For better or worse, blogging has changed my life. How could it have not? I can't picture what would be filling my "extra" time if I wasn't blogging right now, nor do I know how my life would be if I wasn't blogging. I do have to say though, I still am as much (way more) a blog reader, than a blogger. That's how I started so many years ago and that still hold true. Except now it isn't my 7 favorite blogs to read every day, but hundreds a day. I know I should devote more time to taking care of my own space, brand, promotion, etc., but really, I'd still rather read blogs more then write my own.
With that said, I would never take back or give up this blog, this little space that's all my own, created by me. I still have such a hard time calling myself a blogger and have only recently realized just have big I've grown. I still thought of my blog as beginner, but over the past few months I have seen that that is no longer true. So much has changed since June 26 of 2013 as the evolution of this space grows and expands, but it's still me, healthy living, food, and fitness (and always will be!). With all this reflection going on in my head, I've been trying to nail down the top 4 biggest ways blogging has changed my life. There really are countless ways, but these 4 really stick out.
1. Interactions and Connections. This is an obvious one, as blogging is all about interaction and connection, but it really is amazing. The people I've got to interact with and the brands and companies I've gotten to work with...my mouth still hangs open. I was such a terrible "quiet" girl my whole childhood (people called me shy, but I hate that word so I don't use it!). Blogging has allowed me to finally express the inner-extrovert and become even more outspoken and "gutsy". I was never scared to say what I felt or wanted (I just kept it inside my head). But you all know I'll say what I want on this blog (for the most part). By doing so, I've found great and amazing like-minded people to share thoughts, ideas, struggles, and triumphs with. With that, brands and companies have wanted to work with me because of my authenticity. I've also become a much better "in-person" communicator as well. From having to talk on the phone, interviews, working with "adults" and professionals, I feel much more confident in my ability to properly express myself and get my points across.
2. Technology Take-Over. I don't necessarily like this change, but it's one of the undeniable realities of being a successful blogger. Before starting my own blog, I loathed Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (I really didn't know what instagram was for!). But then I had to get myself up and running on those platforms, which Β I did, and now I'm addicted. I still hate Instagram, but I love Facebook for the communities and groups I'm in, Twitter is great for sharing other people's stuff, and Pinterest has always been my virtual "cookbook of inspiration". Plus, now I am just always attached to technology. Working on "stepping away" for my own sanity, but I have grown to appreciate all that is has "opened" up for me.
3. Irreplaceable Learning and Education. Boy, have I learned so much! Obviously, I've learned so much about the ins-and-outs of blogging and social media, but also so much about myself and my interests. I've always loved learning and with blogging I was finally able to learn about the things I truly love! It's made me crave more and more knowledge, which I will one day be able to get! And how many 18 year-olds have the knowledge I do? Not many, at least not in the areas of blogging, fitness, health, and cooking. Not only that, but what I have learned about myself is astonishing. I learn something new everyday. How I work best, what inspires me, what angers me, why I love and do things. Blogging is an unconventional way to get an "education", but I have. Not academic, but life, an education of life!
4. I've Become a Creator. This is the biggest and greatest change that I will forever cherish. When I was younger I never really had one hobby that would be my creative outlet. I went from messy art, writing, singing alone in my room. I guess my creation was always with my body through dance. But now I have become a creator of all things. I have tangible work to show with my name and personality all over it. This blog. This space, was created all by me. It started with an idea, a name, and then a post. I've grown this online world from the bare cold ground. It is now up in the tree tops, basking in the sun! (At least to me it is!) I've become a business women, entrepreneur, artist, writer, creator, visionary, and so much more. I've created the person who I've always had hidden down there just waiting to shine. There is so much more creating and learning to do, but the growth that has happened within myself is because of this blog, this beautiful Strength and Sunshine!
To go along with the theme of "4" I've partnered with HP and Meghan Trainer to help spread the word about the new HP Pavilion x360 (which has 4 modes: laptop, tablet, tent, and stand) and Meghan Trainer's "That Bass Tour". HP is currently on tour with Meghan Trainer while creating an awesome #bendtherules fan-generated documentary, all while using the new HP x360. You can check out their videos along the wayΒ and follow the hashtags #bendtherules #ThatBassTour.
This post is sponsored by Collectively onΒ behalf of HP. All content and thoughts are my honest own.
