I recently read somewhere (although I don't recall where) that there are more than 3.9 million moms with blogs. I don't know why, but that number really blows me away. I think the biggest reason I'm in awe of that figure is when I think of how difficult it is to be a full time mom and maintain a successful blog at the same time.
Let's be realistic here. Blogging consumes a lot of time and effort. Unless it's done in the middle of the night, it takes us moms away from our husbands and our children. In fact, as I'm writing this, my husband, being incredibly supportive and understanding, is in another room of our house relaxing without me! My children are sound asleep for the night.
When it comes to blogging, what actually defines Success? How do we make our blog stand out from the other 3.9 million mom blogs? Because, if we don't stand out, if our words aren't touching the hearts of our readers and aren't really striking a chord with them, then why exactly are we spending all this time writing in the first place?
To be successful in blogging, while also being a great mom and wife, is an art. This art form starts in our everyday decisions and reactions. And only you know what's right for your blogging mama journey.
Here's How I've Managed To Be A Successful Blogging Mama
#10 - Have A Plan
When I started blogging, I had a mission in mind. My family and I had been through some really rough times . I felt strongly that God was calling me to share the heart of our story with others, giving Him all the glory through our testimony. I also knew I was on a faith journey to become a better mom, a better wife, and a more devoted child of God.
Inspiring and encouraging other women in their faith walk has become my writing mission. For me, blogging isn't just about sharing my day with you, it's about writing with authenticity, who I really am. Broken. Flawed. Sinful. Yet so loved by God anyway. And it's about sharing my journey to become better. I know you are also on this journey and can relate with my imperfections, as well as the joys of being a woman, wife, and mother.
#9 - Take A Vacation
I watched an episode of the kids show, Arthur, one day with my daughter. Perhaps you've also seen it. One of the female characters had started a blog and she became so wrapped up in blogging that she never left her computer. Eventually, she ran out of things to write about.
Thankfully, as a mom, my parenting responsibilities do pull me away from the computer on a regular basis. But that's not necessarily enough. There is still a need for taking a vacation. There's a need for us women to get out into the world and live life! Some of my greatest writing inspiration comes from spending time with my children, my husband, and my friends. Even in the simplest activities.
#8 - Be Intentional In Spending Time With The Kids
Determined, a go-getter, and extremely focused are really great words used to describe me as a person. However, when it comes to those words mixing with my role in motherhood, guilt is the word that seems most accurate. I can very easily lose myself in my passion for writing and suddenly realize hours have gone by and I've not spent any quality time with my daughters. When, not if, but when this happens, guilt consumes me.
To avoid this trap, I try to be intentional in setting time aside each and every day to spend with my girls. It doesn't matter if that time is spent reading, coloring, or baking something fun together. It just matters that I'm completely tuned into them, and nothing else, in those precious mommy-daughter moments.
#7 - Be Flexible
Every mom knows life doesn't always go as planned when little kids are involved. Sometimes they get sick, other times they are simply temperamental. Regardless of how they're behaving, it's important to remember to be a flexible blogging mama. Maybe it's best to walk away from that twitter chat or the article you're three quarters of the way done writing (and don't want to lose your train of thought on) to snuggle up with your emotional child for a bit.
I've found that often times, a quick hug, kiss, and a few moments for my daughter to crown me princess for the day, is all she's craving before continuing on with her playtime nearby, while I finish up an email or a blog post. My willingness to be flexible prevents many a temper tantrum and shows my child that she is indeed important to me and loved.
#6 - Get Up With The Roosters
None of the success I've had in blogging, motherhood, or juggling the two has come from my own doing. God drives this ship every time I make a parenting choice, sit down to write, socialize, or brainstorm. He inspires my heart and soul with the words that you (and I) need to hear most and His Spirit lights the path for my day.
But none of this happens when my relationship with Him is dry or barren. So to cultivate a deep relationship with my Creator, I get up at 5:30 every single morning and spend time in prayer and His presence. I listen quietly for God's prompting and whispers. Then I immerse myself in His Holy Word. Somehow, someway, by seeking first His Kingdom every day, I'm able to juggle the busyness of life as a blogging mama.
