How To Stand Out From The Rest

January 17, 2013 | By Adrienne Smith

Ah, we do love learning about blogging don’t we! How to do this, how to do that, why this isn’t working, why this works so well and 20 million other tips.

It seems like every time you read a post giving you blogging tips included on that list is to stand out from the rest, be unique.

What the heck does that even mean! They never seem to elaborate on that.

I don’t know about you but when I started blogging I didn’t know diddly squat. The last thing I’d ever call myself is a writer.

We’re all told to create a blog and “brand you”.

So the process begins, the blog is created and the content is flowing. Just like how we’re taught but month after month after month, nothing.

Speak In Your Own Voice

Oh yeah, we’re told to speak in our own voice. Just be you…

When I was told this my first thought was, who the heck is going to listen to me! I’m not that interesting and I sure as heck don’t know very much…

I was a newbie, I didn’t know anything and although I was learning I definitely was no expert. What right do I have to give advice!

I admit I was very intimidated by other bloggers because the overall impression when I visited their blogs were that they were professionals. They’d obviously been doing this a long time because I was learning so much from their content.

Talk about impressed by their content. Wow!!!

Here’s the funny thing though. I later learned that they were just like me. They had the same insecurities I had and they hadn’t been blogging very long at all.

I think that’s when the light bulb finally came on for me. Adrienne, just be yourself and the people who can relate to what you share will and those that won’t, won’t. It’s really that simple.

How To Stand Out From The Rest

That’s exactly what I started doing. I started writing from my own experiences and I was 100% truthful and honest.

Now that doesn’t mean automatic traffic just because your content is more natural. You’ve definitely got to work at that but once they do start coming you want them to want to come back time and time again.

It really does help tremendously if they can actually relate to what you’re sharing. They can put themselves in your shoes or say aha, I felt the same way.

It’s so great when you finally get that you’re not alone here. Other people have had some of the same issues you have. What a relief!

That is what will help you stand out from the rest. Just being yourself because we are all unique individuals. There is not one other person in this world who is like you. Even if you have a twin, you may look the same but you are still individuals.

Some people will connect with you while others won’t. That’s perfectly okay.

It’s like meeting people at a function. Some you’ll feel comfortable with and some you won’t. Some you’d like to strike up a friendship with and some you wouldn’t. It doesn’t mean there is something wrong with them, you just aren’t feeling that connection.

Those are the people you want to start building relationships with, the ones you can connect with.

How To Just Be You

Write your posts like you’re talking to a friend. Joke about something if you messed up. He honest that you don’t know everything, share something with them so they’ll understand. Teach them what you’ve learned or share with them the methods you are applying. Give away the goods because that will keep them wanting to come back for more. Don’t be stingy.

Just be yourself and stop obsessing over whether it all sounds professional. People don’t connect with stuffy! Okay, the people I’d like to know don’t that’s for sure.

It’s been ingrained in your brain from the moment you came online that this is a people business. People connect with people so that’s why it’s best to just be yourself.

You’re here to build relationships with others because people will purchase things from those they know, like and trust.

That’s how darn near every big name online today started. They did not build their business overnight by throwing up sites, driving traffic and everyone just bought from them.

They made a connection with the people that were coming to their blog or site. They were personable with them in their emails, they picked up the phone and got to know them, they connected with them on Skype to have a friendly chat.

People want to know you care so care about them. Care about them more then you care about what this can do for you and you will be pleasantly surprised with all the good things that will start happening.

Start New

This is a new year and a new start for many. If you’ve been having any issues connecting with others maybe it’s your writing style. Give this a whirl and see what happens.

Look at this as friends meeting friends and making a connection. Make your content interesting enough that they will want to visit you time and time again. Put some of your own personality in your posts. Just be you and that will help you stand out from the rest.

I’m eager to hear your thoughts on what I’ve shared and hopefully you can share your own experience with us on how this has worked for you. I’d love to know!

I always appreciate you sharing this post with your friends and maybe this is one of those tips they needed elaborated too!

Business Developer
Skype: missadriennesmith
Email: Adrienne@AdrienneSmith.net

{ 166 comments… read them below or add one }

1 Harleena Singh Twitter: harleenas January 17, 2013 at 8:14 AM

Beautifully written Adrienne – as always!

You had me smiling from ear to ear and nodding alongside as I read through each line, because that’s just the way I feel too.

Just be you – that’s such a simple and straight forward way to connecting with others, yet people have problems with it, which makes me wonder as to what holds them back from being themselves. It’s such a wonderful thing if you are able to be yourself without having to put on any kind of act, or portray yourself to be something you aren’t isn’t it? And once you can be that – the words flow with ease.

I agree, what strikes us most when we come across a person, especially online is how they relate to us or communicate with us – and the real – original ones stand out from the rest. There is a HUGE difference and you can make that out instantly. Just like the awesome sheep in the center standing out from the rest (loved the image – so apt – surely needs to be pinned!).

Having a voice of your own and being your own true self is what I have always believed in because that is something that always works. Yes, initially when I had started blogging, things were different. Just like you I was told to do many things, though learnt fast that it all depends on who and what you do more than who you have to follow.

Co-incidentally, your last section of start new is something I have done with my blog too now – I guess I too was waiting for the New Year to get it all rolling.

Thanks so much for sharing this wonderful post with us, and reminding us how we can stand out and be different by being our true selves.
Harleena Singh recently posted..12 Steps to a New Beginning in Life

2 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 8:28 AM

Thank you Harleena,

Really, you too! See, I knew I wasn’t alone in this.

I think the problem for most has been when people say “just be you” they don’t quite understand what that means. Like me I thought who wants to listen to me because I don’t view myself as very interesting. But that’s how I see me, not others. So just letting your guard down and just be yourself, that will attract the people you want to work with and no one else.

We aren’t always given the right information when we start out so that’s one of the reasons I can’t really fault others. I’ve been in their shoes and we don’t know what we don’t know. I’m sure just like you and me, there are plenty of other people who can relate to what I’m sharing.

Oh good, I was wondering why you haven’t posted but I knew you were around. I’ll be eager to stop by and see what you’ve been up to. I know you gave it a facelifte, nice…

Thank you Harleena for commenting and sharing your thoughts with me as well. I really appreciate that and you be sure and have a beautiful day.

~Adrienne

3 Carolyn Twitter: wonderoftech January 17, 2013 at 10:20 AM

Harleena, I was thinking of you too at the end of this post. I love the new look of the blog, so fresh and different, yet your personality continues to shine through your writing, just as Adrienne is advising!
Carolyn recently posted..Twitter Chats – Get Together with Tweets

4 Harleena Singh Twitter: harleenas January 17, 2013 at 10:32 AM

Thanks so much Carolyn for your words of appreciation!

I’m glad you like the new look because I was just about wondering if anyone missed the older one, or was that a better one. (You know we always do tend to go to and fro with such thoughts:) But am happy that you approve!
Harleena Singh recently posted..How to be Happy in Life

5 Carolyn Twitter: wonderoftech January 17, 2013 at 10:40 AM

I really liked the older one too. The older one made me feel as if I was coming into your beautifully decorated home. But the trend these days is to go for a cleaner, Pinterest-like look, which your new theme does elegantly.
Carolyn recently posted..Getting Started with Your New Smartphone or Tablet

6 Harleena Singh Twitter: harleenas January 17, 2013 at 10:52 AM: It’s tough to let go of old things – isn’t it? But yes, just like you said nowadays the trend has become different, and more of a cleaner – clearer look is preferred. Thanks once again
Harleena Singh recently posted..What Can We Do to Stop the Violence

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7 Robin Hallett Twitter: robinshallett January 17, 2013 at 8:20 AM

HI Adrienne,

Still a newbie, I’ve got 10 months online today! And, I was reading this post saying, “check, check, check” boy do you remember the newbie times well!

I find it’s getting easier to write in a relaxed, natural way. I definitely write to a friend from time to time, and those posts are always great.

I am standing out by using my own artwork, and colors I love on my site. People who know me say it’s got my vibes all over it. But I’ve gotten a lot of criticism from (see me doing the airquotes here) Professionals Who Know What They’re Doing, which used to worry me, until I noticed that they’re not really my target market. And, the people who truly want what I offer absolutely LOVE and comment often about my colorful style.

Adrienne, you give me a lot of support, and I never tire of telling you thanks! So thanks.

Big hugs,

Robin
Robin Hallett recently posted..This is the Year for True Transformation (Healing Insights for new year’s resolutions)

8 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 8:34 AM

Hi Robin,

Sometimes I still consider myself to be a newbie too Robin. It depends on which direction I’m going because there is still so much I don’t know.

See, it just takes time and the more you’re online the more relaxed you can become and once you see how others are putting themselves out there then it’s not so hard. It’s especially fabulous when people start telling you that they can relate. I think that’s what we all want to hear to be honest. It’s not just us.

Not everything works the same for everyone. It’s like going on a diet. You might have the most successful person in the world telling you their diet plan works the best but all of our bodies aren’t the same. We don’t lose weight the same way, I can definitely vouch for that. So you’re right, those professionals who are lecturing you aren’t your target audience. Heck, I’m probably not either but I LOVE your artwork and am jealous every time I stop by. Girl, you rock! I love it!

I appreciate that Robin and I’m so thrilled you don’t get tired of it because I’ll continue to say. Thank you so much for your fabulous comment and I appreciate you sharing that with me. Rock on girl….

~Adrienne

9 Robin Hallett Twitter: robinshallett January 17, 2013 at 8:46 AM

Woot woot! Virtual hugs all around, Adrienne! I don’t ever get tired of your awesome advice and sparkly personality so keep it coming!! Thanks for making me smile super big today <3
Robin
Robin Hallett recently posted..This is the Year for True Transformation (Healing Insights for new year’s resolutions)

10 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 9:19 AM: Why thank you Robin and anytime girl, any time.

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11 Julie Barrett Twitter: aclear sign January 18, 2013 at 4:54 AM

Robin, I LOVE your artwork! That’s all part of being “you” and I cannot guess why someone would think that’s not a good thing…people go where they are drawn, right?!
Julie Barrett recently posted..Mondegreens, Soramimis and Intuitive Signs Through Song

12 Robin Hallett Twitter: robinshallett January 18, 2013 at 11:05 AM: Hi Julie I am putting your words where I can see them EVERY day so if I should ever ever ever question again whether or not what I do is okay – I know I have friends here supporting me!! Thank you, so appreciate your sweetness Julie (and Adrienne – what a connector of people you are) <3
Robin Hallett recently posted..This is the Year for True Transformation (Healing Insights for new year’s resolutions)

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13 Richard Petrillo Twitter: askrichardp January 17, 2013 at 8:24 AM

Hi Adrienne,

I love reading your posts! Actually, I almost love reading your autoresponders more! LOL

You’re the best at “Just Being You” and speaking in your own voice! I have learned so much in the few short weeks being on your list. Thank-You!

I really connect with your comment about being a newbie and who’s going to listen to me…

My advice to someone new is to pick a topic or something you had no idea how to do yesterday, study up on it, implement it yourself, then write about it.

You may not be an expert in that area, but all of the sudden, you know more than the next new person who comes along that is struggling with the same thing…

Thanks as always!

Richard
Richard Petrillo recently posted..WP EZ Squeezey WordPress Capture Page Plugin Review!

14 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 8:55 AM: Hi Richard,

Really? My emails are rather short since I ramble so in my posts I hate to go on and on in those too. I appreciate you telling me that Richard.

If there is one thing I’m definitely good at, that’s just being me.

I agree with you, we don’t have to claim to be an expert in anything. But learning something, diving in and implementing it and then writing about your experience is what people want. That’s how you can get more and more people interested in coming back time and time again because they can rely on your just telling them like it is.

Thank you Richard for sharing that with us, I appreciate that.

