You Win, 2008 (I Surrender)
Do you remember way back in early 2008 (3 weeks ago) when I made my blogging resolutions? I hate to do it, but I'm going to have to break one. I've realized very quickly that the new, two post per week schedule isn't a good fit for me.Now, before you think I'm just getting lazy and leave in disgust, let me explain. Like a lot of bloggers, I keep reading too much about blogging, including how we should all blog more often. Now, I've always been one to prefer quality over quantity, and I knew my blog wasn't the kind that needed multiple posts every day, but once per week just didn't seem like quite enough.
Theoretically, I knew I had time for two posts per week. The problem is, while I accounted for the writing time, I underestimated the amount of time I spend on original research that goes into my best posts. These are really the kinds of posts I want to be writing: posts based on new information or work done in the field with clients. Unfortunately, at twice a week, I'll inevitably end up doing more opinion posts. That's fine, to a point, but I prefer to dive into meatier topics.
So, instead of flailing through the year writing two posts per week and being perpetually dissatisfied with them, I decided to be realistic early on. All of my other promises for 2008 still stand, and sorry about the change of plans. Starting next week expect new User Effect posts every Tuesday.
Dr. Pete
· Tuesday, January 29@Dave: Honestly, I've noticed that, given how many feeds I have in my reader, I've started skipping blogs that post too often, unless they're daily sources (Sphinn, Techmeme, etc.). At the end of the day, I've got to stick to what will help me create the best content, and not get caught up in trying to strategically maximize my traffic.
Steven Bradley
· Thursday, January 31Pete I understand and emphasize. I can theoretically post every day, but I can't practically write a great post that often. A good post maybe, but a remarkable post no.
I'm also noticing I've been doing the same in regards to my feeds. Blogs that are posting too frequently aren't getting me to read beyond the title much anymore. With some obvious exceptions.
And don't worry. No matter how often you post I'll still be subscribed and reading.
Dr. Pete
· Thursday, January 31@Steven: Thanks for the vote of confidence. The funny thing is that, as soon as I decided to switch back to once/week, I came up with about a half-dozen good ideas for posts (IMO) but realized that they were all posts that would take some time and research to write the way I want to.
James Bull
· Thursday, January 31Hi Pete, I understand completely. I had a blog and was aiming to write quality, thoughtful items. The last time I had time to write anything was back in July and yesterday I finally switched it off. For good. I'll convert some of the posts into traditional articles on my main site and spend more time commenting on other people's blogs. Like yours.
I take my hat off to anyone who can keep up a regular quality writing schedule as well as look after clients and run a business.
Keep up the good work.
Dr. Pete
· Friday, February 1@James: Sorry to hear you're hanging up your blogging hat for now, but I completely understand. Part of my dilemma is that January has actually been a pretty good month for new work, which is of course a good thing, but it makes blogging an extension of the classic problem of balancing client work with business development.
David LaFerney
· Tuesday, January 29Whenever you do post something it's going to pop up in my reader. It's better to know that when it does it isn't going to be a fluff piece.