#5 - Find Creative Solutions
Even though my daughters are past the age of sleepless nights, motherhood and all it entails is often still an exhausting feat for me. When I'm feeling weary, my creativity slips away. Before I know it, writers block sets in and I notice an inability to respond to my children with loving, creative solutions.
The obvious answer here is to get more sleep, but that's not always an available option. So I simply try my best to keep an open mind and eye on opportunities as they present themselves. For example, when my daughter is clingy and I desperately need to get something accomplished, I'll turn to my iPhone for a new educational app that she can play with and explore. It's an instant distraction for her and opportunity for me.
Likewise, if I'm feeling a sense of writers block, sometimes just going through my keyword traffic stats (what keyword phrases led someone to click on my site) will give me a great idea for a topic to write about. Here's an example of an article I wrote based on the keyword phrase "I just want to give up."
#4 - A Little Bit Of TV Never Hurt Anyone
You may be stunned and appalled to read this, but I allow my daughter to watch TV while I'm writing or otherwise working on my blogging. She loves to watch movies and is perfectly content to sit on the couch engrossed in one of her favorite flicks while I sit nearby typing away. We're literally in the same room with each other.
Sure there's all the controversy that too much TV isn't good for our children and I would agree to some extent. However, the quality of shows we allow our children to view are educational in nature and not harming them in the least. My children are also extremely active, have wild imaginations, excellent vocabulary for their age, and a insatiable love for reading. So, I don't really think a little bit of TV time will hurt them.
#3 - Connect With Your Audience
Blogging isn't just about writing, it's also about engaging in conversation and relating with my readers. Not only should I be providing quality content for them to read, but I also need to let them know and feel they are appreciated. Remember? There are 3.9 million other blogs out there they can choose to read. They don't have to read or visit my blog. For this very reason, I refuse to respond to reader comments with an automated "thanks for visiting my blog" message. I read and respond to every comment as quickly as possible and I read and respond to every email I receive from a reader.
I don't know about you, but nothing sours my respect for a fellow blogger faster than being ignored by them. Especially if I'm a fan who reads all their posts, comments on their facebook status updates, and tries to show them I appreciate their efforts. My success has come from genuinely connecting with my readers. Each one is important to me. Each one is a friend God has brought into my life.
#2 - Use Effective Time Management
Blogging is time consuming and running a home has its own set of demands. The only way I've managed to juggle it all with any success has been by moving quickly and efficiently. I'm never idle for too long. I try to keep a daily routine for general house cleaning, by doing simple things such as emptying the dishwasher first thing in the morning. Doing at least one load of laundry from start to finish every day. Grocery shopping the same time and day each week. Teaching and expecting my daughters to pick up after themselves, and make their beds each morning. And having one day each week assigned for more deep cleaning tasks around the house.
Likewise, with blogging, I keep a routine. I always write blog content or work on other writing projects at the same times throughout the week. I engage with social media during specific set times in my schedule. I usually read and comment on other blogs, during the afternoon hours, particularly if I'm waiting for the oven to preheat for dinner. Rarely do I do anything writing related after 6pm.
#1 - Embrace Technology
This has been the greatest method for me to juggle it all. I use Microsoft Outlook to keep my core values, my mission, my projects, my appointments, and my daily task lists organized and at my fingertips each day. Additionally, my iPhone has become a wonderful resource for checking and responding to email while on the go, and for doing things like approving comments in WordPress when I can't be at my computer, or catching up on Facebook when I'm standing in line at the grocery store. It has also proved to be a wonderful source of entertainment for my daughters when we are out and about. I wish I would have thought of the use of the iPhone during my recent trip to Home Depot with them!
What Would You Add To This List?
Rosann Cunningham
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This is such a great and helpful list. I started blogging just to keep family in touch with what we are doing. Now I am finding I want to move past that and like step number 1, have a plan. Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful wisdom!
P.S.- I am a new follower!
Warmly,
Chelsey
Oh good Chelsey! I'm glad you found it to be helpful. I think blogging for the purpose of keeping distant relatives in the loop with what's happening in the family is wonderful. I know a handful of mama bloggers who blog specifically for that reason. You could always have 2 blogs - one for the family and one that's more mission/plan oriented. Just a thought... Either way, I'll be hopping over to visit your blog soon!
By the way, thank you so much for stopping by and for leaving such a wonderful comment.
