Friends! Loved ones! I skipped out on you for a bit, didn’t I? Sorry I’m not sorry…but we’ll chat about that more in a bit. For now, here’s a little photo recap of life lately.
(Yes, that’s Meg!)
(^recipe on my guest post for Gabriela!^)
So, those may just seem like regular old photos to you, but they symbolize something sort of important to me. You see, a couple of days ago, I had a blogging epiphany of sorts. Basically, I realized that I want blogging to be a source of enjoyment and only a source of enjoyment in my life. I know that seems like a pretty “well, duh” statement, but the truth is that I allow blogging to become more of a chore and source of stress than it should be. I’m way too hard on myself – mainly when I consider how much more I used to post - and that causes me to lose sight of the real reason I blog. It’s not to rack up a certain number of posts, it’s not for how many readers I can accumulate, and it’s not for the income. Sure, those things are somewhat important to me, but the real reason I blog is because I love to write. I love to share. I love having this creative outlet.
With that being said, I never want to forget the fact that life comes first. As lame as it feels to admit this, I often let blogging get in the way of living the life I’m supposed to be blogging about - whether it’s physically being in front of the computer for “x” hours a day or spending time brainstorming about what to write - and…well, that’s a problem. when I gave myself “off” from blogging over the past few days…let’s just say I haven’t felt a sense of freedom like that in a long time. I had permission to just do and be and live without thinking about how I was going to document it. So those photos? Most of them were taken during a period of two days where I was virtually unplugged from all technology - two days that changed the way I view this hobby of mine.
The plan is simple. Starting now, I’m going to stop viewing blogging as a part-time job and go back to viewing it as a hobby - a passion - something I simply love to do. Does that mean I might post less? Probably. Does it mean I’ll lose readers? I hope not, but maybe. That’s a tough pill to swallow because to me, blogging for my readers has always been just as if not more important than blogging for myself. There will probably be a day where I go back to blogging as part of my “career” where I focus more on content, utilizing social media, gaining readership, etc. But for now, I’m just not into that. What I am into, though, is putting the name of my blog into practice. No rules, no pressure, no stress. Only fun, ease, and enjoyment.
I actually want to challenge you to unplug from technology here and there too. You might be surprised at how freeing it actually is! Hey, maybe we’ll become the next hippie generation 😉
On that note, I hope you all have a ridiculously superb start to the holiday weekend. ‘Til next time, xoxo G
How many hours a day would you say you spend on the Internet? Do you ever want to cut back?
I think unplugging is so important every once in a while - I’ve definitely fallen into the trap of feeling like I “had” to blog, whereas I should do it because I WANT to blog!
Stephanie @ LoveLaughterLight says
You can’t blog about a life you’re not living. Enjoy your epiphany, G! I’ll keep reading even if you only post once per year.
I broke a bad FB habit by giving it up for 3 months. I have also decreased my electronic consumption and I feel pretty good about it.
I haven’t been reading your blog for that long, but I’m so supportive of your decision to disconnect from technology. As a reader, sometimes I worry I read too much about other people’s lives instead of living my own 🙂 That’s for supporting a technology purge!
This is so true and I have been feeling similarly these days. I feel like blogging should be all about me; however, I love the feedback I get from readers…sometimes one little comment can brighten my whole day! I really love your blog and how you feel about writing/blogging in general, awesome post! Have a great weekend!
I spend WAY too much time on the internet and I hate that. I need to be doing things though, or Ill always open my computer. TV bores me nowadays so it’s always straight to the comp. I want to stop and enjoy people’s company. I don’t do that too often and it’s a damn shame. Why on earth do I need to rush to the computer? Ew I’m embarrassed at myself for even saying it out loud (typing it out loud? hah).
We need to plan a meet up in NYC nowwwwwwww!
Katie @ Pop Culture Cuisine says
Way too much, but luckily going out of town this weekend, which usually means I unplug almost completely and just enjoy the time with those I’m with!
Gracie, what a poignant post! I totally agree that blogging should be a hobby. I often wonder for those that post multiple times a day *how much* of life are they not living because they have to “quick” share with the rest of the world. Don’t get me wrong, I love those blogs, but it’s not for me. If blogging interferes with my real experiences, it’s getting the boot.
Kudos to you xoxo
I’ve been sharing the same feelings lately, that blogging is more of a chore rather than something I enjoy doing. I feel like I’ve fallen into a blogging funk lately and I’m not quite sure how to snap out of it. Maybe a technology time-out is exactly what I need!
Love this post! I don’t post everyday because I don’t have the time/inspiration and like you, I don’t want my blog to become a chore! It’s definitely quality over and quantity, and when you’re not enjoying blogging, it’s evident in the posts! Whether u blog everyday or once a week, you still have me as reader. Live your life, girl!
