Self imposed Blogging Sabbatical
I have just had about a week off from using my phone and all the social media apps that it possesses.
Why? Well it had simply become superglued to my hand and it was actually irritating me that I couldn’t go 20 minutes without looking at Twitter, Facebook or whatever.
I needed a break. The whole blogging obsession was truly manic leading up to Christmas with far too much going on with reviews etc. I just had no time for anything else.
My blogging started out as a hobby and quickly turned into a full-time job without the financial rewards that my job as a painter/decorator rewarded me with. I have come to the conclusion that my profession that pays the bills was possibly beginning to suffer as a consequence of blogging.
I got into a cycle of posting everyday and it’s incredibly time consuming every night. This last week has been blissful watching tv again and chilling.
So do I have any plans at this moment? No, I am undecided.
I have enjoyed not using social media and looking at views, not waking up in the morning and thinking what’s first on the blog today.
I take my hat off to people that can post everyday, it’s really an amazing achievement, and I genuinely mean that with total respect.
As for me well I will enjoy more time with my twin girls without holding a phone in one hand and I have finally understood what’s important and quite honestly it’s not blogging.
I have never come across such an obsessive pastime. It’s almost like a drug that grabs hold of you and won’t let go, it’s a very strange feeling, but I so enjoyed the time without worrying about my blog.
I will most likely still post, but on a greatly reduced level.
If anybody has ever read or commented on any of my posts, thank you so much.
Finally I have a weekly feature called Brilliant Dad Feature. I have done 46 weeks and have about 10 weeks to go and would like to thank all of the dads that have taken part. I have loved reading every single one. Your time is so appreciated.
10 Comments
Emma
January 22, 2016 at 8:18 am
Very interesting. I've only started proper blogging since November but already can see the time involved. I do believe in balance though & aim for 2 good posts a week. It's a hobby and pleasure and shouldn't become a chore. I'm not sure I'd cope without social media though. I'm too nosey. #binkylinky lifeinthemumslane
Little Pickle’s Mom
January 22, 2016 at 3:25 pm
Now I don't want to begin fuelling the blogging obsession again by giving you a 'new comment' notification and setting the cycle off again but… hats off to you! It is SO easy to get wrapped up in social media and the internet world. I'm quite lucky as I can get my blogging-needs sorted whilst I'm at my desk job which leaves the evenings free to chill out and make the most of quality time with my husband (or fall asleep on the sofa, either or). Here's to finding the right balance!
Helen Gandy – Beautiful Things
January 22, 2016 at 4:20 pm
Ahh Nigel! I know how you feel, last year I was getting ever so stressed about posting nearly every day, stats and all that but now I post as and when I feel like it and not because I feel I have to. Sometimes it's good to take some time away from blogging as it can consume you. #binkylinky
Lianne Coultas
January 22, 2016 at 6:42 pm
Just this week, I have found myself checking fb every 5 minutes or so. I found the kids were talking to me and I was too busy scrolling away. Im so glad Im not alone and I think a social media amnesty may be in order. Great post, I imagine there are lots in this position.
#binkylinky
Michelle Murray
January 22, 2016 at 7:58 pm
Well done for stepping away from the social media. It's very addictive as is blogging. I too had a break between Christmas and new year and it was amazing. I loved it and I'm struggling to actually get back in to my blogging now. I do love my blog but it is very very time consuming.
Jodie Allen
January 22, 2016 at 8:39 pm
I am glad you were able to take some time off. I applaud you for being able to post every day! There is no way I would fit it in hence why I stick to my usual three posts a week. I think I could do with a week social media free. Totally agree with you that blogging is an addictive game! I hope you still have time to post sometimes though as I do love reading your blog! #BinkyLinky
Leandra Bramham
January 22, 2016 at 9:33 pm
Totally resonate with this Nige. It's the worst addiction ever and I know my life would be so much easier without it (I work 35hrs mon-thu) but somehow I just can't give it up yet! Good luck with whichever way your break takes you x
Cardiff Mummy Says
January 22, 2016 at 10:30 pm
Good on you for having a break. I bet it felt quite liberating. I think we put a lot of pressure on ourselves as bloggers to post daily and have a strong social media presence. Hope you can find the right balance for you as I enjoy your blog.
Random Musings
January 23, 2016 at 2:02 am
Sorry to hear you're feeling this way, but if it gets to the point where it's taking over your life or its not fun anymore, then it's probably good to take a step back. Thanks for hosting the #binkylinky
Debbie
Something Crunchy Mummy
January 23, 2016 at 7:47 am
Good for you. It really does be one an obsession and I stopped posting daily a few months back as it was taking over my life. I love your blog so will keep an eye out for your post! I also love seeing your photos of your gorgeous twins 🙂 #binkylinky xx