Remember when I used to be a regular blogger?
Exactly, 501 years ago, I believe it was. 😌 Back in my wild and woolly youth. I had a posting schedule, I answered hundreds of comments per day, I visited so so so many blogs, I spent hour upon hour on posts. And I do not regret it. It was hard, but it was also rewarding, my blog grew incredibly, and I really made great friends. I started this all in May, 2011, when I was 17. At the same time I really seriously started pursuing an author career — and fell in love with book blogging along the way.
But then in 2018, it all sort of fell apart.
I think sad music needs to play right now. 🥺 I’ve put two screenshots below of my blogging archive, to show how many posts I was putting up per month in 2017 vs 2019. So you can SEE it halved.
…whyyyyy, though? I mean this isn’t uncommon for bloggers to lose motivation. I think I read a statistic somewhere that said most bloggers last about 2-3 years on average. (Book blogging is a particularly difficult niche, because we don’t get paid but we’re under so much pressure to read/review/promote everything.)
I do have a complicated mess of reasons for my crash, so I want to actually TALK about them for once.
- The very very very first reason is MY BLOG BROKE. It stopped emailing people my posts and after a month, I went from 100 comments to 50 comments. I had no idea what was happening. I’m super busy, so it took a while to notice I was losing touch with other bloggers — and I didn’t realise my posts weren’t going out, so I kind of assumed people were stopping blogging. BUT NO. IT WAS ME. Turns out my blog’s (I’m self-hosted wordpress) scheduling wasn’t working. I realised this, stopped scheduling, and now manually publish my posts. But it took me over a year to figure this out so the damage was done. 😭 It’s still broken. I never schedule now. (And yes I’ve tried to have it fixed, but I don’t know what’s going on.) I still have people messaging me with: “Oh I thought you quit blogging.” 😫
- At the same time, I had three big life changes happening. (1) I got my dream of being an author, which was amazing, but stressful and complicated and new. As an autistic, I don’t actually function well with new things (EVEN IF I REALLY WANT THE THING) and there was a lot that went wrong a lot behind the scenes. They are still going wrong, bless. 😌 I’m stressed. And (2) I moved house and it really shook me. See aforementioned struggling with change. And lastly (3) my mental health just collapsed. Like, being honest? I was not okay. I feel a little more solid now, but I’m treating myself really gingerly. Depression and anxiety are actually illnesses, and I’m allowing myself to believe that now. I’ve lived with anxiety/depression for over 10 years, and it’s taken things from me. Motivation. Memory recall. Clarity. Coping mechanisms. Etc. etc.
- (And look, I don’t often talk about this because I like privacy but also I don’t want to sound like I’m asking for pity! I do honestly feel okay right now! I’m working hard, I’m chasing dreams, I’m coming to peace with the fact I will never know left from right so please don’t give me directions. But I say it today because I know lots of us struggle with mental health so 💛 hey, you’re not alone.)
- So I sort of fell out of the community. Partially because of my blog breaking, people not knowing I’m posting, etc. Partially because I started lacking the ability TO put 2+ hours a day into blogging!!! I’m STILL struggling with this and I apologise 100 x over, because I feel rude and snobby to not answer your comments and visit your blogs, when I’m just so so mentally exhausted. And you get what you put out in blogging. I don’t want to whine that my blog is dying when I’m also not actively working on it like I used to. So that’s on me too!
- Please don’t feel I’m complaining and wishing YOU worked harder when I’ve not been supporting you either. My apology is also here to you too for not supporting your blogs these last 2 years.
- I also found it was hard to be a blogger AND author. I didn’t properly anticipate it. When my debut came out, were a couple of times going to visit friends’ blogs (people I’d talked to for years…) to find them giving my book really harsh reviews. And LIKE OKAY. This post is for being raw and honest so let me say: I fully believe you should review books however you want. But like…we were friends?! Maybe they could’ve hated it and not reviewed it, knowing I comment back so would absolutely visit their blog. Plus I stopped negative reviews (I don’t think it’s appropriate for an author to put down other authors — just MY opinion) and I started noticing just how negative the community could be. NOT everyone!!! This isn’t a call out!!! It’s just…I even looked at MY content and felt I did so many “unpopular opinions” and snarked about books a lot. I kept reading reviews were it didn’t seem anyone really thought about the books? It was just “this book is bad because BAD THINGS HAPPEN” and I’m just ?!?!??!?!?!?! Again, this isn’t everyone. But things built up. Dissatisfaction at my own content, plus anxiety about accidentally seeing reviews of my books, plus feeling we all get more likes/reactions when we’re being negative.
- Plus I saw again and again authors/readers clashing on twitter. Authors harassing and openly mocking readers. Readers being outright cruel to authors. It was overwhelming. I didn’t feel like an author (every time I tried to make author friends I was very politely acknowledged once and then very politely ignored) and I didn’t feel like a blogger (I couldn’t keep up with posting or commenting).
- I had a CRISIS. I didn’t know where to sit. Maybe on the floor??? Crying????
- BURN OUT. We have to talk about it. It sucks. It’s real. This year, 2020, I will have been blogging for NINE YEARS. You run out of content after a while!!! Your brain burns out!! Plus so so many of my old blogging friends have left or stopped or moved on. Not all, thank goodness, but I miss a lot of people. And then…I can’t think of fresh funny blog posts anymore.
Lastly I started putting my effort into instagram.
And it ended up being way way more rewarding for me. It turned into my mini-blog. I talk about books there, I do funny memes in my Stories, I’ve found so so many epic people I ADORE. I answer 100+ comments there a day. I help run a bookstagram tour company! I really really love visual things and book photography makes my heart sing. 😍
It also gave me a wider reach for promoting my books! Which I sorely needed. And it’s just quicker and easier to use. Instagram (#bookstagram!) is my focus now and will stay that way!
soooo…what happens next for the Paper Fury Blog?
Now it’s the start of a new year. A lot of my old blogging problems haven’t left → I still feel awkward being an author AND blogger. And I don’t know how to write blog post content because I can’t THINK of any. I’m very very tired still and don’t have the energy I used to.
I put so many hours into instagram that I have none left for the blog.
Now this is the part where I could probably say: “I’m quitting blogging and just using instagram.” But I don’t wholly want to do that because: (1) reviews are easier to log, find, and be searchable on google if they’re on a website! (2) I PUT LIKE 9 YEARS INTO THIS BLOG DAMMIT I CAN’T ABANDON IT. (3) It looks pretty, duuuuude my blog is nice. (4) I would miss you. 🥺
this is the part where I ask for your advice, opinions, and wisdom on what I should do next with PaperFury.com!