So tell me:
+ How has blogging changed your life?
+ Are you considered an outgoing person? How about online?
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Stay connected: Facebook: Strength and Sunshine Twitter: @RebeccaGF666 Instagram: rebeccagf666 Pinterest: RebeccaGF666 Bloglovinβ: Strength and Sunshine Google+: Rebecca Pytell
Jayleen @ How Do The Jones Do It
Blogging has changed my life by giving me something to focus on. I'm always looking for something to blog about and how everyday life adventures could ring a bell with someone else.
I grew up a shy girl always by her mom's side. If you asked those around me now, they would laugh at the thought of me being shy;0)
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Totally! I see the things that happen in my life a lot differently now!
Haha! I'm still quiet, but my voice is loud in my creativity!
Sherry
This is a great post. It is featured on Funtastic Friday #15. Hope to see you again this week.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Thanks Sherry!
kimmythevegan
I love this post. It's so honest & open (like all of your posts, really). You are one of the bloggers I look up to. You totally have it all figured out and I really admire that about you. I've been blogging 2.5 years and I'm still trying to increase my readership and figure out my social networking stuff and brand connections. You clearly have awesome sauce time management skills =) I really like blogging, it's a great outlet for me. I think my favourite part is getting to know other bloggers.
I am really glad to have met you through the blogging community and I hope to one day have a blog as successful as yours!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Hahaha, I love you Kimmy! But I totally DO NOT have anything figured out! I always feel lost in this blogging world! It's so hard, but I guess that's what pushes me to keep going. I don't ever want to give up! You're doing great and I'm so happy to have "met" you too! XOXOXOXOXOXO
Lisa Ehrman
I love blogging, because I've met so many others who also share the same rare illness that I have.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
It is such a great way to connect with people with our same interests/needs!
Kori Tomelden
Blogging has really helped me keep everything in perspective and rethink my long term career goals. I always told myself that this wasn't going to become a full time thing, but as I've gotten more and more into it- I've started rethinking that. Blogging has changed my life in a lot of small ways, but rethinking my career future is definitely the biggest.
Stopping by via Motivational Monday π
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
It's crazy how these little spaces can turn in to such long-term and possibly career driven things! I don't think I would ever blog full-time, but it has brought to my attention all the success that can come out of doing so and that it is possible!
Robin @ The Golden Rule Kids
It is truly amazing how blogging does change us. I do not think we really realize all that we are going to get from doing it and it such a blessing. I love the connections I have made so far and look forward to all the new things blogging brings me down the road. Great post thanks for sharing!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
It is amazing to look back! And I am so curious to see how I will grow even more, the new connections, and new things I will learn even a few months from now!
J @ A Hot Southern Mess
Yes yes yes! I don't know what I would do without my little space of creativity either! it's amazing how much time we spend on our blogs, but I wouldn't change it for a thing! Thanks for sharing!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Right on! This little space requires a hell of a lot, but ultimately it's worth it!
Heather @ My Overflowing Cup
I love blogging and reading other blogs, too! It's amazing how much we can teach, learn, and encourage one another with our words. The blogging community is just amazing.
Congratulations on your success, Rebecca. Blessings to you and yours.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
It truly is! Thank you so much dear friend! Keep blogging and rockin' yourself! XOXO
Heather @ My Overflowing Cup
Thanks! π
Linda Blatchford
I love blogging and social media. But, the more time I spend on them, I have less time to create my jewelry. It's tough to know how to balance it all.
http://linorstore.com/aquamarine-march-birthstone/
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Balance is an ever-going process. It's so hard to find!
All that's Jas
Great reflection. Blogging has definitely taught me a lot, from organization skills to writing and photography. Most valuable though are the new blogger friends I made along the way. Thanks for linking up at Thursday Favorite Things, can't wait to see what you'll share next time π
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Thanks friend! Blogging was definitely a decision I don't regret!
Talitha Haynes
I become a photographer because of blogging (not professional). Being a blogger has pushed me to reach goals and set higher goals. Visiting from SITS
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Awesome! It has brought out and taught me so many new things that U wouldn't have fully embraced otherwise!
Jenny @ Unremarkable Files
I would probably still be stuck in the first half of the 20th century without any FB or Twitter without the blog. You know I love my blog, because I never would've gotten on those social networks in a million years if I didn't!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Girl, same! And I'm 18, haha!
