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After nearly seven years of blogging here at ElleSees, it happened: I lost my blogging mojo. I wanted to share my story of how it happened and how I got it back.
It all started around February. I found out I was going to not be working for the family I nanny for come this fall. It was a devastating blow. I'm still working on a plan for the future, but I'm not worried.
Since I knew I'd be unemployed, I decided to take one last trip, to one of my favorite places: Walt Disney World. It was a last minute trip. I didn't have anything ready for the blog like I normally do.
I decided to really relax and not do anything blog-related. No commenting on blogs, no emails, no Instagram stuff (other than posting pics), nothing. I had a great time, but felt guilty for just letting everything blog-wise go. While I do have a nanny job, I also earn an income from blogging.
I came back ready to get back on the blog after a mini-vaycay, but brought along a souvenir with me: the flu! Yes, I was sick for a few weeks for the rest of the month. I began to slack off on my blog, posting only 2 or 3 times a week.
My page views went down. Commenters who normally stopped by just disappeared. My Instagram plummeted. You get the idea. Blogging takes a lot of work, y'all!
Then March came. I was feeling better and ready to get serious about blogging again. I started about 3-4 days a week instead of my usual 5. But then I got Walking Pneumonia, and that knocked me out for the rest of the month.
I had a big moment and decided to think about things--what had happened to my blog? Why weren't people coming by like they used to? They stopped because it wasn't like it used to be.
I wasn't putting forth the effort like I used to, but did I want to?
I want to.
So that's where I am now. I am feeling better, finally. I am slowly getting back to a schedule, but not like I used to. I'm still in love with blogging--that never changed. I still have a ton of things to write about. That never changed.
I'm feeling more like myself and I can't wait to bring back that enthusiasm back to this space I've loved for 7 years. I have a ton of goals and ideas to improve ElleSees and make it even better.
And I hope you are right there with me.
Thanks for reading.
So glad you are feeling better! You need to take a break once in awhile and step back in order to get recharged. So excited for the things to come on your blog!
ReplyDeleteJill
Doused In Pink
It's definitely good to take a break from time to time to see where you stand with blogging. I also stopped blogging for a while and came back feeling like I have more energy to go at it again and to spend more time working on posts and visiting other blogs. Good to see that you're coming back!
ReplyDeleteElle, I think for people like us who've been blogging for awhile....it's normal to go through this. Consistency is hard, especially for someone like you who really put out thoughtful DIYs and reviews. Glad to hear you've got your mojo back!:)
ReplyDeleteglad you're feeling better Elle! And glad to see your mojo back. :)
ReplyDeletePlease take care of yourself! Glad to see you back as well :)
ReplyDeletesometimes we just have to take a break and look at what we are doing. Blogging is hard work and you do a wonderful job at it. But you got to take care of yourself first. Good for you for realizing it and getting your mojo back!
ReplyDeleteXoxo,
Whitney & Blaire
Peaches In A Pod
I'm with you! : )
ReplyDeleteGlad you are feeling better- I can completely relate to this. Blogging is such hard work to begin with, but when things change in your daily life like unexpected sickness or changes to routine, it can make things fall off balance. I love blogging too but learning to accept the fact that we can't always accomplish everything in one day or week is so important. You'll get there again, I promise, but just don't beat yourself up over it because at the end of the day you're doing the best you can and that's all that matters. And the people who truly love your blog will keep coming back, so I wouldn't put too much into the ones who fell off the wagon. :)
ReplyDeleteblogging mojo and losing is a real thing girl! it's been tough for me and i've been around here like 2x a week max. it's just there is no time. etc etc. flu then pneumonia! girl! gotta stay healthy then comes blogging. here's to getting things on a positive train!
ReplyDeletexoxo cheshire kat
Thanks for Sharing! I've been lettnig my own blog slip as well as I work fulltime, complete my Masters, and am still recovering from the flu I got a couple weeks ago and an eye surgery. Life happens, but I do still enjoy blogging, and it's great to hear other bloggers facing the same issues as me.
ReplyDeletexo- katestylepetite.com
Perfect!
ReplyDeleteI was totally in the same boat, had my baby a few months ago and it really took me a while to get my blog mojo back... who am I kidding my life mojo back. Glad to see you back at it. I have always enjoyed your content.
ReplyDeleteMeg | The Blog
Instagram: MeghanSSilva
Snapchat: MeghanSSilva1
Blogging has changed a ton and I used to measure my engagement by comments but now people don't really have time to do that and it's sad because I feel like I am losing what I had before and I am unsure of how to transition into the new phase!
ReplyDeleteThe Adored Life
It happens, girl! You have to take care of yourself first and foremost. You're so talented at what you do, so you shouldn't be so hard on yourself.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry that you have been so sick. I am here to follow whether you post once a week or once a month, although lately I haven't had a hot second to read anyone else's blog. I imagine the pressure of making money makes thing that much tougher when you take off time, but girl, keep doing what you are doing!
