Even after fifteen years of blogging, I continue to wonder why it feels like the right way to share my thoughts with you, and what my long-term goals should be. My top three conclusions can definitely be applied to all writing—and maybe to other challenges as well.
First, a reminder that the primary goal should “edutainment.” Mark Schaefer (also celebrating a 15th blog-iversary) coined an acronym many years ago: RITE = Relevant, Interesting, Timely, and Entertaining. I try to check off at least three of the four for each Thursday post.
The secondary goal is far more selfish: I get to stick a toe into the waters of wonder.
Recently I’ve stumbled onto several quotes that all say basically the same thing, though in very different ways: the way to figure out what you really think or feel about something is to write about it. Definitely works for me—and without this wondrous reward, I would’ve long since given up blogging.
The third goal is to build community; a unique place where sailors and writers can co-mingle, sharing ideas and random thoughts. I’m not sure how to judge the success of that, but I keep trying.
My most popular blogs achieve all three goals, because they provide a safe haven to discuss what the reader (you) thinks about what the writer (me) has produced. And while the most commented-on might be considered the most “successful,” they are also the most “controversial.” Since I don’t have to answer to advertisers (or anyone else), I steadfastly refuse to make drama a driving force.
Looking back, all these posts provide both a roadmap through my sometimes convoluted thought process… and, far more importantly, valuable perspective. When slogging through the saggy middle of each novel, thinking I’ll never finish, past frustrations serve as a reminder: I made it through a very similar stage with the last one. They also make it possible to check off one item every single week. Since it takes me years to write a book and months to see a magazine article in print, it’s very comforting to have a more frequent sense of achievement.
I love the ideas you’ve suggested over the years, so if there’s another topic you want me to consider, please share it in the comments below or send me an email. I read every single one, with gratitude—because conversations are so much more RITE than monologues. Thank you, and I’m so glad you’re here!
I certainly enjoy reading them. I’m just a little jealous that every week you can find things to write about that are interesting enough to share with a wide audience. While I often share things at a similar rate on social media, they don’t seem (at least to me) to be particularly interesting enough to blog about.
Alex, I’m thrilled that you consider them “interesting enough to share with a wider audience”! I’m not always sure of that. But I do enjoy most of your social posts, too…