Enjoy your day now!

~Adrienne

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15 Sylviane Nuccio Twitter: SylvianeNuccio January 17, 2013 at 8:25 AM

Hi Adrienne,

Ah here you are! Well, first off I’m going to save this comment just in case it disappears.

When I first started online I was like you. I wasn’t an expert at anything online, but what I didn’t know yet is that 1) I was expert at other things, and 2) expertise can be acquired. So, eventually I became expert at my own things.

As Sue mentioned yesterday in our mastermind group, someone criticized me for writing what she calls “a thesis” and that idiot even retweeted my “thesis”. When Sue sent me that message to tell me about that person which I wasn’t even aware of, I said, don’t worry. I love that! A thesis is good in my book. My thesis is “ME” you supposed to be YOU in your blog right?

Man she just gave me the theme of my next blog post!

When you want to write for BIG blogs as a guest, that’s exactly what they want, thesis

The other thing is that we think that we are not unique, but we are. EVERYONE is unique and can use such qualities for their blog.

Glad I could make it here
Sylviane Nuccio recently posted..How Can A Life Coach Help You?

16 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 8:38 AM: Hey Sylviane,

I’m so sorry you had a problem coming on again this morning. I swear girl, I’m going to get this resolved once and for all and then I’ll be able to hopefully help others when this arises for them. Sorry!!!

That’s right, with time and education we all can become experts at something. I really kind of hate that word because we’re always learning and things are always changing so it’s really hard to keep up with things at times. But I will agree with you that there are a lot of things we already know so that’s helpful.

You are absolutely right! Maybe that person that was complaining isn’t someone you care to connect with. So be it! The tech guys who write their posts like instruction manuals aren’t my target audience so they can write however they darn well please. If we could satisfy everyone then this world would get kind of boring in my book.

Oh good, see a post has come from that comment. Yay!!!

I was reading something just this morning and we are all God’s masterpieces. That’s why he made everyone different. You’re right, we are all unique so just be yourself and stop worrying about everyone else.

Thank you Sylviane for your patience and persistence. I appreciate you so much.

~Adrienne

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17 Carolyn Twitter: wonderoftech January 17, 2013 at 10:24 AM: Hi Sylviane, I’m so glad you are ignoring that critic! Your blog, your rules, you have to feel comfortable with how you write and not with how others tell you to write.

Like you, I prefer more information in the posts I read. Sometimes I arrive at a site preparing to be enriched but the article is just three paragraphs and I don’t feel as if I learned what they promised.

In other words, Sylviane, “You go, girl!”
Carolyn recently posted..Best Apps for Successful Students!

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18 sapna Twitter: h4hitech January 17, 2013 at 8:30 AM

HI Adrienne

Great !
What you have taught today will stand for many years to come in blogosphere. The first and the foremost learning has been not to pretend, acknowledge that, ask for help, learn and grow.Blogosphere is full of great people who are very eager to help. Your blog has been an inspiration for many. I will like to start new as you have suggested.

Thanks for all you have been doing to make this blogosphere a better and enlightened place to be in and thanks for all your help and support.

Sapna
sapna recently posted..A Naive Bloggers Day Without Electricity

19 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 8:57 AM: Hi Sapna,

I appreciate you sharing that with me, thank you so much. I just want everyone to have success online and I think it all starts with just being the unique individual that you are. The people who relate to what you’ll share will come back time and time again because you are building that relationship with them. That’s how this is all done and it can’t happen overnight.

I appreciate your kind words, thank you so much. Now you enjoy what’s left of this week and we’ll be talking again soon.

~Adrienne

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20 Steve Borek Twitter: steveborek January 17, 2013 at 8:30 AM

I’ve been writing a blog post once a week for the past 18 months or so. Writing is not easy for me. In fact I hear it’s not easy for great writers. Most of the time my writing is average, other times it bites, and every now and then, I’ll write something that’s pretty good.

Whenever I’m feeling stuck or uneasy about my writing, I always go to this quote from Ernest Hemingway: “I write one page of masterpiece to ninety-one pages of shit. I try to put the shit in the wastebasket.”

Diddly squat? Adrienne, I love when you talk technical.

21 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 9:13 AM: Hey Steve,

I hear ya Steve because for the first 72 weeks that I wrote my posts and that was three posts a week I was the same way. It was pure shit but I didn’t give up because I knew I would eventually get all this right.

Thanks for sharing this with me and glad you’ve stuck in there too.

Yeah, I’m really good at tech stuff aren’t I!

~Adrienne

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22 Mys Palmer Twitter: myspalmer January 17, 2013 at 8:37 AM

Morning morning Adrienne!

You just knew I would have a thought or several on this one.

Firstly, when people offer that advice they usually don’t share how because that’s A Part Of Their New Course. The best and most authentic experts show and tell. Like Danny Iny, Anna of traffic generation, you of course, and if I may me too. Give it up, up front and people want to work with you.

Seems counter intuitive to money making but then again I don’t want any money or support from anyone who refuses to get this.

It’s all branding Adrienne. Branding yourself means discovering those emotional and psychological connections you want people to make with your “brand”, and influencing those feelings with valuable content. That’s how you build the brand.

Voice is so important. Telling the truth and being vulnerable makes you more than the expert, it makes you human. People like that. But you know that already. Thanks for the reminder Adrienne. I love the YOU that you offer us. Ya got a loyal reader in me!
Mys Palmer recently posted..What is your Business Model?

23 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 9:16 AM: Morning Mys,

I was hoping everyone would actually!

I just started a new course last month myself Mys and he said the exact same thing. Give it all up and trust me, they’ll want to know what you’re hiding. They won’t be able to help themselves because you’re always giving away the farm. I love that!

I appreciate you sharing this Mys because I know you are exceptional with explaining how to brand you. So having someone of your caliber share this with me is awe inspiring. I’m so glad you agree with what I’ve shared here so I know that I’m on the right tract.

Thank you Mys for just being you and telling it like it is. I love that.

~Adrienne

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24 Annie André Twitter: annieandrehacks January 17, 2013 at 8:39 AM

Adrienne,
you are the queen of being yourself.
As i read this post, i said to myself easier said than done. There is somethign about writing and thinking at the same time that makes our words seem robotic and very unlike ourselves.

One of the things that has helped me start to write more like I talk and be more like me is to talk into my computers microphone. I used to do this a lot for new posts.

Then, listen to it and transcribe into your wordprocessor
I promise, when you do this, you will be surprised at the way you talk. Vs, when we write as we are thinking.

I did not invent this method, i actually read it somewhere and cannot remember where but i do know it works. Once you get used to the way you talk using this method, it becomes a little easier and more automatic to write the way you talk. I’m not sure if this method will work for everyone, but it has worked for me..
Annie André recently posted..Do You Know Where Is The Red Sea? Long-Term Travel in Sharm El Sheikh

25 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 9:19 AM

Hey Annie,

That I am young lady, that I am!

It’s been recommended that you record yourself saying what you want to put in writing if you have a hard time writing how you feel. Then you can transcribe that into words and with practice and time you’ll get to where you can just write it instead of speak it. I think that’s a fabulous idea for those who have this same issue.

I’m glad you shared this Annie so that it might helps others if they need to do this as well.

~Adrienne

26 Carolyn Twitter: wonderoftech January 17, 2013 at 10:28 AM

Hi Annie, Great idea. You may be able to skip a step by using dictation. That feature is built into Mac computers and is also available on smartphones such as the iPhone and Android phones, plus the iPad. The dictation may not always be transcribed perfectly, but it would save you a lot of time over transcribing it yourself!
Carolyn recently posted..Which iPad Should You Get?

27 Annie André Twitter: annieandrehacks January 17, 2013 at 10:32 AM

Thanks CArolyn, i’ve since moved onto dragon dictation on my laptop. My tablette has a built in dictator too. I love it because i can write blog posts in bed by just talking.
Annie André recently posted..Do You Know Where Is The Red Sea? Long-Term Travel in Sharm El Sheikh

28 Carolyn Twitter: wonderoftech January 17, 2013 at 10:39 AM: Yes, I was thinking of Dragon Dictation too. I’m glad you found what works well for you, Annie!
Carolyn recently posted..Top Tech to Try in 2013!

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29 Mohd Aktar January 17, 2013 at 8:57 AM

hey mate,
very nice information about differentiating ourselves from other bloggers. i m deeply impressed by you thought of being with real nd truth. we have to be our self nd need not to exaggerate the things:)
thanks nd keep it up

30 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 9:22 AM: Hi Mohd,

Glad you liked it and it’s true. Just be yourself and don’t exaggerate anything and you’ll soon find that people are able to connect with you. It will keep them coming back for more.

Thank you for sharing that.

~Adrienne

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31 Pauline Twitter: PaulineBennett2 January 17, 2013 at 9:06 AM

Hi Adrienne
I was the same when I first started blogging, I thought who will want to read my posts? I had no confidence in my self that I could actually do this! I know I wanted to but it took me a long time (after some very bad advice as you know) to just be myself, I am getting there and am feeling much more confident now. I think 2013 will be a great year for me as feel that I am standing out a little more every day, I am very happy the way I am gaining traffic now and the positive comments I am receiving.
When I read your posts I can hear your voice talking and I feel that you have a smile on your face because you love what you are doing and that shines through with your writing, I love posts that you do that include a video
Thanks for sharing, hope your day is going great.
Pauline
Pauline recently posted..How To Keep Up With Blog Hopping

32 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 9:25 AM: Hi Pauline,

It’s really sad that we’ve fed so much horrible information especially as newbies Pauline. We waste so much time and that certainly doesn’t help our confidence any since this is all foreign to us. But we eventually break through, find the right information, learn from those having success and then things start to fall into place. They certainly have for you.

I appreciate that and I need to do more videos. I’ve just gotten away from that because I haven’t done any tutorials in awhile so maybe I just need to start including some more of me chatting.

Thank you for your comment, I appreciate that so much.

I’ll definitely have a wonderful day and you do the same.

~Adrienne

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33 Jack Twitter: thejackb January 17, 2013 at 9:16 AM

Hi Adrienne,

I try to “write like I talk” and tell the same stories I woukd in person. It seems to help people see that I am the same guy online as IRL.

Treat people well and it tends to come back.
Jack recently posted..Of Earthquakes and Music

34 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 9:26 AM: Hey Jack,

I’m so glad you agree with me since you are a fabulous writer. I know that I love your stories and I feel like a lot of your fiction ones are actually real. You put us right there with you and I love that.

Thank you for sharing that with me Jack. Hope you have a terrific day.

~Adrienne

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35 James Twitter: LifesHopeMed January 17, 2013 at 9:24 AM

awesome way to start out the day Adrienne. Being authentic and just writing as if you were talking to a friend is a great way to build your unique voice in your niche.

When I started out, one thing I would do is record myself talking as if I was having a conversation with a friend on the topic. I would imagine what they would say, and how I would respond to it.
Then I would take what I recorded and write it down.

Part of why I spent so much of my time early on in forums and social sites is because I was talking with people about the things I was doing, and rewriting these conversations into blog posts, emails, and even products.
James recently posted..Stop Using The Excuse of Positive Thinking and Use This Critical Mind Trick Instead

36 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 9:35 AM: Hey James,

Thank you James and I’m glad you liked what I had to share here.

You and Annie do the same thing but see, it works for you if you’ve ever had an issue with trying to write like you talk. Of course I’m able to just sit down and start typing like I’m talking where it’s not so easy for others.

See, that sounds like a wonderful thing to do. Write about what others are sharing or conversations you’ve had about certain topics. As long as you are being authentic then that’s what others will find the most attractive.

Thank you for sharing that James and you have a wonderful day.