Because this blog is firstly here because I loved blogging. But also it’s content I make for readers. So I want your input and advice and feedback. I don’t create in a vacuum. I create to entertain and make friends and have a platform for my work as a writer. (And also because I really freaking love talking about books?!?) Audiences are important. That is a fact.
So talk to me. (If you want!)
Options
- I blog twice a week. A review and an article (maybe a top ten list or writing tips or a book discussion). So basically what I’m doing now. Except…actually do it. (I think I just went 2 weeks without blogging again oops.)
- I blog like I instagram. Short, regular post. Popcorn style reviews. Mini discussions. Focus more on your comments than on me writing 2K posts. We’re talking 500 word posts. It would be doubled-up content from my IG and light/fun — ergo much less work for me.
- I blog like AN ERRATIC BEAR and you will just never know what’s coming but at least there will be pretty photos when it does happen.
- I blog mostly reviews, because I have…so so many of them. But it would be regular content, probably helpful to authors/publishers, and I find them way easier to write so I wouldn’t feel pressured.
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I really really value your feedback on this! And I KNOW so many of you are the absolute loveliest and will just say “do what you want!!!” but I don’t know what I want 😂 hence you have to decide. And I want this to still be a blog you enjoy clicking on.
And look, no pressure too, okay? I’ve already apologised for not being as supportive as I should be TO YOU as well. So please don’t feel like I’m whining for more comments. I am absolutely okay if my blog is quieter. I’m actually really exhausted. 😂 Instagram WILL still be my focus. And I also want to find time to write novels + read books + be a loaf of bread.
I can’t go back to blogging as hard and industriously as before. I just have to accept that time is finished for me. But I don’t want to vanish forever.
Also? If you want to ever chat with me: Instagram DMs. Guaranteed I will actually answer. 😂
Anyway. LOVE YOU!!! thank you for reading this heartfelt ramble!
give me all your thoughts! and tell me about YOU. have you felt blogging has changed for you? do you feel worn out or keen to blog more this year?
Bloggers only last two or three years!? I guess I can see that as I’ve seem a lot of bloggers come and go. But it also makes me feel better about my life blog (I’m coming up on six years, I think. Maybe seven?). My blog still seems small though … But then the content is more niched and not everyone likes that 😂
As for your dilemna, since you already have a loyal following that wants to see whatever whenever, I’d say option three. That way we know we can still get good stuff from you when you’re ready and you don’t kill yourself doing any of the other options.
Also, your pics are always GORGEOUS. Sometimes I think I come only for those … It’s definitely half of why I love your IG. Humor is the other half;)
MB: keturahskorner.blogspot.com
PB: thegirlwhodoesntexist.com
Honestly what even is blogging I don’t remember jhhgfdfhghfg I think it was this thing? that I used to do? who knows sounds like hard work
Anyways blogging is really hard, so do what you have to <3 <3 I will read it (uhhh, when I get the motivation to read blogs posts so probably three months late, but still) whatever you end up doing with it, and I hope you find something that works for you 🙂 <3
I love your tips and lists. I do, however, check this whenever you post on insta that you updated.
I think option two is good for you now because you mentioned you’re very busy. But it is just my opinion 😅. I can say I have the same problem. In the past year, I self-published my book and became an author? well, the case is I forgot my blog a couple of times 😶 trying to focus on promoting tools and everything, being self-published is not easy! But I try to keep my blog as active as possible, posting about books or whatever is on my mind, what I noticed is the engagement has dropped down 🤔, it is like no one is seeing my posts…
Take care and take the option that suits you well atm 🙂
Personally, I LOVE option one because I think you’re hilarious and I love the way you write and it’d be baller to eat up all that new stuff buuuuuuut that’s what I want for me.
What I want for you is for you to be happy and I reckon option three is the best for that. It seems to take care of all the problems that you mention (option 1 looks like it may burn you out, option 2 looks like it may become socially overwhelming and option 4 was something that you were concerned about because you’re an author/blogger) and we’ll be here when you post x
Awwwwwww, that sucks. Sorry to hear you are struggling so much. I thought you were taking it lightly or just busy due to book publishing… And maybe a bit lost about your double role, and trying to find your footing again. I had no idea it had been so bad. Maybe because I’ve been struggling with blogging for 2 years now, and mostly of the book bloggers I followed moved on to other pastures.
BIG HUGS!
I don’t know if I ever wrote this, but I am really proud of you and what you have accomplished.
I love your blog writing and voted for 2 but really think it is whatever works best for you! Just don’t ditch the blog!
While it’s lovely to ask the opinion of those who read your thoughts, you do whatever is best for you. I follow your Instagram so can see regular updates every day or two when I’m active there, and receive the weekly updates from WordPress to have a closer read or a quick skim depending on how I feel. I think your Instagram is just beautiful, your books amazing and so well written, and your blog is a great source of reading inspo and goals, so I’ll keep up however you continue and hope it gets a little easier for you as you settle into a new groove.
Hey, just want to drop by and say you are one of the people I admire most within the community. I love your content and I feel like I’ve learned a lot from you (SO THANK YOU). You are doing a great job!!!
First of all, thank you for talking out about your mental health and your problems. It helps us understand what goes on behind the blog and appreciate everything you do, more. Also I chose option 2, so that we can hear from you and still you will get more time to breathe.
I hope things get better for you soon! Once again thanks for everything you do.
Hiii!
First of all, you’re doing a *9th doctor voice* FANTASTIC job!!! (9 years of blogging? I can’t even believe I’ve been doing it for one it’s seemed like 12 years in Azkaban) I’ve read almost every one of your posts and they are HILARIOUS omjg.
Second of all, I think it’s great that you’re reevaluating this blog. It’s a good thing. You see problems and want to address them before they get out of control. Very mature 🙂 (and the popcorn style blogging sounds FANTASTIC btw. I love popcorn)
Also, mini rant: um wth??? Harsh reviews from your friends? I don’t understand. I still don’t understand. LET ME JUST MORPH INTO JOHN WATSON BECAUSE I. DO. NOT. UNDERSTAND. maybe the thought you could take it better from a friend idk but sTILL.
Also “this book is bad because bad stuff happens in it” um so EVERY book is bad because EVERY book has bad stuff happen… That’s what’s sUpPoSEd to happen or ppl will gripe and say “omjg Mary suuueee” or “NOTHING happened it was all too perfect! ” I don’t understand that either. (I should get that on a T-shirt)
Third of all, if you decide not to keep this blog going (rational decision for many) it’s okay! (Tho I will be sad but I’m sad about a lot of things) (also I wish I could come support you on Instagram but, alas, earwax, I’m doing that thing where you take a mental health break??. Tho I started mine w/O even realizing) I know you aren’t ready to do that yet, but in the future, this option might look more appealing and I want you to know IT’S OKAY. It’s only a blog. (Tho yours is most definitely #1 best)
And finally, if you want to be a loaf of bread… Go for it. This is zootopia, and in zootopia, anyone can be anything!
