emily p. freeman

Creating space for your soul to breathe so you can discern your next right thing.

How I Plan to Stay Sane on the Internet in 2015

Over the past year or so, I’ve been listening to the low, rolling hum around the Internet. It comes in as a wave on the shore of the cyber beach every few years, depositing questions and doubt like flotsam after a storm. You’ve heard it, too: the whispered rumor that blogging is dead.

It’s an important conversation for those of us who read and write blogs. It feels a little like that first time we watched The Sixth Sense – wait, he was dead the whole time? How did I not see that?! There’s a little niggling in the back of my mind – Does all this still matter?

How I Plan to Stay Sane on the Internet

Though I know people have been asking the question for years now, 2014 was the first year I began to wonder if they were right. Is it over? Have we been dumped for Instagram and are too stubborn to admit it?

As I’ve been working on this post for over a week now (does that tell you anything about my process? I need blog writing to stay alive! I can’t think fast enough for anything else!) I saw a post Tsh wrote on this very subject in her state of the blog address. I almost considered scratching this half-written post and just telling you to read hers because she says everything so well.

Instead, I will tell you to read hers and read mine, too.

I needed to take the time to work through this in my own way. So I did the opposite of the Internet and took a walk on New Year’s Day, looked up and down and all around and thought about some of these things.

Now I want to think through them with you, okay? Okay.

Regardless of what changes, grievances, or transitions we might need to make, here are some things I know for sure about us (and by us I mean you and me):

We want more connecting and less competing.

We want more laughter and less shame.

We want more love and less fear.

Did I get that right so far?

This January marks the nine year anniversary of Chatting at the Sky. I started quietly writing here  when I was pregnant with our third baby, in the cracks of time I could find while taking care of twin toddlers. I needed an outlet for my scattered brain, a place to put thoughts I knew wouldn’t disappear, and to connect with a few friends who had blogs, too.

the girls 2009 and 2014

Now nine years, three books, and a lot of blog posts later, here we are.

I know a lot has changed in these nine years, both among blogs as a whole and here in this space. I know we aren’t going back to the old days when the comment box was filled with chatter, when you could write something online and know you had a good chance of being heard, and when most of the blog posts you read sounded like real humans wrote them.

With all the noise, we have to work harder than before to remember why we do this.

First, though, I wanted to say this: I’m hopeful about the future for blog writing.

How I Plan to Stay Sane on the Internet

Call me a romantic, but I still think writing on a blog is one of the most important things I do as a writer.

I still think it’s the greatest medium for communicating, for story-telling, for writing through what you think about things.

I still think it’s one of the most lovely outlets for an extraverted introvert like me who loves people but needs a little time to think before I say words to them.

This is where I discovered that I am, in fact, a writer. This is where I work out what I believe. This is where all my books were born and how I’ve met some of my favorite people in the world (the world, I tell you!)

Though it may seem like an oxymoron, consistently writing and reading blogs can offer kind company for our souls and help to encourage intentionality, slowness, and listening.

Here’s why.

Early last month, Steff Green wrote a post on ProBlogger giving examples of how blogging is changing and what you can do about it. This observation of hers stuck out to me:

“With social media platforms becoming the online communication too du jour, and with smartphones and other devices becoming for many the preferred platform, blogs have fallen to the wayside in favour of shorter, punchier messages specifically tailored to hit a reader’s buttons.” – from Is Blogging Dead?

This is one of my biggest motivations to keep writing on a blog.

Continuing to write here at Chatting at the Sky is my soul’s own quiet rebellion against the fast-moving world.

I write because I need room for my soul to breathe. And sometimes I have to write my way into that space.

I need a steady, consistent, and reliable online place that will serve my own soul in this quiet way. I bet you need that, too.

For me, that means embracing the short, punchier forms (because they’re fun and a great way to connect) but not at the expense of the longer-form blog writing, my first writing love.

But that doesn’t mean I plan to party like it’s 2008. I want to move with the changes rather than fight against them.

Here’s what staying sane on the Internet means for me, both as a reader of blogs and a writer of one:

As a reader:

  • Unsubscribe: I’ve unsubscribed from everything except my top, most favorite, can’t-miss blogs. That means I only regularly read less than 10. And it’s delightful.
  • Round Ups: I glance at weekly roundups to see what other writers have found that I’ve missed in various spaces.
  • Fun: Pick the shorter forms out of love and fun, rather than fear of missing out. My favorite is Instagram because 1) I love photos  2) It’s a great way to stay connected to friends and writers alike even though I may not read all their posts 3) It’s fun!
  • Rescue Time: I’ve installed Rescue Time on my computer so I can easily see how much of my time online is productive vs. distracting. Super helpful.
  • Identify panic triggers: When I’m online and feel my soul start to shake on the inside from a low-grade scattered panic, I ask myself why. I don’t have a great solution for this yet (sans shutting off the computer) but I’m starting to pay attention. For those of us who work online, turning the computer off isn’t always an option. So I’m paying attention to the panic triggers.

Those are a few ways I’m practicing sanity in my online reading habits.

