In today's post, we are going to determine if the art of blog reading contributes to your success, or... is a huge waste of your time. Before we get into this, I think the first thing we need to do is to ask ourselves a question.
Why do most people read blogs?
According to this article, there are many reasons that people, just like you and me, read blogs.
Most readers fall in one of these categories:
1. Convenient Information Seeking
2. Anti-Traditional Media Sentiment
3. Expression/Affiliation
4. Guidance/Opinion Seeking
5. Blog Ambiance
6. Personal Fulfillment
7. Political Debate
8. Variety of Opinion
9. Specific Inquiry
I've probably been in every single one of those categories at some point. No matter what the reason is that brings to you to read blogs, in my opinion...blogs are good.
The big argument against blogs is that most of them are recycled, ordinary information and that they are a huge waste of time, kind of like watching TV or binge-watching Netflix. Many say that they can be distracting, and a great procrastination tool.
It's true. 100% true. The key is this: All things in moderation.
Look at this blog: https://everydaypower.com/achieving-goals-and-enjoying-motivation/:
I recommend this to almost everyone I meet. It takes less than 5 minutes to read an article/entry, it makes you feel almost instantly good about yourself, and it focuses on achieving your goals. Now, if you were to read article after article for hours on end, then yes, maybe it would be a waste of time. This blog screams success. The format looks amazing, and the whole thing is just visually pleasing.
Take a look at this blog as well: https://mustbethistalltoride.com/about/:
This blog has a clean and simple format, a specifically targeted audience, and has well-written content that can apply to almost anyone.
I unfortunately stumbled upon this: https://toadthoughts.blogspot.com/2018/:
I'm not a fan of this blog at all. Who is the audience here? Why read negative writing at all? The last thing I'd want to do after a long, stressful day to relax is to read what this blog has to say. The author writes angrily, and you can tell. I'd steer clear from any blog you find like this one.
Reading new information whether it be from a book or from the screen of your mobile device/laptop, a good blog or a bad blog can always be positive...in moderation. Learning new things, using your brain, and analyzing words will always be the better, successful option.
Don't let anything be a waste of time, there is something of value in everything that we do, and everything that happens to us!
Hi Luke! Thank you for the break down of the main categories blogs fall under. Considering that I am new to writing a blog, it is helpful to understand what my reader's interests are.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate the positivity and encouragement the "EverDayPower" Blog provides. We have plenty of negativity running through our lives and it is good to have that "pick-me-up" frequently. "Must Be This Tall to Ride" blog is definitely than the other blogs that I have browsed through so far. The author is blunt, but realistic. I have a respect for him trying to help others while he takes on the risk of being vulnerable about mistakes that were made.
Without getting too political about the blog, "The Toad Report," the author seems to acting on pure emotion. They do not have a clue about what the Constitution says. There is little to no evidence to these truth claims the author is stating. The few links that is provided is more fear tactics and nonsense. I can agree to stand clear of this negativity if you are limited to how much you can handle. My day job has plenty of labor and some mental stress as it is. This blog is not my idea of an enjoyable Friday night.
I love the format of your blog! It is so different than any of the others I have seen, well done. I totally agree with your all things in moderation statement. I honestly never thought of it that way but I think I can use that in my own writing.
ReplyDeleteGood organization and engaging voice in this post. Expanding a bit more in your evaluations of these blogs would help the reader understand what you mean by "amazing" or "pleasing".
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