Option 1 but some of it can be from option 2 to make it less pressure. I’m perfectly fine with the erratic bear too 😉
Whatever you write I will love reading it! xxx
Aww, I’m sorry you’ve had so many struggles with your blog and everything! That totally stinks that your posts stopped being emailed to people.
I voted option 2 because it seems like the most realistic option for you judging by what you said in this post– short posts might be pretty easy to produce without exhausting yourself! It might take some getting used to since you HAVE always written such long posts xD But we’ll support you no matter what! I toootally get having to make changes for yourself. Good luck with whatever you do! 😀
theonesthatreallymatter.blogspot.com
Hey’a!
I completely get it about blog burnout and life changes keeping you from blogging as much as you wanted. I’ve been in those spots; in fact, I’m kinda currently there. (*screams at looming graduation*) And having mental health stuff on top of that . . . honestly, I’m really impressed you kept going as well as you did. It’s like you were running a marathon when you were sleep deprived and hungry and the route kept changing . . . and then you broke your ankle or something on top of that, but you still got to the finish line. So go you!
As far as blog changes: I confess that I’m least likely to read your reviews. I don’t really read review posts anymore unless they’re for a book that I’m already thinking about checking out or a title/cover that seem really intensely cool. That said, I get that they’re the easiest thing for you to write. I voted Option 1, but I think it would be a reasonable option to have some of your non-review posts be more Insta-style stuff. Maybe alternate between a lighter post and a longer post week to week? (Also, I really love when bloggers post mini-reviews for some reason? IDK why? So that’s a thought.)
So, yeah. There’s my thoughts; do what you want with them and the blog and your life. I wish you all the best, and I will continue hanging out in my corner. *waves*
Unless you really, really love blogging and think it’s fun, don’t blog? Just blog when you feel like it? I really enjoy your writings but your health is more important. I really don’t get how you do it – spend hours on Instagram, write long and interesting blog posts, write books and read HUNDREDS (!??!?!) a year? Like, when do you sleep? Eat? Do anything else?! 😂♥️ You don’t have to do anything besides what feels good to you and what benefits your health.
I voted for #2, but I also like the idea of #4. Maybe you could do a mixture of the two?
It will be interesting to see what you decide.
I VOTE 28! Wait … what are we voting on again? I think I missed something.
Unfortunately, I was caught up in that website break, too, and I thought life just was holding you hostage (I promise, I was considering staging a rescue, but I couldn’t find a proper archer or a halfling to take on the quest). Thankfully, I follow you on Twitter and noticed that you were still posting … I just wasn’t getting notified. And when I re-signed up, it’s been working since. But it was a good couple months before I realized. =/
I’m so sorry you had to see negative reviews of your book from friends. It’s so hard straddling both worlds. I’m an unpublished author, but I have friends who are … not. And I don’t always enjoy their books. So like you suggested, I just … don’t review them. I usually tell them that it’s just not my sort of work (not everything is), and bow out. I had a sort of existential crisis a while back about whether I actually *should* post my two-star reviews or three stars with a lot of negatives, and I decided I would, but take care to stick to the faults in the *book* and separate it from the author (and also make it clear that these are problems between the book and I, not anyone else and the book, because what doesn’t work for me DOES work for others … and I’ve actually had several people pick up books off my two-star reviews because they loved something in books that I didn’t, and that’s what convinced me to keep posting them).
Your blog is gorgeous. You shouldn’t leave it. BUT DECISIONS ARE HARD. It may be a cop-out, but my vote is that you do whatever feels best for you, and I’ll be here for whatever that is. Because I love your blog (and your IG and Twitter) and will show up regardless. <3 Also, self-care is super important.
Thank you so much for sharing your story Cait. Sending you hug, love and best wishes. Hope you find what works for you 😊
An erratic bear…okay, pardon me falling down with laughter over here… 😉
Blogging has also been a sort of tempermental thing for me lately. I know if I just stopped, I’d really miss it. But also there were times in 2019 when I literally had very little spare time, and/or felt too drained to come up with a post that was halfway interesting. It’s partly why I’m changing my own formula for my own blog this year – somewhat so that I feel like I’m actually contributing in a worthwhile way to my platform and the community, but as well to encourage myself that it’s okay to take breaks when needed!
Getting back to what you love about something is so important! I voted Option 4, so that you have what you feel you have to get out of this blog, but not extra stress or pressure, and we get what we’re after, too. Quite honestly, I have only found one other book(ish) blog (in the last 3 years), other than yours, that covers topics in such a way where I always look forward to coming back for more. Your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed!
It sounds like your instagram style is really working for you and might bring motivation to your blog, and less pressure! I’m here for anything you write, but especially light fun content and gorgeous pictures 😉 I just hit my ten year blogging anniversary on Jan 1st, and have fully embraced my own erratic bear, so I absolutely support that too, or at least toying with it! It can be super freeing if it ends up working for you. Either way: I feel ya and I’m here for whatever comes.
AHhh I feel this so much, except I’m the opposite. I’m pouring more time/effort into my blog and bookstagram is… well, floundering a bit. I hope you find a schedule that works for you! I think shorter posts are perfectly okay, and they sound better for you to stay balanced and well-rounded. Physical and mental health is huge for me in 2020, so I’m all for whatever is the most healthy & conserves that precious brain power!
I definitely feel like blogging has cooled down. A lot. And I think mostly due to Booksta. To the point where I’m getting emails from publishers that say they are no longer going to be doing blog tours, but are requesting links to reviews on buy sites (Amazon! They want you to send them links to an Amazon review!). Blech.
Here’s the thing. Your blog is YOURS. You own the (badass) URL. You can do whatever you want with it. As a publicity professional, I would urge you not to give that up. I always counsel authors not to rely on a third party presence online. Your Booksta is GREAT, but it is not really YOURS. Instagram can change any time, just as we have seen with Facebook. They could even LOCK you OUT. (Nightmare, I know, but it could happen.)
I think you do such a great job. You don’t have to review every book you read. I love your reviews but I also love your articles! (So. Option 1) But I would love to see your posts! I admit, I fell off visiting blogs for a while. But I do want to start again!