ReplyDeleteYou really have had it so rough the past couple of months with getting sick! I can't wait to see what new content you come up with!
ReplyDeleteI think sometimes it is good to step away and get a little refresh you know? But I will say that even if you weren't here as often as you had been, I feel like comments in general are down. I dont think people are as engaging as much as they used to, and it makes me sad. Blogging has certainly changed over the last year or two. I dont think it is going away or anything...but it is just different. I am not sure why?
ReplyDeleteSo glad you're feeling better, and you took time to take care of yourself. A good bloggy break is much needed from time to time, and I love that you're here because you want to be <3
ReplyDeleteGreen Fashionista
I ALWAYS droopy your blog, Elle and my admiration and love from you have never waned. I will forever remember and be grateful of you for noticing my tiny nonsensical blog when I first started, back when I was posting a bunch of random nonsense. You were there with me all the way until today and I am forever grateful. Hugs, you will always have me as a reader and a fan. xx
ReplyDeleteTo me, that's kind of frustrating - when life is hard & you dont have time for blogging, people give up so easily on you. I dont dig that ONE BIT. I'm the one that will always stick with my blog buddies - WHENEVER they blog. I hate it makes you feel like its a JOB that you have to keep up on. What I'm getting at - if you loose your mojo again, you have one faithful reader ;)
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for your honesty my friend! Sometimes you need to have these hard times to move you to the next level and I have a feeling that will happen for you. Hope you are feeling better health wise. Have a great week Elle!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Ugh, being sick sure can kill motivation. I'm always pondering my blog purpose. I know I won't blog forever, but I still enjoy it for now.
ReplyDeleteI think all bloggers lose motivation at some point. It happened to me too when I lost my job, but sometimes you just need to take a step back and take some time off, because life can get super busy and overwhelming. I'm sorry you got the flu, I hope you feel better soon!
ReplyDeleteHope you are feeling 100% soon Elle! Xx
ReplyDeleteDanielle's Beauty Blog
Great post ❤
ReplyDeleteEvery blogger has sometimes some bad moments,but I hope you feel better now.I'm waiting for your next posts,have a nice day :)
It sounds like you got a nice, needed break in! So sorry to hear you were sick, but sometimes it takes stepping away for a little bit to get back into a mindset of wanting to put effort back into blogging.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you're feeling better, Elle, and have gotten your inspiration for blogging back! I understand loosing some blogging mojo. I went from posting 5 days a week too, to now only once or twice a week and sometimes every two weeks. I haven't felt inspired in a long time, and I want to continue blogging, but I feel lost.
ReplyDeleteI think its pretty normal that you got a little break from blogging. It sucks that you were sick but glad you are feeling better. I am going to Mexico in July and I don't plan on blogging at all or doing anything for a week. I'm actually looking forward to it!
ReplyDeleteBlogging is definitely hard work, much harder than a lot of people realize, so taking a break is sometimes necessary. Even if it is unplanned! Excited to see what's coming for you!<3, Pamela Sequins & Sea Breezes
ReplyDeleteGlad you are over all the sickness. I have lost my mojo before, life happens! Can't wait to see what is in store!
ReplyDeletehang in there! it happens to all of us -- and you've had a lot going on! I'm excited to continue following along :) xo jillian - cornflake dreams
ReplyDeleteMy goodness, you've been through the mill, poor lady! I am so happy you're feeling better and that the future looks bright. You are so talented but girl, sometimes, you just need to take care of you! We readers, that love you, will still be here through blogging thick or thin!
ReplyDeleteThis story is so refreshing. Blogging is seriously a full time job. I know my family and friends think that I just sit around all day watching tv and hanging out but its the complete opposite, when I’m not writing blog posts, I’m filming a tutorial, or commenting on blogs, or reading blogs, or pushing my Instagram or updating my pinterest, and the list goes on and on and on from there. I’m happy you are feeling better and thrilled to see you got your enthusiasm back.
ReplyDeleteI'll definitely be reading! You have been so sick, but I'm glad you're finally feeling better and ready to blog again! I've been taking a bit of a blogging break too, and I think time away is good for you!
ReplyDeleteDon't beat yourself up girl, it happens and you are amazing at what you do. I know you'll be up and going in NO time!
ReplyDeletexo, Lily
Beauty With Lily
Glad to hear that you are feeling better!! I'm taking my own break from the blog right now as I finish off my masters program. I'm in the last few weeks and with a big assignment due I just knew that it was time to take a short pause on the blog. It's refreshing to hear about other bloggers needing to take a break as well!
ReplyDeleteCharlene The Frugal Fashionista
You really have had it rough and it seems sometimes things happen in 3's or multiples or whatever. :) I'm excited to see you back!
ReplyDeleteCarrie
curlycraftymom.com
Glad you're on the mend. A break is a good thing and it sounds like you needed one. You have such great tips, tricks, high/low comparisons etc that I know you'll be back in the swing in no time! ❤
ReplyDeleteI think sometimes you need a break to come back refreshed. Glad you are feeling better and have your blogging mojo back!