~Adrienne

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37 Martin Casper Twitter: martincasper January 17, 2013 at 9:47 AM

Being yourself in life is always the clearest way to define who you are. It is no different in blogging. You want to stand out in the crowd, then be authentic in your online presence. Sooner or later, you will get noticed.
Martin Casper recently posted..The Danger of Neglecting Your Offline Sphere of Influence

38 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 10:04 AM: I totally agree Martin and I wish people would learn this early on. I didn’t and I wrote like a robot. Boring and would put anyone to sleep. I was still being myself but as I mentioned, I never considered myself as a writer and didn’t know the first thing about it. Ah, the lessons we are privileged to learn.

Thank you for sharing this.

~Adrienne

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39 Kesha Brown Twitter: uncommonchick January 17, 2013 at 9:50 AM

Ahhh, the ol’ “be yourself” mantra…Yeah, when I first heard that, my thought was, “Well, gee, who else am I gonna be?” But I realized how significant this was as I learned more and more about blogging.

I remember once saying, “I wish I was funny like so-and-so…” But you can’t force something and you can’t be something you’re not. If you do try doing that, it will surely look like it and people will notice. So I just continue to do my little ol’ self and roll with it and so far, so good.

Incidentally, I have a podcast coming about this very topic (but more in a general light)…

Have a great day chica!
Kesha Brown recently posted..Ask The Readers: If You Had The World’s Undivided Attention, What Would You Say?

40 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 10:07 AM: Yeah, it’s not quite totally understood Kesha. We can all just be ourselves because there is no one else we should be acting like but when it comes to writing and expressing yourself, that’s a whole other ballgame. Especially for us non-writers.

I hear you on that one, I’ve compared myself to others a lot of times. But then again I look back and I realized that I was okay just the way I was. I wouldn’t have the relationships I do now if I were faking it. Now that’s no fun at all and I actually love your sense of self.

Oh goody, can’t wait to hear that one. I bet it will be fabulous.

Thank you Kesha and you have a fabulous day as well. I most definitely will.

~Adrienne

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41 Jennifer Kennedy Twitter: TheVideoMojo January 17, 2013 at 10:26 AM

I’ve recently jumped into blogging again — I had a blog for 2 years from when I lived in Africa, but that was way back in the day –in 2005. Now, I’m focusing on providing information on how to create videos.

I’m at a point that I’m looking to find my voice and focus on me. So difficult! Ha. A part of doing that has been to step away from other bloggers and videos because I often find myself wanting to be like so and so when that is truly not me.

Thinking about what makes you unique and what value you bring and not focusing on how others deliver content really helps.

Thanks for the article!!

Cheers,
JK
Jennifer Kennedy recently posted..Why You Need Video + 3 Steps to Getting Started

42 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 11:02 AM

Hi Jennifer,

Well welcome back to blogging and I have no doubt you’re going to love it now.

I know what you mean and I think that is very wise. Don’t compare yourself to others because once you find your own voice then that’s what will attract others to you. I have no doubt that you’ll rock at this too.

Thank you for sharing this with me Jennifer and it’s good to see you again.

~Adrienne

43 Jennifer Kennedy Twitter: TheVideoMojo January 17, 2013 at 12:10 PM

Thanks Adrienne!

You just completely made my day that you remembered I had commented before!!
Thanks!

JK
Jennifer Kennedy recently posted..Why You Need Video + 3 Steps to Getting Started

44 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 1:06 PM: Absolutely Jennifer, I remember you well. You are most welcome.

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45 Carolyn Twitter: wonderoftech January 17, 2013 at 10:37 AM

Hi Adrienne, Fabulous post! You may be able to tell by my responses to your other marvelous commenters that this post really struck home for me. Writing about tech for everyday people, I knew from the beginning that the voice of my blog had to be friendly and approachable. I promised my readers plain English, which often means translating tech terms into everyday language.

Coming from a legal background, my tendency at first was to write accurately and methodically. In the beginning I would have to write several drafts to make sure that my articles were as fun and engaging as the tech I was writing about. Pretty soon it came easily to me, more naturally than the legal writing I had been trained to do, I just had to get my voice back.

One thing I try to do is put some humor into my posts, but sometimes I wonder if my readers get my jokes. I threw something into yesterday’s post but no one has commented on it and now I’m a little worried that people took me seriously with that sentence. :-0

I have often thought about how you write, Adrienne, as an example of how it should be done. You also cover tech here (though I know you are reluctant to admit it, you’re a Tech Queen in my book!) but you make it understandable and approachable. You also use plain English and avoid tech terms to engage your readers.

Thanks for being a shining example for us, Adrienne!
Carolyn recently posted..Twitter Chats – Get Together with Tweets

46 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 11:07 AM

Hi Carolyn,

You’ve been having fun haven’t you this morning!

I’ll be honest with you Carolyn. Your tech blog is about the only one I really enjoy reading. Most tech blogs are so technical in their writing that I have a hard time either understanding what they’re sharing or it reads like an instruction manual which is usually way over my head.

I hear what you’re saying because I came from an executive assistant background and we had to be so professional in our writing. I think that’s why my posts were so boring in the beginning because I was so cautious on what I was saying and how.

Putting humor in it sometimes isn’t received by everyone the same way. Some people don’t have much of a sense of humor so it’s hard to tell. I wouldn’t worry about it though.

I think we have both approached our content so that people can more easily understand what we’re trying to share. You more tech then me but when I do explain some programs and how to use them I want the learning process to be easy and not so complicated.

Thank you for elaborating Carolyn and for your comments with the others. I appreciate you so much.

~Adrienne

47 Carolyn Twitter: wonderoftech January 17, 2013 at 12:17 PM

Lol, Adrienne. I remember when the first person who edited my very first blog post told me to use contractions. She said to write like I talk, so I added contractions such are “you’re” and “don’t”. It felt strange at first and I have to say that I still don’t write that way in the first draft of each post. I still have to shorten words to contractions in my edits.

Pretty silly, is it not?

Yes, I know from real life that not everyone gets my sense of humor. :-p And I do try to be mindful that there are plenty of readers at my site who don’t speak English as their first language, so I do try to behave. But sometimes I just can’t help myself and have to add some humor. If I brighten someone’s day, great. If not, well they just will think I’m a bit strange, I guess!
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48 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 1:09 PM: That’s not silly at all but I’m glad you decided to go against what you’re use to and give it a try! See, we appreciate that about you so much Carolyn.

I know what you mean and sometimes my Texas twang goes a little over their heads. I wrote something a few years back and had all these people in the UK telling me that what I had said was a bad word in their language. It was something simple too and I would have never known. I felt really bad about it once they pointed that out. I try to tread lightly and not put everything out there that I normally would.

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49 Ilka Flood Twitter: ilkaflood January 17, 2013 at 10:42 AM

Hi Adrienne,

Very good advice! Just be yourself, talk in your own voice and let your uniqueness shine. You do that very well, by the way, and your following is proof of that.

Love this quote by Oscar Wilke ….“Be yourself, everyone else is already taken.”

You don’t want to be someone else. Besides, it’s so hard to do anyway, haha.

Keep up the great work!

Ilka
Ilka Flood recently posted..How to Laser-Focus to Reach Your Goal in Network Marketing

50 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 11:44 AM: Hi Ilka,

Thank you for saying that, I appreciate that. Once I got in the groove of things it got easier and easier so I think that might be the case for many others as well.

I love that quote too! How true, how true.

I appreciate you sharing this Ilka and thanks for your comment.

I’ll keep up the great work if you will.

~Adrienne

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51 shirley Hoke January 17, 2013 at 11:26 AM

Hi Adrienne,
Your post today and all of the comments couldn’t have come at a better time for me!

I just started a business that I need to do a blog everyday. When I found out that I had to do a blog everyday, I almost said forget it. Instead, I sat back and asked myself; why do I want to do the business in the first place?
I then made a commitment to do whatever it’s going to take to reach the goal I set for myself. I’ve been working on the training and each day I’m getting more clarity on how I’m going to reach my goal.

Adrienne, thank you so much for being who you are and for sharing your blog and the comments from your neat friends. This is what I needed today!
Love You,
Shirley

52 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 11:46 AM: Hi Shirley,

Oh good, I love hearing that.

You don’t have to blog everyday Shirley so don’t put that pressure on yourself. When you have a brand new blog they suggest that you blog everyday for the first 30 days just to get plenty of content on your site. When I started all of my blogs I’ve never written a post everyday and on one blog I only wrote once a week. I think you need to stick with a schedule that works for you. When you put too much pressure on yourself you just sabotage your efforts.

I’m excited for you and can’t wait to hear all about your project. Let’s talk tomorrow okay and get all caught up.

~Adrienne

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53 marquita herald Twitter: martyinmaui January 17, 2013 at 11:30 AM

What you say is so true Adrienne. I can remember so well going through the same process – and as a major Introvert that was quite a trial. There’s also a fine line new bloggers in particular need to be aware of, and that’s sharing too much of themselves. Last fall I unsubscribed from a blog I’d been following for nearly a year because the blogger was going through a divorce and every post became a part of the blow-by-blow of her separation. Yes, it’s good to share a bit of yourself, but beware of TMC (too much information!).
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54 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 11:49 AM: Thank you Marquita for sharing that and you’re right, you can share way too much.

I think it depends on your niche too. If you want to share your entire life then create a personal blog and let it all out but if you’re here to build a business then you just need to share enough information where others can learn more about who you are. You want them to make that connection. We don’t want to hear your life story.

Great point, thank you.

~Adrienne

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55 Enstine Muki Twitter: enstinemuki January 17, 2013 at 11:33 AM

Hey Adrienne,
Good to be back! I took off a few days to catch up with tome minor issues.

BTW, I like this you share. I sincerely did not get these kind of tips in my early days. I used to try to write like A or B but with time, I learned that I had to flow naturally and be myself. That’s what I’m developing in me write now. I’m learning to write like I’m conversing with friends.

Thanks for bringing in something fresh today
Enstine Muki recently posted..3 Rock Solid Ways To Make Money Online!

56 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 11:51 AM: Hey Enstine,

Well welcome back and I hope you were able to get those all resolved.

I think we all were lead down a different path when we first started. Of course I still had people telling me to be me but they never elaborated on what they meant which continued to add to the confusion.

I’m glad you’ve been doing more of Enstine and I love your posts. See, we’ll all figure this thing out eventually.

Welcome back and enjoy your day!

~Adrienne

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57 Cararta Twitter: ArtaGene January 17, 2013 at 12:12 PM

Hi Adrienne,

You hit the nail on the head again! If you don’t watch it when you go blog visiting
it is very easy to get a “Blog Complex” because so many of them are perfectly set up
Sales Machines that Blog!

Live and Learn and try harder!
Cararta
Cararta recently posted..Know What You Want From Your Blog!

58 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 1:07 PM: Hi Cararta,

Exactly right but what most people don’t know is that they just started like the rest of us. I love that we can all connect with each other though and start understanding this process. We don’t feel so alone anymore.

Thank you for your comment, I love that!

~Adrienne

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59 Mary Stephenson Twitter: maryjstephenson January 17, 2013 at 12:39 PM

Hi Adrienne

Wish I had been given all that info back when I began 2+ years ago. But I found you back in August and finally got the final piece of the picture.

Understanding that we really have something worthwhile to share is very intimidating at first, if you don’t have a college degree, you might think no one wants to hear. But I have found that nothing compares to actual real life experiences.

Besides some of the most interesting people are the ones that had to struggle and live to get where they are. Most education is just theory, until you actually put it to use.

As you mentioned that not everyone is going to like what you have to say. I wonder why we are so surprised with that, when it happens all the time in the offline world. Maybe it is because we can keep it confined to a few people, but online the whole world can know. Us humans are so sensitive at times. We need to embrace the differences. Okay this a work in progress!

Liked the post today.