When it comes to actually writing online, I started to record some tips that help me but discovered after listing them they felt hollow. Instead, I took some time to really listen to my desire, to the why behind this blog, and what that means for me as a writer. Here’s what came up to the surface:

As a writer:

  • I will tell stories.
  • I will be myself.
  • I will remember it’s “better to write for yourself and have no public than write for the public and have no self.” (Cyril Connolly)
  • I will refuse to romanticize the writing life.
  • I will write to connect, not compete.
  • I will remember fear is a normal part of the process, but courage gets the final say.
  • I will remember how ego feels pushy and afraid but calling feels kind and free. Most of the time.
  • I will remember people write online for a million little reasons and I will respect them theirs.
  • I will practice writing words I can’t take back.
  • I will refuse to write from a frantic place of hurry.
  • I will be gentle with myself when I choose to hurry anyway.
  • I will be relentlessly helpful to the souls of others.
  • I will write as a kind companion rather than a truth machine.
  • I will let love lead.
  • I will not be a jerk.

Though these are personal to me, perhaps they resonate with you as well. If so, I’ve included them in a simple PDF for you to download or print as you wish: A Manifesto – How to Write on the Internet Without Losing Your Mind. Maybe they’ll help you stay sane on the internet, too.

A Writer's Manifesto How to Write on the Internet Without Losing Your Mind

Blogging is only as dead as you treat it. I plan to have many more years of writing here, of carving out a little space in the corner to sit on a bench and connect with you. So here’s to 2015 – the year we learn to stay sane on the Internet. I hope you’ll continue to join me.

I want to be kind company this year, both for your soul and for mine. Sometimes we forget to be kind to ourselves, don’t we? If this sounds good to you and you don’t want to miss a post, you can sign up here to get them delivered directly into your inbox.

If that makes you feel crazy, maybe you’d prefer something a bit more infrequent but equally as encouraging. If so, you can join me on The Bench and receive my once-a-month newsletter (2nd Tuesday of the month).

Both options come with a free copy of my ebook Seven Little Ways to Live Art, sharing one way every day to take a soul breath.

I would love to hear how you’re staying sane on the Internet, both as a reader and a writer. Leave a comment here or join the conversation on Facebook.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. I’ve been following your blog for quite a while now (it’s on my sidebar in “blogs I follow” and whenever someone posts to their blog, it pops up to the top so I can stay current with each post). I’ve enjoyed your words & photos and the way in which you share your faith so seamlessly, so it seems, hahaha. Anyway thanks for your consistent posting, for not caving to the notion that blogging is a dying art form and for sharing your love of God.

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  3. Your words often inform and give clarity to my own thoughts on similar subjects. This happens to be one I’m pondering a lot lately. I have three years to your nine in blogging and I’m seeing the changes. Thankful you took the time to share how you feel God is leading you. Happy New Year Emily!

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  4. I am blogging for reasons that perhaps I am not even aware of, but I guess I am “carving out my own little space”. Reading inspiring blogs like yours causes me to think, to ponder, to question. Life for me is not easy most of the time, so I can laugh, dream, write and enjoy a bit of time spent on the net. Keep blogging. You can not know how many lives you have spoken to, and helped in some way. God bless you and your aspirations.

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    • Maybe it’s good you don’t know all your reasons, Bonnie. Sounds like your desire is leading the way which can be both scary and freeing. Glad to see you here.

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  5. Thanks for your thoughts. I feel the same way too. I began writing for myself (and that continues to be my main motivation), and now my writing is helping others too so I will continue to write. I have always marched to the beat of a different drummer, and I will still march the way I want and not follow the crowd if I don’t find it enjoyable. Blogging is my favorite form of social media.

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    • Here, here!

      (and also, whenever I hear the phrase “beat of a different drummer” i always think of that bit in the Wizard of Oz where they say “that’s a horse of a different color!” Of course it always comes back to the Wizard of Oz)

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  6. I love your blog! I don’t have twitter or instagram… I have facebook but don’t engage with it very much. It all moves too fast for me. I think people who blog regularly move very fast! I’m only 26 in case you’re wondering, haha. So thank you for being committed to this medium. Your blog brings refreshment during crazy work days.

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  7. And this Emily, is why you are on my top list of blogs. I so appreciate your heart – for keeping it real, and also for keeping it compassionate. I am sticking with you. Both of your books have been a tremendous tool God has used in shaping me in His truth over the past two years. Your space here on this crazy internet, is a breath of fresh air. Thank you for sticking around too!

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  8. Sometimes, just sometimes, someone leaves a comment in the comment box.

    Hi. 🙂 I loved this post and think I need the manifesto taped above my desk. Staying sane seems way more productive than going crazy like The Internet keeps asking me to do.

    **thanks**

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  9. I stay sane on the Internet by designating it (mostly) for fun: negative people on FB, unfollow; too sad news story in a feed, keep scrolling; want to look at pretty pictures and not talk, Instagram. I have to guard my limits emotionally or one sad news story can ruin my day. At first I felt like that made me jerky or uncaring. Not true. I only have so much emotional energy, so I need to steward where I spend it.

    For some reason blogs don’t feel like the Internet to me. They feel friendly, real, and thought provoking. They are my favorite thing online. Disclaimer: I only follow those listed in Kimba’s Soft Place to Land sidebar (what were you saying about 2008? I guess I’m still there 😉 plus two others. I think the limited number is key.

    Anyway, thanks for writing here. I look forward to your posts.

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  11. Ok and yes. To all of this. I love reading here so much. I have to confess that I’ve gone through my own bit of pondering about blogging and sharing. So, I loved that you included writing for self as part of your manifesto. It seems like this is just the right kind of time to refine and become even more connected and true in the spaces we inhabit online.