Loved this post. I'm a freelance writer on top of being a blogger, and it's so easy to get caught up in work or blogging and not pay attention to my kids -- and I blog about ways to be a good parent. I, too, have to be deliberate in setting aside time to spend with my kids each day and remind myself that my kids are more important than my next blog post. Thanks for this great post.
Thanks Lori, I'm so happy you loved it! I'm very familiar with your wonderful writing. I'm one of your blog subscribers. Always love seeing your posts pop into my email.
Thank you so much for sharing your insights. Just found your blog via Twitter. I blog, but haven't really taken off, sort of a fair-weather blogger. Hoping to really get going with it, though. Looking forward to reading more from you.
~Jada
Hi Jada, thank you so much for your visit and your wonderful comment.
I'll be hopping over to visit your blog soon.
Rosann,
It's so funny that you have this post today, because this is exactly what Christina and I are working on with Club-Content--finding a way to carve out a niche among 3.9 million mom bloggers. We have a plan! It's in the works!
Will you link this up on our Featured Articles at Club-Content? It will really help everyone.
Courtney, I'm excited to learn more about your plan! I will definitely link this up over at Club-Content.
Rosann,
The plan is coming! Poor Christina...I'm working her to death! Thanks for linking it up for all of the members.
Haha! Okay Courtney. I'll be patient. It was my pleasure to link up.
Beautiful list, Rosann. Love that you include #6. I find the more God-time I spend, the easier blogging becomes.
So glad we found each other amongst the other 3.9 million mommy bloggers
All for Him,
Nikki
Thank you, Nikki! You are truly a blessing to me, and I'm so so happy to have found you as well.
Great tips!! The time management one for me is key...expecially with little ones who always want mama
Thanks, Aurie! I don't always get it right, but at the end of the day, I usually feel good about what I've juggled and accomplished.
Yes!! Great, great tips! I blog M-F, and it can be time consuming if we are not careful. Thankful He laid these practical ideas on your heart today. You have a lovely space here! Stopping by from Write It, Girl today
Thanks for your visit Christie!
Super practical tips!
Thanks!!
That was great hunny pie! Wonderful list. I have also found that throwing my computer thru the window helps with writers block too
Oh...and you bet my kids are watching tv while I blog 2 feet away from them
Sharon
Thanks Sharon! Haha! I've seriously considered throwing my computer through the window a time or two myself. In fact, I'm fairly certain my husband has considered throwing my computer out the window as well. Some days my writing passion drives him CRAZY.
But he always tells me he's proud of my "mission" in my writing.
Hugs,
~Rosann
Great advise. I feel like I have a plan, but then I don't. I have a layout, but then I want to take my blog seriously and write better content. Maybe I'll have to sit down and REALLY think about what I am going to write about.
A plan sure is a must, it's what's kept me going a little bit better, or at least my daily layout has.
I like this: Be Intentional In Spending Time With The Kids. It's true, blogging, or rather the social aspect can totally take the time away. And also the designing. I get so into trying to figure out the html code for doing something to my blog the whole day can be shot. I HAVE to get up and make the time for my boys.
Love this, I think I'll have to come back from time to time just to get a reminder.
Sarah, I love your blog. You always write on great topics! If you ever want to brainstorm with a fellow blogger (bouncing ideas off each other), I'm always available. Just shoot me an email at rosann@christiansupermom.com. I keep an Excel Spreadsheet labeled blogging topics, so whenever an idea pops in my head, I quickly type it into the spreadsheet and it's logged for another day or time. I also think it helps to give yourself a daily routine for parenting/blogging/social media. I've even heard of setting a kitchen timer for different activities so you don't get caught up in programming HTML or chatting in Twitter for too long. I don't use that method, but some days I really think I should.
Blessings to you dear friend,
~Rosann
Oh yeah, a little TV really never hurt anyone. I usually work with the TV on unless I have to do research and it does make me a better blogger since I don't feel like I'm slaving away - even if that's what's really happening. Haha.
Great tips, Rosann.
Thanks Anne! You know, these days TV shows for kids are really geared to be more educational. I just read an article from Baby Center (I think) on that very subject. Pediatricians used to say it was horrible to let your little ones watch TV, but now they seem to be having a change of heart.