Thank you for sharing all of this, I’m sure it was hard 🧡
And sorry for not commenting much, I honestly have a problem of wanting to comment and never actually doing it, but I want you to know that I read your posts and I love your posts and you’re always so funny and wonderful. Really, you’re hilarious 😀
I’ve recently – all my life really – been struggling a lot with anxiety and ocd and panic disorder, so I relate to what you wrote about your struggles, and I’m happy for you when you say you’re working through it.
I actually didn’t know you were mostly on Instagram, so I’ll totally keep an eye out there, since I’m not usually there, but I really want to see everything you write over there 🙂
Thanks for being so open and vulnerable here, I know it must be really really hard and I appreciate it so very much <3 sometimes you seem like a superhero and I don't know how you do it all!!! It's so impressive!! I didn't vote i'm sorry, (not very helpful of me I know) just because i'd really like you to do what's best for you (though I know you may not be sure what that is rn!) Also, just thanks for all the content you put out, your presence on here and on insta and your books are just really awesome, but I hope you do look after yourself plenty too – do all that procrastabaking and snuggle your dog! (if he'll let you!) just… *hugs* you're more awesome than you know!! <3 (and NO PRESSURE TO ANSWER THIS. AT ALL <3)
I chose option 2 because I am currently trying to get a book blog started and this is the approach I think I’m going to take. My number one fear is running out of content combined with the fact that I’m terrified no one will want to read what I have to say anyway. I’m a mother of two who works full time so I know that I can’t dedicate too much time to this, but I also NEED it to feel fulfilled. You do you and don’t worry about making other people happy. 🙂
I am a totally old blogger as well and there have been years when I barley posted. 2019 was one towards the end because I had to make a decision of what I needed to cut to juggle things and my blog was what I decided to take a small step back from. Blogging can be so draining when we feel like we are stuck and it’s okay to be stuck. Being stuck allows us to realizes what works and doesn’t work for us. There is joy to be had in that!
Honestly, I find just keeping up with a Goodreads and Bookstagram is hard a lot of the time, I don’t blame you for being less frequent with blogging. I voted option one because I think my favorite posts are the articles and lists but maybe mixing options one and two would be good, like you focus on mini and easier stuff and occasionally do something bigger if you feel like it. I’d also love to see more stuff about writing because as a writer I find those posts helpful and relatable. And don’t be afraid to take breaks when you need them, because at the end of the day you should blog because you enjoy it and not because of obligation!
Cait, let me just say that your blog was one of the first book and writing blogs I stumbled upon as a little anxious fourteen year old who didn’t think anyone else in the world liked writing as much as she did. I’ve been faithfully following since then and your blog (and you yourself!) have been incredibly formative on my journey to become an author. When ATPN was published it gave me a whole new surge of hope that I could be published too and that all I had to do was work harder. It was also fun that you were Aussie too 🙂
I understand your reasons for stepping back and will support you in any way that I can. I like option 1 or 2 the best, but ultimately whatever is easiest for you 🙂
Also maybe publishing a bit more about writing/writing tips could be fun? I’ve always enjoyed those sorts of posts from you in the past.
OHHH 9 years is absolutely amazing Cait!! I think I voted for option 2, but really, what makes you happiest is the most important!! I can totally imagine how difficult balancing being a blogger and author is! I’m an aspiring writer and it’s already a struggle to allocate time for blogging and writing, it must be crazy for you with all the deadlines and all the promo you have to do with every book release!
Honestly I think Twitter is a very toxic place depending on where you are…but I’m so sorry you get brushed off by other authors!! But I’m sure you’ll find your own group eventually <3
Okay I'm going to log off and go follow you on Instagram now 😉
I love seeing you post, but I understand feeling uninspired. Last year I went from posting once a week to once a month, Blog like an erratic bear if that’s what works for you, haha.
I didn’t follow you way back when and I probably would have been overwhelmed with so many posts! I’m an erratic blogger myself, I’d rather blog when I have something to say and not blog if I’m stressed/too busy/feeling uninspired, etc. So erratic blogging doesn’t bother me. I enjoy your erratic posts 😀 I also follow you in Instagram so I don’t feel like you should have to duplicate content?
Your description as an erratic bear really made me wanna pick three 🤣 but I decided to think again about what you’d said and used logic, ergo I chose four 😀
Most crazily, ~Olive
Hi Cait,
First of all I just want to say that I miss the old days of GTW and our little blogging circle.
While I basically never comment, and I personally quit blogging for a year before starting over completely, I have always sort of ghost-followed what’s going on with you and been very, very impressed (and, TBH, hella jealous of your Twitter rep). I get a lot of satisfaction from telling people “I knew her before she was cool” lol.
I do think comparing your current output to that previous output screenshot only proves that you’re being too hard on yourself. You’re still posting a LOT of content for someone who isn’t getting paid to do so. I know how it is, honestly. And it really didn’t dip that much! Certainly not halved. You’re writing more posts than I can keep up with reading sometimes (and I always feel bad about leaving them sitting in my inbox…).
I can very much relate to the impact that mental illness has on writing and productivity and schedules and all that. I have bipolar disorder and will always have to live with managing my cycles.
The book review experience does strike me as odd. I’ll admit, I have posted negative reviews in the past. Mostly of self-published books I felt should have been edited more before release. The one truly “this is a bad bad book” review I think I ever wrote was of All the Bright Places – and I can’t remember, I think you loved that one? – but because of my bipolar I really related to Finch and found his ending too much of a “there is no hope for you with bipolar and your future is doomed no matter what you or anyone else does” message. It was very emotional for me. But if I knew the author personally – especially if I knew she’d actually read my review – I definitely would have either been more gentle about it or just not posted (and probably talked to her a lot about it because honestly that’s a conversation I would still love to have, knowing why she wrote the book and how personal it was to her too.) It sucks that your friends would be harsh about the books you put so much work and time and heart into, knowing that you’d see what they wrote.
RE: your survey, just FYI, I was 50/50 on the fence between 2 and 4 and ended up voting 4. But I see now that 2 is much more popular and just my two cents, I am super cool with that too. Shorter content might not be Google’s favorite, but I actually prefer shorter posts most of the time because then I can keep up with reading them – and interacting – more easily.
Anyway, now that I’ve written an entire letter, I should go actually write the words I’m supposed to be logging today. I can’t wait to see what path you do decide to take with this blog, and I’m always following and rooting for you <3
– Emily
1. I’ve missed you! We’ve both had a pretty intense couple of years and haven’t interacted as much as in the past.
2. I like option 2. I’m not super active on Instagram, so would like to still see you here on the blog, but I also don’t want you to have to stress over creating more content.
3. Mental health can be utterly debilitating at times, I totally get it {I actually blogged about it today too}.
4. Whatever choice you make, do what’s right for you. Yes your blog is gorgeous, but if you feel ready to stop, that’s totally ok!
