Woman Blogging NightWhen I wrote my very first blog post back in October 2011, I had much to learn about the big, wide, wonderful world of blogging.  Well, I've come a long way since then and in fact, I just surpassed my 100th blog post milestone.  Recently, while glancing over my 100+ titles, I discovered a plethora of subjects – carefully integrating everything from professionalism and business practices – to art fairs, Johnny Carson, and Chicago Style Hot Dogs.  And, although narrative writing has always been a passion of mine, to say my blogging confidence at the beginning was lacking is, at best, an understatement.  Luckily, my trepidation subsided once it was suggested to "write what I know and find my own voice."  Consequently, my goal has been to create informative, inspiring, and thought provoking blog posts – while at the same time – adding a dash of levity so the posts remain uplifting and fun-to-read.

That being said, there are some work/life situations that are simply too mindboggling and too outrageous not to share.  Ah, the therapeutic benefits of venting are undeniably clear, don't you think?  Isn't it amazing how healing it feels to communicate our annoyances and exasperating experiences – respectfully and tactfully, of course – by way of the written word?  Certainly, blogging affords us the freedom to express ourselves, both positively and negatively, while enabling us to garner everything from kudos to comfort.  Not surprisingly, it is precisely these missives that also make our blogging contemporaries endearing to us.
 
In my opinion, business development is only part of what makes blogging so special and satisfying.  I am delighted and invigorated by stories of success and accomplishment.  On the other hand, I am captivated by, and sympathetic to, stories of challenges, disappointments, and frustrations.  Stories that allow us to congratulate and celebrate in times of joy – stories that allow us to learn, empathize, and offer perspective, advice, and support in times of need and sorrow.  Personally, I believe that blogging provides a quintessential outlet to connect and build relationships on a more meaningful level.  Plus, I must admit:  If I am seeking business-related, professional assistance, I will more than likely select someone with whom I already have a relationship – than to arbitrarily choose someone from the phonebook or Internet.

So, let's review:  Does blogging provide a proverbial windfall of advantages?  The short answer is "Yes!"  A motherlode of valuable information, recognition for your knowledge and expertise, a means of getting discovered by potential clients and business associates, and the opportunity to develop strong, lasting friendships and professional relationships.  Added Bonus: Every once in awhile – you get a chance to let off a little steam.  Do you see any downside here?

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51 Comments on Why Blog? Business Contacts. Make New Friends. Cheaper Than Therapy.

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AUG
13
217,750 Points 17 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Carie, Hard to imagine you wrote your first blog in Oct 2011, you write so very well and great topics. Aside from gaining clients, building relationships and letting off some steam, I've learned so much by reading blogs others write and have put some of what I've learned into practice.
7:36am • #32
171,988 Points 50 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp

Jennifer:  Good to hear you've experienced the benefits of blogging ... excellent!

John:  Thanks for the nice comment :)  Yes, here's to blogging ... onward and upward!

Bryan:  Thank you for the compliment :)  I agree ... it's always nice to know we're not alone!

Jeff:  Thanks for subscribing!  And, thank you for what you said.  It seems we all start in the same scary place, and soon we come to find out that it doesn't have to be so scary.  Plus, there are so many rewards from blogging, as well!

Karen:  I love blogging too :)

 
7:37am • #33
171,988 Points 50 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp

Janis:  Like you, it seems to me we've known each other a lot longer too!  That's exactly what I mean about the benefits of being here and blogging.  It's the friendships ... thanks, friend :)

Shannon:  Thank you!  I've enjoyed sharing my "voice" with the world.  And, as you said, in some ways it is like keeping a diary or a journal.  Yes, here's to another week in the Rain :)

Hella:  I agree ... blogging is fun, especially if you love to write!

Mike:  Thanks!  So many great reasons to blog -- it was difficult to list them all :)

Michelle:  Thank you :)  And, you're right ... you don't always realize all the wonderful benefits until after you've blogged for awhile!

 
7:52am • #34
172,515 Points 11 Featured Posts Attended Rain Camp

Carie-You are a wonderful writer! Keep up the good blogging.
7:52am • #35
171,988 Points 50 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp

Tammie:  I agree ... venting through blogging certainly has a way of helping us to maintain our sanity :)

Nancy:  Thank you so much for kind words :)  And, I don't see a downside to blogging either!

Gene:  Thanks ... glad I made you chuckle!  Do they even use those couches anymore? :)

Christine:  Absolutely!  As you said, it's great to be able to share the "triumphs and tribulations" with others!

