I’ve been doing this blogging gig for about eighteen months now, and in this business, that actually makes me relatively experienced.
In that time I’ve seen many bloggers come and go, scale to new heights, or slip into oblivion. I’ve been part of popularity contests and been witness to cat fights.
I’ve been to one conference, and hugged everyone, even though I never thought I would.
So I know a little bit.
In this time, I’ve never seen the amount of growth I have in the past six months. It seems just about everyone has a blog now, or is thinking about it. Shows like A Currant Affair, and Sunrise, have sparked the public interests. Newspaper and journalistic articles on the rise of the mummy blogger, and the possibility of making a fortune out of this hobby have inspired people to get involved. Every day there are new bloggers making their way on to the Internet, and I, for one, think this is a wonderful thing.
Everyone deserves to be heard.
At some point though, one has to ask the question, ‘is there room for all of us?’
According to Perth Now, on their recent feature on Where’s My Glow, and The Bumpiest Path, there are about 300 Aussie mummy bloggers.
That’s a whole lotta people talking about poo.
Really, there is only a certain number of times you can hear about poo and laugh.
The rest of the time, it’s pretty much just gross.
So like I said, is there room for all of us?
If we base our model on the American one, and let’s face it, Aussies always follow in the footsteps of our northern allies, we can say yes, absolutely. Whilst they may be a much bigger country, with a far larger population, I would guess that in terms of per capita, we can do it just as well.
But if we follow in the steps of our American friends, we’re also on our way to a great big cat fight.
Now I don’t know a huge amount about the history of the American Mummy Blogosphere, (and strangely couldn’t find anything online), but I’ve read bits and pieces on Eden’s Blog, and I know that it got to the point where it almost imploded.
Everyone hated everyone else. There was no sense of community; it was all about eliminating the competition.
It’s a little different over here. Because of the Digital Parents Community which provides a safe haven for new and old bloggers alike to connect, and embraces relationships by its use of social media, conferences and catchups, our little blogging world is fairly tight knit.
Most people know who others are, even if their posts don’t grace their own readers.
We all share the same love of the blog.
But as the community grows, and new people enter, and others leave, I can see that there are fractures in our little blogging world. There is a lack of respect, or decorum. People don’t know the etiquette, or choose not to abide by it. As blogging becomes increasingly synonymous with making money, it seems that some are more concerned with the dollars than the people.
And that’s not what it’s about.
It’s always about the people.
Now there is an argument to be made, that as the community grows, surely there is less opportunity, or less to write. As I said, there are finite ways to talk about poo. It can be easy to double up on someone else’s post; either accidentally or because you were inspired. I’m sure we have all written something similar to another blogger before.
Hey I’m pretty sure I’ve written the same post here twice! (Or maybe more 
)
As for link ups, everyone wants one. It’s seen as a sure fire way to boost your numbers.
Let me state, for the record, that it is not necessarily true.
Yes my Tuesday stats are higher, but the majority of linkers here, don’t come back during the week. So I have one good day. And from what I hear from the IBOT faithfuls, I’m not the only one. Tuesday is a great day for everyone.
It’s not just because I host that my numbers go up; it’s because this community here, have their priorities straight.
And for that, I thank you.
So where does that leave us, the new and old alike?
How do we all function together without plagiarizing, or bickering, or fighting each other for the best bonuses?
We go back to basics.
Who are you?
Why do you blog?
I was reading on the Circle of Mom’s website (feel free to vote for me by the way ) the other day, and the majority of people couldn’t answer how their blog was unique. They saw themselves as just another mummy blogger.
This makes me so sad, because it goes to show that they do not have a true appreciation of their own value.
You’re blog is unique, because it is a reflection of you.
People come to your blog for you.
They relate to you, they like you, or you really annoy them but they come and read it anyway.
You are what’s unique about your blog.
You are your brand.
You are your niche.
No one, will ever write your story, as well you can.
We need to stop comparing, and stop trying to be other people, and just be who we were made to be.
Secondly, it’s always about people.
Meredith, in Grey’s Anatomy sums it up perfectly. ‘People are what matter.’
Not money, not stats, not prestige, not power.
People.
It’s always about the people.
It’s always about the community.
I firmly believe, that if we all choose to, we can avoid the dramas of the US, if we remain true to ourselves and our community. If we choose respect, and honour, and value, and maturity over all the bitchiness that could so easily over whelm and define us.
We each of us have our own beautiful voice. We each of us have a wonderful, potential platform to bring about positive change.
We each of us have a choice.
Who are we gonna be?
I couldn’t agree more. People are important and we are all unique. Does it matter if there are 50000 mummy bloggers in Australia? Not to me. Rachel xx
Rachel from Redcliffe Style recently posted..Shoes and a giveaway!!!
More people to join IBOT right?
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..Back to Basics
Agreed. Always about the people. Everyone has something unique to bring to the blogosphere. It’s just a matter of how we differentiate ourselves from our peers.
Grace recently posted..Musings of a Bad Wifey
You just wrote in one sentence what I took a whole post to say!
