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Finding Your Blogging Rhythm

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Real Estate Agent with Amanda Davidson Real Estate Group Brokered By Real 0225221517

Finding Your Blogging Rhythm

Blogging RhythmBlogging isn't easy and anyone that's done it consistently knows it takes commitment. When I first joined ActiveRain I had no idea what the site was all about and I lurked (sounds creepy) for months. Finally after reading hundreds of posts I decided to write my first blog. Looking back, it was ugly at best but, you have to start somewhere. My posts were sporadic to begin with and and I had no clue what I was doing. Then I took the blogging Bootcamp, light bulbs started going off and finally I committed that this was going to be something that I was in for the long run.

Finding your blogging rhythm doesn't happen overnight; it has to be realistic and is different for each person. Five days a week is what works for me, it keeps me committed knowing that if I make it happen during the week I can take the weekends off (just from blogging, not in general). Seven days a week would be overwhelming and I'd end up quitting. I admire those of you that post every day, it's not easy! Whatever you can legitimately commit to is what you should do. It's not a one size fits all scenario and finding the rhythm that works for you and sticking to it is far better than burning out.

Joan Cox, John McCormack, and Mike Cooper were my first daily commenter’s and a big reason I started enjoying AR. In the interest of full disclosure I did not like blogging at first but, I did enjoy the daily interaction and the more comments I left the more I received. It wasn't until blogging became a habit and a part of my daily routine that I started to enjoy it. I often still login on the weekends and leave comments for those I follow even though I'm not personally posting. I feel like I'm missing out when I'm away too long. That’s not to say I don’t miss a day here and there, life and business happen but, when I do, I feel guilty. That’s when you know you’ve got a habit going!

 

Posted by

 

Amanda Davidson Real Estate Group

 

 

      

 

AMANDA DAVIDSON  
l ASSOCIATE BROKER l  
l AMANDA DAVIDSON REAL ESTATE GROUP BROKERED BY Real

C  703.431.3755   |   O  855.450.0442  |   W  www.amandadavidson.com

A  1765 Greensboro Station Place Suite 900 McLean, Va 22102




Jerry Lucas
ABC Legal Docs LLC - Colorado Springs, CO
Notary Training, Consulting. Colorado Springs, CO

I got started blogging with AR a few months ago, then added a WordPress blog.  I am seeing my blog posts appear at the top of Google search results for my target keywords.  I try to write evergreen posts using SEO that will have a long useful life for my time investment. I don't have a fixed blogging schedule, but blogging is part of my internet marketing toolbox.

Jan 27, 2014 01:47 AM
Hillary Sheperd
Servpro of Scarsdale / Mount Vernon - Scarsdale, NY
Co-Owner ~ Servpro of Scarsdale / Mount Vernon, NY

Thanks Amanda, as I'm taking your great blogging evolution as an incentive and catalyst to keep me going in the new year.  There's always the thought that you want to wait to write well and give the blog and readers the time they deserve.  But, keeping a schedule and being consistent are key...so huge thanks!  MISSing Virginia...we moved to NY State in 2009 and am in VA / Fairfax area withdrawal...still!

Jan 27, 2014 01:55 AM
John McCormack, CRS
Albuquerque Homes Realty - Albuquerque, NM
Honesty, Integrity, Results, Experienced. HIRE Me!

Good morning Amanda.  Wow.... You can imagine the surprise when I opened your post and saw my name there.  It has been a pleasure to follow and comment on your very informative post.  I find you to be one of the most knowledgeable REALTORS in the puddle.  Glad you're here my friend

Jan 27, 2014 01:59 AM
Jerry Newman
Brown Realty, 210-789-4216, - San Antonio, TX
Texas REALTOR, San Antonio Military Relocation

Hi Amanda. Yes, it does take awhile to get you rhythm going for blogging. But, once you've found it, it's nice to interact with all the members. who leave comments on your posts. Like you, I was committed to at least 5 days a week, but it's been a challenge lately.

Jan 27, 2014 03:52 AM
Liz and Bill Spear
Transaction Alliance 513.520.5305 www.LizTour.com - Mason, OH
Transaction Alliance Cincinnati & Dayton suburbs

Amanda, That's one of the great things about AR.  Each of us can pick what works for us, and the interaction with our AR friends keeps the enthusiasm charged up for what we do.

Jan 27, 2014 03:54 AM
Amanda S. Davidson
Amanda Davidson Real Estate Group Brokered By Real - Alexandria, VA
Alexandria Virginia Homes For Sale

Joan, I agree. It's all about what works for you!

Michael, I completely agree.

Thank you Roy!

Jeff, ultimate marathon is a great way to put it.

Thanks Jared! Me either, I'd burn out.

Larry and Sheila, I enjoy visiting yours too!

Rebecca, great job doing the contests! I know it's not easy.

Tammie, I give you so much credit for posting daily! Not easy.

Wayne, you'll find it! Took me some time before I realized I had a routine.

Thank you Will, so sweet. I always enjoy checking for your posts daily!

Thank you so much Debbie!

Donna, I agree!

Jerry, sounds like you're doing great!

Hillary, my pleasure! I hope you still get to come and visit!

John, you were a big reason I started to enjoy it. Your encouragement is so meaningful. Debbie's too!

