dreams based online and know the work it takes. I\’m not sure anyone outside of them would consider it my job. I know I do though… Thanks for coming by Amy 😀
Don't listen to them! Those of us who actually blog know this is nonsense.
Oh, I’m not. Nothing will stop my passion. You’re so right! 🙂
Such a fabulous post! I've run into this before too. I've had people actually comment that anybody and their dog writes a blog – ouch! This is obviously not just my interest or a hobby… it's my passion!
I love the connections I've made blogging. I love that I've written stuff that has helped others. I love that God has put amazing people in my path.
My close family and friends are pretty supportive of my blogging habit.
Thanks so much for sharing! Wishing you a lovely weekend.
xoxo
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Thank you so much! Whaaa? They were bold enough to say it as a comment? Wow!
I would\’t trade my BloggerBFFs for anything and the connections and community I have found are so valuable to me.
You\’re right, God can definitely use this as a major medium to help your testimony reach those who need to hear it.
Thanks so much for coming by to visit 🙂
I love blogging. I have quit so many times because in afraid what my IRL friends and family would think. Lately I've just said who cares and started blogging again. It's something that I love so why should I care what anyone says else thinks about it.
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So do I! You keep doing what you’re doing Stephanie. IRL or Online it was follow what your passions that really matters. Those who are meant to be a support will be. I’m learning that myself. Have an awesome weekend!
First of all, yeah, my name is Tiffany too 🙂 Woo hoo! Ok, now down to this post. I would have looked right at my friend and said, "cite your source" If they can't than it's their opinion and I wouldn't give it much weight. And then, I would have gone on to tell her all the positive things that have come out of my blogging. I ask, when are positive things ever So Last Year! I am so thankful that all my friends, even though they don't understand it are supportive and encouraging. I wish everyone can have that. You keep doing what you're doing and love and ignore those that don't understand or want to take the time to hear about it.
What! AWEsome! Tiffanys rule! 😀
I know. Honestly I had no words initially. She totally caught me off guard. I did make sure to give her my side from being a Blogger. I didn\’t want her to walk away thinking the same thing.Thank you, I will definitely keep moving forward.
Great article! Blogging should be taken more seriously. After leaving the corporate world to stay home to raise a family, I started blogging my passion. I do find that what I do is questionable to others, but I feel strongly that it can lead to a sucessful business venture!
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Thanks Shana! It really should, it is a job like any other unless a person specifies they are only doing it as a hobby it should never be discounted as anything less. It definitely can be a successful business, I know that\’s where my mindset is 🙂
Hi I discovered you through the SITS Girls link up. Interesting comment – I'm new to blogging and I have to admit I had a rather out of date view of blogging. I thought blogs were online journals but I pursued one as a means of creating income in the future and found out how wrong I was.
Blogging takes an incredible amount of effort and commitment both on the blog itself as well as all the associated tasks. That in and of itself, deserves respect. It's disappointing someone would feel so comfortable denigrating their friend's endeavours – whether they were for personal enjoyment or for more strategic reasons – both would have deserved support I'd have thought.
Having said that, I come from a country where blogging is in its early days and not very common so the response I often get involves a lot of smirking!
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Hi! Happy to meet you! I admit I didn’t give as much credit to those Bloggers I knew prior to starting as I should have but I never blew off what they did.
It truly does take effort and commitment and those do deserve respect just like any other 9-5 pursuit.
I’m glad to have met a forerunner of Blogging because I am sure you are going places! 😀
You know, claiming that something is "so last year" is very 2008 of your friend. 😉 But seriously, if blogging is out of style why have I been doing it in one form or another since 1995? While I agree that blogging has changed and will continue to evolve, I'm pretty sure that it's going to be around for a long time to come.
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LMBO… you’re right, it kinda is! Wow 1995? You go Nicole! That is definitely an inspiration and encouragement for me to keep doing it. I agree that it is ever evolving but don’t all successful things? Thanks so much for coming by to encourage and visit. 🙂
Wow, I would have been really surprised by a response like that, too! I have a lot of family members who don't really know how to use the computer, so they don't understand my blogging habit, but the rest do!
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I was! You know how a statement can literally leave you speechless for a moment. That was it for me. I guess I have to learn how to explain it because it seems like most people don\’t really understand it yet. Thanks so much for coming by Rachel…
That is such a disappointing response to hear from a friend. A lot of people just don't understand blogging but we all know how much work they are and just how much influence that can have!! Stopping by from #Sharefest.
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It kinda was. I did realize it was more from not knowing that simply judging but it stung just the same. the work behind a Blog is rarely recognized by non-bloggers but hopefully I can change that a little bit…lol Thanks for coming by Jessica and Happy #SITSSharefest:)
ACK…I hate it when people say things like that without even thinking about what they are saying. I have gotten really careful who I share what with. Attitude is so important with living our dreams. Shine on, Tiffany. Shine on!
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Isn\’t it disheartening? At least get knowledge on something before you make blanket statements. I am always so proud of my Blog and the work I put into it sometimes I forget others don\’t really \’get\’ it. Thanks, I am putting my shine out there! 🙂
I so feel your hurt…I would have been stunned too. To me it's like saying writing books, reading, earning a living is so last year. Though, you have to take it where it comes from…give her opinion all the respect it deserves-which is none.