Mary
Mary Stephenson recently posted..Life Can Be Like a Banana Pudding

60 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 1:18 PM: Hi Mary,

I know what you mean, me too! Look at all the time I wasted but I finally “got it” and I’m glad I’ve been able to help you learn as well Mary.

I agree totally, nothing compares to real life experiences. I’ve always learned so much better just jumping in and doing things hands on. That’s why they always tell you to learn what to do but doing it will teach you so much more. We’ll never get things perfect the first time around anyway so just go for it.

I know, I find that kind of funny too but I think we feel so vulnerable here online because we have our stuff in front of millions of people. In the grand scheme of things, everyone wants to be liked so when someone says something negative or they don’t care for what we wrote we take it personally. I think this is a learned process as well. You’re right, a work in progress still.

Thank you Mary, I appreciate your comment.

~Adrienne

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61 Tonya Stephens Twitter: gulfcoastbeauty January 17, 2013 at 2:17 PM

Hi Adrienne,
I really didn’t know anything about blogging when I started my blog about a year ago.
I listened to some of “Guru” who said just post content , your own ,PLR or software derived for fast article creation. Do this every day for 90 days, then spin your content use software to distribute it to directories and miraculously you will start getting your lion’s share of the traffic. Wow that’s a great recipe for burn out and also crappy content. Not traffic.
Is it no wonder people give up and abandon their blogs!!!
I was in a 100 Day Biz Challenge the first part of 2012 and learned about tribes and commenting as a more organic way to get traffic. That’s where I met Jamella and that’s how I met you.
Coming to your blog was like another world and it made sense!
I am now into organic! and My blog is responding with increased traffic and wonderful connections.
Thank you, finding your blog means a lot to me and has opened the door to help me know what a real blog is all about.
Tonya
Tonya Stephens recently posted..MLM Prospecting | How To Ignore Rejection

62 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 2:36 PM

Hi Tonya,

Wow, did we learn from the same guru! I was told something similar to this and I was writing like crazy and it was crap. Just like some of these gurus are telling people today, just write everyday and you’ll get results! Oh really! In what universe!

I remember the 100 Day Biz Challenge and I also met some great people through that as well. I wish that Jamella was still blogging but she’s given that up. Oh well, we got to meet so something good came from that.

I love hearing that Tonya and it can only get better from here. I love the way you share information so I have no doubt you’ll continue to get some loyal readers as time goes by. I’m glad I had a small part in helping you grow with your blog.

Thank you for sharing this with me and also for being so patient today. It’s been one of those week.

~Adrienne

63 Tonya Stephens Twitter: gulfcoastbeauty January 17, 2013 at 5:08 PM

Ha! Maybe the same Guru, we’ll have to reveal the name one day in a PM.
I too am sad Jamella is not blogging any longer…she had a great blog going!
You are having a big impact on my blogging so Thank You so much!
Tonya
Tonya Stephens recently posted..MLM Prospecting | How To Ignore Rejection

64 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 5:15 PM: Yeah, we may have to compare notes some day. I’m sure we won’t be too surprised at the outcome.

I was sad to see her decide blogging was not for her. She was doing so good and I enjoyed here so much. But she has to do what’s best for her. At least we met because of her so something good came from it.

I appreciate you sharing that Tonya so thank you so much. That’s why I blog!

Reply

65 Bill Dorman Twitter: bdorman264 January 17, 2013 at 2:36 PM

Here’s the funny thing though. I later learned that they were just like me.

Tru dat………
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66 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 2:42 PM: Scary right Bill!

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67 Dean Thompson Twitter: DTMarketing_com January 17, 2013 at 2:36 PM

Hi Adrienne,

I think you grow into your blog, and blogging in general, over time.

If I’d have read this when I first started out I would have thought it was stuck up nonsense – but it’s true.

You start out knowing nothing and take that first step to announce yourself to the world. It’s a big step but the best way to go about it is just be honest. You quickly find your own writing style and whilst some people may not be too thrilled by it, plenty will be and that’s when you start building relationships with your readers.

I think in the main, as with many things, it’s to be yourself and keep working at improving your overall bloging skills.

Regards,
Dean.
Dean Thompson recently posted..Mindset Fundamentals to Online Success

68 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 2:46 PM: Hi Dean,

I think we grow when it comes to writing, whether it’s on a blog or anything else.

I was told early on to just be me but no one really elaborated on what that really meant. Just like I stated and you too, we’re still learning so what advice would I have to share because I hadn’t yet accomplished anything to share.

It’s definitely a process an something we all have to move into ourselves. I wouldn’t want to connect with everyone because not everyone can relate to me. That’s what I love about building relationships Dean. We will find the ones that we relate to and from there it’s history.

Thank you for sharing that and I definitely agree with you.

~Adrienne

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69 Dan Sumner Twitter: danielsumner January 17, 2013 at 3:08 PM

Hey Adrienne,

Quote “Some people will connect with you while others won’t. That’s perfectly okay”

I have been reading a lot about engagement and audience building and the same things keep popping up over and over again. Be yourself, write great content, love your audience, network with like minded people etc.

As bloggers we cannot expect everyone to like what we write about, it just doesn’t happen. But there are people who will like what you do! Your personality will shine through as well as the information you provide to your own community.

I myself am still a student of engagement and audience building. Thanks for providing such a great post Adrienne. Awesome!!

Dan
Dan Sumner recently posted..Increase Your Professionalism in One Easy Step

70 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 3:19 PM: Hey Dan,

I’m so glad that more and more people are talking more about just being themselves and the right people will make those connections. We certainly aren’t going to like everyone we run into so it’s no different here online.

I’m still a student too Dan and I continue to learn more and more as time goes by.

I appreciate you sharing that with us, thank you. Now, let’s all just be ourselves and see where the heck that takes us.

~Adrienne

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71 RobG Twitter: robgoss January 17, 2013 at 3:19 PM

Hello Adrienne nice article and a very important factor when you’re trying to developed a name for your self online. I think most new bloggers often mirror- other bloggers for the simple fact that they’re new to blogging and are just trying to learn the ins and outs.

You need your own style of doing things because that’s what separates us all from each other, writing from your own experiences is a GREAT way to make an impact on your readers because they can see you’re a real people just like them.

Thanks so much for a great post Adrienne as always it’s a pleasure.
RobG recently posted..How-to Convert Your Blog Into Your Online Business, The Starting Line

72 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 3:27 PM: Hey Rob,

Thanks and I think that most new people just don’t know where to start and they’re probably like me, never considered themselves a writer. That’s really kind of scary!

You are so right because we’ll connect with those that we feel we can relate to more then if everyone wrote about the same topic. Some we just feel something where others we just don’t. And that’s perfectly okay.

Glad you enjoyed it Rob, thank you for your comment. It’s always appreciated.

~Adrienne

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73 Cynthia Twitter: richlymiddlecla January 17, 2013 at 3:37 PM

Hi Adrienne,
This is awesome. One of the things that I love about coming to your site is that it is like sitting down with a friend and having a chat. There is so much information out there, and I will admit that I can get a bit intimidated about other sites especially when you see they have a lot of comments. And everyone material always seems better than yours when you are feeling vulnerable. And everyone wants to feel loved even when their stuff is rubbish. Thank you for saying be yourself. That is a hard one but I am working on it. I am 10 months into my new adventure and loving every minute of it. Thank you for always creating these timely messages.
Cynthia recently posted..Happy National Nothing Day

74 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 4:11 PM: Hi Cynthia,

That’s exactly how I think blogs should be. Whenever I come to your place I feel like you’re an old friend and you’re sharing something with just me. You do that by just being you and no one else. I love that saying that everyone else is already taken.

You are not alone in feeling intimidated by others and I totally understand Cynthia. What I finally had to learn to do was step outside my comfort zone and do it anyway. People kept pushing me in that direction but I was afraid of what others would think. Now I’m not like that at all in my offline life so why was I letting that hold me back online!

You’re done beautifully well in 10 months girl so look what the next 10 hold in store. I’m ready!

Thank you for your comment Cynthia and you have a blessed day.

~Adrienne

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75 Corina Ramos Twitter: wfhconcepts January 17, 2013 at 3:41 PM

This is definitely a post that had me saying A-ha, I feel the same way. When I first started “blogging” and published my first post, I went through all the thoughts and feelings you described, I still get the jitters every now and then.

I love the advice you give for just being ourselves. It was hard to me to accept the concept of blogging like we’re talking to a friend, having always emailed or written professionally I was always thinking “no one is going to understand what I”m trying to say.”

And like you said a new year can mean a new start, I’m actually calling this year “just do it” to get me out of my comfort zone. My goal is to continue meeting influential people so I can grow and develop online relationships.

I really enjoyed reading this post, it was a great reminder for me Enjoy the rest of your week and isn’t it great to see the sun out today!
Corina Ramos recently posted..The Top 5 Work from Home Distractions

76 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 4:14 PM: Hey Corina,

See, we are all more alike then we know. It’s that false impression we have in our minds about how everyone else is so much more advanced and they know so much more when that’s really a bold lie we tell ourselves.

Sounds like you and Carolyn had some things in common since she came from a law background. Heck, I came from a secretarial background so you can imagine everything having to be just perfect. It’s hard, I know but wouldn’t you say the process has been worth it?

I’m glad you enjoyed this post, thank you for sharing that with me.

Most definitely girl, we’re suppose to have pretty weather for several days now. Yay!!! I’m SO happy! Enjoy the rest of your week and weekend as well.

~Adrienne

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77 JanBierens Twitter: JanBierens January 17, 2013 at 3:44 PM

You nailed it… As usual I might add. No seriously (I am being serious) being yourself is the best way to make long lasting contacts and build a strong social network. People smell fake from a mile away.
It does not matter what you are blogging about, if it’s true and from the heart ‘they’ll’ come and keep coming.
Things can only go better when you gain experience. I did not know what the hell I was doing when I started blogging. Garth Brook “Life is a dance…”
JanBierens recently posted..How to get Great Blogging Ideas

78 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 4:18 PM: Ah, why thank you Jan. I appreciate that!

I’ve been told so many different things from so many different “gurus” throughout my online journey Jan. One of the big ones was don’t show your weaknesses because you have to come off like the leader we all know you are. I think sharing our weaknesses but overcoming them is what really makes us the leaders but by not sharing them you’re just telling everyone else that you’re above making mistakes. That’s bull!

I agree, if you’re just being you then the people you need to connect with will resonate with what you share. They’ll enjoy your content and keep coming back for more. Everyone will be on their merry way and that’s okay too.

Thanks Jan for your comment, I appreciate that.

~Adrienne

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79 Craig McBreen Twitter: craigmcbreen January 17, 2013 at 4:05 PM

Hi Adrienne,

That’s the great thing about blogging, it’s a discovery process really. The more you write, the more folks you engage with, the more distinctive you online voice becomes. And that is built around being yourself and not faking it. It’s like the authentic blogger versus the contrived bit player. Don’t turn yourself into a character or product, just be You.

You, Ma’am are a model citizen in that department. You’ve created a name for yourself by solving problems and working extra hard to provide stuff that is worthwhile and meaningful, all while not trying too hard, just being yourself.

I also say that those little traits someone might see as flaws … that kinda stuff makes us interesting to others, right?

Later on.
Craig McBreen recently posted..How to Get Out of the “Churn” Trap

80 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 4:21 PM: Hey Craig,

I couldn’t have said that better myself. Oh wait, I didn’t!!! lol… But you’re right, the more we right the more we fall into feeling more comfortable with writing and the more people we’ll attract who can resonate with what we share.

Why thank you Craig, I appreciate you saying that. That’s really lovely to hear that I’ve been able to accomplish it really by pure luck. Okay, maybe luck isn’t the right word but trial and error. There we go.

Absolutely Craig, absolutely!

