The Top 5 Excuses and the Top 5 Solutions

It would be silly to not mention the fact that it’s been MONTHS since I’ve updated this blog. It would also be counter-productive because, let’s face it, all bloggers run into this issue at some point. This post will both acknowledge and attempt to remedy the problem of not posting to a blog. Here are some of the excuses that I’ve been giving to folks:

1. I’m so busy that I don’t have the time!
2. I just don’t know what to write about.
3. The blog is not important enough for the inactivity to be noticed.
4. I keep forgetting and I’m just too lazy to update it.
5. I’m comfortable with leaving my last post on the front page for a while.  I mean, it’s about a Twitter fight with Carson Daly!

Ok, so you might be able to empathize with #1-4.  #5 is sort of my own thing.  Following are the things that I’m going to remember in order to maintain a healthy, active, vibrant blog that will continue to grow and build my personal brand.  Whatever that personal brand is.

1. This blog entry took me less than 15 minutes.  A post doesn’t have to be long or in-depth.  In fact, it’s better to have several shorter blog posts than one long one.  If your blog is very focused (unlike mine) consider creating a series of posts about a particular topic—this will take less time than writing an essay about the topic.
2. Think about the things that pique your interest throughout the day and make a note of them.  Go back later and draft a paragraph about your reaction to something.  You know when you read an article and Digg it or share it on Facebook?  Perfect blog post material.
3. First of all, it will be noticed.  And those who actually LIKE what you have to say will consistently be disappointed when they visit your blog and there’s nothing new.  And they may think you’ve died.  Besides, it’s not about whether the inactivity is noticed.  It’s about continuing to add to the collective dialogue, sharing content, and learning (even if that’s just learning about yourself).
4. Set up a reminder.  Put a sticky note on your computer.  Whatever you need to do.  As far as laziness goes, I feel the same way about exercise.  You have to do it even if you don’t feel like it.  In the end it’s better for you and you’ll be happy you did it.
5. While it’s tempting to leave a post you’re proud of on the front page, especially when all of the other things above are obstacles, it’s doing you no good.  Remember: it’s about consistently sharing your thoughts, listening to what others are saying, and adding to the collective dialogue.  A stationary post that sits there for months does none of those things.