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..Back to Basics
The problem is that people hear about blogging because a blogger who has had some amazing opportunity that 99% of other bloggers won’t get, end up on TV or in the news and suddenly everyone thinks if they blog they’ll get to go to Africa, or Hamilton Island, or will suddenly be paid to review products and they won’t have to work or won’t have to be “just a stay at home mum” anymore. It’s not the community that is promoted on TV, it’s the 1-3 bloggers who have a huge voice/readership. I’d hope that once they get into blogging they’d stay because they love connecting with other mums/women/dads who really, are all just in the same boat of navigating this river we call parenting (or heck, LIFE even!). Hopefully it doesn’t ever get to the nastiness that is over in the US. I started writing to document our life, I keep writing because I love the relationships/connection I have with other bloggers. Hopefully new bloggers have the same experience.
Aroha @ Colours of Sunset recently posted..When The Kids Are Sick
You’re right the media does have a lot to do with the way it’s portrayed and it’s not very accurate. Unfortunately for some reason, the idea of community doesn’t sell as well.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..Back to Basics
I couldn’t agree more!
Lisa recently posted..30 things I love about my husband
I am amazed at the amount of new blogs that have burst onto the scene in the last 6 months! It’s great to see so many people taking the leap into the blogosphere. And yes, there are many that carry the title ‘mummy blogger’, but I totally agree that ‘we’ are what make our own blogs unique.
Debbie @ Aspiring Mum recently posted..Inspiration For My Journey.
Sorry Deb. I know you’re not a fan of the title.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..Back to Basics
Well said Jess! It is definitely about the people. I feel like I am part of a community, especially taking part here at IBOT and with Grace at FYBF. It will be interesting to see how things evolve here, hopefully we have a strong foundation and it wont go the same way as the US x
Catherine Rodie Blagg @CoTaaB recently posted..The bird
I think we are lucky because we can learn from those mistakes and choose to not go down that path. Plus like I said, I think DP is such a positive influence
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..Back to Basics
You’re spot bloody on Jess. I’m not sure we have the take-up that the US will have purely because I think it’s much more mainstream there and the population levels are insane. But I do see your point and it does mean that our Facebook feed, Twitter stream and Readers become a heck of a lot more crowded with all these bloggers. Personally I blog for connection with like-minded writers, Melbournites, mums and passionate people like yourself who tell it how it is, respect everyone’s DIFFERENT point of views and share some witty, heart breaking and often tear-jerking moments in the everydayness of life. Thanks for your blogging link up on Tuesdays and you’ve inspired me to make more comments on the other days you appear in my feed. I’ll do my best. Love your work.
Pip recently posted..Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway!
Thanks Pip. I agree in that I don’t know if it will ever get that big over here, but it will be interesting.
As for commenting, don’t stress. I didn’t write that for more visits, just to let people know a link up won’t make you an uber blogger. I’m just touched I’m in your reader. Xxx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..Back to Basics
300? Is that all? Admittedly, as a craft blogger, I only skim the sides of the mummy blogger circuit (often thanks to IBOT!) but 300 seems low to me – it seems like every second person is a mummy blogger these days!
I know I’ll never be “big”, my blog isn’t focused enough to become popular in the sewing world, or the heading world, or the writing world. But it is my little corner of the Internet where I enjoy sharing with my three followers who are as craft-ADHD as I am!
I do agree with you, it needs to be about having your own voice, copying others isn’t sustainable – as you say, there are only so many poo stories that are giggle-worthy!
LittleWhiteDove recently posted..Visual dare #23 : peeking
I thought 300 was low too, but if that’s ‘just’ bloggers who write about parenting it might be more accurate. Then there are the others I guess, like you, who make me wish I had more time to make pretty things.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..Back to Basics
I love this Jess. I totally agree with all that you say. I have been thinking of what my niche is or rather more to the point if I even have and the only thing I could come up with was me. Fairy wishes and butterfly kisses you bloggy guru you
Rhianna recently posted..Arriving home and returning to normality…whatever that may be
Ha ha! Yes bow down to my bloggy wisdom why don’t you?;)
There really is no other Rhi around xxx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..Back to Basics
I agree its all about the people.
Stompy stomped here x
Stompy from Moova Views recently posted..Hotel Transylvania
You’re starting from the right place Stompy. Xx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..Back to Basics
I’ll admit that I was inspired to start up Mumabulous after hearing an item on the rise of the “Mummy bloggers” on ABC radio. Daggy I know. I’ve always wanted to be a writer and blogging provides me a platform where I can “just write”. I’m not kidding myself that I’m going to make any real money from the blog. Rather I’m hoping it will be a stepping stone to something else.
Happily I’m yet to encounter any bitchiness on the blogging scene. On the contrary, everyone has been encouraging and supportive.
Thanks Mumabulous
Mumabulous recently posted..So Frocked Up
I don’t think it’s daggy at all, if you’re goal is to write and hopefully get some exposure. That’s what the majority of us are doing. It’s the superficial ones who just want the dollars, and boycott community in search of it that are doing the damage.