5. You have been on my mind a lot lately with the news of the fires. I have no idea where any of my Australian blogger friends live and have been so worried about all of you…
Hey! I just want to say I love your blog, and all your reviews. (But I am IMPATIENT so I usually read all your reviews on goodreads before you post them here haha.)
Personally I’d like a mix between options 2 and 3. Short popcorn posts are fun. Not every post has to be a big production. But maybe one day you have the impulse to write a post HERE ARE 500 NEW RELEASES TO ADD TO YOUR TBR and that’s cool too!
(But seriously not option 1 unless you really feel like it!! Don’t burn yourself out. Take long afternoon naps. I enjoy all your content but you gotta do what’s best for you)
Cait! I’m so sorry that you feel the pressure (because honestly same but still we all love you) but I am so so glad you’re feeling better. Of course you know we’ll all tell you to put yourself first. ☺️ Don’t worry, you will always be the OG book blogger but most of us understand that we all have different phases and obsessions in our lives and sometimes we just grow out of things and into others. You should absolutely put your focus into Instagram (duh you love it) and you’re just so crazy talented at it. I’m not a bookstagram person at all but yours make me so happy. Anyway all that to say I hope you’re doing what you want/what you love now and I wish you all the best no matter where you go. (Also you will always be hilarious and relatable don’t worry)
Aw Cait I’m sorry WordPress messed up with sending out emails and all that plus everything else bad that’s going on in your life; anyways I hope it all gets better because you deserve the world and yes honestly I’m fine with any of your proposed options, after all it’s your blog; in particular I think 2 sounds like it’d be a good option for you, otherwise 4 or 3 or 1 are all great! Sending you lots of love <3
Thank you so much for this real and raw post, I admire your bravery in sharing so much. <3 I do feel blogging as a whole is changing; with the increased number of social media platforms and shortening attention spans, short form media is quickly gaining popularity over long-form. (Can you tell I'm studying digital media at uni lol?) It makes me want to focus more on quality than quantity this year; write posts I enjoy and think are helpful, not just cranking out posts for the sake of writing them. While short form media can be fun and a good release, I don't think it's where my passion lies!
I hope our answers in the poll help you, and that there's a clear winner! (And if you feel disappointed in the winner, take that as a cue that the other options work better. 😉 ) *hugs* I look forward to chatting with you, wherever you decide! <3
I think you should do what makes you happy and does not annoy or disturb you because there is too much pressure or i don’t know what.
hope you will succeed and happy in what you will decide to do.
love your Instagram and just discovered your blog ; make sure i will support you on this last now !
sending love, good vibes and stars’ dust💫
So sorry to hear about the burnout and mental health stuff. I’m also mentally ill and I so so so relate to having periods where everything is just twice as hard to keep up with.
I don’t have an opinion between all your options. I love what you do here and am glad you’re going to be sticking around and I’ll still be here. I follow you on RSS, so the email stuff doesn’t impact me. Your stuff is always fun and funny and real and you’ve introduced me to several books I ADORE, so really anything you decide to do with the blog will be fun for me to keep following.
Take care of yourself, friend! (And if you ever just want to chat with another author, please feel free to reach out. I’m not a book blogger, so no risk of me writing mean reviews of your books.) <3
Whether you post once a month or once a year, do it because you love to blog. I’ve never had a blogging schedule because the pressure would be too much for my mental health. I tried it once and it was a disaster. Your readers will still be here regardless of how often you post. The fact that you’ve had this blog for as long as you have is incredibly impressive. Like, seriously impressive. I’ve had three blogs over the years (I’m on my third) and this stuff is HARD. So kudos to you. I think either option would be good but it’s all about what’s best for you. Even if you pick option one, for example, don’t feel you need to stick to a schedule. Being a blogger is hard, being a blogger AND author is, I imagine, even harder. Be proud of everything you’ve accomplished 💛
This is SO KIND and also so so encouraging, Kelly. Thanks for saying this. And I know so many of us struggle with mental health issues with blogging too, so it’s good to know we’re not alone. 💛💛💛
I haven’t kept up with your blog as much as I wanted (sorry!) just because I’ve been SO busy and/or exhausted over the past however-long-its-been that I’ve prioritised commenting-back, and keeping my socials/posting up to date, over ‘fresh’ blog-hopping.
I love your Tweets, btw, and I’ve noticed that a lot of your Tweets have become memes and screenshotted on blogs and Pinterest, etc! So that’s cool as hell! (…I now realise that hell is not cool, it is in fact, hot, but you know what I mean!)
Aw no PLEASE don’t be sorry!! I haven’t been keeping up with anyone’s blogs either and I feel so horrible and slack. I don’t want to complain about comments here or anything, more explain my sudden decline in blogging and why I’ve been so mentally absent too. But like ! we all get busy and stressed and overloaded, and sometimes blogging is the thing that gets in trouble for it. And it is easier to come up with a tweet (although admittedly I spend hours on those too haha) and I’m really honoured people have liked my social medias. I do want to hold onto the blog though. Somehow!!
DUDE. Blogging has DEFINITELY changed for me!!! (And I’ve only been doing it three years??? Ahahaha. Hahahahaha. Help.) The past couple years have just been…weird?? I’ve fallen out of the community. I’ve stopped READING blog posts and commenting and making friends and nurturing the friendships I’ve made. I think there’s just something in the air? I feel like the blogging community is dying, and it’s stressing me out. I DON’T WANT THE BLOGGING COMMUNITY TO DIE, OKAY.
And I am SO sorry about everything that’s been happening to you. People can be heartless sometimes (or maybe just oblivious), but in my eyes, you’re one of the most wonderful authors/bloggers, so commenting on your posts is kind of nerve-wracking for me. XD But I absolutely love all of the content you come out with, whenever you come out with it. (Although, I must say that your posts on writing/being an author are some of my absolute favorites!!) As far as your blog goes, I do truly believe that you should do whatever’s good for you, whenever it’s good for you. And if that means doing a mixture of all four options, then I say go for it!! (I did vote to hopefully be helpful, but this is my extra two cents. XD)
In a nutshell, no matter what you do, you are doing an absolutely fantastic job and I 100% support whatever decisions you make!!! <333 (oh!!! And your insta is one of my absolute FAVORITES. Your dog is the cutest bean in the world. <333)
KENZIE YOU ARE LOVELY AND I’M SO GRATEFUL FOR YOOOOU 💛💛 like this comment is amazingly encouraging. But I also want to apologise for not visiting your blog recently too. I’m sad about the blogging community drifting too. Like I know it’s not TOTALLY on the community, it’s my fault too for being slack and absent, but I do feel like so many of us have left or stopped and it’s sad. The spark is a bit less, maybe social media is just faster and quicker. But I really love instagramming so!! It’s hard to know what to feel.