Yes! A blogger who is not treating blogging as their job. While I love keeping up with some of the most popular blogs out there, you can tell that they are treating it as their job as it just shows in the writing. I think that fact alone will keep, maybe increase, readers for you-honesty is SUPER important, and you’re def. being honest now.
Hahah I’ve deactivated my facebook for a while now. Though I miss being in close contact with some far away friends, I love the freedom. But I think it’s time for me to get back on before it gets deleted…
Yes! I love this! I try to take at least a day or two off a week from blogging/the internet. If I want to post that day then I will - if I don’t then I won’t! Simple, but it works! 🙂
I used to blog everyday, but then I realized it got a little obsessive. I knew it had to change so now I try to blog every other day or every three days. It’s so much better and I have more time to reread/edit my posts so they are better (gramatically) now! 🙂
Yes! Blogging should never take away from our real life! Since starting my summer job, I’ve had so much less free time and I feel like blogging takes up such a big part of it! This post has made me realize that I need to cut back too so that I can spend more time living my life! 🙂
I totally agree! I just went through the same thing on my blog. It’s ONLY a hobby for me (although I love the few readers I’m in contact with regularly), but I was spending SO much time in front of my computer making it what I thought it “had” to be. In reality, it only has to be what I have time for and it should never feel like a burden. Once I took a step away I was going on walks around the city, reading books, cooking more. This computer can be a time sucker and blogging should only goes as far as the extra time I have for it.
I think that blogging must, must, must be something that you enjoy-or else there is no point! Taking a day off from blogging here or there is probably going to create that excitement again for the days where you want to post and have something awesome to share. I have definitely been more of an internet person ever since starting StephSnacks-but as you mention, it is so important to take a break here and there!
I love that you touched on this subject. I absolutely love to write, it’s one of my favorite things to do. But, like everyone else, I have my “off” days where I do not have any inspiration to write about anything. Then I start feeling obligated or guilty. It’s definitely good to take a step back and consider just giving yourself the day(s) off and go back to writing when you find something that inspires you! 🙂
I totally agree and love that you are so committed to unplugging! I spend many hours on the Internet each day and now that the weather is getting nicer, I want to start cutting back more and enjoying my wonderful life that God gave me!
That quote is perfect — and I LOVE that you’re taking an assessment of things and finding what’s right for you!
I spend way too much time on the internet. I can never figure out how people keep up with their google reader. I could sit in front of the computer all day and never get caught up. I think I need to give myself a time limit on the computer. I need to unplug sometimes.
Aww!! Well for starters you won’t lose me as a reader! 🙂 but I totally agree… After only having a blog for a few months I realize already how much time it requires and I have to stop and remind myself sometimes that it is not a job or chore. I have played with posting a few times a day to skipping days, and I’ve found that one post a day works for me, unless of course something comes up. I definitely agree that you need to find your happy medium with life and blogging!
I say unplugging is a GREAT idea. In fact, I turned off my computer screen immediately after reading this post last night! I could certainly use more unplugged time in my life.
Yikes I don’t even want to admit the answer to that question! I work a 9-5 so I spend most of the day on the computer, and then usually 1-2 hours at night when I get home! I used to blog a few times a day, and went down to once a day, and now I only blog monday to friday usually, unless something fun happens on the weekend that I want to share. Just doing 5 posts a week is a good balance for me, and while I do want to blog for myself and my readers, I DO look at it as a part time job and do hope someday for it to lead to a full time career, so I’m willing to put the time in now!
I cut back every now and then too… It can be frustrating when I feel like I need to be on twitter/facebook/my blog/my cell every-minute-of-the-day!
It’s all about balance!
Love this post and I can totally relate! I think I run out of (appropriate…ahem) things to blog about on a daily basis, so I like to space it out. I feel like my posts are more meaningful that way too. I always find your blog super cute and fun, informative and just all around one of my faves. For real. Not just because you’re my soulmate, prettymuch.
My friends were like “are you bringing out that blonde girl this weekend…the one in your pictures?” so um…you need to come back, we can’t let everyone down!
Robin says
I feel like an “unplugged” from electronics purge just brings out what really matters. The friends and people in our life who matter aren’t the random people on our facebook, or your readers who feel slighted if you don’t talk everyday. They’re the ones who even unplugged are still in our lives. As for losing readers…the “good” readers are the ones who are just interested because you’re a funny, witty, and charming writer whose posts add a little something to our day (whether that’s every day or every few days).
It’s funny how disconnecting for a bit can remind us of who we are really connected to.
I feel you! Some days I think “Well, shoot. i don’t WANT to blog, but I SHOULD.” Um, why? No clue. So I step back an evaluate - but yeah, I’ve had those days! And I agree, unplugging NEEDS to happen. Life is supposed to be lived outside, with friends, having fun and being active - NOT in front a computer. What will we have to blog about if all we’re doing is thinking about blogging? Does that make sense?! Anyway, I hope you have a faaantastic weekend!!