I’m naive enough to believe we can all get along together.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
it does feel like so much has changed recently in terms of volume and attempts to cash in. I still know virtually no one in my regular life that blogs whereas in the states i swear everyone i know back home is online in some way – personal blog or one attached to their business / coaching practice etc. I wonder if it is booming more with younger people (i am 40 and travel in the 35-45 age set mostly LOL maybe my fellow moms are too busy to blog ???)
i do agree it is about the people and the writing above all else – so many blogs have changed recently that i miss how they used to write
Deb @ Home life simplified recently posted..Top 10 arts and crafts supplies for kids + giveaway
I know what you mean about peoples blogs changing. I guess it’s too be expected; people do evolve and change, but when they stop telling stories and just feel products it’s a bit sad.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
*sell* products rather
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
HIGH FIVE and Clapping my hands to you over here in Perth Jess. The media is on a bender about blogging and both Glow and I were surprised at the article that came out on Sunday #PerthNow. Although I’m glad she did highlight our statements about honesty, integrity and trust.
I impressed to the journalist that the $$$$ was NOT what it was about and that the few and far-between opportunities that came my way were merely treats attached to a hobby, I’m sure Glow was the same. The article made it sound totally the opposite (don’t we all wish that money was being thrown at us OR do we?) If that were to happen I think ‘mummy or family blogs’ as I prefer to be tagged, would see a rise in not so reputable blogs. Bloggers totally in it for $ giving dishonest reviews and causing a lack of trust amongst blog readers.
I think the media is trying to compete with an American topic rather than see Aussies unique and awesome blogosphere of ‘Mummy’ bloggers
Sadly I asked the journalist to share about Digital Parents because it’s a platform for Aussie Parents to start up and stay up. It was omitted!
(Sorry DP) so I’m glad you sorted that right here.
I blog because its found me buddies, awesome buddies outside of the many walls that make a home. Like minded and not so like minded buddies.
OK I need coffee so I’m going to get down off my soap box, shove it under the bench (coz I might need it later
and hand over to someone else. #HIGHFIVE
Jules recently posted..Best News EVA – Re-union Planned
I feel like I know both you and Glow enough to know your motivations, so I read the article in that light, but I know what you mean. I think the idea of the American model is much more interesting so they are trying to force it on here, but it’s really not helping.
And DP really does change that by providing such a safe, healthy framework.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
PS Jess, I really, really want to get back here during the week honest!
I’m just so busy that when I sit down to read ANYTHING,I fall asleep!
I’m still on page 14 of 50 Shades of Grey!
Still in that Hardware Store with him buying Duct Tape!
If there is any blog worth zipping over to it’s yours (how am I doing? 5points for me!
WUV Diary Of A SAHM
Jules recently posted..Best News EVA – Re-union Planned
Thanks.
I didn’t mean to make people feel guilty, because we’re all busy and I know I don’t get to read as much as I’d like either. It was more to point out that a linky doesn’t make you a superstar. 
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Great post Jess. It’s nice to be reminded why we do this. I never did it for money, but only community and writing. Since I have focused more on community, and put more energy into it, it has been invigorating to watch it grow and connect with many wonderful people. I also try and maintain integrity with my writing and my message, which is about kind and gentle parenting. I’m glad for you that your community has also been flourishing. It’s a wonderful thing to live in a world with all these oppportunities to make connections to others.
Zanni, Heart Mama recently posted..Dear Elka
Thanks Zanni. It’s wonderful to have people like yourself, with a commitment to those core values, that make the community so wonderful.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Well said Jess. I think part of the problem is that a lot of people get in to blogging thinking that they want to make money and become famous and the reality is, if that’s why you start blogging then you’re destined to fail. I started blogging about 3.5 years ago (which would seem to make me ancient! Lol!) before I had kids and before anyone was doing sponsored posts and there was brand relationships etc, and it’s changed a lot. I’ve seen people come and go, I’ve watched the rise of the uber-bloggers, like Woogsworld and Where’s My Glow, and the one thing constant through it all has been the everyday blogger, be ones who do it for the love, because they just granted somewhere to vent. And that is the common theme whether you’ve got an uber-blog like the aforementioned, or you’re plodding along with your small group of followers. I have a few people that I have been reading since we all first started blogging about the same time and they are my most faithful and I am faithful to them. I read them because I know them, we’ve gone through the last 3 years together and it’s wonderful to have those cyber friends. I love your link-up Jess, because after a quieter blogging period after becoming a mum it’s allowed me to find new people to connect with and share my stories with, I’ve found new bloggers who I connect with and now read every day and I think that’s fantastic!, it’s what blogging should be about, and in that way, there is definitely room for everyone.
Kylez…aka…Mrs.P recently posted..The Tale of Peter Rabbit. Or as Dave calls it, The Book with the Shit Ending
I didn’t get a chance to finish as I was trying to get a crying baby ready to go out…the thing that I love that all bloggers have in common, big and small, is that they are themselves, it is you that makes a blog appealing to people and every blogger, big or small knows that and I think in Aus we have the best blogs because no matter how many people read or follow you, everyone is friendly and shares the love.