 

Jan 27, 2014 04:01 AM
Amanda S. Davidson
Amanda Davidson Real Estate Group Brokered By Real - Alexandria, VA
Alexandria Virginia Homes For Sale

Jerry, well said! It is hard at times and I fall short sometimes but, the fact that you've committed is what's most important.

BLiz, very true...it keeps me motivated!

Jan 27, 2014 04:02 AM
Phil Stevenson, CRMP
PS Mortgage Lending 305-791-4874 or 888-845-6630 - Miami, FL
"Mortgage Nerd" in Miami, Florida and Texas

Amanda, not only guilt but when you're away too long you also run the risk of losing the habit you sent so much time building. Blogging is a daily endeavor, not matter what, even if you log on to comment. Just getting down to the computer and doing something on Active Rain is enough. If you haven't written in a while though, it's time to get down to it and pound through because something will come eventually. Blogging is rewarding, but takes a lot of work as well. Best of luck!

Jan 27, 2014 04:26 AM
Fábio Emerenciano
Remax

I'm at the very beginning of my postings, so I understand what you lived. 

Jan 27, 2014 04:27 AM
Amanda S. Davidson
Amanda Davidson Real Estate Group Brokered By Real - Alexandria, VA
Alexandria Virginia Homes For Sale

Phil, you're right, if we're away too long we lose the habit. Not worth it!

Fabio, welcome to AR! Just keep at it and don't be afraid to post. You'll do great!

Jan 27, 2014 05:49 AM
Anita Clark
Coldwell Banker Access Realty ~ 478.960.8055 - Warner Robins, GA
Realtor - Homes for Sale in Warner Robins GA

Amanda: It is all about establishing a cadence and trying our best to stick with it, even on the days we really do not want to blog. On those days I tell myself that there is someone out there that needs whatever information I am providing and it normally spurs me to get it in gear.

Jan 27, 2014 06:25 AM
Graziella Bruner
NCS Premier Real Estate - Detroit, MI
Associate Broker - Serving Wayne & Oakland County

Amanda - this is a great habit to have and I would have to agree 100% with Anita Clark - we have information to provide!  Best wishes to you!

Jan 27, 2014 07:02 AM
Beth Atalay
Cam Realty and Property Management - Clermont, FL
Cam Realty of Clermont FL

Hi Amanda, like you, I was a lurker for a long time before I went for it. I do feel guilty if I don't blog but like you said, life happens, I won't beat myself over it. One thing for sure AR is addictive!

Jan 27, 2014 09:41 AM
Potranco Realty
Potranco Realty - San Antonio, TX
"Sold with Potranco Realty"

Hello Amanda, boy could I relate to this blog, my rhythm has been off four days now and I finally came back today. I'll see where it goes tomorrow.

I agree when you find a couple friends who comment on your blogs whether they're bad or good it sure makes one feel fab and gives one more juice to get the rhythm going.

Jan 27, 2014 10:23 AM
Joan Whitebook
BHG The Masiello Group - Nashua, NH
Consumer Focused Real Estate Services

I have had the same experience.  It is not easy to consistently post.

Jan 27, 2014 11:46 AM
Karen Feltman
Cedar Rapids/Iowa City, IA KW Legacy Group - Cedar Rapids, IA
Relocation Specialist in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

It does take a bit to get into the habit of logging in and writing.  I got so used to it, that when I was on vacation last month, I felt like I missed so much!  Thank you for sharing.

Jan 27, 2014 12:46 PM
Toni Weidman
Sailwinds Realty - Trinity, FL
20+ Years Selling Homes in New Port Richey, FL

I didn't do much my first year, Amanda. Then a top blogger gave me some advice about posting 10 a week and commenting, which I followed for 3 years.It was often grueling because of the time that had to be commited to it.

This year, I'm going to blog when I want too. I have other projects to be going on with.

Jan 27, 2014 10:02 PM
Richie Alan Naggar
people first...then business Ran Right Realty - Riverside, CA
agent & author

Just a few short years ago, posting and blogging were unheard of. Pretty soon, they will become the norm for all who interact. Face it now or face it later

Jan 27, 2014 10:18 PM
Amanda S. Davidson
Amanda Davidson Real Estate Group Brokered By Real - Alexandria, VA
Alexandria Virginia Homes For Sale

Anita, I like your use of cadence, a great way to put it. I try to write posts and put them in drafts when the juices are flowing. It saves me on the days I don't have much to say. 

Graziella, very true!

Beth, it truly is!

Bob, sometimes we need a break from it. I had a couple weeks last year when I was on vacation that I needed to recharge. You'll get back in the groove!

Joan, it's definitely not. 

Karen, I do feel like I'm missing something when I'm away too. It's part of the daily routine!

Toni, I enjoy your posts and think it's great you are so consistent. I know you've got a lot on your plate this year. 

Richie, well said :)

Jan 27, 2014 10:35 PM
Bob Crane
Woodland Management Service / Woodland Real Estate, KW Diversified - Stevens Point, WI
Forestland Experts! 715-204-9671

I think we owe a lot to the points system combined with the coaching from friends for getting us into that rhythm, now that it is developed I fight to keep it going every day.

Apr 29, 2016 03:18 PM