“Life comes first” is right on. Plain and simple! Have a great weekend!
Katherine says
I’m glad you’re focusing on your priorities! I recently started following your blog and I keep coming back for your charming honest nature. Quality over quantity! I hope you continue having fun and I look forward to further updates on your adventures. 🙂
Thank you SO much for this comment, Katherine, and thanks for reading!! 🙂 xoxo
Camila - Brazil says
“You can’t blog about a life you’re not living” the girl who said that, said it all!
I could definetly use some of that unplugging… I spend way too much time on the internet!
You won’t lose any of your readers by living your life and being yourself!
HAVE SOME FUN, GIRL!
great weekend
Kelsey says
I totally agree! BLOGGING SHOULD ALWAYS BE FUN!! 🙂 and you won’t lose me as a reader! 🙂
Amen! Well said and it looks like you unplugged and lived life to the most of your abilities. Girl what is that dessert looking picture?! I need to know what it is. So jealous that you got to hang out with Meg- she seems so real and amazing. That picture/all your pictures are beautiful by the way. Enjoy living and bloggin for fun!
they’re my Coconut Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies! here’s the recipe link: http://girlmeetslife.com/2010/07/coconut-banana-chocolate-chip-cookies/ 😀 xo
I just love reading your blog and learning more about all of your beliefs. I agree— life should definitely come first. We all need to unplug- from time to time!
Being a girl meets life reader - I really appreciated this post and your honesty. I’m relatively new to blogging, and can easily see how I could eventually need to *step away from the computer*.
If it means anything - your blog rocks, regardless of how often you post. XO
Ah, thanks so much Jayme 🙂 That really means a lot to me!! 🙂 xoxo
I love your blog!
I have un-plugged from blogging many times.. i think its healthy too..
You are incredibly stunning , girl!
xoxo
Wow, thanks so much, Dev! 🙂
Balance is very important! I think everyone needs to decide for themselves how much they want to engage with technology, but you’re right — unplugging every so often is a GREAT idea!
OK, so I have a random question that you may or may not want to answer, but — what lipstick are you wearing in the FAVES photo? I love it and want to wear it every day!!
Hey sweets - it’s Revlon “Berry Haute!” 🙂
Oh, you’re the best — heading to CVS today! Thanks!
(And I just have to say, I am so thrilled it is a Revlon shade and not something like NARS or Clinique. My Sephora budget is a little tapped out right now 😉 )
Just found your little cute blog, can’t wait to read more!:)
i REALLY hope we become the next hippie generation. i’m workin’ on it.
will says
another nice post. great perspective! i’m all for it!
GIRLFRIEND, I LOVE YOU! Are we the same person?! I recently had to come to terms with this, and it was hard, but it makes my blog more full of life because I’m not terrified I’m going to miss a night of blogging. I only ever posted four to five times a week, anyway, but with work events and a packed schedule, I’ve had nights where it simply isn’t possible.
I feel like there is this unspoken pressure about bloggers who have been doing it for a while: either you need to do it full-time, or you need to figure out how to make it just your hobby and be OK with that. It’s really hard, too! Especially when you know that if you had the time, you could probably make your blog something big. But is that what it’s all about? Is that what I really want? Nah.
I think it’s cooler to think of a blog as a little corner in the internet world that few people know about, and when they find it, they fall in love. It’s like their private island for the mind. It’s a place to enjoy and laugh and nod along to. I would much rather have THAT than a rote, three-times-a-day blog. I’d lose my essence!
I’m not saying that those blogs are “bad” either- they obviously aren’t. I’m just saying it’s not for everyone and all options are lovely in their own ways!
Kailey…ahhh!! Thank you so much for this comment. Really. I’d be lying if I said it hasn’t been the easiest of transitions - lightening up on the blogging, that is - so you just encouraged me more than you know!
I think you really hit the nail on the head in saying that after we’ve blogged for a certain amount of time, it’s like we come to this crossroad of sorts. Now that I think about it, that’s what I’ve been facing over the past few months, and it’s been driving me crazy!! I went back and forth from being in love with blogging to hating it with a passion - wanting to delete it forever and then wanting to quit my job and blog for a living (yes - I’m a girl of extremes). I’m so glad I decided to settle for the middle ground which, as you pointed out, is actually a lot more fulfilling than I thought it would be!
Thanks again so much, doll. You are thee best!! 🙂 xoxo
Finding your own perfect balance is always difficult. And, I def. think it’s important to unplug, whether it be from blogging, TV, email…really any sort of technology, and just live! Also, I’ll always be a loyal reader regardless of how often you post. 🙂
P.S. Sorry if you’re getting sick of my comments, I’m on a super awful/weird sleeping schedule and your blog is keeping me entertained. 🙂
Sick of your comments? never! Love hearing from my lovely readers :* glad i can keep you entertained 😉