Kylez…aka…Mrs.P recently posted..The Tale of Peter Rabbit. Or as Dave calls it, The Book with the Shit Ending
Thanks for that beautiful comment Kylez.
You’re right it is the people that make blogs beautiful. That’s why I always encourage people not to except guest posts from companies. People come to read your opinion, not a companies sales line.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
What a great post Jess! This is why I began to blog to begin with, there were honest and own to earth people like you saring their stories and letting everyone know that they aren’t alone.
I have found ‘seasoned’ bloggers like you a great support base and community when I began my blog and even now. I have me some inredible women that I wouldn’t otherwise have.
I too think there is enough room for everyone providing they keep the BS out of it and just enjoy doing what they do.
Kell (Mad Mummas Sweet Randoms) recently posted..Embarrassed to Perfection!
Exactly! Keep it down to earth and be polite, and we can all get along fine!
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
That’s so true. It’s always about the people that keep us going. I think not just in blogging, but in whatever you do.
Ai Sakura recently posted..Macau 2012 | 10 Must See and Do Things to Macau
Yes, in everything. We musn’t forget that.
oh Jess… I love this post. LOVE… you have absolutely hit the nail on the head. Some days, I don’t know what I would do without my community online. xx
Lyndal recently posted..You stay classy, San Diego.
I’d probably do a lot more housework…..
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Yep, making sense, Jess! I started blogging because I like to write and I was finding I had a lot of things I wanted to write about, so why not blog? I think you’re spot on when you say we’re all our own niche. Our blogs are a little insight into our worlds, and that’s why I love reading them! All about the people
Mandie recently posted..Ms Mandie’s Guide To Social Etiquette – Train Travel
I’m so glad you started blogging too. I love your blog!
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Good post and good points. I’ve been posting for 3 months now and it feels like ages. 18 months makes you a senior citizen. Maybe because I’m a Daddy blogger (who avoids poo at all costs) I’ve managed to avoid any “catiness”. To-date the blogosphere has been pretty good to me – especially people like you who are actively providing platforms for little minnows like me to be heard.
Kevin recently posted..Park Bribery – Wordless Wednesday
Your blog is different and provides a fresh, honest perspective, so there is no reason for you to get on anyones bad side. Plus we chicks tend to only try and scratch the eyeballs out of other chicks
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Yay Jess! That was the one biggest and best advice given to me when I started over 18 months ago! What is your niche…
And I knew what I needed to blog about…
Yup I got sidetracked this year by my wedding, cervical cancer issues, and a few other things that kept popping up.. but my main focus is my Bento Style posts
Blogging isn’t just about putting up great posts, its a big part about commenting too!! Spreading the comment love is what I do best
Whoops pressed send before I finished…..
Blogging is about being part of the community… IBOT, Wordless Wednesday, FYBF, Digital Parents… Nuffnang… Facebook groups… events… meeting up for coffees with fellow bloggers….
Being a friend!
I don”t think the wedding and the cervical cancer stuff were sidetracks Yvette; they made you human and relatable. A niche doesn’t mean you can only write on that subject; it’s just the main focus. I think a few just random life time ones in there are great.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Well said Mama. It’s about people. While there are bloggers out there trying to make a buck I think what else blogging provides is a voice for their own life. I wrote in my previous blog that hang on I’ll quote it:
‘If you think about it when something happens to us we tell someone, we tell a story. It helps us share a burden, have a laugh, make us feel like we’re not alone. In fact, a lot of us are finding that blogging is an incredibly thereapeutic way of dealing with our lives. We can work out things in our mind, test ideas, develop deeper relationships with others, and get to know ourselves a little more.’
That is for me one of the most important elements of blogging and for that I respect what each of us write even though I may not be at the same life stage or live a completely different lifestyle – ours is a case in point. You’re a SAHM with a bunch of kids in the far north, I’m a BM (Bachlor Mum) with one kid in the big smoke. But i appreciate that each time someone blogs they are telling their story. And I love that because it’s about people.
On the other hand, while I’m a sort of newby blogger (started in ’96 but didn’t take it far) I get bored of bloggers trying to sell me something. I don’t watch much tv, partly because of the ads and while i want to connect with people i can’t do it through being told how wonderful the latest pink pencil is and how it’s changed their kids’ life. It’s a real shame if that’s where blogging goes. It’s no longer blogging (web logging about our life), it’s just an ad.
bachelormum recently posted..Beauty of grandparents in a working mum’s world
You’re right. I have written those daggy review posts before, but I’m staying away from them now, and just writing the ones that I can tie into my life. The post I wrote today is sponsored, but is something I would likely have done anyway!
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Only 300???!
I guess you could call me a mummy blogger. After all, I’m a mum, and I blog. However, my kids are 18 & nearly 16 so I don’t talk about poop or potty training (funny that)! I also don’t share a lot of my parenting experiences with teens, much as I would love to, because my kids are at the age where I figure they deserve some privacy. (nb I said “some” LOL!)