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  12. I wonder if all the ‘competitive bloggers’ will zip off to Instagram leaving us quieter word-loving souls over here? He he.

    Like you, I felt the need to control all things internet before they started controlling me! So I check Facebook three times a day and follow only a handful of blogs.

    I think coming away plenty is sensible too; only sharing when there’s that burning something that you’ve got to get down. I wonder if keeping things that bit shorter is key too? Though maybe not.

    On a separate note, I settled down in the kitchen this morning with a fresh coffee, some craft supplies and your hopeologie podcast. Hearing your family chat makes me feel like I’m somehow more ‘home’ too. xx

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  13. Hi Emily,

    I’ve been following your blog for about 2 years now and I’m so thankful for it! Actually, for some reason, it is the only blog I consistently follow at the moment. So know you’re doing something very special here. I recently realized that writing is an outlet for me and something I need to pursue…but the blog world seems so overwhelming and like, Do I really have something to say when it seems like everyone else is also saying so much? I’m not sure if you have any words of encouragement on that. But I’ve discovered that writing, for me, is essential…and whether or not I make it public maybe doesn’t matter for now. It feels vulnerable to put myself out there. Anyways, thank you for what you do and the inspiration you provide! I LOVE your blog! 🙂 -Amanda

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  14. I usually read your words in the blogisphere, before I read anywhere else. Because they not only inspire me, they help me take a breath, and remember that the internet isn’t just full of empty noise.
    This whole notion of ‘is blogging dead?’ seemed like news to me when I read Tsh’s fantastic post. If anything, it just seems louder, as we are told of the millions and millions of blogs on the internet.
    Thank you for being a beautifully inspiring, God-filled source of important words–we are all the better for it! (I printed out your writing manifesto–its going in my office, and in my current notebook that I am using to take Allison Vesterfeld’s e-course on finding your writing voice.) Your writing voice is so clear and authentic to me. I hope as I continue to practice and learn and grow, that I find my distinct writing voice too. I think this big, beautiful blogging world will help with that. 🙂
    Happy New Year!

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  16. This is encouraging to me. My own blog has been dead for awhile now. I wrote monthly for an online women’s magazine, but even that became a burden with alongside my other responsibilities. And, in my heart I missed the more organic nature of blogging.

    I have often wanted to revive my blog, but I wondered if blogging in and of itself was dead, if my voice would be redundant, and that I should stick to the magazine anyway.

    This is good fodder for evaluating my own motivation and goals in writing/blogging. Thank you!

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  17. Your blog is like a breath of fresh air to me. It is where I come to take a pause in a sometimes hectic day and where my sound can rejuvenate.

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  19. I love your blog. I have cut my internet time by taking FB off my iPad and iPhone so now I have to sit at our computer to view it. This has been wonderful. I have already found that I am reading more books on my Kindle. I had to take a break from it because it made me feel drained. I do not need to see what everyone is doing. I have also taken time to unscribe to many email lists like stores. They exhaust me every morning. Enough of that. I am working hard to bring “quiet” to my visual world so I can be more present with the here and now.

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  20. Yes and thank you! I loved Tsh’s idea of not wanting to cater to the culture of internet induced ADD, and yours of needing the longer reading. I relate so much. Thanks!

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  21. I absolutely love your blog and this post was so needed for me. I’ve been writing on my blog for about six years now. And I love community! But, I try to read too many blogs and have way too many saved in my reader, which I never get to. I think it’s time for a clean out. Also, I pretty much engage my readers on Facebook. I don’t take many of my own photos so my Instagram feed is pretty boring. It’s so much easier to engage on one social media outlet than several. Thanks for sharing!

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  22. I’ve been thinking a lot about the changing blogosphere, too, mainly because I was a latecomer to blogging and feared I had “missed the boat.” After pondering for a few days, I came to realize blogging will never go away, not entirely. I’m an INFJ (and I think I saw once that you are, too??). We’re a rare breed who values words—however many it takes to say what needs saying—and slowing down more than the punchiest blurb on our Twitter feeds. There will always be introspective people out there, and they’ll be the ones who keep coming back to traditional blogs, no matter how social media changes the rest of the landscape.

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  23. Reading favourite blogs feeds my soul in ways that no other social media form does, because they allow for a writer’s ponderings to enter into conversation with my own.

    Though I comment infrequently, your blog posts are such a gift in my life – thank you.

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  24. Emily,
    I find so often I track with you it’s uncanny! When May B. came out in 2012, I did a lot of reflecting about what I wanted my writing life to look like. I came up with a writing manifesto (http://carolinestarrrose.com/follow-me-to-write-on-con-an-online-writing-conference-exclusively-for-everyone/) that I plan to re-run and re-examine this year with two new books coming.

    For me, it’s the public side of things that gets stressful/out of whack. I need to give myself space and not seek out what others are saying about my work. I need to find my private space to keep creating. I’m hoping this time around I’m a little more grown up about it all.

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  25. Ooh… so thought provoking. (And deserving of a real comment instead of a fb comment!) (grin!) I appreciate you telling me what the Internet is saying because I don’t follow the experts enough to know, though I have felt this shift in blogs work. Even yesterday I was thinking a bit about how I subscribe by email to a very small number of blogs but haven’t looked at my reader in years. So much for those! But the other blogs I read I connect to via facebook. I’ve been surprised to see how even “famous people’s” blogs hardly get comments at this point. Unless it hits a nerve and then watch out! Anyway, I still enjoy your posts and appreciate your sanity manifesto and am glad you’re not throwing away your keyboard yet. 🙂 Blog on, girlfriend! We’re still here listening and rebelling against the crazy pace of it all with you.