~Adrienne

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81 Lisa Twitter: lisapatb January 17, 2013 at 4:41 PM

Adrienne, you are the master at being yourself. I can’t believe you don’t believe you were in the beginning. I guess I wasn’t either in the beginning until I felt more comfortable with my audience. Each of us is unique and can bring something different to the table on the same topics. We all have different viewpoints and ways of thinking.
I wish I had your temperature’s here, we had more snow and cold. I can’t wait til spring!
Your image of the sheep is perfect for this post too and of course for pinning.
Have a great evening Adrienne.
Lisa recently posted..Will The Facebook Graph Search Change Social and Search?

82 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 4:48 PM: Hey Lisa,

Why thank you for that but you know, it took me awhile! Yep, it definitely didn’t start off that way and sounds like it didn’t for you either.

I agree about that when people complain that a particular subject has bee written about over and over again. That may be true but someone else may have explained it better so that I understand where I never did before. That’s happened to me more times then I care to say.

It finally hit 60 degrees today and that’s suppose to continue for about the next 7 days with sunshine finally. It’s still been in the low 30′s at night though. Pretty darn chilly but I’ll take that over your weather any day.

I searched for images but I do love humor so it just spoke to me! Thank Lisa and you enjoy the rest of this week.

~Adrienne

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83 Sue Neal Twitter: write_clever January 17, 2013 at 4:47 PM

Well, Adrienne, I can only echo all the other comments about this post – you’ve really encapsulated one of the most important factors when it comes to making your writing meaningful and engaging.

As you say, it’s not easy to do, particularly when you’re first starting out – it can take a while to have the confidence just to ‘be yourself’.

It’s strange, though, how people seem to have an irresistible urge to write very formally, using language they’d never use in everyday life. Maybe it’s a throw-back to our school days and the way we were taught to write essays for exams etc. – old habits die hard.

I also think people fear making themselves vulnerable, or maybe looking foolish – when, actually, it’s that very vulnerability that readers often find attractive, because they can relate to it. If a writer comes across as too smart and invincible, that can be quite off-putting and intimidating.

I feel my confidence to ‘be myself’ is growing, the more I write. And I think that’s one of the secrets, actually – just to do lots and lots of writing. The more you write, the more chance there is for your own voice to come through.

You’ve definitely perfected this art, Adrienne – it’s something I’m still working on, so I appreciate your sharing your experience – thank you!

Sue
Sue Neal recently posted..Writing Tips: Is this habit stifling your creativity?

84 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 5:06 PM: Thank you for sharing that Sue, I appreciate that.

You’re right, it’s hard to hit the ground running with this and get instant attention. Most of us have to work up to that belief in ourselves but it definitely can be done.

I remember when people told me to write how to speak. So many people say “I want to connect with people of the same mindset”. Now that looks decent enough on paper and we all get what that means now but do you really say that in your everyday life? Hell no so why do it here!

I agree but most people are teaching you to come off as having a lot of confidence and knowing it all which is why I think so many people are so uncomfortable with this whole process. As soon as we give that direction a good go and finally realize it’s getting us no where we revert back to just being us and going for it. I’ll be darn, it works.

Thank you for sharing this Sue and I would have never thought you needed to find your own voice. See, we don’t really know what goes on behind closed doors so it’s this type of feedback that is a tremendous help.

I appreciate your comment, always lovely to hear your views.

~Adrienne

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85 Robin J Emdon Twitter: robinjemdon January 17, 2013 at 5:41 PM

Couldn’t agree with you more Adrienne!

Sooo hard to stand out from the crowd if all you are doing is just being another ‘me too!’ – ultimately you are indeed left with just being YOU! Such an obvious point… so hard to get across. Thank you for putting it so eloquently and in your own unique way too!

~Robin~

86 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 7:40 PM: Hey Robin,

This can really be a confusing subject for some because they aren’t comfortable putting themselves out there but would much prefer “copying” someone else. I find that tiring myself and very hard to do. Once they just let their guards down they’ll find it much more fun making those connections.

Thank you for sharing this with me.

~Adrienne

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87 Debbie Twitter: DebbieDoglady January 17, 2013 at 5:51 PM

Hi Adrienne; Love this post and you are spot on! I’ve always just been myself and if people like it, then great. If not, their loss. Can also relate to having feelings of inadequacy, as I’m so new at this. Here’s an ironic anecdote for you: Had the pleasure of meeting another blogger the other day, who told me she was “in awe” of me and that I must have been blogging for a long time. This just blew me away, because her blog looks fantastic and very professional, to the extend that I thought it was the other way around! Turns out she started it a month ago. Just goes to show that perceptions are often inaccurate. I’ve been writing all of my life, so that’s the easy part, for me. The difficult part is getting people to engage with the content. Seems that many of us are struggling with that one! You brought up another point about “sharing your life story” and how that should be contained within a personal blog, as opposed to a business blog. While I agree, for the most part, there’s nothing wrong with combining the two and making some money with the blog either, in my opinion. Memoirs comprise a large portion of what I write and the plan is to turn them into a book or two, then use the blog to sell the book(s). The best of both worlds!
Best regards,
Debbie
Debbie recently posted..THE COMPUTER IS A WONDERFUL INVENTION!

88 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 7:47 PM: Hey Debbie,

I’ve always been myself too and really didn’t care what other people thought. For some reason it changed when I came online because I had a much bigger audience it seems.

See, you know what I mean now with the lady that said she was in awe of you. I just took for granted that they had it all going for them but later learned that was not the case at all. They were just like me actually green as can be. You’re right, it’s our perception and we can definitely be wrong.

What I meant by that is let’s say your business blog is about selling a particular product like how to garden. People can get carried away with telling their life story when it doesn’t pertain to your business. Sure, sharing some of your own experiences about putting in a new garden and some of the things that happened is one thing but going off in a totally different direction and sharing more about your personal life is not benefiting you or your business.

Now you’re into writing and selling books so that’s a different type of business. I think it all depends on what you’re doing really.

Thank you Debbie for sharing that with me because that’s a perfect example of how we may perceive things to be.

~Adrienne

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89 Gladys January 17, 2013 at 6:09 PM

Hello Adrienne
What a wonderful article on standing out from the rest. At the beginning of your article, it sounds like me. (Boy I have so much to learn, but I am willing.) you are right on. Be myself. You know I cannot be anyone else. We are so unique,yet we all have so much to offer this world. I will stand out from the rest, and you will too. Take care and I am thrilled we connected.

90 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 17, 2013 at 7:50 PM: Hi Gladys,

Thank you and I’m glad you could relate. See, we’re all really the same and we all started out in the same place. This is a learning experience and we can’t learn unless we throw ourselves into it each and every day. We’ll get better with time and then think how much we can help others from sharing our experiences.

We are all unique and what we have to share is worth hearing.

Thank you Gladys and I appreciate your comment.

~Adrienne

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91 Tracey - Life Changing Year Twitter: lifechangingyr January 18, 2013 at 1:30 AM

You are spot on as usual Adrienne. I follow most blogs in my RSS feed and those that are constantly whiny and write “poor me” posts soon get removed. We all feel down occasionally but the people that are negative constantly just don’t resonate with me. Many of them have a huge following and people rave about them. I accepted long ago that we are all different and the people who relate to your voice will follow you and those that don’t will drift away gradually. As long as you are true to yourself you will find your crowd. If you try to be something you’re not people will surely be able to tell.
Tracey – Life Changing Year recently posted..The Best Of Our 2012 Life Changing Year!

92 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 18, 2013 at 8:56 AM: Hi Tracey,

You hit the nail on the head there Tracey when you said those people who whine constantly just don’t resonate with you. Sure, they can be themselves and gripe all they want and they’ll attract those people who are just like them. On the other hand if we’re all positive and uplifting we have a better change of attracting those people. Doesn’t mean everyone will like what we share but plenty of people will.

You are spot on with this Tracey so we all just have to keep being ourselves and we’ll attract the right people. No doubt at all.

Have a fabulous day and thank you for sharing that!

~Adrienne

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93 Julie Barrett Twitter: aclear sign January 18, 2013 at 5:18 AM

Hi Adrienne, I went to school in Austin and my roommate had the coolest Mom in Houston who was in her 50s. She used to just tell it like it is and I always felt better after spending time with her. I just realized you remind me of her PLUS you always make me laugh!

Isn’t it funny what advice we get? There are those who insist you must NOT “give it all away”, and since they come at it from an abundance and spiritual perspective, I find that ironic I never spent much time listening to anyone else or joining programs or buying stuff…but when I AM ready to step things up I will go looking for advice and who do I buy from? Those I trust – period, the end! I reserve the right to yell at them later if I don’t like it, but guess what? I have never had to do that because they always recommended things that work.

Here’s what I do – I meditate/relax for a little bit, just take a few deep breaths to get centered, and then I start writing. That’s what helps get the flow going. Then I think,”Bottom line, what’s my point? Let’s just cut through this and get to what I really feel/think.” That’s the best way I have found to get the energy flowing. If it doesn’t want to come out right then, I try again another day.

94 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 18, 2013 at 9:03 AM: Hi Julie,

Oh, I’m so honored Julie and she sounds like a pretty darn cool lady. See, we baby boomers are cool too! Thank you for telling me that. I’m smiling from ear to ear.

You are so right Julie and I guess I never looked at it in that way. Those who are telling us not to give away the farm probably are coming from this from a lack mentality still. Even though they are having some success we all know it won’t last. I agree with you, I’ll purchase things from those that I trust so if I do have a question or issue I’ll just ask them. No big deal.

Your method sounds pretty good. I get in my mind what I want to write about and the rest just starts flowing. I never know what the heck I’m going to say until it just starts coming out. Obviously I must be doing something right!

Thank you Julie for sharing that and you have a wonderful day.

~Adrienne

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95 babanature January 18, 2013 at 6:06 AM

Hello Adrienne,
It is good standing out from the rest. i never try to impress anybody in my posts and as you’ve said; write as if you’re communicating with your friends. it is best being you and not trying to be someone else. Doing what you love will eventually bring faithful readers to you. Thanks
babanature recently posted..ADDING A SUBSCRIBE BY EMAIL WIDGET FOR BLOGGER BLOG

96 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 18, 2013 at 9:05 AM: Hey Babanature,

That’s wonderful to hear and you are right. Be yourself and the right people will start to show up. It’s inevitable.

Thank you and enjoy your weekend.

~Adrienne

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97 Mayura Twitter: MayuraDeSilva January 18, 2013 at 8:28 AM

Hi Adrienne,

Did I say I see something different in your writing? I see it today too dear.

I remember reading your report and listening to your relationship marketing radio interview with Barry dear I remember what you have always told for us – Building relationships and key to be ourselves.

Sometimes folks not like the way we are. We can’t please everyone. I don’t know, but we don’t need to please everyone and ones who would like to interact with and start building relationships would come hangout everytime. no? I’ve seen it and believe in it. Being myself did wonders and I’ve found like-minded friends online Adrienne. That’s the power of it, right?

I admit I’ve started like I writing to a newspaper or essays and hoping to make my blog like a guide Filled with tips, so guide indeed, right? It’s my thoughts and findings, but moderated. Now I go beyond that and adding a personal touch, not much, but I like the way it is.

You can write again about this topic ’cause sometime folks not getting it first time Adrienne Let’s hope this post gonna change the attitude of everyone who reads this post and make the change in their blogging journey.

Have a fantabulous weekend ahead Adrienne

Cheers…

98 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 18, 2013 at 9:11 AM: Hi Mayura,

Nope, nothing different in my writing with this post.

I’m glad you enjoyed my report and my interview. I have been sharing this all along Mayura, you’re right. You aren’t going to connect with everyone so just be yourself and the right people will start showing up. The relationships you build will be awesome.

I prefer the personal touch instead of it reading like an instruction manual. Let’s face it, those are just boring so we skip to the good stuff. I don’t want anyone skipping through my posts do you?