Michael:  I hear you!  If you look back at the graphic I selected, you will notice darkness and a moon outside the window :)

 
8:12am • #36
171,988 Points 50 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp

Barbara:  It is a "fun way to work" ... I agree!

Tammy:  Thanks!  And, by the way, you were my inspiration for the last sentence in Paragraph #3 :)

Amanda:  Wow ... thank you and I'm glad you enjoyed the "Deck Parsley" post!  No downsides to blogging for me either :)

Beth:  Thank you so much for the compliment :)  You're right, there is so much to learn.  And, when we can put into practice what we've learned ... even better, yes?

Deborah:  Thanks so much for the kind words :)  I appreciate your comment very much!
8:23am • #37
183,724 Points 4 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Carie, I love how you construct your blogs...the graphics is out of sight.  Blogging can take you places if you are willing to commit and THAT you have...congrats and very well done.
10:14am • #38
708,340 Points 39 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

I agree. Sometimes someone comments with a thought or an addition that you hadn't thought about as a solution. Always get great info on AR.  Congrats on your 100th post.  Go back & look at your first & you will just cringe lol!  I'm near 1300 & haven't a clue what I've said.
12:24pm • #39
171,988 Points 50 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp

Cheryl:  Wow ... thank you so much!  I appreciate your thoughtful comment :)  And, I totally agree with you ... blogging is a worthwhile commitment!

Lyn:  That is so true!  I've had several "Ah Ha" moments when reading the comments of others.  And, going back to read my first blog was an eye opener, for sure!  It's amazing how we develop over time, yes?
1:52pm • #40
483,108 Points 82 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Carie, We started about the same time but I really didn't start writing regularly until April or May. I found your blogs about that time and have enjoyed every single one of them that I have read.

Debbie
6:55pm • #41
189,799 Points 15 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Excellent post. It's in those moments of frustration and lack of motivation that you can always count on ActiveRain for support, rejuvenation and friendship!
7:03pm • #42
AUG
14
511,016 Points 13 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Hi Carie, we agree.  We are starting to get regular referrals and other business connections with blogging.  Congrats on your 100 post milestone.
3:11am • #43
1,470,517 Points 27 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Blogging is certainly less expensive than therapy.  However, some may become compulsive bloggers.

Have an outstanding week with your camera in hand.

 
4:37am • #44
171,988 Points 50 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp

Debbie:  Awww ... thanks for nice comment.  I have really enjoyed reading your posts as well :)

Peggy:  Yes, it is nice to know we can count on AR for so much -- and that is a great feeling :)

Bob:  Thanks!  And congrats to you on your blogging successes!

Roy:  Ha!  Yes ... it's easy to get addicted to blogging, for sure :)

 
7:54am • #45
1,028,818 Points 16 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Called Shot Master

It is cheaper than therapy and probably more effective.  Great post and keep on blogging.
2:28pm • #46
AUG
15
886,244 Points 227 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Wow.. 100 posts already... I'm so impressed!
11:01am • #47
AUG
17
Outside Blog

Nice post Carie! Coming from someone relatively new to blogging, I agree with the advantages it has that you mentioned. Although it can be tough to get started, once you get used to your style of writing and come up with topics that you genuinely care about, it gets much easier.
11:34am • #48
AUG
29
189,058 Points Outside Blog

Mrs. Shapiro,

You are a class act and a light in a dark world. I really enjoyed your blog. MAy God Bless you and prosper you in your business.
8:44pm • #49
AUG
30
171,988 Points 50 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp

Marcus:  What a nice comment to read first thing in the morning!  Thank you, Marcus ... and I wish you the same blessings :)
7:43am • #50
SEP
01
129,227 Points 1 Featured Post

Wow! 100 posts. That is something for me to aspire to. My biggest problem is getting ideas for blogs and then getting comments. I guess I haven't mastered that yet. Maybe I will by the time I get to 100 posts myself. 

You are right that blogging is therapeutic once you know your audience.
7:20pm • #51

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Carie Shapiro (Managing Broker-IL;Pre-License Instructor-IL; Broker-TX) Rainmaker_large

Carie Shapiro

Evanston, IL

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Managing Broker-IL;Pre-License Instructor-IL; Broker-TX

Address: Evanston, IL, 60202

Office Phone: (773) 688-9080

Cell Phone: (214) 253-9080

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