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  26. Oh Emily – YES!!! I took a month away from reading blogs and writing on my own and to be honest – I was utterly depressed. I’m still learning how to find balance in this community – I too am whittling down my overwhelmingly large Feedly reader to the blogs I truly ‘can’t miss’ – like yours and your sisters and a maybe a handful or two of others that I’ve come to love. But finding the ‘blogosphere’ so many years ago truly unlocked a whole new world for me, and has helped me in discovering and honoring myself along the way.

    One thing I love about all of my favorites is that they two have worked towards balance in a new way – where it’s more about quality and less about quantity – where it’s more about being real and honest rather than having huge lists of followers and more than a fair share of sponsored content. This is what feels good to me – as a reader and as a blogger/writer.

    2015 brings with it an immense expectation personally around the change I feel rumbling under the surface. This year – I believe – is calling in deep and profound changes in my life – it’s equal parts scary and exhilirating. No one’s really the boss of us in the practical sense – but so quickly we can feel pulled under the currant of what’s new and now and next. I’m so ready to get back to roots, to do the deeply intentional work of honoring who I am, radically embracing my own authenticity, and digging in deep for the tough, but necessary, changes ahead.

    For years I’ve been blessed by your ‘showing up’ for us in this community, and though it’s changing (what isn’t?) I’m so grateful to hear you’re sticking around 😉 Thank you friend!

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  27. with all of the noise trolling around i had begun to feel insecure and doubtful about my writing and my blog-and then i read Tsh’s post and began to find my footing and freedom again. and now i’ve read yours and feel the ground beneath firming up even more. it’s interesting the way that works, as my soul breaths deeper and lighter, my feet stand firmer….(more firm?)

    I am thankful that there isn’t only noise on the internet. there are places like yours where souls can really breathe! It’s like those times when we leave the light pollution in the city behind for a drive to the mountains where we can see the expanse of the sky and the stars. That’s how this place feels to me. and that’s where i pray my voice can be found as well.

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  28. Thank you for sharing your thoughts about blogging, Emily. I, too, have wondered if I am hanging onto the dead in continuing to blog. What you said, though, so resonates with my heart. I began blogging to find a place for the words swirling in my head to rest. Blogging has helped me discover the writer inside. It is also a place I use to think through and process with words whatever might be going on in my life at the time. It really doesn’t matter who does or does not read when I look back at the reasons why I began blogging in the first place. Thank you for reminding me of this today. Reading blogs for me really overrides all the other social media sites by far. Your words, Emily, so many times have been the breath of fresh air my soul has needed. I will continue to read as long as you continue to write here in this space : )

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  29. Brilliant! Could I add just a bit more perspective? Just for reinforcement.

    I started blogging in 1999. Yep. Of course, it wasn’t called blogging back then though. I wrote essays that first appeared in a local ad rag that ended up in my website. Back then there was no interaction or ways for anyone to comment except to email me, which no one ever did. I wrote anyway. I never knew who or if anyone read my writing. In 2006, I was asked to speak at a women’s conference so, thinking I needed a prop, I cobbled together and published 75 of my previous essays in a book.

    I think I thought I had come to a tidy culmination point of my writing. As though a book was the finish line. Several years later, I found the ache to write was just too painful to ignore. I started putting up my essays in my site again. By then blogging was the new kid on the block. I resisted. I thought, “Oh that’s a fad, I’m not going there.”

    Then in December 2011 I signed up for Blogspot thinking I would just amuse myself. I had no plans to link to anyone or anything, I don’t do social media – at all.

    I have occasionally wondered if what I write matters or if it is a complete waste of time. Then the still small voice speaks up and says, “What is the downside to sharing your heart in writing?” If God wants someone to read it, who can stop Him from making that happen? If you aren’t writing first for His sake then, well…”

    So, I conclude: Write. Anyway. Whether it’s called blogging today or something else tomorrow. Emily, I link to your blog. I read your followers’ blogs, I don’t always post comments. But I learn, I grow and I express myself and that’s my art in this stage of my life. It has to be enough and so it is.

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  31. No, blogging is not dead, at least not in my world. I am not a blogger myself, but I do follow a few faithfully. (Yours is one of only two or three that I _always_ read when a new post pops up in my email). FB and Instagram are fine as far as that goes, but a lot of it is simply posing; often only the “perfect” is posted, which gives a skewed vision of the lives of others, and sometimes leaves me feeling like I must be rather dull or something. But the words you write are real and lovely and encouraging and long enough to feel like I’m actually following your thoughts and being part of a conversation. In other words, like a fellow traveler in this life, rather than a spectator to someone else’s party.

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  32. Thank you for this. At this very late moment as blogs threaten to cede all ground to twitter, the Lord has called me to write. And to start with a blog. NOW, Lord? NOW, when it seems rather passé and all the cool kids are tweeting and instagramming, instead?

    Yes, I keep hearing Him and my soul say. So, I press on in my blogging, trying to remember that I am writing not to build a platform, not to be the most popular girl online, not to be on trend, but simply because that is where He has called and because I have found joy in the craft.