I just hope that this message will come across in a positive light to them and may be the aha moment they needed.

Thank you Mayura for sharing this and you enjoy your weekend. I appreciate your patience with my blog.

~Adrienne

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99 Mark Twitter: mark_harai January 18, 2013 at 11:32 AM

Hi Adrienne – unique voice, being yourself, honesty… These are great traits to build a successful business on!

This is actually much easier and much more effective than being something your not. You just won’t get very far or last very long…

Cheers, miss : )

100 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 18, 2013 at 1:07 PM: Hey Mark,

You’re so right and it really is the only way to get the end results we all want. I hope that everyone will take this to heart and make a fresh new start this year.

Thank you for sharing that.

~Adrienne

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101 Carol Lynn Twitter: carollynnrivera January 18, 2013 at 11:45 AM

I know what you mean about that insecure feeling! I felt the same way. I still do sometimes. I look at people who seem soooo professional, they really know what they’re doing! And it’s a little intimidating. But there really is a lot of support out there and you have to treat people like people and they will return the favor. Mostly

It’s always nice to know other people go through the same things. So we’re all just as crazy.

I agree with you, that it’s important to be personable. The more “professional” you try to sound, the more you could be shooting yourself in your own foot. Trying too hard, not sounding natural, not being yourself. It takes practice! but once you find your comfy spot it’s a lot easier.

102 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 18, 2013 at 1:14 PM: I can’t imagine you feeling insecure Carol but see, people would have never imagined me being that way either. It’s the perception we each have only being able to see the outer imagine. This whole thing is a process we all have to work on.

It really is great when you know you’re not alone and that it’s happened to you as well. It’s been great being able to share that with others which is why it helps just being you and being truthful about your journey.

Thank you for sharing that Carol, I really appreciate it. I learned something new today! I love that!

~Adrienne

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103 Barbara Charles Twitter: BarbaraCharles January 18, 2013 at 12:47 PM

Well Adrienne – you know I listened to you. When you wrote a blog on how not to be boring on your blog, it was eye opening for me and I’ve adjusted and tried to make changes since then and what a difference a blog makes! It makes so much perfect sense. Thanks for reminding us how to do it and showing us what works. Very cool.
Have a great week-end my friend.
Barbara
Barbara Charles recently posted..How My Life Really Began In My 50’s by Adrienne Smith

104 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 18, 2013 at 1:21 PM: Hey Barbara,

I can see how things have started evolving for you Barbara and I’m so happy for you. We aren’t alone on this journey and so many people are where we once were too.

I appreciate you sharing that and you have a good weekend too! I definitely will.

~Adrienne

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105 Donna Merrill Twitter: donna_tribe January 18, 2013 at 2:29 PM

Hi Adrienne!

First I must say that that is an awesome Picture on this post. It is totally YOU sitting there like the “queen of bloggers” relaxed with a cocktail in your hand!

Being a newbie is difficult. It can be intimidating at first, but as long as we are honest and open and blog about something we know, it is all good. I know I heard this before from you – how intimidated you were at first, but it boggles my mind now. You are open honest and not afraid. You made a giant leap for others to follow.

We are all unique individuals, that bring our personality to our blog. I’ve read blogs with the same subject, only in different ways. They are all good.

Some people will like us, some won’t. Being honest when we write will attract those who we enjoy to communicate with. If we are not honest, we will be attracting those that we dread to reciprocate to.

That’s my take on it!

Donna

106 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 18, 2013 at 2:57 PM: Hey Donna,

Yeah, I kind of love that one too! It’s totally me isn’t it! The Queen Sheep!

I’ve definitely come a very long way Donna. None of us start out knowing it all and feeling confident going into this. Okay, some people probably do but I would say that most don’t. Just knowing that there are other people out there that have been in their shoes I think definitely helps.

Right on girl, we’re all unique in our own ways. We don’t all express ourselves in the same way either but that’s perfectly okay too. You are so right about that.

Thank you Donna, I appreciate your comment. Always lovely to hear your thoughts about the topics I share. I appreciate you.

~Adrienne

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107 Shalu Sharma Twitter: bihar January 18, 2013 at 3:31 PM

Good points raised by your Adrienne. I think all points hits the nail at the right places. I think in order to stand out from the rest of the other couple of millions one just needs to be different. Being honest and truthful to the readers is so important. Over time, readers begin to trust you and have faith.

108 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 18, 2013 at 4:04 PM: Hi Shalu,

Everyone is unique in their own way. Most of us don’t see that in ourselves but others do. That’s why it’s so important to just be yourself and share your own experiences and the right people will connect with you and more then likely find what you share very refreshing. It’s a matter of perspective right Shalu!

Thank you for your comment.

~Adrienne

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109 Colleen Kelly Twitter: ColleenFKelly January 18, 2013 at 3:36 PM

Hey, Adrienne,

Holy cow I relate to every thing you said!! lol. Yea, I went around looking and even coming here going “Wow”, with wide eyes thinking “I’m in trouble, so professional!.” But you are right, and this makes me feel good and I bet others can relate to THIS part. I’m OK with doing certain things on the computer. Wordpress is pretty good and I think a lot of blog sites are pretty helpful if you aren’t really a computer genuis. (rasing hand) So hearing it from you that just be concerned mainly with being yourself reaching others. It’s a good feeling for sure!. You’re right though. it can be intimidating. You have to remember to be yourself and things will fall into place.
Gee thanks Adrienne, I think this is something we need to be told every once in a while. We get the message and then slowly it can get lost by going to other blogs and thinking your is missing something.. lol Great post!!. Really, a needed message for all! Thanks!!

110 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 18, 2013 at 4:07 PM: Hi Colleen,

Oh yeah girl, I was so intimidated by some of these blogs I visited. I mean my goodness but then I slowly learned that they’re really just like me. It’s how we perceive things to be so once we get over that fear it’s a lot easier to just be ourselves.

This own process is a journey and we learn as we go. Some content and people we’re able to relate to while some we aren’t. So it’s great when it all starts to fall into place.

You are not alone here Colleen, not at all girl.

Glad you enjoyed this little share. Thanks so much for your comment.

~Adrienne

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111 Donald Twitter: donaldmacleod1 January 18, 2013 at 3:49 PM

Hi,

Good post pal. Enjoyed it immenseley. I try and be myself when posting on my blog. Haven’t done one yet this year, best I kick ass, get going. Thanks and I’ve noticed a link to a previous post which I must go back and read again. Not going to tell you…you’ll give me a row. I guess you will have an idea…..

Talk soon.

Kind Regards

Donald

112 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 18, 2013 at 4:09 PM: Hi Donald,

Why thank you and I’m glad this one resonated with you. What, you haven’t posted this year? Come on, get that content a cranking now Donald.

Yeah, I do believe I know. I just appreciate you stopping by. Thanks and you enjoy your weekend okay!

~Adrienne

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113 Michael Belk Twitter: IssuesEthical January 18, 2013 at 3:49 PM

Nice post Adrienne, you explained exactly how most blogging journeys begin. It is very important to speak in your natural voice.

I love the way you reference being human because that is how it happens. I think people connect with you because you are so human. You recognize you are not perfect and that means a lot.

When I sense someone is trying to be perfect, I start to look at them differently. thanks

114 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 18, 2013 at 4:10 PM: Thank you Michael,

I think the imperfection is what’s more attractive then anything else. We all come online and there is so much we don’t know. Once people realize that we all struggle with these things it helps. So just being you and not hiding behind some perfect person people have told you to pretend to be will help you so much more. It all comes out in the wash.

Thank you for sharing that.

~Adrienne

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115 Stacy Twitter: growwithstacy January 18, 2013 at 7:30 PM

Hi Adrienne,

So true! I went through the same phases in my early blogging. My earliest posts lack any real personality because I was so concerned with my image. But then over time I started to feel more comfortable and letting my personality come out. That’s when blogging became fun and people really started appreciating my posts!

It’s hard to admit flaws and mistakes, but people resonate with those and appreciate them the most!

Have a great weekend!
Stacy

116 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 18, 2013 at 9:47 PM: Hey Stacy,

Sounds like we did go through the same thing but aren’t we glad we finally got there! My goodness, I would have quit had this continued much longer I think. So glad we evolved. Look at us now!

I appreciate you sharing that Stacey, thank you so much.

Enjoy your weekend.

~Adrienne

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117 Hale Twitter: halepringle January 19, 2013 at 3:37 AM

Adrienne,

I always smile at the “just be you” and winch a little at the “be interesting enough that people will want to come back and read some more.” I gotta be me – yeah I can do that! I gotta be interesting – oh now you are making me work!

Regards,
Dr. Hale

118 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 20, 2013 at 11:30 AM: Hi Hale,

Yeah, I know what you mean… But hopefully by you just being you that will be enough.

Thank you!

~Adrienne

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119 Koundeenya Twitter: Koundeenya January 19, 2013 at 7:29 AM

I truly believe in that, being own selves really helps us in having our style. Even the same helps in building a brand. If one wants to stand out from a crowd, he/she should (MUST) be unique and being oneself.

Personally, I am a great fan of Seth. Though there are many people who write similar writings, uniqueness is the only reason for what Seth is today and so do you.

I really loved the way you carried on the entire article.

Thank you

Regards

120 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 20, 2013 at 11:33 AM: Hey Koundeenya,

I think that us standing out from the rest is by us being us. We definitely can’t be anyone else and we are all unique in our own way.

I agree with you about Seth. It’s the way he expresses himself and comes across is why he stands out. Will everyone be successful? I have no idea but we won’t know unless we try right!

Thank you for sharing that and happy you enjoyed how I write this one.

~Adrienne

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121 Mitch Mitchell Twitter: mitch_m January 19, 2013 at 11:26 AM

To paraphrase Bill Cosby, be yourself unless you’re an a*****e; you know what that’s supposed to be. lol Truthfully, even though we can be better by checking our spelling and making sure all the words are in our sentences, just being true to our audience will bring us what we need or deserve… for the most part. There are still those who will take advantage of your space or treat you with less respect than you deserve but that’s called “life” and it’s much easier to deal with it online, in your space.

Good stuff Adrienne!
Mitch Mitchell recently posted..Innovation And Blogging

122 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 20, 2013 at 11:36 AM: LOL!!! I love that Mitch and Bill’s right! But then again, you’re still unique being your a*****e self! To each his own right!

You’re right, people will be people and not all of them are nice. But if we keep a great attitude and thinking process then we’ll only attract those to us who are good and decent. Me personally, I don’t get any a*****e’s in my life anymore. Thank goodness for that.

Hope you’re having a great weekend Mitch.

~Adrienne

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123 Radu Twitter: radu_dascalul January 19, 2013 at 2:24 PM

Hey Adrienne,
One of the main reasons for your blogging success-many readers, comments and shares- is this personal touch you are talking about. It’s not about perfection that makes someone attractive but one’s sincerity and desire to grow. I’m catching up with this aspect as in the past I was very concerned with every single post I wrote trying to respect all the guidelines as saw online.
Some people will connect with you while others won’t. That’s perfectly okay.

How true is your quote! Realizing this simple fact puts in this vibration of authenticity and removes the fear of rejection. You don’t care about the outcome. You just do your best to write knowing that the right people will show up. In the end, it’s not about chasing everyone. Just finding the people with whom you can build meaningful relationships.
Even if at the moment I’m writing only short tips on fbk, I’m looking forward to write blog posts..directly from the heart
Thank you Adrienne for sharing your tips! I love the how you write and the energy you invest in building relationships with your readers
Have a blessed day,
Radu

124 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 20, 2013 at 11:40 AM: Hi Radu,

You said that beautifully Radu! We just need to add our own personal touch and I understand what you’re saying about us being concerned about that in the beginning. But we do live and learn don’t we!