And Jess, I read all your posts – not just Tuesdays – though I don’t always comment!!!!
Janet recently posted..12 top tips for Marriage
Thanks for the reading. I have yours in my inbox to read too, but I rarely click through to comment, so I’m just as bad. But you can’t comment on everyones can you?
I thought 300 was low too.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
I actually thought, is that all? Only 300 of us? Surely not. In my mind, we take up way more space than that.
I like that there is a solid sense of community in our blogosphere. I may not run around giving awards and virtual hugs, but I appreciate the fact that there is a family around me, and no matter if I go through periods of low-participation, it’s still there, ready if I need it.
Michelle @ Blundermum recently posted..But I don’t want a new license photo!
But we appreciate it when you participate lots, because your blog is fabulous!
I don’t know where that number comes from. I think it can’t be accurate at all.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
I so agree! My blog is such a shmozzle because it’s just who I am, the only direction it has is to follow my story! X
Lauren/y recently posted..Reunited
Ha ha! And yet there is a theme to your blog. I notice it. But yes, it is uniquely you
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
This is a thousand and fifty shades of awesome right here! I agree with everything you’ve said. I’ve actually got a post in the works about some stuff I saw online over the weekend, nasties directed at a US blogger. It’s bloody awful stuff!
There’s room for all of us and you just gotta be in it for the love, because the money just isn’t going to get you there x
Good Golly Miss Holly! recently posted..Seek out the happy – 3/52.
And neither are the gifts, unless all you need in your house are funny looking sippy cups.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
As a non-mummy blogger I’m probably immune to a lot of the stuff that happens in that arena. I didn’t even know about stuff in the US. I follow a lot of health and fitness bloggers in the US though and haven’t seen the same sort of thing… though maybe I’m blissfully in my own little world!
When it comes down to it, I blog because I love to write. I blog because I’ve considered novels and short stories which just don’t ‘do’ it for me. So… blogging it is! And – as mentioned in yesterday’s post/comment, sometimes I do get angsty about the stats and numbers of comments, but must always remember WHY I do this. (And it’s all about me. Me, me, me!!!)
Deb
Deb recently posted..Night and day
I think a lot of that drama was in the past? I’m not sure cause I don’t regularly read any US blogs. And yes, you probably are immune lucky you.
Thankfully I haven’t had a troll yet. Most people are nice to my face (or is it screen) at least
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Well said Jess. I haven’t yet to see a cat fight with the aussie bloggers but I think it’s one of those kettles that will boil over one day. I do feel a sense of cliqueness though and sometimes I feel that I’m in and sometimes I feel left out. It’s the same in my real life world that I struggle to handle in my real life world. I’m trying to not make it a problem on my online world.
Salz recently posted..Not a bed maker, she’s a heart breaker.
There probably is a bit of cliqueness. I don’t notice it so much, because I have my friends in the community and I’m really comfortable with that. Others have made the comment though that it’s hard to know if you’re in or out.
You’re in here at least.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Wow Jess, PROFOUND!
I’m still relatively new at this and I’ve been warmed by the sense of community so far. But I do see that there are some out there who are more about stats and dollars than just about sharing and expressing oneself. And I do understand that when you’re one of 300 (according to your stats) it’s not so easy to define your niche, a niche in the true sense is something you have a particular expertise in. Don’t get me wrong, I think I’m a fantastic mum, the Queen of Budgets, a bit of a chef and just all round domestic goddess (lol) but how arrogant would I appear if I claimed to be better than any one of the 300 at any of these things? For me, it’s like there’s a border, a line between being admired and respected for my ‘niche’ (whatever I choose it to be) and being perceived as a condescending know it all. At the end of the day I just want to be liked, and according to the American blogosphere, putting it out there can have repercussions.
Anyhoo, great post Jess, love your work x
Kelly HTandT recently posted..The Budget Queen’s Top Ten
I don’t think it’s about saying you’re the best, as much as being confident that you have something to offer, if that makes sense?
But it an be easy to lose yourself in the stats; I guess the key is to just try and be confident in yourself instead. xx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Of course I’m unique! Who else has a completely crazy, off the planet, ASD blessed, set of offspring, each with a very quirky view of their world?
xxx
Okay… so maybe my own perspective is slightly amusing to the general public as well… Whatevs. They love
meus.carmen recently posted..I have learnt…
What’s not to love?
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
If you listen to people, you won’t do anything. There’s a lot everything: too many lawyers, too many journalist, too many actors and not enough jobs. My positive side tell me there’s a place for everyone in the bloggosphere as long as you stay true to yourself, as you said. And the rest is a question of time, perseverance and work for your blog to be a popular one.
Rita recently posted..A letter from God
Well said! So true!