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  33. This is a GREAT blogpost.
    I’m realizing that while I’m getting views on my blog, no one comments very much anymore. So I question my blog a lot. BUT. I always come back to the fact that I need it. I need it to tell my story, to share my art, to share that we are NOT ALONE. And hopefully, someone will be encouraged by that.
    It’s getting harder and harder to not conform to the latest, fast-paced social media uprising that blasts past us in 12 seconds and moves on to the next uprising. But I think over and over that steady and being true to one’s self is always best!
    Thank you for encouraging us in this!
    Lynn

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  34. Toward the end of December, I was feeling led to change a lot of my online habits. I was feeling controlled by the computer, and felt that I had too many voices shouting at me. So I cut out a lot of blogs in my feed reader (and didn’t even keep the links! *gasp*) and signed out of several sites that were continuously grabbing for my attention. I’m seeing a shift in how I’m thinking and feeling and it is a good thing!

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  35. <3
    I took the last 3 bullet points (even not as a writer) and wrote them in my planner for the week.
    Thank you for this space to breathe.

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  36. I am so glad you wrote this post. I read Tsh’s post this weekend and your perspective was needed as well.
    I have blogged since 2006 and the landscape has changed so much. Gone are the days of blogrolls and blog awards.
    What I know deeper than anything else is that connection is key and for that one person (and some days I know it is just one person reading ha) I will continue.
    I don’t think I will post as often as I once attempted. I think a well written post no matter the length will win out over several short posts just to “keep readers”.
    I want to be authentic and not a beggar.
    Emily, I have unsubscribed to a lot of blogs as well simply for time constraints but I am always happy to hop over to your quiet space.
    It is so needed!
    Btw, the photos of your girls…priceless.

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  37. Emily, thank you so much for your blog! I know there are many like me who don’t comment often, but who are so encouraged and energized by what you write. Your blog offers a quiet place to land and is one of the few places that I visit regularly. And you’ve hit it on the head; I come here to read and slow down, to ponder and reflect, to laugh, knowing that what I read here won’t add to the frantic push I feel so many other places. I would truly miss you if you stopped blogging, and would feel a loss of the community that I feel with your other readers here too. It’s nice to know that I’m not the odd one out everywhere, here it’s fine to be an introvert and enjoy the quiet and the thinking and the slow pace. I do enjoy the monthly what-I-learned link-ups too, it’s my reward at the end of the week to spend a few minutes visiting a few new blogs at a time. 🙂

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  38. Em, thank you for your insightful words. In a world of so many great things, it can seem like the simple beautiful blogs have been forgotten. Your words resound and ring true and bring light to dark places. I for one would do the ugly cry if you ever stopped blogging or writing, so keep it up. And know there are many of us who need your words and faith perspective and see His beauty more clearly because of the words you process and put out here. Hugs from Huntington Beach!

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  39. YES to all of this. I, too, need time to string my thoughts and words together into a format that I am comfortable publishing for everyone to see. Social media is a fun way to meet people and discover new things, but my blog is still the place where I can slow down and actually express myself on a deeper level. Thanks so much for this, Emily.

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  40. You see, its your astute perception that is so inviting!
    I stepped back from blogging for a couple months last fall for some of the very reasons you’ve mentioned. I returned because, as you’ve beautifully conveyed, the writing nurtures the writer. Looking forward to future ‘conversations’. 🙂

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  41. Emily, you truly have a gift. Your words touched a place deep within me and put into words what my heart feels. We need gifted writers like you who can put poignant and effective words to thoughts and feelings we have as women. Instagram is fun and interesting; twitter gives me quick words of encouragement and bits of good information; but neither of them take me to hard places, thoughtful places, spiritual places that challenge me to go deeper in my thinking, in my praying, in my ministering.

    Thank you for taking the time to pour out your heart on paper and for sharing words of wisdom I needed to hear! I am so very thankful for you.

    Sweet Blessings to you,

    Wendy

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  42. I am not a blogger but, I am a reader. On the things that we want: Yes, to all of the ones mentioned. I don’t want to listen to noise. What really matters? People, not subjects. As far as having a conversation about the blog: I am afraid the readers may have actually destroyed that for you. Most of the comments do not promote expanded dialog. It is more like, “This is so what I needed today!” The response is wonderful feedback for you, but not so much for others. Readers DO “read and go on” because we feel like you are very busy too. It is a blog, not a best friend weekend retreat. People have only a little time to read responses. So, even if you do get the one that is a conversation starter, no one probably read it. A lack of responses may also be due to Facebook conditioning. People can be extremely rude hiding behind a computer, so why bother saying anything? The comments just go in circles sometimes.

    I don’t have any answers on blogging dilemmas, but you must keep writing. It is who you are. Yes, people are listening.

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    • Thanks for your words, Karyn!

      I enjoy any comment – short, long, or medium – that someone leaves but I never expect them.

      Comments are down across the board for all bloggers and I actually don’t mind it. I love engaging through comments, but don’t feel compelled to do so always. I do read every single one on every single post, but never expect them.

      In fact, I wrote a post back in 2012 about this very thing: https://emilypfreeman.com/2012/04/23/for-those-of-you-who-dont-comment-on-blogs/

      Thanks for your thoughtful words and perspective here.