Kim @ 2justByou
Blogging has definitely changed my life too. I agree with your list 100%, and I also love the blogger community. I'm visiting today from The SITS Girls ShareFest, and I'm so glad I did! Hope you have a wonderful weekend.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
SITS is a great perk of our community too, haha π XOXO
adrian
It's funny. Last week a guy at work was kind of making fun of me for being a blogger. It bothered me more than I let on, but afterwards I finally decided that he was completely nuts for dissing on blogging. Blogging is COOL and it has allowed me to do a whole world of things I would never have been able to do otherwise. I've been on TV several times, I've been in a fashion show, I've been on a cruise, I've gone to Washington DC and met with Congress, I've got to go to a ton of conventions and wonderful parties and events, I've gotten a crap ton of free stuff and great experiences, I've made some really fabulous and wonderful people (some of them mildly famous), and tons of other fabulous stuff, I've learned and learned and learned. All from just writing little bits on my computer. I never did like that guy anyway, so I don't know why I paid any attention to his opinions, other than it made me feel grateful for something I had taken for granted - Bloggers ROCK! #SITSSharefest
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Haha, yes Adrian! All of the amazing things that come our way just amazes me! But only us bloggers will ever fully understand!
Jes @ Deadpan Diaries
Love your post! I just started my blog in January after a long break from writing. It feels great to be creating again:)
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Thank you!!!! Writing and creating is truly a joy in life!
Daniela
Blogging has given me an outlet for self expression, connected me with so many people, and, yes, gotten addicted to technology.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
That's one I didn't realize would be so consuming!
Gail Akeman
If I didn't blog I would be a lot of tv.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Blogging's way more fun π
Julia
I haven't been blogging for very long, but even in the short amount of time I've become so involved in the "blogging world." Thanks for sharing the post.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
It requires A LOT!
SUZI T
It has helped me cope with my daughters illness. It's my therapy
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
That is great! XOXO
Sheena
Blogging is my journalling that I want to share with people. Of course I still have my private handwritten journal (or 10) but blogging is just more journalling for me.
How you are about Instagram is how I am about Twitter. I am really trying to get in the swing of using it.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
My blogging isn't that personal, but I also wouldn't want it do be.
Haha, Twitter I feel much more comfortable with! Like a second home!
Lisa @ Fun Money Finds
I'm very new to blogging and I'm totally hooked! One of the things I love most is discovering all the other great bloggers out there. I would have thought it would be more competitive considering the sheer number of blogs that exist but I've found it to be just the opposite. It really is a community and everybody really seems to want to get to know and help each other. I love so many aspects about this but that is by far my favorite!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
You'll feel the competitiveness eventually π It's not all rainbows and sunshine, but if you can find your "tribe" that is becomes a lot easier...and nicer!
Sandra Laflamme
Starting my blog has definitely made my life busier! But it has also given me more of a voice as well as to help me go after new goals. I have also learned a ton about social media engagement and love working with brands.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Ah, exactly! I feel that way too! Super busy, but for good reasons and reasons I want!
Melissa @ Freeing Imperfections
I love this post! I am with you on the technology changes. I used to not get Instagram either until now. It's hard because I don't want to be too glued to technology, but I definitely understand it better and use it for a purpose now because of blogging.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
The only reason I have ALL the accounts and channels is for this blog, haha!
Farrah
Blogging has definitely changed my life too, mostly for the better, I think! (The "I think" is mainly because of #2, because I also loathed social media before making my blog public. haha.) I love the interaction and the friends I've made through the blogging world though, so they definitely make it worth it!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
That's the only reason why it's worth it! But I'll never say I love it.....I don't!
Farrah
I like thinking of it as a necessary evil. :]
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Exactly π
Kristy @ Southern In Law
Blogging has DEFINITELY changed my life - especially as my blog has become a second business. Not only that though - I've found others who share my loves, my allergies, my lifestyle and made friends (like a certain someone who writes this blog π ) who I am so thankful for!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Where else in the world would we find weirdo food allergy sufferers and Celiacs who also happen to be badass and blog? Hahahaha! XOXO
genevieve @ gratitude & greens
One of my favourite things about blogging is how it has connected me to so many wonderful people- including you! I'm constantly challenging myself to try new things, create better quality content, and to get better at other things, such as social media. Getting onto social media was a huge pain for me. I love Instagram and Pinterest, and quite enjoy Facebook, but I'm still figuring out Twitter. I think creativity is so important and I love that blogging has helped to unleash my creative side!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
I totally agree! It has gotten me to try and do new crazy things! It's an adventure each and every day for sure!
