First of all, can I just say thank you so, so much for all your thoughtful and caring comments on Monday’s post?
I don’t know why I always second guess putting my feelings out there for the world to see.
The minute I hit, “Publish,” I always think, “Shit. I should take that back.”
Part of me is afraid because both my mother and mother-in-law read this blog and worry that I’m struggling out here in rural Tennessee. (Hi Mamas – I’m doing GREAT!)
Another part of me worries that this is internal stuff that I’m grappling with so I don’t need to air my dirty laundry on here for others to see.
But then there are days like Monday.
When I’m reminded that sometimes a good ol’ writing session helps free up my mind and my heart.
The therapy I get from putting my feelings down in writing is almost immediate. But what makes this place even more sacred and special for me is the kind of feedback I get. Not just the love and the support (which is SO appreciated). But the people who are like, “YES. ME TOO. I’M GOING THROUGH THIS NOW.”
The ability to be absolutely and completely vulnerable on here and show you the parts of me that aren’t glorified and glamorous is what makes this blog such a special place for me. Because we’re all a little imperfect. So why even bother pretending that we’re not?
Happy hump day to all you imperfect people.
I love you and appreciate you every single day.
Questions of the Day:
- What’s the greatest lesson you have learned recently in regard to your self and your struggles?
I’ve been struggling with the troubles of people in my life, they weighed on me heavily. Once I reached my breaking point and divorced all their troubles, my stress levels were significantly reduced.
Hard to open up and putting something personal out in blogger land is difficult. When is too much too much. Keep writing and hey mamas she is doing great so don’t worry.
candy recently posted…Amish Onion Patties
Amen to this! It is hard to be vulnerable but I agree, it’s good sometimes to be transparent and put it out there, it can be amazing the amount of support you’ll find! <3
Beth recently posted…Reverse Wordless Wednesday
It is hard to be vulnerable. However, you are completely right that an honest writing session can make a huge difference. It helps when you gain loads of support and encouragement.
Crystal recently posted…CTCMath Review
Love this! That’s one thing I do enjoy about certain blogs I read – that people are open and honest. None of us are perfect!
-Lauren
ShootingStarsMag recently posted…Dual Reviews: Cover Up + Five Dares
It can be so hard to share and put yourself out there, thanks for doing it though. I can be really shy around folks and have been trying to break out of my comfort zone and get to know more people and work and the gym.
Emily @ Pizza & Pull-ups recently posted…Favorite online healthy recipe sources and nutrition blogs
The gym is a great way to connect with people! Accountability, haha! I should take my headphones out on occasion and meet the people I work out with each morning.
Putting yourself out there is one of the most difficult things to do as a blogger, but when we freefall and all ourselves this freedom, it can be unbelievably rewarding <3
Thank you for always sharing pieces of your heart with us. Xo
Charlotte recently posted…What to expect when you’re not expecting
It is hard to be vulnerable and open up to those who might not know you but they need the message that you give them. I have many posts that are very vulnerable but someone might be searching for what I have to say and that could bless them. My vulnerability is their lifeguard.
Never thought of it like that – great perspective <3
You have hit on every writers’ struggle. We seem to be more comfortable putting ourselves out there, where others are more cautious. At age 50, I’ve realized that I only have to worry about myself. Keep putting yourself out there. If you’re anything like me, if you don’t, you’ll explode.
I recently opened up a private journal I started keeping in 2009. I made it private because I worried what the public would think of all these thoughts running through my head. It’s funny because reading those words NOW, I think, “I wonder why I felt the need to hide this part of my life.” I feel like I’ve opened up so much in the last few years and I really have this blog to thank for that. The daily writing and the reinforcement that this is a safe space and community make me want to keep coming back and keep sharing. Thanks for visiting today <3
Vulnerability is such an interesting topic. So many people are afraid to show their “weak” side. This reminds me of something I read in a book once. “If the people in your inner circle have never watched your heart break, your mask is glued on too tightly.” Erin Davis wrote that in her book Connected and it resonated with me and I think of it often. Thanks for sharing this! <3
> The minute I hit, “Publish,” I always think, “Shit. I should take that back.”
I can relate so much to this. Often I start worrying even before I start writing, which of course makes it harder to let the words flow. I started my own blog about a month ago, and I’ve been working hard to let go of overthinking. I used to think of perfectionism as a quality to be proud of, but I now see how it stops me from being able to experience the good that comes from opening up and connecting with others.
A practice that has helped me a lot is just starting off in a private space. Sometimes my blog posts are actually copy/pasted from the draft of an e-mail. I start off writing to myself. And then if I feel comfortable sharing with others, I share it on this space. And if I don’t, then it just sits there. Still a cathartic experience for me. <3
I think the truth is… we all struggle and when somebody is brave enough to say it out loud, there is a collective sigh of relief! <3
San recently posted…Thinking Out Loud #8
You will always find a companion in the lovely and supportive community here reading each other’s blogs. I feel you, writing certainly is therapeutic and healing. Sending lots of love your way! My greatest challenge might be opening up, I have found it makes me blunder and feel awkward. Thank you for encouraging the conversation!
I love your honesty. Your post was a joy to read.
Lacy recently posted…The Ultimate Gift List for the Health and Fitness Fanatic
It’s so good to be honest and just get it out there. Thanks for sharing!