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Sorry, I’m another one, another newbie mummy blogger who is probably making all the mistakes that makes seasoned bloggers cringe. Sorry. i’m not meaning any of them. Please point them out to me so I won’t do them again. And then we can all be friends
Danya Banya recently posted..Sweet Strawberry Lovin’
I hadn’t noticed any mistakes! We all make them; it’s what we choose to do constantly though that defines our blogging career.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Your way with words makes me envious Jess.
So perfectly said. And all so true.
Happy iBOT sweetness xxx
Miss Cinders recently posted..mistakes of a mother
Naaw thanks. XXX
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
I love that there are so many bloggers even if we read and post the same things again and again. That is how our conversations go with our friends anyway as we are often all going through the same things at different times. I guess I am a little different in my blogging due to being a Christian and a minister’s wife. I know it may mean a smaller group of followers but I am totally ok with that (ok not always…but mostly). I feel the Aussie blogging community is great and I have always felt very well supported by those I have met.
Lisa @ Mummy’s Undeserved Blessings recently posted..My Three Year Old is Holidaying Without Me
That’s great Lisa. I think your perspective on life can offer something very different, but very refreshing. And I don’t think it limits you either. Salt and light after all
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
I like the SBS add- 8 billion stories and counting
Housewife in Heels recently posted..000 Our Heroes
Beautifully said Jess! I am hoping that there is enough of a community in Oz that it will survive the politics. The problem is as new people come in, without a knowledge of the history, with the anonymity of being behind a computer, things can easily get nasty. Fingers crossed it doesn’t go this way xxxxx
BossyMummy recently posted..Scaredy Cat
I think if the core keeps their values, we will be fine. But I am rather naive!
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Hey Jess,
As a new blogger, this post makes me really sad. I’m blogging for fun. I’m meeting people all over the world and that is fun. If I ever have a chance to make cash,yay if not, it’s not like we are starving awaiting for me to have a million dollar site on my hands.
We are all Mums, I think we have to understand that, while our kids and experiences are new and fantastic to us, there is nothing new under the sun. Better to approach it with a “great minds think a like” than “you copied me”.
Who knows, maybe I’ll change my mind, I hope not, but here’s to all us Mum’s out there just doing what we do. Also thanks for hosting each week, I may be wrong but I kind of read that there may be something to do with your success, that prompted this post. Should that be the case, never mind, you can’t please everyone all of the time.
Mel recently posted..Tales From The Toy Box
No actually, this post wasn’t inspired by anything that happened to me personally. I feel very comfortable in my self and my place in the blogosphere. It was more seeing things that are happening, and wanting to encourage others to look after others interests as well as their own. I think that’s an important way to conduct yourself on line and off.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Great post Jess. Very well said and very true
Thanks
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
Here, Here! I used to get so caught up in the stats and wondering what someone else’s blog had that mine didn’t. When I remembered why I blogged, it put it all back into perspective. I read to feel heard. And if that’s only by one person, that is just fine (even if it is my mum!).
I truly hope the claws can stay out of the blogging community. Hugs all round!!
PS Tuesday is by far my busiest day
Yay for that!
And yes, hugs all around!
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..What Do You Mean, You Don’t Read My Blog?
I think 300 is a pretty conservative estimate! I’d triple it. Twice!
Here here. I’m not up with technology yo, and don’t have all the associated paraphernalia that most blogs have. I blog to write. If people read it, great. If something else happens as a result of the blog, great. If not, oh well.
Thanks for hosting us on IBOT! I love Tuesdays!
Emily recently posted..Lots of things can go wrong with glass splashbacks
It’s easier in some ways to not have all the extra bits, but it does boost numbers significantly.
I think you definitely have the write attitude though. Get it, ‘write attitude.’
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.
I am giving you a standing ovation! {can you hear me??}. I blog because I love to blog. When I hear that people blog just to make money I think they are in for a BIG shock! I have been on the recieving end of the claws lately & I have taken a massive step back from all of the bitchiness. I care more about what my readers think than someone who doesn’t read my blog. I love to be part of the community of bloggers who love to blog for the love of it. I have been doing reviews of late but I have not been paid for them. Some tell me that they are worth more than a product but I love to blog about what I love, like & use.
I started my blog as a way to journal all of my kids/families adventures, my sewing & my cooking. It soon became more than that & my blog has become part of my life. I love to interact with like minded people. I love the sense of community that it brings to me as someone who has a husband who is away for work. I love my blog, I love to blog & I love the likeminded peopl it has brought into my life.
I want you to know that I am always reading your blog, I subscribed via email a looong time ago & I get really excited everytime I see that there is a new post in my inbox. I may not always remember to join up with #ibot every week but I always make time to stop by & say hello to as many of the the links as I can.
Keep doing the fantastic posts that I love to read
Jos @sew cook laugh live recently posted..Sunday snapshots
You’ve been on the receiving end of claws? What on earth for? Your blog is great!
Thanks for reading; I appreciate it and know how special it is to get in someones inbox. I had heaps in mine, but then moved them all to a reader, because I wasn’t getting to them.
As for payment/products, you do what works for you. No one should be telling you otherwise.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.