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  43. Having only just started a blog very recently the inner critic often accuses me of arriving way too late to the party and of not having the foggiest about anything.
    The TRUTH however is that the blog is just a part of what God is calling me to do right now, for reasons He knows about, in spite of my fears and doubts I have to trust He knows what He is doing. It’s His blog anyway, not mine.
    He will lead the right people to read the right blog posts at the right time. And I know he’ll do that for others, as He has done that for me time and again. One of the most amazing things about the Internet is the way the Holy Spirit can guide and lead people to the most helpful and relevant source of help, encouragement and food for their souls. God can and does use it for good.
    We are to be salt and light in the Internet too.
    And Emily, thank you for your inspirational writing. It seems so often that you put into words exactly what I am feeling before I’ve even really realised or thought about it. You help me make sense of a lot of stuff, so thank you.

    Reply

  44. I am not a blogger and I’ve never really “followed” any blog until now. There truly is something uplifting and refreshing about the space you have created, which I suppose is your intent! 😉 The more of your words I read, the more I’m drawn back here. I I got to hear you speak at Allume, and the space you’ve created seems even more beautiful because it seems to just be this extension of who you are. So, I don’t know if blogging is dying, but for me it’s all new and I believe you’ll always be my first “favorite”. Bless you and your beautiful soul! Keep creating, and I pray you receive all the refreshing and encouraging you need to continue to bless others the way you do. We need beautiful spaces to breathe and slow down in this world more than ever. ( ) air hugs (I’m a hugger, digitally, this is the best I can do.)

    Reply

  46. A perfect post. My love for blogs has only grown and gotten stronger over the years. It is an amazing community of women. I own all 3 of your books, I’ve read two and my daughters have the other one. I so appreciate your list…my blog is read by about 10 people, but it doesn’t stop me from blogging. I love it and I miss it if I don’t write. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply

    • I once heard Lysa TerKeurst encourage women who said they only had a handful of readers – “Imagine if those 10 women showed up in your living room. Would you feel any differently about that number?”

      Great perspective, I thought.

      As long as you love it, keep on writing!

      Reply

  47. Blogs are about telling stories and making connections. I’m not ready to let that go. I just started writing again on my blog. I took a long break after comparison stole my writer’s voice. I’m glad your not stopping and closing shop. We need your words!

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  48. This is indeed a recurring theme among bloggers. I love the idea of trimming the list. On my blog I have an “inner circle” of bloggers that I read regularly and an “outer circle” that I read as I have time or inclination. One in my inner circle is Elizabeth Esther who just addressed this in http://www.elizabethesther.com/2014/11/10-reasons-why-blogging-is-better-than-facebook-alternatively-titled-blogs-not-dead-and-neither-is-my-blogging.html

    I am really enjoying reading your blog. Thank you for your work.

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  50. All things must evolve and change. Beautiful writing, no matter the format, will always be valuable. Blogging isn’t dead — its refining and expanding. Your gentle, lovely style of writing lifts my day. As long as you write, I will show up to read.

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  51. Yes! Let us extroverted INTROVERTS unite with a quiet rebellion from the depths of our souls. We will not be hurried in our writing, unless it suits us on a particular day; we will not bow to the trends, unless we wake up feeling a little trendy one morning. We will tell our stories – the long version, no less – and we will not be scared of the masses who faint when they see more than 140 characters staring them down. We will dare to write and bare our souls and we will draw readers in with our words and we will keep reaching out until they connect with us and realize that community is important and is built one story at a time and that really getting to know one another takes longer than a clever one liner dashed off on our way out the door. We will be us and not apologize for it. We will let others be who they are and not try to change them. We will be bloggers!!!!!!! Love your Manifesto – thanks! Your blog is one of the reasons I love to read and write – you have kept me coming back for quite a while now and I will continue to read your words.

    Reply

  52. You have obviously struck a chord with this Emily. I read it this morning – twice – and am just getting around to commenting. I think you may have popped inside my poor little head and made sense of the thoughts that have been swirling around .
    I’m linking to you over at my blog. I love this!

    Reply

  53. I really love your line, ” I write here for my soul to have a place to breathe.” I struggle a lot as a writer because I fear that what I write, no one needs to read, but you just reminded me that I should write because my soul needs it.

    I am excited to see what God does in and through your writing this year!

    Reply

  55. Oh Emily,

    You’ve articulated something that I’ve felt but not been able to put my finger on – or my iPhone loving thumbs – is blogging still a way of really connecting?

    I had blogged way back when, about 9 years ago like you, and it fizzled out for me as I saw myself caring too much about my presence as a blogger instead of my permission as a writer. If that makes sense. I needed to step away, and I did. But I missed writing.

    Now I’m back to blogging on a fresh way, letting God move me and give the inspiration, not caring about how often I write or who reads it. I want my heart through words to be an offering to Him. So, I’m enjoying the fulfillment from blogging and the satisfaction from taking it seriously. Being intentional about my writing is so soul-soothing. That’s what made me nervous when I began to question if blogging was still a way that women can connect. I find myself sharing my heart on FB and IG.

    But it’s just a snapshot. And that’s okay. It’s good to have that quick conversation or hello in passing, but sometimes we need a more relaxed atmosphere, time to be still together and really think and question and interact. Blogs do that. So I’ll keep writing, and you’ll keep writing – for which I am so grateful. And all of the wonderful women commenting here will keep working, too. And we’ll know that these offerings are heard by God and blessed.