Rachel
I'm so much more outgoing online than in person, but blogging has helped me develop skills that have come in handy for my day job.
It's also been a good outlet for me.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Exactly! Same here!
Megan @ Skinny Fitalicious
I couldn't agree more with every single one of these!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Haha, yes! I think all bloggers feel these!
Kati Rose
I know so many people think blogging is a fruitless hobby but I have learned so much from it! Many of the skills I've learned through blogging are really useful in the current job market too which I was surprised to find out. But I have to say the best thing I've gotten from blogging is the connections and community!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Right on! Having this "brand" of my own is so great at such a young age! I know I have a leg up in so many areas and experience so many won't ever have!
Amanda
I really missed the connection from blogging, that's why I just started blogging again. I totally get you there! It's so great how you can make these observations!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
I would feel "empty" without it too!
Ana Valentin
I totally agree with you on the techie take over! I didn;t understand twitter and only had one from about 3 years ago due to my teacher from AP U.S History who felt we should connect with our senators only... she never actually told us what to do, so there it sat. When life is busy I often forget about my platforms but truly when I'm on point my views are insane (for my little blog that is)! I love your blog and check it daily for little bursts of inspiration! Much love from a fellow Jersey Girl
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Haha! Yea, I had a Twitter....I have no idea why I made it...years and years ago in 2009, but I never used it until blogging kicked in!
Haha, I didn't know you're a NJ girl! XOXO Thank you so so so much sweetheart! That means the world!
Joanna Sormunen
Blogging has had a huge impact on my life too. It's incredible to be able to connect with other people and share what is in your mind and heart.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
It is a virtual world that you can grow and connect with however you want!
Sonali- The Foodie Physician
I can so relate to all 4 of these changes! That HP Pavilion looks really cool!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
It's fun! I love that it's a touch screen!
Ally
I've been blogging for a long time but never had sponsors till the past two years. I always love how connected I am to the world and I get a kick out of having friends from all over the world. It is awesome being able to relate to each other even though our cultures are so different.
I'm very outgoing in person and online. I'm pretty much the same.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
It is! I get to meet people from around this country to completely across the globe!
Haha, that's great π We need to be authentic anyway!
lindsay
i definitely relate to all, especially the technology take over, but it's all about finding a balance... eek, good days and bad days.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
That balance is so non-existent right now!
Linda @ Veganosity
This is so true Rebecca. I really cherish the blogging friendships that I've made. My husband laughs at me when I say something like, "my friend Rebecca at Strength and Sunshine just posted the coolest..." I guess you have to be a blogger to get it. I'm still waiting for a brand to reach out to me, patiently waiting.....
Congrats on the HP - Meghan Trainer partnership! Very cool. I hope you get to keep the tablet and get tickets to one of her concerts. π
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Hahahaha π I know, sometimes I want to use bloggers names when talking about something in real life...but I stop my self and just say "o, this blogger" because I know my family has no idea!
Haha, thank you! And yes, I get to keep this awesome piece of technology π (Another life "changer"!)
Lauren
I understand what you mean that technology takes over a blogger's life. As I write this I visited my mom's house today and I brought my laptop AND my DSLR just so I can fit some blogging in!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Haha! My laptop has become my lifeline for sure!
Tianna
lovely post! Blogging has changed my life in so many ways it's crazy, but amazing. I definitely think it's allowed me to connect with amazing people and brands, experience new things and grow in ways I never thought possible. On top of that, I really love the community of it all. It's so funny you hate being called shy - everyone always calls me an extrovert and says I'm not shy when I personally feel I am actually quite reserved and can be shy. it's funny how others see us isn't always how we see ourselves. great post!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Blogging is such a wonderful change to your life that you decide to implement!
Haha! You would like my mom! She doesn't think of herself as outgoing, but man....she is!