Hi,
We are quite new to blogging and IBOT. I totally agree with what you’ve said above. I’m looking forward to becoming more a part of the Aussie Blogging community.
Kaz recently posted..Melting Moments Monday- Hey, she’s my Mummy
It’s a great community to be a part of.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.
Well said Jess. You are wise beyond your years!
Mum of Adult Kids recently posted..Sydney Baby & Toddler Show
Even without my wisdom teeth!
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.
Making the switch from infertility blogger to pregnant than mummy blogger was hard, I found I left behind so much of my supportive community and had to join school again. I defiantly clung to my UK/US reader base until I realised I’d stopped writing for me and was more worried about their reactions to what I was writing. You don’t blog to censor yourself, that’s just silly. Moving from the UK and the massive bloggy community to Aus was weird too, the blogging community is still so tiny here yet still a little cliquey and bitchy in parts.
There are bad eggs in any community but you get out of it what you give, I love your linky, I like finding new blogs, I love that there’s no topic or theme other than that people write – I think that illustrates what blogging is about. No rules, no regulations, just you, unadulterated, sharing and taking the time to connect with others. Pretty awesome message to send out to the community.
Kyla @ Three Quarters Full recently posted..TechKids
It’s really interesting to read that, seeing as you have such a different perspective, based on where you have come from. I don’t see a huge amount of cliquiness, but maybe I’m in it? I hope not.
IBOT has always been about a great community to engage in. I plan to keep it that way/
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.
Love it Jess sovery true! And you’re right no one can write their story.. I think I lost faith in my ability to do that.. I hope I get it back soon! xx
I hope you do too. xxx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.
Love this post Jess. People ARE what is important. Personally, I find I just try to do my own thing…. if people like it- that’s great. But it is my space, for whatever I need to get out of my head.
Robyn (@slightly_deep) recently posted..Broken
And that’s what it should be about. You being you, and being comfortable in your space. Nothing wrong with that.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.
I really loved reading this, I think we all to often forget that it is all about the people. In blogging, and in life and a gentle reminder such as this is what is required!
This is my first time linking up with your IBOT
I have had such fun finding new blogs
xx
Thanks for joining IBOT! We love having new people.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.
Ask me what my niche is and I couldn’t tell you.
I honestly find that question revolting because why does one need a “niche” Why does one have to stick to some sort of blogging guideline because they want to write about their children one day and BAM! You are now a “mummy blogger” like it or lump it. (And please feel free to replace this with food/fashion/travel…etc. etc.)
I don’t like niche’s and I doubt I ever will because I see blogs as a reflection of the writer behind them, and I think that even the woman who bakes all day has a moment where she stops and gets dress and well, why can’t she write about that too?!
But ask me what makes my blog unique? Well I’ve got the answer to that. I think everyone does, and it isn’t always about the story you share but the way you direct your voice too.
Unfortately I do see the Aussie Blogosphere going the way the American one did. The cattiness and backstabbing is quite ugly in the last 9 months. It’s a combination of jealousy and a combination of lack of ettiquette. Sure idea’s will be thrown around a lot, but if someone inspires you why can’t you give them the cradit for that inspiration? Because you’re afraid that you will be sending business there way? So what?
I think that sometimes as a blogger you just have to look at what someone does and say “Hey that’s a great idea! Good job!” and leave it at that. I hate seeing a great idea be downgraded to a good one because everyone tries to copy it and it becomes less exciting real fast.It’s not really a great idea or something you’re unique for when you piggy back from someone else and add a few extra stats to it, you know?
Miss Pink recently posted..Ding Dong Dell Pussy’s In The Well
I get what you mean about the niche idea, and the way I choose to see it, is that my nice is me. My blog is about me, and that’s what I’m good at doing. Unless you have a very certain idea in mind, like fashion or food, I think most people are their niche.
As for the rest, it’s just sad really. If someones blog inspired you to write something, by all means link them up and give them credit, but don’t copy. Piggy backing doesn’t make anyone look good.
Thankfully I’ve avoided most of the dramas and if anyone is bitching about me, it’s behind my back and I am blissfully unaware.
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.
What a lovely post. Thankyou so much for this. Just when I start to think perhaps I should close the blogging business down because 50 other bloggers can tell Mums how to do everything from a to B 50 times better than I can. I started my blog because I wanted other mums to have access to things that I went through and go through because that was something I was always looking for when I was pregnant. As you say, everyone has a voice and everyone deserves to be heard and at the end of the day if we can help just one person on the way, then there’s the icing on the cake x
Renay@mummysmiracles recently posted..Easy Relaxation for Parents
Oh please don’t shut your blog down! Your story might be the only one someone can relate to! Yes we often talk about the same things, but everyone has a unique perspective and that is what’s important. And if you want to blog yours, don’t let anyone rob you of that! xx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.
This is a fantastic post Jess.
I recently only found the Digital Parents Community, and because I’m in the wrong time zone (hence why my Ibot is always late), I seem to miss a lot of the goings on. Living away from home constantly makes me want to feel connected to something homely, and my blog helps me to express that.