I only want to deal with people who have similar interests to me. I’m not going to like everyone and they sure aren’t going to like me and that’s okay. So attracting the right people to us is what we all desire.

Thank you for sharing that Radu and I’m glad you enjoyed the post. Great to see you again and am eager for you to get back to writing again.

~Adrienne

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125 Viola Tam Twitter: ViolaMLMTam January 19, 2013 at 4:05 PM

Hi Adrienne,

I have been blogging for around two years now. I have FINALLY realized that connecting with real friends online is the best way to grow – not only grow the traffic, but grow as a blogger!

Commenting is great way to learn too. Sapna mentioned ‘Blogsphere” and Tonya mentioned about organic traffic as the best. There is so much to learn online! As we read others blogs and engage, we actually fast-track our learning. I am much less confused now.

I totally agree with this – “Some people will connect with you while others won’t. That’s perfectly okay.”. This is exactly the attitude that we need in Network Marketing too. We know that we are on the right track. Every success takes time. Others look at the success story on stage. What about the story behind the scene?

You have set an excellent example of how to do in right, Adrienne. It was only in 2009 that you came to this blogging scene, right? Excellent group of quality blogger and non-blogger friends here by now. I am glad that you are providing personalized coaching services to help others too. Well done!

Viola The Business Mum
Viola Tam recently posted..What’s Inside Navigating the Network Marketing Maze

126 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 20, 2013 at 11:43 AM: Hi Viola,

Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this topic. You are right, it’s just something we continue to learn and like you, I’ve definitely learned a lot from reading other blog content.

It’s perfectly okay to just be us but we have to find that right mix for us as well.

Yes, I did start my blogging journey in 2009 but it wasn’t until 2011 that things started working for me. See, I had a lot still to learn.

Thank you for your comment Viola. I appreciate your kind words.

Hope you enjoyed your weekend and are looking forward to another great week.

~Adrienne

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127 Ben Twitter: quickblogtips January 19, 2013 at 5:33 PM

Hi Adrienne,

Very nicely put! I know what you mean about wanting to make connections with some people, and with others, it doesn’t really work out…

I feel bad about that sometimes, but hey, we can’t maintain a strong connection with everyone in the world, can we?
Ben recently posted..What’s Your Blog’s Unique Selling Point?

128 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 20, 2013 at 11:44 AM: Hi Ben,

Thank you, I appreciate that.

Ah, but we definitely end up not liking everyone Ben and that’s perfectly okay. As long as the right people continue to enjoy what you share and are eager to build a relationship with you then that’s what’s the most important.

Thank you for your comment.

~Adrienne

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129 Celeste Smucker Twitter: celestesmucker January 20, 2013 at 6:45 AM

Hi Adrienne..this is a great reminder to just be who we are. We all have a unique voice…but we often hide it. I was an academic in my distant past and have struggled with letting my more casual self come through all of that stiffness. It’s definitely about sharing from the heart and you are a good example of how to do that. Thanks for your insight.
Celeste Smucker recently posted..To Live Younger Longer, Cultivate Happiness

130 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 20, 2013 at 11:47 AM: Hi Celeste,

I appreciate your comment, thank you so much for sharing that. You’re absolutely right!

~Adrienne

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131 Sue Worthington Twitter: getsocialsue January 20, 2013 at 10:10 AM

Hi Adrienne

I think it takes quite a while to actually realise and believe that people want to read what you say.
I am constantly amazed that people consider me a social media expert – I still don’t feel that I know anywhere near enough to really be of value to people.

But I guess we all know a little more than someone about something!

You are my inspiration for blogging Adrienne – it’s much better to take it slowly and build up the right type of followers by being your natural self, than by using plr or content that just isn’t true to you – and better to post less but maintain quality than try desperately to post every day if what you are writing is not to your usual standard.

I totally love my blog now and love the fact that it helps people, and I have made so many new friends.

Blogging rocks! Why doesn’t everyone do it? lol

Sue

132 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 20, 2013 at 11:49 AM: Hey Sue,

Oh boy, you’re so right and I agree with you. Some people call me experts in some areas but I definitely don’t know everything and probably never will. Now in some areas I definitely know quite a bit but I’ve never been comfortable with the term “expert”.

Thank you Sue, I’m truly touched. See, that’s why I blog because I’m able to be someone else’s inspiration. I just love that!

Blogging definitely rocks! Thank you for sharing this Sue. Hope you’ve had a fabulous weekend.

~Adrienne

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133 George Nieves Twitter: GeorgeNievescom January 20, 2013 at 1:37 PM

Hi Adrienne,
Absolutely brilliant post!
You have a certain writing style that automatically attracts a person to it. You have a down to earth style that encourages trust between your readers and yourself.
That’s a gift that not everyone has. You’re spot on with your post.
In order to attain any level of success in the online world, you have to get your readers to like you. They have to feel compelled to want to read what you’re actually blogging about.
I agree completely, that you have to be yourself. People are reading & buying YOU!
If you have something interesting to write about, they’ll be back for more.
If you don’t have anything interesting, they won’t!
Adrienne, by the amount of comments you’re getting with each blog post you write, it’s absolutely apparent that your readers are starving for your information!
I strive to be as good as you are! I’ve only recently relaunched my blog. We’ll see where it takes me?
I wish you much continued success in 2013!
George
George Nieves recently posted..Let Me Be Your Voice!

134 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 20, 2013 at 2:12 PM: Hey George,

Thank you and I appreciate you saying that. I hope that I can continue to provide content that people want to read.

I do believe though that we all attract the right people to us through what we share. That’s what it’s all about right! Like I had said, not everyone will like us but those that do are the ones we prefer coming back time and time again.

Thank you for your comment George and I appreciate that so much. I hope that my readers will continue enjoying what I have to share.

Much success to you as well throughout this new year.

~Adrienne

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135 Sue Price Twitter: suejprice January 21, 2013 at 1:29 AM

Hi Adrienne

You are really a master of standing out from the crowd and you do write just like you speak (well I cannot hear the Texas accent in your writing) lol

I can also remember starting out and being told to “find my voice” I had no idea what that meant.

It is sort of sad when we do not really know how to be ourselves. I think though many of us came from corporate backgrounds where when we wrote it was formal and in very correct grammar. Of course we do not blog like that.

Great advice Adrienne.

Sue

136 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 21, 2013 at 7:50 AM: Hi Sue,

Why thank you and I definitely do write that way, you’re right about that.

I hated that when people told me that because I know what my voice sounds like so finding it wasn’t an issue. lol… I seriously had no idea what they meant because remember, I’m no writer. What did that even mean.

You’re right, we all came from corporate backgrounds so writing any other way then professionally was out of character for me. I’m just glad that it all eventually fell into place.

Thank you Sue for sharing that. Enjoy your week.

~Adrienne

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137 Paul Henderson Twitter: Hendosrus January 21, 2013 at 8:03 AM

Hi Adrienne,

I’m glad I spotted your post in George’s blog, as it’s been a little while since I’ve been here.

And I must say, it’s nice to be reminded of your refreshingly easy style. And so true too. As someone who’s newish to blogging, I found myself a bit over-awed by the over the top, ultra-techie or salesy type gibberish I was reading at first. But it didn’t last long. I almost naturally fell into the simple one to one chat type of conversation, mainly cos I’m not bright enough to be full of bs techie talk type stuff – lol.

I certainly hope that one day, people will view my style even a fraction as highly as they do yours Adrienne.In the meantime, I’ll keep pushing forward.

All the very best,

Paul
Paul Henderson recently posted..My First Ever Product – It Lives !

138 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 21, 2013 at 8:14 AM: Hi Paul,

Oh good, glad you decided to stop back by.

Yeah, that can be rather overwhelming I’ll admit. Everyone’s site looks so professional and we think we’re the low man on the totem pole over here. Luckily that’s not always the case as more and more of us are finding out. Yay!!!

What a lovely compliment Paul and remember, you are your own person so you have your own style. The people that connect to you may not connect to me so that’s okay too! You just keep pushing forward because that’s the only way any of us want to go.

Thank you Paul for stopping by and you have a fabulous week.

~Adrienne

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139 Hajra Twitter: hajraks January 21, 2013 at 11:02 AM

Hats off to you for writing this brilliant post and getting the message across. I see so many bloggers trying to fall into the trap of being some one else and following their pattern that is becomes difficult for them to carve out an identity for themselves. The trick is to be confident that your way will work. What we need to learn from bloggers (like you!) is how to get better at what we do. The means to achieving, the tools that help but ultimately you have to stand out and be yourself to be identified!I am so thankful you wrote this!
Hajra recently posted..I don’t need you

140 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 21, 2013 at 11:49 AM: Why thank you Hajra, I appreciate that. I do hope that my advice here will be helpful for others to just let their hair down and just be themselves. Let the words flow and those that connect with them will be the right ones. Those that don’t just won’t.

Thank you for your comment, I appreciate that.

~Adrienne

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141 Barry Overstreet Twitter: b_overstreet32 January 21, 2013 at 12:17 PM

Hi Adrienne,

Just FYI, I left a comment on here over the weekend, but I guess it got lost. I know you’ve been dealing with some issues, so I just wanted to let you know.

Anyways, it’s definitely important to be yourself and be transparent. That’s what makes us all stand out from everybody else. There’s going to be people that we can relate to and who can relate to us so long as we allow people to see who we really are.

You are a shining example of this. Every time I read one of your posts, I feel like we’re having a chat over a cup of coffee in front of a fireplace. A chat amongst friends.

This is one of the areas that I’ve made a pretty drastic change in very recently. I struggled a lot to let my personality show through in my writing in times past. I think I’ve done a much better job of being relatable, and it will have a positive impact on my shares and comments.

I hope you have an outstanding week!

~Barry
Barry Overstreet recently posted..Your Unique Selling Proposition Is The Foundation To Your Business

142 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 21, 2013 at 1:06 PM: Hey Barry,

Yeah, I’ve definitely been having some issues so sorry about that. For the most part I’ve had a lot of my prime commenters end up in my spam folder which never happens anymore but I found some in there. I rescued one of yours from there as well so if you left another then it definitely got lost. But, I think I’m back up and running finally… From my lips to his ears!

You are right, we’ll stand out from the rest when we’re just ourselves. The ones that love what you share will definitely stand up and take notice.

I’m so happy you feel like each time you read my post I’m speaking directly to you. It’s taken me awhile as well to get comfortable with my own writing so that I can achieve those results. See, it’s not something that happens overnight.

I appreciate you sharing this Barry and with each new day and new post we just keep on improving. Yay!!!

You have an outstanding week as well.

~Adrienne

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143 Amit Twitter: meetuplife January 21, 2013 at 12:26 PM

Fake things never works for longer. I also believe that personal touch enhances the readership of blog. Applaud to this post which explains every concept concisely and clearly. As Viola said, connecting with real friends can grow our blogging and friends both. I agree with this point. I have started my blog in september 2012 and now I also have many blogger friends like you, Nirmala, Amit Shaw and many more. These bloggers are also helping me to learn new things. Thanks to all.

144 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 21, 2013 at 1:12 PM: Hey Amit,

You’ve got that right! I don’t know how people can keep up with things being fake. The more you just be yourself the more people will be able to relate to you. You know exactly how that is being fairly new to blogging as well.

Thank you for sharing that with me.

~Adrienne

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145 Liza Twitter: prettysweetly January 21, 2013 at 1:49 PM

This was a great post. I agree; the how-to’s and tips with how to make your blog this and that always SAY to be original, but they never really explain HOW to do that!