Donna @ Soul Survival
Rebecca, as a blogger who is also a grandmother (& actually a great-grandmother), I've learned so much, especially when it comes to technology. I'm still a novice in that area, but I've made myself learn what I can. So much of what I have learned has been from other bloggers. All you young bloggers out there are amazing. When I saw your blog I thought the word "sunshine" was so appropriate. Visiting from UNITE. Blessings!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Thank you Donna! You're so sweet! We all learn so much from each other, its Astonishing! Keep up the blogging spirit!
Michele @ paleorunningmomma
I agree with all your points and have experience much of the same since I started last April. Especially #1, that has been the biggest area of growth for me π
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Totally! Blogging just allows us to grow in every area of our lives!
Chelsie
I totally agree with all your points! Since starting to blog, I feel more confident in myself and in my ability to make connections and express my thoughts. Also, I suddenly know so much about SEO, Graphic Design, HTML, etc. I've learned so much!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Haha, o all the fun techie things π
Evolve with Mary
I really enjoy reading your blog and keeping mine up as well. I agree I'm more of a blog reader than a blogger but I love every bit of what I do. I agree with you about Instagram, Facebook and all those other sites. At first I loathed Instagram but now I love it, it's just another way for me to connect with people. I'm still not 100% in on Facebook but I'm working on it. I love that bloggers tend to inspire other bloggers, that very important to me.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Thank you! Yes! I love finding new blogs to inspire me and to look up to! Everyone creates in such different ways!
Patty @ Reach Your Peak
All great points! Blogging has changed my life too mainly because of the connections I've made and how it has influenced my life. I stated blogging because I was so inspired by other fitness bloggers on Tumblr...they're the ones who inspired me to run a half marathon and marathon! Something I never thought I would be able to do. I can credit the blogging community for my trying new things, like spin, bodypump classes, yoga, and more. π
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Yea! It's only helped to increase my love for all of that too! And be able to share it!
Channing
My "online" life and personal life are very different. Both have good and bad with them. But for some reason, I think I'm a more authentic version of myself online than in my personal life. Interesting observations.......
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
That is interesting! My blog life has become just another part of my personal life!
Hannah @ CleanEatingVeggieGirl
Yes to all of these, but I especially appreciate #1. I met my best friends here in Omaha through blogging!!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
I wish I could say that, haha! I really haven't made any REAL friends yet!
Hannah @ CleanEatingVeggieGirl
Have you tried going to "Meet-Up" groups? I did that for awhile before I met my blogging friends and met some great friends through there, too!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Maybe here in DC, but back home there are NO bloggers! haha!
Γmilie
I feel like the biggest change for me is that I always have something to do. Whenever I have free time, I find myself working on my blog instead of watching TV or other things. It doesn't feel like work though because I truly love it!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Haha, yes! I never watch TV or sadly pleasure read anymore...I just always have something "bloggie" to do!
GiGi Eats
Technology take-over - YOU SAID IT! LOL! But I love blogging so very much that I don't even care!!!!!! I have made soooo many amazing friends through blogging, I wouldn't give it up for anything!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
I would never give it up either! I've done to much and come so far!
Jess @hellotofit
Love this post! Blogging has opened up my creative side, and helped me make lots of great connections!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Those are the best "perks" π
Cassie
Awesome post... I think I have learned all of those things, too! I was always pretty connected though since I worked in social media π
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Haha, blogging led me to working in social media with my current job now! Who would have thought though!
AJ @ NutriFitMama
I am definitely enjoying the world that blogging has opened up for me- the connections and interactions are amazing. I am not a fan of the technology aspect BUT I do enjoy networking and connecting with other bloggers that way as well!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Exactly my take on it! Haha! But we've got to take the negatives with the positives!
Linz @ Itz Linz
blogging has changed my life because of all the real life friendships i've made through it!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
I hope to make more "real life" connections one day!
Emily @My Healthyish Life
I'm an "ambivert" so I'm sometimes outgoing and sometimes shy. Blogging has oddly made me less shy in real life!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
Same here! I know what I have to say matters and I know I have the confidence to present my ideas now!
Allie
I have to agree with you. I find I am much more of a blog reader myself and I feel like I am adding new blogs to the list everyday.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
It never stops! I read over 200 (skim!) everyday! I just want to be involved in EVERYONE'S blog!
Rachel G
Isn't it cool, all the great ways that blogging has changed your life for the better? I know it has definitely helped me hone my writing skills.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
It has helped my writing (and love of writing) so much!