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Thanks Karen, it took me a minute to process. Yes, it is just like that! True and I know it was more from her not knowing than a desire to insult. Thanks so much for coming by today 🙂
Thanks for linking up with this week! At least you have people interested in your blog. I dont think a single member of my family or friends have even seen mine. I am pretty sure 100% of my support is from people I have never met! It just goes to show you how nice and understanding of the work other bloggers are compared to non-bloggers!!
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Anytime Desiree! Always happy to Hop with you guys on Fridays 🙂 Oh trust me, I usually start the conversation about my Blog but hey how else will it get beyond my URL right? LOL If they don\’t ask me to stop talking I\’ll keep explaining it. You\’re right, non-bloggers really have a hard time getting it sometimes. It\’s great when they\’re willing to listen though. 🙂
Oh no…I would have been a little hurt too. I know we all put in a lot of time and effort into establishing our blogs, but most peole will never know how much it takes. I still wonder why she thought blogs were so last year.
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Yes, it did sting a bit. I think I’ve just come to understand Bloggers get Bloggers better than anyone else…LOL I’m still not even sure! 😀
Blogging is not last year and it is the go to place for people to get opinions from real people! There are so many bloggers that made their bloggers into careers but people that don't blog doesn't understand that. I love blogging because it has been an outlet for my voice to be heard, work with brands, and being able to turn my blog into a business. I love it.
Exactly! There are many many successful Bloggers who have even had the blessing of quoting their normal 9-5 and making their income solely from their Blog. It is so good to know it\’s possible despite what others may think. Thanks so much for coming by! 🙂
No one has said anything like that to me but I do think people look at me like I am crazy when I talk about my blog. Part of them don't understand what/why I am doing it and the others don't know what blogs are. lol
Stacy
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I was really surprised, Stacy. They look at me a bit odd too. I have had someone say \”you\’re talking about it as if it\’s a real job\” LOL If they only knew…
Booo to them… Who says that! err! Anyway dont mind them and continue to be a blessing to others. perks are awesome in blogging! something that they will never enjoy.
Hope you can visit my blog too..
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It\’s funny at times what people say when they don\’t know the truth behind things. I don\’t plan on stopping anytime soon in spite of anyone\’s thoughts. The perks are definitely a great bonus! Thanks so much for coming by! I\’ll be over to visit later today 🙂
I think that's funny that she said that. Sometimes people on the outside have no idea what we do! I think blogging is probably around to stay. I'm sure it will grow and change, though. Glad you're sticking around!
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Looking back I can laugh but in the moment I was a bit hurt and insulted. Sometime lack of knowledge can definitely lead people to saying things that are so far from true. I am definitely in it for the long haul 😀
One reason I don't talk about my online endeavors *offline* is because I feel like people won't understand. I wouldn't pay much attention to negativity, though, because your blog is great! You know better than anyone how valuable your online space is. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. I agree that blogs are important and awesome!
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They really don\’t seem to understand. I wonder if I was ever THAT person? I hope not! LOL Thanks so much Galaxia!
Amen! Preach sistah!
LOL.. Thanks Jhanis!
Oh goodness! How insensitive people are! Blogging is a serious business, but I realize that like with most things online, people just don't take them seriously. Funny enough, they're always surprised at the recognition, perks, and income that can be drawn from online content creating!
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seriously! The kicker: the whole conversation started because she wanted in on the \’perk\’… LOL I know her intent was not to offend me but I couldn\’t help being a bit sensitive. My Blog is just what you said, serious business, to me. Luckily she listened to me explain the work I put into so I think she may have a slightly different view point now. 🙂
Perfect timing. I just heard the same thing from a friend. Their belief you stated so perfectly: "To them a Blog is more of an online journal or a way for me to surf the net and not feel like I’m not doing anything. " They don't realize how much work a blog really is!
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I’m glad! I have to admit before I started I underestimated the amount of work it takes to be successful but I hope I never made anyone feel like it wasn’t important. Thanks so much for coming by 🙂
I don't think anyone really understands enough to comment on my blogging. My family knows I make money from blogging, that I've gone on free trips, and that I get many free things. I don't think that you can discount all of that.
Besides, I think paying for things is so last year. 🙂
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Haha! Most people don\’t make an effort to see or even ask questions about what it really takes. LOL – Love it: paying is definitely Last Year! 😀
" We are current, we are valuable and we have influence across many different areas of people’s lives, goods and daily commerce. " — I like that! right on and I hear ya , some don't understand why we blog but like what I always tell myself..if I can help another person or just one mom..it is all worth it. ( Khit Mandeville – A Bountiful love.)
Thanks Khit! You’re so right, helping, reaching and finding that one person who needed what you have to say makes it all worth it!
I'm new to the blogging game, but oh my goodness – no! I really do think that a LOT of companies see bloggers as an amazing marketing tool. They are sooo not last year! Or else i wouldn't have just convinced some theme parks to give me tickets in exchange for a review, or had lots of paid work – and I have. Very early on in my blogging career! Don't you worry! I think that's the amazing thing about this – it is what you make it. Nobody can take it away from you 🙂
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They really do! Bloggers are a major resource for companies to find out what women and men in their target audience truly think and be able to share that with even more of that audience.
That is great! So happy for you… it is great to know how much your opinion can matter and even make a difference. Thanks so much for coming by Genna 🙂