I definitely don’t want to stop here. Just find a way to make it all work. 💛
I’ve always loved your blog ever since I was introduced bu another blogger friend (I think 4 years ago now?) who said she thought us similar in our rants/raves about books and other interests. (Also, heeeey, looks like we’re anxiety and depression groupies too—fist bump!)
Your book reviews and pictures have always been awesome; I adore them! Though I have to admit that I come more for the way you write up your humorous and adorable reviews (srsly, Adore Them!!) than anything else. (Also I commiserate on the dumb wordpress scheduling thing; it’s so frustrating; I have openly cried.)
I think I have been rude in some comments a time or two (and I apologize; I’m annoying so much that I even annoy myself, and I hate being rude but sometimes 🤦🏼♀️ yeah, so I’m sorry for that).
But I always love your blog; you’ve led me to a lot of interesting books and authors over the years that I’d never have thought to take a look at (or even HEARD about!), and your mutual adoration of Stiefvater just Kills Me (I am dying to read her newest book—but, like yourself, FUNDS 😞). You’re the only blogger I’ve seen that knows what Scorpio Races is (and gushes over the rest of her writings).
I hope you can get this all worked out; I’ll still keep following (and try to comment more, and share, and link) whatever you decide to do!
Mutual love for STIEFVATER AND ANXIETY FEELS *throws confetti over us and cries* 😂 i’m really glad we have similar book taste and connect on posts and such. I feel bad for being an absent blogger and not supporting everyone…and also not writing posts like I used to. I WANT to, but I can’t think of any!! I keep hoping the inspiration will come back so…maybe this will be the year?!
Hey Cait, do whatever your heart is in, your mental health allows you too. These days, even I am not getting enough time to blog and I guess that’s okay. Your genuine followers, people who love your voice will definitely follow you wherever you are putting all your efforts in. Blogging is really tough and you have already came a long way. So if you feel Instagram is much better option for you then I would say, invest your time there.
Aww, Sim, you’re lovely and amazing and thanks so much for understanding 💛😭 I miss reading your blog too! I just feel SO BAD for being so absent and not supporting everyone else too. But I definitely want to find a way to balance this all and make a comeback!
Whatever you do don’t stop blogging here! As you say your blog is so pretty 😉 No, really your content is GREAT and to me (who sadly isn’t as consisting in visiting your blog as I would like) it doesn’t matter if you post twice a week or twice a month :)))
I can semi relate to the author/blogger thing but in a different sphere. I used to do gymnastics on a higher level but this year I decided to end “my career”. I still train but only once a week but now I am also a coach. I struggle to find my way to behave when I am in the hall as a gymnast vs as a coach. I think it will be difficult in the beginning but I hope I will finde my way in time 🙂
Anyway you are awesome and I am sure you will find your way <3
I don’t want to stop that’s for sure! And YES. I totally get what you’re saying about the gymnastics and figuring out how to fit in with peers especially when dynamics change. And sometimes the change is for the better, but sometimes it just feels lonely? It’s hard to balance. I hope yours is settling down too
I feel like I totally ostriched over the last year and lost touch with a lot of blogging folks too. Just, head in the sand, must just keep going. My blog got a bit ghost-towny at times because I was barely reaching out to anyone! Glad to see you around. <3
Awww same to you, Nikki!! It’s really hard when we feel just…lost from the community? I know lots of mine was my fault. If I don’t talk to people, how will they know to talk back? But I also just felt like I didn’t belong…which is really not true. I have so many friends here and I love all of everyone’s content too. Just need TO GET BAK TO IT!!
I believe there are a lot more bloggers and authors out here that have or do suffer from depression and/or anxiety. I know I do and all the negative voices in my head slow me down. (My blog isn’t up yet…I’m fantastic at procrastination). I think you are amazing and a huge clap and pat on the back! You’ve earned and deserve that and more.
This is really kind/encouraging of you to say and I appreciate it! And TRUE. I think a lot of us anxious wrecks (lolol) turn to blogging as a way to connect and socialise when it’s hard to do it irl? And to find people who like what we like! So it’s good to find people to relate to here too. 💛
You’re doing wonderful Cait, honestly. I think a lot of us look up to you, doing all of the things. But we get that at some point it gets too overwhelming. I LOVE your posts, but I wouldn’t mind seeing less of them so you can enjoy writing them more and fall back in love with blogging ♥
Btw, about that scheduling error. I got it too! But there’s a fix. When I realized there was a problem, I did some digging and found a plugin called Scheduled Post Trigger. It basically identifies when a scheduled post isn’t posted, and makes sure it gets published when it has to.
💛😭 omg I appreciate this so much. And I feel bad for disappointing people who’ve been so loyal and kind to me for SO long. Like you all deserve quality posts and I feel like all I do is produce things that sound the same or dribble, gah. But yes, I want to get back to blogging but not stressing over it. I will find a balance somehow!
OMG. I will check out this plugin immediately!!
Personally I voted 3, because I think that’s the most healthy thing to do. Blog when you have the time and energy. One week a post per day and then two months of silence? Fine. Better than forcing yourself to create content on a constant level.
I also wouldn’t mind shorter posts, Hell, I wouldn’t mind the blog just looking like your Twitter account even – because I really really love your Twitter lists and would even buy them as a book if you were ever to publish them. ( 😉 )
Just do, what feels right. And even if you’d completely switch to Instagram … As I hate IG I would mourn your decision, but this is your hobby and you have to do what feels right for YOU and not what we expect you to do or what we wish for.
What we care about most, is that you don’t wear yourself down. 🙂
Greetz
Taaya
Aww this is SO LOVELY AND ENCOURAGING TO READ!!! I just…have an eyelash in my eye. Not being emotional or anything. 😭💛💛 But it’s true that blogging shouldn’t cause us anxiety/stress and we should be focusing on good content when we can. And I feel there must be a way to reuse some of my twitter/instagram posts here too. I enjoy the fastness of social media, but I miss connecting with bloggers!
I think all your options are viable. However, I do like the idea of popcorn posts. I’ve been trying to figure out a happy compromise, because I enjoy blogging but feel like I’m under pressure to get through books and talk about them in record speed — and I think popcorn posts are kind of my way to do them. I mean they aren’t always short and to the point, and I think that’s okay too! I like the idea of blogging for really in-depth topics that Instagram can make rather difficult for a person to always find it or might wind up scrolling through because the post is too long (I’ve been guilty of doing this)
I follow you on multiple platforms and enjoy your content one way or another 🙂
– K
I’m glad you like the idea of popcorn posts for you too! It seems like a good way to compromise too, right? Like people naturally read things faster and so maybe 2K long posts are too daunting anyway. Although the occasional in-depth post is probably a good idea!