ReplyDeleteGoes to show that we all need to stop and refocus every once in a while. I'm glad you're still at it cos I enjoy reading your posts!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.fashionablyidu.com/2017/04/a-bouquet-of-florals.html
It's definitely hard when you weren't feeling well & so many other factors but glad you're back and feeling better girl! xo, Biana -BlovedBoston
ReplyDeleteOh sweetheart I want send you a hug you are a really strong person.
ReplyDeleteAnd this kind of post inspire me. Because I´ve through a lot in these months too.
I hear ya, girl. I went through a similar thing this Winter. Blogging is hard work and we need to kick back and relax once in a while. Glad your enthusiasm returned.
ReplyDeleteThat sucks you were laid off and got sick twice. ugh. Yeah blogging is a lot of work and exhausting and yup as soon as you slack everything drops off. It can be exhausting but the upside is it is a wonderful creative outlet, for me I get to attend FW and other events would never get to go to and I have met so many people so that make it worth all the hours and work.
ReplyDeleteAnd so glad you go got your mojo back.
Allie of ALLIENYC
www.allienyc.com
I'm glad you're coming back! I'm still around and can't wait to see what is next for you!
ReplyDeleteOh goodness sweet lady! I'm sorry you came down with those sicknesses and I can see why it can make you lose your mojo on top of other things. So happy to hear you're feeling better and motivated about blogging again. At the end of the day your health comes first so you did what's right. We can't juggle it all perfectly in this life xo
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry you've been so sick!! i'm glad you're feeling better!
ReplyDeletexo,
Angela
I'm so glad that you're feeling better Elle! I've definitely had several bouts of losing my blogging mojo--blogging really IS a lot of work. Right now I'm just in a place where I just do what I can, when I can. I try not to put too much pressure on myself. I'm glad you're back at it :)
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry about the job! I hope you find something else that you really love! I got laid off last year so I know how that can suck. Take your time with your blog - you don't have to do it all, all the time. It's easy to get overwhelmed and it can be sad to see people not visiting, but just remember, some of us aren't going anywhere. :)
ReplyDelete-Lauren
I can't wait to read and follow along what you have in store for us!! I'm really sorry to hear about your job, but I truly believe that everything happens for a reason and something even better will come into your life! Lots of hugs!!
ReplyDeletehttp://thecourtneydiaries.com
I'm here and I'm in it for the long haul. I've definitely lost my mojo, but it came back and I carried on. I don't know what the future holds for you, but I know it will be something great. You're a wonderful person, blogger, and friend and I know the next phase will be awesome!
ReplyDeleteI hope you're feeling better, doll! I am struggling to motivate myself to blog; I have plenty of things to write about but just can't get into it. Though mind you, I haven't been blogging for nearly as long as you, so that's quite an achievement! I think it's totally fine to take a little break every once in a while! I love your blog so will always come by to see what's new! ;)
ReplyDeleteYou've had quite a year! It's always good to reset and become inspired again, especially after something else major happens in your life. Yay for the continued inspiration and next steps!
ReplyDeleteI think it's natural to lose your mojo from time to time, especially when you're ill! I'm still here reading & always will be xx
ReplyDeleteBeautylymin
I totally feel you... blogging is a lot like a relationships. Sometimes there's great highs. But sometimes there's lows too. I've been in the game for nearly 10 years and it's not always sunshine and rainbows. But I'm glad you're ready to come back!
ReplyDeleteSo glad you're feeling better! You've had a rough start to 2017 and yet you still have a great attitude! You're one of the most "real" folks out there so glad to here you got your mojo back . . . wish I could find mine! Ha!
ReplyDeleteoh girl, i am so sorry about the family you've been working for. i'm glad you're not worried but that is still a big change. i'm also sorry you have been so sick but glad you're feeling better. with everything happening with my mum i have been in and out of blogging as well as reading all the blogs i usually do. i just don't have the energy or room in my heart and head for everything else right now, you know? i know that's selfish, but when something like this is on your mind all the time, it's hard to put it aside and pretend to be normal, you know? but anyway. i am glad and happy for you that you are feeling like yourself.
ReplyDeleteGlad you're feeling better Elle! Everyone needs a break every now and and again. Don't beat yourself up about it, you'll get your mojo back! I remember when I first started blogging a few years ago and you were one of the first commenters on my earlier posts :)
ReplyDeleteI'm still here! I don't always comment (I'm working on that), but I do always read. I'm glad you're feeling better and are back in the groove.
ReplyDeleteGlad you are feeling better! Blogging is a lot of work :)
ReplyDeleteI've been going through a blogging funk myself. Finding out we were pregnant with baby number two was so exciting, but always crazy taxing on my body. I was maybe posting once a week and not visiting all the blogs I love to frequent. As time went on though, I felt better and my bit of mojo seemed to come back. I think this is something we all go through and it's sooooo normal. Dont apologize for needing a break now and then. Sometimes the best ideas come to us when we think we've run out. (:
ReplyDelete