Blessings,
~Rosann
I loved all your tips Rosann! I agree with all of them, and as a blogger I really feel that it's the connection that makes all the difference and it is where being a blogger, and a writer differ a bit for me.
My writing is in the content, or essay that I do each week. I started with the goal of posting one finished essay each week and have kept that up for the 1+ years that my site has been live. But it is in the connecting that not only has my site grown but that I have grown. It is also something I have grown to really love. I feel it is vital for a blogger to connect to their readers, reply to comments and visit their site as well. Blogging is a relationship.
I have been so turned off of blogs that may have great content but don't value me back. It's great and essential to reply and comment back on FB and Twitter, but it's also equally important to visit the sites of your readers. At least that is what I have found. I also agree that you really need to have an intentional time for prayer and meditation. I'm still working on the vacation concept, but I know you are right about that too!!! xoxo Love you!!!
Kathy, I've watched you over the months I've known you and have always had a huge respect for the way you connect with people. You are a prime example, in my mind, for how a successful blogger shows love and appreciation to her readers. I feel so strongly that this is a relationship "business". Thank you for always being an inspiration to me on the importance of making a connection with others in the blogosphere.
I love you!
~Rosann
My own version of number 6 would be 'stay up like an owl'. I have a really bad case of insomnia - sometimes I'd still be up at 4 am - so instead of just tossing and turning in bed, I channel all my energy to blogging.
Rebel Sweetheart, we all have our "best productivity" times. Haha!
I just started blogging again last month and now I'm learning lots of things from one mom to another without even knowing them personally. I loved the interaction and how I relate to all the posts that I read. Thanks for the tips and you're right with effective time management. More Power! =)
Irene, congrats on diving back into the blogging world again.
I appreciate your visit and comment.
You are amazing dear Rosann. Thank you for this direction when I needed it. XO
Awww, thank you Val! You're pretty amazing yourself!
You're right! If all you do is blog, your inspiration runs dry!
Thanks for your visit, Momfever!
Great article and reminder to us mommy bloggers to stay in touch and present with what really matters: our kids!
I read an article somewhere about not responding to your comments because it will set a precedence and when you get busy people will be upset that you didn't respond. So I stopped responding even though the comments make me smile. I might rethink this now.
Have a great day!
Leigh @oneandoneequalstwinfun.com
Leigh, thanks for your great comment. You know, I've always gone back and forth on whether or not to respond to comments, but I finally ended up going with the golden rule. Do unto others as you would have them do to you. Plus, when I respond to each comment, it helps my Google page ranking because Google sees that there's conversation and relevant information happening on my site. So it's a win-win. I don't always get a chance to reply right away, but I do make sure I set a day or two a week aside for specifically getting caught up on responding to comments. And sometimes if the comment is really a cry for prayers or advice from someone, I'll even email them with a more personal response.
It probably comes down to blogger preference, but I really believe to be successful in our blogging journey, we need to let our readers know we appreciate them taking the time to visit, read, and comment on the work we've poured our hearts into.
Blessings to you,
~Rosann
Great advice. I do many of these things already but its great to hear over and over.
Thanks Julie!
Great post, Rosann. And I agree with you on so many of these. I know about the guilt, which is one of the reasons I was trying to take some steps back. I've changed tracks a little bit, but with the change, I'm still spending more time that I'd probably like. And I agree that TV isn't all bad. My kids unfortunately watch a lot of TV. But, they are extremely creative and active. So, I don't have a problem if they want to veg out every now and then. I do! Have a great weekend, Rosann!
Thanks Michelle! Enjoy your vegging out time.
I know I will too! Haha!
I so needed to read that today....very inspiring. The one that really caught my attention was on time management. It's so easy to get caught up in the world of blogging and neglect the things that really matter in our lives....home and family. Thanks for the gentle reminder! I'm off to bake some goodies for the family and get the house in order for tomorrow.
My blog is my business. I would be very unhappy with my husband if he focused on work 24/7 and ignored our family. I keep that in mind as I balance my responsibilities.
My favorite tool is the kitchen timer! I set it for one hour when I get on the computer. I have an hour to write a post, network, participate in communities... whatever I want. BUT, the next hour goes to my home responsibilities. I guess I think of blogging like a corporate meeting. I'd burn out if it's all I did! And zone out!!!
Splitting time between blog, housework and kids keeps me grounded.