I’m smiling right now because I’ve been there. I was a long time Goodreads user until I became an author and then it all went downhill for me. I didn’t like when I had been honestly critical of other authors books and I didn’t like seeing other people being critical of my work either. I deleted all my reviews there and handed that community off to my PA. On my blog, I ONLY ever talk about the stuff I enjoyed. It does NOT bring the eyeballs like negative reviews do and I’m okay with that. I’d rather gush over stuff I love than hate on the stuff I didn’t. You definitely need to figure out how you want to do it. Also, Instagram is great and all (I’m there) but it is not YOUR SPACE. IG/FB can take that account away from you in a heartbeat. THIS is your space. So be here and be real. (Yes, your blog broke. I’m a professional WordPress developer so if you want to shoot me an email, I’d be happy to help you.)
omg I am resonating SO MUCH with all you’ve said. I deleted all my negative reviews too. And I just…I feel sad? How it’s way more popular and easy to get big numbers and views/likes if you post negatively? 😭 like there’s a place for salt and criticism, but I ended up feeling that’s what I was contributing to most: pulling apart instead of actually celebrating books. So I DON’T have anything against people who do negative reviews, but this definitely helped me realign my feelings about how I wanted to present.
Also agreed about owning your blog vs being reliant (shudder) on facebook/instagram to preserve your content. Also I live in fear of my account being hacked or deleted or something. So I still want to own something!
Hi Cait!
I’ve definitely fallen out with your blog over time, mostly due to the sad mailing problem. But coming back here I just realise that I miss your content and gah I’ll try to visit more often! And apparently your emails have suddenly started appearing again but I think for the past month or more they were just lying in my spam folder?
Either way, I’m sorry that you’ve been having such a stressful and hectic time. I’m sending you all my love and hope to see you around soon <3
Aw that’s totally not your fault, Charvi!! And also *I* feel infinitely bad for not visiting your blog like I should too these last few years 😭 I know it’s a struggle for ALL us bloggers to find time to put out great content AND answer comments AND visit other blogs. We need like 6 more heads each.
I think a post about once a week or every other week would be fine! This way it would always be a surprise to read them – I am still quite new to your writing, so I had a lot of old stuff to read but I would enjoy reading new articles. BUT I also think it is very important to not stress yourself about it because your well being is a lot more important then a blog! That said – I very much enjoy reading anything from you and also follow you on Instagram. So anywhere where you pop up – I enjoy it. 🙂
This is infinitely lovely of you to say 💛💛 I appreciate it SO MUCH. And I agree! Like there’s no point stressing myself out, but I do want to give everyone quality content. So probably just posting less but thoughtfully would help.
I personally voted for two because it seems the easiest/most enjoyable for you, but four also seems good because it’s not stressful and would help keep publishers connected with you.
Option three is also good because if you post like an erratic bear (lol) then there can still be variety in content (if you want there to be of course) and you can just do your own thing whenever you find time!! ❤️
Of course, your mental health comes before everything so you should do whatever is least stressful for you!!
That’s what I was thinking with 2 as well! I want my blog to be a good resource and also promote other authors the best I can…but I don’t want it to seem like I’m giving half-hearted posts if they’re short?! But then maybe people are busy so short would be GOOD! It’s a quandary. 😂😂 But thank you for this comment and your advice!!😍Going to find some way to keep on top of it all.
I’m conflicted. On one hand, I LOOOOVE your blogposts, and I love seeing your takes on all the bookish things. On the other, I realize how much work it is (I’ve always really looked up to you for that!) and I understand completely that it’s not really a sustainable lifestyle, haha! So with that, I think option 3 is the best, but obviOUSLY it’s up to you!! Do whatever makes it the easiest on you, especially mental health wise!!
This is why I’m so torn ahh!! Like I LOVE YOU ALL and want to give you epic content and so much thanks for everyone’s support. But I feel I am giving slack content and I feel sooo bad about it 😭 So I definitely want to be present on the blog, but maybe a little less, but still find time to support everyone else too?
Oh Cait, where to start? I have had a similar blogging crisis, tbh. I mean, I didn’t become an awesome author or get Instagram famous, but the whole “life is hard and I also can’t come up with things to write about” is a feeling I wholly understand. I have been where you are (aw fine, I AM where you are), and it is angsty tbh. I voted for Option 1 but I really mean more of an Option 1/Option 3 Combo Platter. Because while selfishly I want ALL the posts, I think it’s okay if you need to become an erratic bear sometimes! Heck, I think it’s GOOD to be! Because life happens, and we don’t always know WHEN it is going to happen.
I really feel like you need a Bellamy Blake GIF right now but I also know that you have no idea who he is, which is sad. BUT. The bottom line is, you HAVE to put you first. And SURE, sometimes that includes maintaining your blog and Insta, and commenting or chatting to keep relationships alive! But I mean, I can’t speak for everyone, but I know that for me personally, I know how much you have on your plate, and I’d never in a million years want you to be drained on my account (as a reader of your blog, a reader of your books, or as a friend in general), I know you’ll pop back in when you can, and I think that the best thing about that is, you understand when I am not on the ball too!
Anyway, if you ever want to commiserate on failing at blogging, well, I’m your girl! And if you ever just feel stressed and need someone to vent to or chat with, I am there for that too. You know I adore you, and I will take my Cait in any form I can get it, even (fine, especially) Erratic Bear 😂
SHANNON I LOVE YYOOOOOU 😭💛I can’t thank you enough for saying all this and just?? it means so so much to me. I kind of miss the good ol’ blogging days where we were all on there SO much and posting several times a week and yelling fangirl excited things at each other…but alas I think life knocked the wind out of a lot of our sails? Plus, like the rise of social media. Which I LIKE but it’s so hard to do everything. I miss my blogging friends though, and it’s hard to keep up on instagram without ignoring people and then feeling like someone’s been snubbed. Gah. I want to be present here, but also not churning out lackluster content. Because you are all amazing and deserve better than that too 💛
Hey okay I know who Bellamy Black is from 2nd hand fandomism 😂just barely. (SOMEDAY I WILL WATCH THAT SHOW I PROMISE!!!)
And I’m always here for you too! Just so you know. I know life hasn’t dished you out 100% awesomeness these last few years too. 💛 *erratic bear hug*
I didn’t vote because I think I like the options 1 and 2. I like your wordy posts but you should also make it more easy on yourself. You could do a mix of that. Do a top ten tuesday or list post here and there, a review and do an bookstagram like post. You could cycle through that every 2-4 weeks.
