Doing Justice To The Message: Why I’m Scaling Back My Blogging
I’ve been blogging for over a decade now, and in many ways I’ve got a great fondness for this medium. It’s a safe space to share the genesis of ideas, to connect with people, and to be vulnerable. It also allows me to keep the discipline of regular writing.
However as I’ve said before, blogging has become more a burden than a joy in recent years. And as I’ve begun a podcast this has been brought more sharply into focus.
I’m loving the creative process and weekly sharing of interviews and occasional short talks on the podcast, and can’t wait to do more (you’re going to love this weeks episode..). But blogging every week feels a burden, and has for a while. And above all, I believe it’s hindering me from doing justice to the message of my second print book, which I’m writing at the moment.
So something has to change.
I will unashamedly say here and now that writing books is my first love. The opportunity to really develop ideas, flesh them out and explore them in depth over a book, spending time creating and crafting a message, that’s what I love to do.
Books are a step up from blogging, and writing books always challenges me to raise the bar in terms of the quality of my writing. Blogging in many ways has become a comfort zone for me, an easy way to avoid the challenge of writing books.
I’m working on writing my second full length book right now (the first is done, and due out sometime this year – more on that soon). It’s all mapped out, planned and ready to go. I’ve written the first two chapters, but because of blogging and allowing myself to be overwhelmed, I’ve simply not got anything done on the book for several weeks.
I need to get this done. And I need to do it justice. So what to do?
The Solution – And Why The Message Matters More
Having talked to some wise friends, I’ve made the decision to focus on getting this book done. And on books generally. And to facilitate that, I’m scaling back on the blogging. However I’ve got several blog posts written and ready to be shared – so here’s the deal:
From this week I’m still going to be blogging, just slightly less frequently. I’ve got posts scheduled every fortnight to the end of May, which will give me space to devote all my writing energies to the book, without worrying about the blog whatsoever.
I’m also going to open this blog up to more guest posts – so if you want to submit a post, on a topic related to the ones I usually cover here, of about 750 words or less, e-mail me at james@jamesprescott.co.uk for mor
e info and to submit.
At the end of May I’ll reassess again – but I do know I’d rather blog when I’ve got something to say, not simply because I have to meet people’s expectations or ‘build my platform’. So we’ll see what that eventually looks like.
The podcasts will keep coming on a weekly basis (I’ve got some amazing interviews coming up with some extraordinary people…I’m so excited to share them with you), it’s just blogging which I’m scaling back slightly.
I alluded to this above, but one of the main reasons I’m focussing on my book, apart from what I’ve mentioned, is something I believe is vital to all creative work. It’s because I’ve realised I care about this message, and want to do it justice. To give this my absolute best energies and talents, so that I communicate it as well as I possibly can.
This book I’m working on concerns a topic I care deeply about – identity and calling. And whereas I used to be in a place where the challenge was simply to write a book – create the product – now I’ve become more concerned with the message, and doing that justice, than the actual product itself.
Because ultimately, communicating the message is what matters most. (you can tweet that)
Sharing our heart, sharing what we’ve learned, sharing our passion – getting it out to the world is so important. And as artists it’s vital we give it our full commitment.
As artists, we should be more concerned about doing justice to the message, than simply the act of writing a book, composing a song, or making a short film – or whatever artistic endeavour we are pursuing. It’s communicating the message, what we care about, that thing we just have to get out, which really matters.
We owe that not just to our readers/listeners – but to the message itself.
Are you with me?
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Question for Reflection:
What’s more important to you – the message of your work, or the result?
Let me know in the comments below!
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(Picture Sources: writermyessay.com / iwakari.com)
The message should definitely matter more than the result. You can write something that will change people’s lives, you give them the message, but it’s up to them if they make use of it or not.
This is a wonderful post, thank you for sharing. xx
Mary, thanks so much for this wise and encouraging comment – so glad the post resonated, and totally agree with you. Thanks again for your kind encouragement – great comment!
I can relate. Hardest thing for a writer is balancing things, but nothing should ever come before writing. At least I try my utmost to not let that happen.
Expect an e-mail, btw, about that guest post thingy. 🙂
Hey, thanks for the comment – so glad the post resonated. And look forward to your e-mail!
It’s difficult to find a way to keep motivated when it becomes a chore, but I just keep on blogging anyway!
Yep, and sometimes its right to keep going. It’s all a matter of discernment, of what’s right for you at that moment.
I finding blogging extremely overwhelming. I only started three weeks ago and the fun is already seeping out of it for me. I like that reflection question. I think the message should be what is important but my head has been more consumed with a desire for views. Great post!
Thanks Amy, that’s really encouraging to hear.
Hi James, this is the first time that I have come across your blog and I have to confess your authenticity is refreshing. It is wonderful to come across a fellow writer- I write short stories and poems- plus my blog is an extension of my writing. What is your book your working on about. You mentioned earlier about identity and calling but could you tell me more?
Hi Ana, welcome! Great to have you as part of the community. Thanks so much for your encouragement, I’m very grateful. I also see blogging very much as an extension of my other work.
The book I am writing is about how we ground our identity, where we put our security, steps we can take to building a heathly and meaningful life, and exploring our calling. You’ll find out more when it’s done….
A writer must do what a writer must. You are prioritizing. It is always wise to step back and question your daily routines. Good post. Looking forward to May to see the final results.
Thanks for the support Bob, appreciate it. I’ll definitely do a follow up post in June. The book itself will probably be out next year, but will keep you all informed.
I believe that blogging should enhance our real work–writing. If you have a message that needs input, a blog helps define what you want to say in the book. If you need to expose readers to what is coming up, a blog helps get the message out. A blog should not replace your writing a book so I say focus on what is important and send us tidbits along the way.
Absolutely Diane, totally agree with you. Thanks.
I am also a writer at heart and to be honest, I blog for myself – not for fame, not for money. I blog to remember my trips, to remember the moments and the experiences.
That’s absolutely spot on Joanna – it’s above all about sharing our stories, not fame or money. Keep remembering those moments, treasure them. And if it’s right, share them.
I’m with you. I will try to come up with a guest post.
Awesome Scott – can’t wait to read it!
I think this was an important read to your readers. To be genuine and offer an opportunity whilst you dedicate yourself to your book is noble.
Wow, thank you Urban Siren – appreciate the kind words.
Yes this was a good read and I agree with your note about being genuine and honest.
I too write less but I try to be honest and say what I feel .. http://www.iamvagabond.com
Thanks Vik – and keep being honest in your writing.
That’s great you are working on a second book. I’m sure it will be great!
Thanks, I hope so. First one out soon!
I completely agree with your views, good to know! 🙂
Thanks Gav, really appreciate it.
One day I’d like me too have the possibility to write a book. Very compliments for your second book!
Thank you so much, appreciate it.
You have some good views!
Thanks!
James I am where you are too. I am scaling back. I have to. I am in process of writing a book and it just needs MORE attention.
Hey Brianna – thanks for sharing. Wish you well with your book and look forward to reading!!
Oh, and BTW, do let me know about your book when it’s done!!