    Thanks for this post!

    Reply

  56. This was really great! As a young woman entering the blogosphere not writing about fashion, DIY, or motherhood – I’ve often wondered what I’m doing and how my blog will be received. But this quote -“better to write for yourself and have no public than write for the public and have no self” – reminded me! I write because I love it, because I have something to say, because I want a conversation, because I want to write a blog I want to read. That’s what’s important. Thank you a million times over 🙂

    Reply

  57. Oh, how I love this! I read Tsh’s post and now I’ve read yours – both of them are so helpful and encouraging. I’m one of those ‘small’ bloggers, but I’ve read widely, probably more widely than I’ll be able to do this year. So you’re down to just 10 now. Wow. Not sure I could get that small, but I think you’re onto something with that suggestion. Thank you – for that, and so much more. I need to work on a book this year. And spending as many hours out here as I have will not mesh well with that goal. But the truth is, I’ve felt discouraged by all the negative talk about blogs, because I love them! And I love writing on my own. Thanks for your encouraging words here. And most of all, thanks for KEEPING AT IT. What you say is so important. And always so grace-filled and lovely.

    Reply

  59. Hey Emily,

    I just wanted to thank you for staying strong with your blog. I realize I’ve been reading this blog for over a year now, and I can’t begin to describe how often it has helped me and inspired me as a person and as a writer. I actually found you by chance on the internet, but it seems “chance” isn’t the right word for it anymore. Thank you for proclaiming the Good News and being a friendly companion on this journey. May blessings flow for you always!

    Reply

  60. Thanks so much for writing this. I am taking a blogging break for the moment – praying, seeking the Lord, asking Him if this is something I need to keep doing for now or if I need to lay it down for a season. Pulling back and trying to see what my real and true “why” is for writing.

    I have already printed off your manifesto. As I work out my own “whys” of writing, I am pretty sure I need to do the same sort of thing. Draw some lines for my soul. Not hard mean lines. Just, “Hey, you’ll be a better writer and a more rational and peaceful person if you remember these things.”

    Thanks, again, Emily.

    Reply

  62. Emily, I came late to the blogging world, and I hear the chatter of dying blogs. I did not take the traditional route of “building my platform”, and I don’t know if my books will ever be published, but I still enjoy reading blogs. Like you, I read many of them and have pared it down because I spent too much time reading them. I have only ever blogged 1 day a week. That is my limit. I hope you keep it up.

    Reply

  63. I read this with great interest as I’m heading into the phase of promoting my book, and I have lots of ideas from my publisher, really high numbers to meet and so forth. I like to write on my blog but I’m having to figure out a schedule, stick to it, be mindful and purposeful. And although I love to plan, I’m not great at follow-through. I think you’re right, though—blogging isn’t dead unless we treat it that way. And Facebook is great for conversations. All of your ideas of what it means for you as a writer really resonate with me—which is why so many people come here to read your words. I’ll be feeling my way through a new phase over the next few months, and your writer’s manifesto will be beside my computer as I do!

    Reply

  65. This resonated with me. I’ve been wondering about how things are changing and how to deal with it. Thanks so much for writing all this. I thoroughly enjoyed it!

    Reply

  66. Thanks so much for posting this. Though I have no personal blog, I am an avid blog reader. Your post today was fabulous. I have had guilt because I can no longer keep up with the many I love to read. My goal this year is to spend my time purposefully and reading a few blogs really encourages me in that. Yours is one of them and I have enjoyed it for years. I want to “encourage intentionality, slowness, and listening” as you said above. This truly spoke to my soul!! Thanks!

    Reply

  67. These are wonderful, wise words Emily. Thanks for gifting us with your writing, thoughtfulness and perspective.

    Reply

  68. I think it would be interesting to learn which blogs you subscribe to…although I completely understand that you might not want to share that information!

    Thanks for your writing!

    Reply

  70. Emily, your tips definitely resonate with me! I’ve wanted to get back to blogging but every word, every photo, seems to be a struggle. And I know it’s because I’m usually trying to blog for others and not myself. Thank you for this post!

    Reply

  71. such beautiful words about such a forward-thinking notion. thank you, as always, for sharing so graciously. i love the intentionality behind your manifesto and i’m eager to sit and create my own. i recently had a vision of lifting my writing up to God, asking Him to guide/use/direct me. and then i realized, it’s not my writing He wants lifted to Him, it’s my heart. and i changed what was in my hands. and that is where i need to continually go back to. presenting my heart and trusting what then pours out of my typing fingers. featured a teaser of your post over at inspowoman.com. much love, sister!

    Reply

    • I ADORE this: “i recently had a vision of lifting my writing up to God, asking Him to guide/use/direct me. and then i realized, it’s not my writing He wants lifted to Him, it’s my heart. and i changed what was in my hands.” Amen amen!

      Reply

  72. Oh…I HOPE blogging’s not dead!

    The best tip for me in this post? UNSUBSCRIBE to all but your top, most favorite, must reads. Could not agree more.

    I also agree with your point on “connecting” rather than “competing.” There’s way too much competition in the blogging world. For me, I try to keep in mind that I’m writing for an audience of ONE. I pray that I will always share the many ways God has been faithful to our family. My goals are to CONNECT with moms who have children with Down Syndrome, and to maybe show the UP side of DOWN (syndrome, that is!).