Sending you all the hugs <3
You are always so lovely and kind, Annemieke!! just know it means SO much to me …and I feel bad for neglecting your posts too (I always love what you blog). I’m definitely hoping to do more TTT and just be lowkey, but present.
Love you Cait. Take your time. We’ll still be here.
I’m so sorry you’ve been feeling so stressed and anxious and that so much has been happening lately, Cait. I’m sorry you’ve been feeling burned out,too and it’s completely understandable. Blogging has changed so much in the past few years and so quickly and the community too and with social media and bookstagram rising so so much…. it’s complicated to know where to stand and what to do and, honestly, I think you’ve done pretty amazing at blogging and writing incredible blog posts in spite of all of this, too. You deserve A whole mountain of cakes, tbh.
Onto your actual question…. I’m voting for the erratic bear, because I think you deserve to put yourself first. You should write when you feel like it and, if you feel a lot of motivation and inspiration this month and will post twice a week, GREAT! If the next month you don’t and barely post once, it’s good too. What matters is that you don’t force yourself to create content and burn yourself out further and just focus on yourself, your inspiration and your own health, too, when it’s all you can handle. I’m always here if you need to chat, Cait, and I love you and I’m sending you tons of hugs and croissants and French pastries. Always supporting your blog and take care of yourself <3
This means so much to me 😭💛I honestly can’t say thank you enough…for all the nice comments you leave and your friendship and YOUR epic blog (which I adore reading!!) Blogging has changed a lot too, I don’t think it’s just me for all of this. Like we are merging to social media and fast posts and spending less time reading long articles. I’m okay to make that change with audiences, but I do get a bit nostalgic for the good old days.
Erratic bear might be the way to go :’) And I’m taking all your advice and encouragement to heart!
Honestly, Cait, my personal favorite posts have always been the monthly recap posts, so as long as we can still get some of those, I’m good. ^_^ But to be helpful, I did vote #4…I want to help make things easier on you, whatever you do going forward with this blog. Take care of yourself. <3
Aww thank you for saying that! And honestly I love doing recaps, so I hope they’ll continue!!
Thanks for your honesty. I had no idea that feeling overwhelmed with blogging was such a common thing.
I managed to consistently blog for about 3 months and then couldn’t deal with it anymore. Having said that I’m hoping to do get back into it this year, but by taking smaller steps than I did back then.
I love your photos and your blogging, so wish you all the best with whatever route you go down as long as it’s one that works best for you. 😊
Hey, I would actually suggest you blog whenever you feel like it and write about whatever comes to mind, but it seems like that’s not that easy for you right now. I’ve been blogging for almost 9 years myself and while there are phases in which I post several times a week, there are also months in which I don’t get anything done besides a monthly recap. And I think both is okay. Tbh my blog is really small and there are always few people reading it and I WOULD like the numbers to go up, but I’m also not ready to invest myself in it to a point where I would have to publish content when I don’t feel like it. I do however completely understand that it’s frustrating to watch the numbers go down constantly.
As you can see I don’t have any real advice for you, but I will try to comment more because I know everything is more fun with a lot of comments and I’m not the best role model regarding this.
Have a nice day! I hope you will find a solution with which you are comfortable.
cait, i think it’s totally fine that you’re more open about the idea that blogging will change! as you said, it’s been nine years! it’s to be expected that your schedule would change and your content as well. as a fan of your blog, i can say whatever you prefer, i’ll probably still be reading it.
i voted on option 2, because i think these posts will be less time-consuming for you to write and probably less time-consuming for people to read too, so more engagement? idk, i’m definitely not as pro on blogging as you, but just know that you’ll have a lot of people supporting you no matter what you decide.
wishing you all the luck in figuring out the changes for the new year! i hope 2020 treats you well! 💛
Aww, thank you so much for your honesty, Cait! You have always and continue to inspire me as a book blogger! I’m so sorry that you had the difficulties with the post scheduling earlier this year. I ran into similar technical difficulties on my blog and it low key drove me into a blogging slump for two months. Oops. I love all the content you share and will support you and any of the decisions you make for Paper Fury wholeheartedly (even if that means seeing your posts less often on here!). Wishing you all the best for 2020, love! <3
Oh gosh WordPress has been mean recently and just is like “What? Actually send out emails to people when bloggers post? Let people be able to follow other blogs and like posts? …I don’t think so.” 😂 so I’ve kind of dropped off the face of the earth maybe just a little bit.
Thank you for putting yourself out there and talking about these things. I know it can be hard to say them sometimes, but we all need to hear these things. So thank you.
I was fortunate enough to find you right before your first debut novel launched, and it kind of sucks that I STILL haven’t been able to read either of your books yet! Cause I’m in high school and I don’t have a job so I can focus on the school. But maybe in around a year or something I’ll get one and can get your books! 🙃
I have a couple of random thoughts that maybe might help you a little; feel free to ignore me cause I just went through finals week so I might be a *little* brain dead. 😂
– Fist, I was thinking that maybe you could offer some guest posting. You have built up a loyal audience, so maybe you could reach out to some bloggers you know would do posts that would appeal to your audience and offer to let them post. Or set up a survey thing where they can sign up and say what they would post, so then you could pick and choose. That would take the pressure off of you to make all the posts. 🙂
-You could also go back into your archives, pull out an old post, and do a critique of it. That way, you’d have most of the content there, and you could basically say what you’ve learned since then to give even better information. It could be a whole series. You’d get a lot of sarcastic fun. 🙂
-And the other thing I was thinking is that maybe you could try self-publishing. I know it’s not for everyone, but I’ve noticed how you say that your books have not been accepted by agents recently, so maybe you could try to the other way and see which you like better. (again, you can totally ignore this, but I thought I might throw that out there; self-publishing is kind of considered the non-professional publishing, but not all self-published books are bad. And if you ever are thinking about it, I’d be happy to give you a run-down on the process so you can get a better idea of what it’s like 🙂)
Seriously, just follow your heart. You feeling burnt out? Get away from the cause. If you can’t spend 2 hours on a blog post, then don’t. Do what makes you happy. Enjoy the journey for yourself, and make sure you’re not just doing it for others. While it’s good to help others, this is your life, and you’ve got to make sure that you’re also living for yourself. Whatever you choose, I’m sure we’ll all support you!
Absolutely Option 2. Just slap your Instagram pictures on there for the ones that don’t Instagram, write a short paragraph and call it a day. I love your posts but burn out is a horrible thing, I’ve been there and ended up quitting everything to do with books because of it. And now I have constant anxiety that it will happen again.