I don’t have hardly any followers, barely know the rules, don’t earn money from it or anything, but what it has done, is help me so much work out what is important to me, and keep me connected to my friends and family at home. You’re right. It’s people.
Julia recently posted..Bullies start Young
It’s hard if you’re in the wrong time zone. I find even an hour and a half difference during summer makes a big change to keeping on top of things on social media.
I’m glad it’s helped you work out what’s important for you. Thats great. xx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.
So true. E Australian blogging community is so special because we are literally all friends! I love this! Would love for the blogosphere community to grow. But the friendships still need to remain intact! We all have so much to learn from each other xxx
Tahlia – the parenting files recently posted..The best pear muffins ever
Hello Jess, what a striking post you wrote. I agree with Mum of Adult kids..wise beyond your years ( and even with NO wisdom teeth!!)
Back to basics.
I read Grace’s comment too.
Why do I blog? It’s always been about connecting.
First, second and last
Hence I am back. Tonight.
Tuesday, with much love from me.
Go TeamIbot too.
Denyse xx
Denyse Whelan Education Specialist recently posted..Things I Know.School Holidays Edition.
So glad you’re back Denyse. You have much to offer. xx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.
You started blogging just after me and I still feel so crap at it hahaha! Well you know I always want a bit more of a community feel but run out of time (feels like) to do regular community interest type posts so usually end up self indulging hahahaha like this week’s post but I can’t help that!
I have noticed HEAPS of blogs I haven’t heard of before in Circle of Moms this year. And yes I have voted for you ;p I’m scrolling down the list thinking, when am I going to get to check out all these! ?
I guess what makes me unique is my art-i-ness. With the community feel stuff mentioned above I want to encourage others to be more creative and know that you can start learning now like me and achieve. However not sure where my niche is (like Miss Pink says above) – art blogger? mummy blogger? probably more art blogger but I do post normal life stuff. I don’t really try to fit in any niche I suppose which I guess is like what you are saying, back to basics, why are you writing. Maybe I’ve just stayed in the basics?
Oh man I really need to go to bed. What a ramble!
You always get me thinking chicky!
Neen recently posted..I’m a FINALIST!!! Australian Stencil Art Prize 2012
My blog is called Kimba Likes and is, funnily enough, all about the things Kimba Likes. It is really just my online journal, brain dump and I am thrilled that even one person takes the time to read it. Even more thrilled if they take the time to tell me they enjoyed it or it made them think (more likely, made them buy something). I don’t have a niche because I basically blog about the minutiae of my life. I think that makes me a sh*t blogger because I blog about sh*t.
It’s only been recently that I’ve referred to myself as a blogger. More often than not, I think of myself as an Anecdotal Image Annotator. Ie, I take photos and talk sh*t about them.
I’m lucky enough to feel part of the community whilst also not being sucked into the maelstrom.
Good work, 99. x
Kim-Marie recently posted..Wordless Wednesday : The Random Edition
Oh this comment cracked me up. Anecdotal Image Annotator! Love it!
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.
That Jess, is a brilliant post.
I often wonder myself about it all. I blog because I like to write. I blog for myself and if people read then that is great. If they don’t that’s fine too. I just need to get the fluff out of my brain. Secretly I would love to be successful at it, but that requires time and my businesses need my focus so the blog is (unfortunately) secondary. I love to cruise the blogosphere and meet others. Tuesdays makes me do that – because to be honest I hardly have time to blog myself these days let along scratch myself, eat, wee or read. So I like Tuesdays because of the proviso that we need to visit each other. So at a minimum I visit all who comment on my blog … and when I get a spare half hour extra I then start going through the links and try to meet at least a third of your wonderful linkers. I tend to be oblivious to the politics and any bickering. Sometimes I hear about it via Twitter (although I haven’t tweeted in WEEKS) and I wonder what it’s all about. Then I feel bad coz I don’t have a clue. Then I feel good coz I don’t have a clue. And then I just get confused coz I don’t have a clue. And then there is that feeling that I don’t actually fit in anywhere. I’m hanging around and have been for three years … but what group do I belong to? Any? It can get a bit confronting at times! Anyway, as you can see your post has made me think quite a bit! So yeah, great post ….
Might just have to write my own.
Love and hugs and smiley faces
Leanne
Leanne @ Deep Fried Fruit recently posted..Day 1087 – The X Factor
Oh you’re gorgeous Leanne! I think if you’re unaware of the drama, you’re better off for it! Honestly I live in a generally bissful little bubble where everyone is nice to each other!
Love that IBOT works so well for you. It’s hard when we have these little web sites and we can’t do what we want with them! I have so many plans and not enough time to do them!
I really do appreciate you joining though, and sharing the love. xxx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.
So, so true. You are one wise woman, Jess.
Becky from BeckyandJames.com recently posted..My Week{end} According to Instagram
Thanks Becky. xx
Jess@Essentially Jess recently posted..My Week According to Instagram: I only have one child. Apparently.