    Your blog is on my favorite list. Your writing encourages me every time I read it. Thank you so much for “sitting on the bench” with me.

    Reply

  73. I will always love and appreciate the depth of blogging vs. the snippets of instagram or twitter. This feels more doing life together .. if even just sitting next to each other for a few minutes of quiet understanding. On instagram I’m too antsy and quickly scroll down to the next picture. ;))

    Reply

  75. You read my mind too often. Maybe that’s why you’re my favorite blogger. I love the quote you shared, “It’s better to write for yourself and have no public than to write for the public and have no self.” Thank you for sharing that. I’ve been blogging for four years now and I’ve felt the urge to quit so often because I haven’t progressed as quickly as I originally hoped. The thing that keeps me going is the spiritual fulfillment I find in writing, and that fulfillment is there regardless of the size of my audience. Thanks for the encouragement.

    Reply

  76. I love reading blogs. Longer form is good-much as I love Instagram, some thoughts just don’t fit in an IG caption! I am a sometimes blogger…I did the 31 day exercise back in October, then stopped. I’m wrestling with what writing is for me, and your manifesto will be helpful. Thank you.

    Reply

  77. I appreciate your words here, they give a direction and a focus that reflects a heart of grace. I like that. It is refreshing to read the manifesto you wrote. It would be prudent to consider making one as we start our blogging journey. I have struggled with a few of these ideas and recently considered stepping away from this avenue of writing, but if stop writing for the world and instead just write then the expectation is less. The words flow freer when we follow the best path and hope spills out in streams when we share in grace together …and that is why I want to share words.
    Thanks!!

    Reply

  78. Your words do resonate! Thank you for the printable. I was thinking I need that posted in my office.

    I am just getting started in the blogging world in order to grow as a person and a writer. There have been many times over the past 5 months where I have been overwhelmed by the competition, the scheduling, the need to have an independent blog, the need to constantly be improving.

    I feel I’m returning to my purpose as a blogger. To be authentic, an encouragement, and a source of joy. I will add those to your list.

    Thanks for this post!

    Reply

  79. Yes, yes, yes. I have been mulling over this same thing. As a professional writer, now stay-at-h0me-mom, I have a neglected blog that I’ve been missing but considering abandoning for good. I’ve been thinking about new direction and I think I have a plan in place – this helps. I started my blog for the same reasons you stated above, and I have close to zero readership, but I write it for me, my girls, and my husband, and that’s okay.

    Thank you.

    Reply

  80. I’m very grateful that you took a week to write this post, and that you posted it, and that I’ve now found it. Your “As a Writer” list now hangs above my workspace. Thank you for sliding over to make room for me here on your bench.

    Reply

  82. I’m so glad you are going to continue to blog. I get your posts delivered to my inbox, and reading them is like a breath of fresh air, a time-out (in a good way), a pretty little break from whatever is going on. So thanks for your encouragement, and for being real. 🙂

    Reply

  83. Thank you for your thoughts. This was so soothing to my soul as a new blogger. I just started blogging this past summer after years of writing for myself. It was a leap of faith for me and its very overwhelming when I look at the big blogging names out there. I totally relate to your statement about the panic triggers! Sometimes I just need a break from it all and remember what it all means to me. I’m so glad I found your blog from your sister’s book. Keep doing what you are doing! I love it.

    Reply

  84. First time visiting your blog and yes, I’ll be back.

    “With all the noise, we have to work harder than before to remember why we do this.”

    Love that. It seems you and I are on the same page blogging-wise. I’ve been at it over four years now and you’re right, there is a lot of noise and plenty of distraction out there, but I still love it and have no intention of stopping any time soon. Hope you don’t either. Thanks for the thought-provoking post.

    Reply

  86. I found your blog by way of your guest post over at {in}courage, and I am grateful for the discovery. I’m wrestling with many of the same questions, and your I love your process as you think out loud. I’ll be back again and again – such a joy to meet a new friend.

    Reply

  87. Thank you for this. I only started blogging eight months ago, but it has quickly become an outlet that I love. I, too, have heard the quiet murmurs saying blogging is dead, so this post was a breath of fresh air.

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  88. Thank you for your words.
    This ‘Manifesto’ warms my soul.
    Writing, like any craft, can set your passion on overdrive. Writers need an outlet. Blogging – or any online writing – is a refreshing way to really focus that ambition.

    Reply

  89. A little late, but I need to tell you how much I love your writing. I am reading your blog for about six years now, and I don’t know what I would do without it. Really!! Your words are uplifting and encouraging, and here is truly a place where my soul knows it can breathe.
    I am not at all concerned about the future of blogging.
    Thanks for everything!

    Reply

  92. I love your books, but your blog helps me through the weeks. It is a kind companion for my soul! I am so thankful you didn’t not stop blogging in recent years. I only stumbled upon your blog in the last year. I connect to your unique voice. I love that you are a few stages ahead of me in life and mothering, Your blogs and books have been somewhat like a mentor to me. You have helped me just be me; an extraverted introverted mom who loves Jesus and needs lost of inspiration and encouragement….and your pretty instagram pics are fun too!

    Reply

  93. I’ve experienced the same thoughts as you over the last little while. I used to get TONS of comments and now I’m sitting here with my last comment dated 11/12. I love that quote by Cyril Connolly that you shared its “better to write for yourself and have no public than write for the public and have no self.” (Cyril Connolly)

    Reply

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