Another way people can be different and unique is to bring their own creativity to the table. Show people what they’ve got, have a little attitude, write about something from their perspective, write about what works for them and why it works, etc. I don’t think a person can be a blogger and actually enjoy it without having some kind of creativity going for them. Doing risky things on your blog pays off as well. It’s all about trying something totally odd and seeing where it goes; it’s about stepping out of your comfort zone. :]
Liza recently posted..Dust in the wind

146 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 21, 2013 at 2:04 PM: Thank you Liza, glad you enjoyed it!

That’s a great way to look at that too Liza, creatively! I think that if we aren’t being ourselves in our writing then we aren’t being true to who we are and we want the right people to connect with us. That can only happen when all of that falls into place. I agree, no one ever told me “how” to do that so I kept on doing the same old thing.

I appreciate your comment, thank you so much. Hope you enjoy your week.

~Adrienne

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147 Raena Lynn Twitter: raenalynntweet1 January 22, 2013 at 12:54 PM

Hi Adrienne,

I have proof that what you are saying and doing about blogging is true. When I relax and just be myself without worrying about technicalities, my audience comment numbers and quality increase a lot! It seems so simple, but I want to share what has been hanging me up. You stated, “Adrienne, just be yourself and the people who can relate to what you share will and those that won’t, won’t. It’s really that simple.” I totally agree. I feel I am an authentic and honest person. I don’t have a problem being me and sharing. However, my issue is not allowing the flow to happen sometimes because of grammar or “being professional.” My background is a professional teacher and I can’t seem to shake it! I’m getting better, but you don’t know how hard it is to say, “Hey, just wanted to see how you are doing!” That might be the thought in my head, but what comes out is, “How you are doing?” It doesn’t come across the same…does it? I’m working on it. It’s funny how I can be more casual on Facebook and Skype. I know! I’ll pretend I’m writing on Skype! It’s difficult for me to add OMG’s and LOL’s, in a post even though I want too!

Great post to think about. I know that we have to be unique and stand above the crowd. It’s a jungle out there! (see I just added that..normally I wouldn’t…LOL) Connecting and sharing is the way to go for long term stability (I had to say that too!). By the way, I love the sheep picture! Thanks!

Raena Lynn

148 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 22, 2013 at 1:31 PM: Hey Raena,

I know what you mean because I also came from a professional background but a lot of us did. That’s why the first year and a half of the posts I wrote were more professional sounding. They didn’t have any of me in them but isn’t your blog the place you want to make connections with the people you want to work with? Do you want someone who is always watching what they say or being so professional? No!

You want people who can just be themselves and that all starts with how your content comes across. See, you let some verbage here in your comments come out so just let her rip. You did great with your Skype conversation posts and those were a big hit. You know that’s what people love so just keep working on that and you’ll have those words flowing in no time at all.

Thanks Raena for your comment and for sharing that with us. I loved it and glad you liked my sheep photo! It’s totally me!

~Adrienne

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149 Olawale Daniel Twitter: coolcash4live January 23, 2013 at 9:07 AM

I think this is the third time of visiting your blog and I could see in your writing, you have got what it takes to be referred to as a teacher and someone who makes other feel among even when it seems not.

Gaining the ground in the blogging industry is becoming hard these days but I think standing out in our own voice and doing what we love most; sharing without looking for returns and helping others, is the right thing we needed to do in order to get there.

No one is born a pro, he would start the journey one day.

Thanks for your post. However, I have sent you an email, please check.
Olawale Daniel recently posted..5 Best Business/Customer Relations Apps for 2013

150 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 23, 2013 at 9:15 AM: Hey Olawale,

Thank you, I appreciate that and after only visiting my blog three times.

Thank you for sharing that with me and I do hope you’re enjoying your week. I’ll check my in box, thanks.

~Adrienne

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151 Angela McCall Twitter: angeld0ve January 23, 2013 at 9:50 PM

What a beautiful post, I couldn’t say any better. Be Yourself. Write your blog as if you’re writing to a friend. Exactly. I’m so glad that I’m not the only one feels the way I feel. I’m not alone. And to my surprise, a lot of new bloggers like me are going through the same thing. I’m glad that I have connected with them and connected with you too. Thanks to Google+. That’s where I met other fellow bloggers like me. Facebook was my number #1 platform then; now it’s beginning to be Google+ more and more. That’s where I find all the Wordpress bloggers. Thank you so much, Adrienne. Your post is just refreshing and informative. Btw, I started blogging just last Halloween 2012. I’m still new and so this year of 2013 will be a lovely beginning!
Angela McCall recently posted..Comment on Skype by Angela McCall

152 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 24, 2013 at 7:54 AM: Thank you so much Angela and congratulations on blogging. Wow, you are still very new but doing really well and I’m glad that you are learning some things so early on. I sure wish I had but that’s okay, we’re all learning now and from each other too.

I’m loving Google+ a lot more myself so thanks for making that connection. I hope it will continue to get more and more popular as time goes by.

I appreciate your comment, thank you so much. Enjoy your day!

~Adrienne

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153 Mukesh Dutta Twitter: geniuskick January 24, 2013 at 6:04 AM

Hi Adrienne,

While going through your post, I felt like you were directly speaking to me. May be because, I’m facing all the situations that you mentioned, as a blogger. I don’t have much experience in blogging but I’m moving with it with a positive note, although writing is a tough thing to me!

Thanks for the inspiring post!
Mukesh Dutta recently posted..3 Useful WordPress Plugin Ideas For Plugin Developers

154 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 January 24, 2013 at 8:05 AM: Hi Mukesh,

Oh good, I’m so glad you felt that way and haven’t we all gone through this too! So now you see you’re not alone so just keep up the great work because trust me, you’ll get better and better as time goes by.

You are most welcome and so glad you enjoyed it.

Have a fabulous day!

~Adrienne

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155 Chery Schmidt Twitter: cheryschmidt February 2, 2013 at 4:27 PM

Hi Adrienne, I just read RaenaLynns post “My Blog Is Taking A Digger” and took her advice and ended up here OMG I am so glad I did. I feel as though you were talking directly to me! Kind of scary, but as we all know the more we do the better we will get.. I love your style you are a true leader! I am going to take your advice and run with it. Thanks for sharing… Chery
Chery Schmidt recently posted..Simple CraigsList Training For Online Entrepreneurs Finale

156 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 February 2, 2013 at 4:35 PM: Hey Chery,

Ah, Raena’s post was fabulous wasn’t it and I was rather surprised myself that she mentioned me so much. But I’ve told her to just chill and with some of he posts that she has as she admits she’s done much better from those results.

I think we’ve all felt like that so you’re definitely not alone. Hope you’ll take my advice and run with it. Trust me, it does work.

Thank you Chery for sharing that and have a good weekend.

~Adrienne

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157 Brian Tally March 20, 2013 at 8:46 PM

Excellent post as always. I think it is very important to stand out from the rest, as long as you continue to be you. One of the key things I do it try to connect with my readers all the time. instead of posting 1000 articles, I post only a few that give value add to the reader. Cheers. -Brian

158 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 March 20, 2013 at 9:52 PM

Hey Brian,

Thank you, I appreciate that.

I noticed that you have a real estate blog yet you don’t have comments. Can I ask you why? You’ll notice I removed your links and that’s why. Blogging is about connecting with other bloggers and they can’t do that if they can’t contribute to what you share. Would love to hear why.

~Adrienne

159 Brian Talley March 21, 2013 at 9:01 AM

Hi Adrienne! After I upgraded my site a few months ago, I started getting large amounts of automated spam. We turned off the comments in response to this, but you do make a valid point here. I should spend time each day approving valid comments and interacting with my readers. I’m going to ask my website company to setup blog spam filtering and re-enable comments.

160 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 March 21, 2013 at 9:05 AM: Hey Brian,

Install the GASP plug-in and that will help cut a lot of that spam out. Not all because there are plenty of human spammers out there but it will definitely get rid of the spam bots.

You definitely want commenters on your blog and start interacting with them because that’s how you build those relationships and get them interested in what you have to offer.

Look forward to seeing that change Brian.

~Adrienne

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161 Brian Talley March 29, 2013 at 12:20 PM

Hi Adrienne, I have comments enabled on my blog now. Since we’re running a custom real estate CMS (not wordpress), it took some custom programming to put spam protection in place. So, if you’d like to stop by and leave a comment or three, I’ll make sure that they get approved. Thanks!

Brian
Brian Talley recently posted..Austin, Texas Luxury Homes Report March 2013

162 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 March 29, 2013 at 1:02 PM: Hey Brian,

Well congratulations and sorry if it was some trouble. See why WordPress blogs are worth it!

I’m not into real estate nor do I live in Austin but I will stop by to check it out just because I appreciate that you took my advice. Wish I lived in Austin but I’m stuck here in Houston.

Thanks Brian for stopping by!

~Adrienne

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163 R. Michael Gonzalez Twitter: The_ACNIBO March 23, 2013 at 7:56 AM

Hello Adrienne,

I just found your blog and it’s excellent. I’m new to this blogging thing, so thanks for the Gravatar info I was wondering how to do that. I’m in an MLM business and have a blog about my business, but rather than just the standard opt-in email pop up’s or pushing my opportunity on people, I’m trying to take a different approach.

Much like your article says, I’m trying to just be myself. I try to write good articles and include personal life examples, rather than following the typical MLM script every company has. I don’t know if it will take me longer to grow my business or if my method will even work, but at least I know I’m being real.

I notice so many in the MLM business, use the wrong tactics, like deception or misleading their potential customers and prospects and it bothers me, I have met some really good people in this business and it’s got a bad reputation from these practices. I try to cover all there is to know in my blog, never hiding anything and I try to write articles about self development as well as information on the business. I feel that if your not trying to better your life in more ways than just financially, then you don’t have anything to offer anyone. I also have not monetized my site in any way, so that people who just want information can feel that I’m giving it openly and don’t need to make money from every visitor.

I hope you can visit my blog and give me your input on how I’m doing things.

Thank you,

R. Michael
R. Michael Gonzalez recently posted..New ACN IBO’s – Give It Time & Keep It Simple!

164 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 March 23, 2013 at 10:30 AM: Hi Michael,

First off, welcome to my blog and it’s always nice to see a new face around here. So glad you like what I’ve been doing. I do love to help others learn all things blogging.

So we have another MLMer among us. I think the online industry as a whole is pretty deceiving Michael and I don’t really blame it too much on the new guys because they’re still being taught these things. I was once a newbie and I did it all wrong and got nowhere quick. The hard part is I was taught these things for years and got nowhere so most people won’t last past six months.

You’ll have to check out my post I wrote about having purpose in your life. I’ve learned throughout my journey that if you’re here for yourself you’ll get nowhere quick. If you’re here to help others then your time will come. Nothing happens overnight but if you’re patient and you just enjoy helping other people get what they want, your time will come.

Thank you for taking the time to comment and I’ll get by your blog. Forgive me if I go in search of a post I can relate to because I’m not interested in the MLM thing anymore so I’ll have to find one I enjoy reading.

Have a great weekend Michael.

~Adrienne

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165 Angela April 30, 2013 at 5:24 PM

Hi Adrienne,

I totally agree about making your voice heard. When I started 9 months ago I read so many tips and advice about making sure it was all about the reader that I stopped putting in my own stories. I’ve since stopped that, and started to make my site more personal, and I’m pretty sure that’s what’s working now.

Thanks for your article

Have a lovely day!

Angela
Angela recently posted..Change Your Life in 30 Days

166 Adrienne Twitter: adriennesmith40 April 30, 2013 at 8:23 PM: Hi Angela,

I hear ya and I did the same thing. I wrote because I was told it needed to be more professional, people don’t relate to amateurs. To heck they don’t which is why it really does work to put your own stories in. I’m glad you didn’t go too long without figuring that out too.

Welcome to my blog and thank you for sharing this. Now, we just need to get your gravatar set up girl so we can see your pretty face!

Thanks Angela and you have a lovely week.

~Adrienne

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