Do you know the difference between blogging and journaling? I didn’t until I researched it online just now. Apparently, blogging can range from formal essays to keeping a personal diary. So I’ve decided to move away from essays and toward journal entries. I hope you don’t mind.
Seeing the blank page of a new diary excited me as a kid. I have the same feeling now.
good for the soul
Here goes.
While baking a cake on Saturday morning, I thought about my mom, the brevity of earthly life, and how I want to spend my remaining years. What do I want to do with the hours I reserve each day for writing?
I realized I’ve given so much time to blog posts that I haven’t had time to think about – much less write – my next book, which is what I really want to do. By now, I thought I’d be making all kinds of headway, but other writing activities, which I also relish, keep popping up. How can I ignore those opportunities? I love writing and have for years.
This morning, however, I spent over an hour writing a book review for my blog and two hours reading and critiquing another writer’s fiction. After lunch I whiled away a couple of hours attending to email and my peeps on Facebook, which included posting a photo plus half a dozen comments on others’ posts. Which makes me wonder – what’s a reasonable amount of time to spend on social media, email, and texting?
If you’re a writer, how do you make sure you get to your writing priorities?
Today’s journaling was for sure quicker than my usual posts, which means it’s quicker to read, too. Thanks for keeping me company.
Posted on April 12, 2016
Norma Nill 
I’m lucky enough to get to re-write other’s content as part of my job. Aside from that, I write when I can, which means my journal entries are few and far between. if I don’t make it in for a while, I pick up where I left off. I try not to make myself feel guilty for not writing. it keeps it fun.
Your experience will undoubtedly make you an even better writer, Abby. I appreciate your comment. Whatever you do, don’t lose those journals – you may need them someday!
My two cents: It’s most important to honor your highest priorities. As to essay vs. journal kinds of blogs, I’m generally more drawn to the journal kind. Since they’re less time-consuming to do, and you enjoy doing them more, I’d say you’ve found one way to put more time in your schedule!
Judy, your feedback about the journal kind of blogs makes me feel like I’m on the right track. Thanks!
I think I prefer journalism type reading and writing. I’ve not even written on my blog for a while. I’ve gotten bogged down and I must get back on track. I enjoy reading whatever you write.
Thanks for reading, Anita. I find it interesting that you prefer a journalistic approach. By the way, everyone gets bogged down now and then. I look forward to your next blog, whenever it appears.
This comment is a bit off topic, but I just wanted to say that I really like your pictures! (Especially the food ones) So blog and journal away and don’t forget to include your great photos. 🙂
I appreciate your feedback on photos, Laurie. Although I prefer to use my own, many pictures I’ve posted on my blog come from free online sources, which is a big help. Thanks for reading!