Is Anybody Out There? Hang in There, Travel Bloggers
Recently I've noticed more than a few travel bloggers becoming frustrated. Frustrated about being passed over for blogging opportunities. Frustrated at being left off lists of “top” travel bloggers. Frustrated over feeling left out of the clique of “cool” travel bloggers who seem to be so much more successful than everyone else.
Someone said that travel blogging feels a lot like being back in high school. The kids who are deemed cool remain so, and it's difficult for any newcomers to reach that same level of coolness.
I've felt frustrated, too. It's not easy to always feel left out, or feel like you're lagging behind with no chance of catching up. I think it's especially bad when I put a blog post out there that I'm really proud of, and then it flops. Some days, I wonder who I'm even blogging for; I wonder if anyone is even out there, paying attention.
But I think this feeling of frustration is only natural.
The “cool kids” of travel blogging started in the exact same place that I am now. True, there wasn't as much competition in the travel blogging market a decade ago as there is now. But everyone has to start somewhere.
So, on those days when I start feeling frustrated, I try to remind myself of a few things:
- It's not the end of the world if no one leaves a comment, or retweets my new post. Sure, it's disheartening. But, in the grand scheme of things, one off day shouldn't ruin my whole week. If anything, it should just inspire me to try harder next time.
- Sometimes, it's just dumb luck. I can write what I think is a brilliant post, but maybe I just post it on the wrong day. Maybe the people who would also view it as brilliant just aren't around. And maybe the next day, when I post some silly Top 10 list, that's the day someone like Lonely Planet decides to retweet my post. Often, I think it's just one of those things that's very hard to predict, and impossible to control.
- There can be no success without failure. I'm really just a baby blogger when it comes to the travel blogging universe. I haven't been doing it for that long, and yet I'm slowly crawling my way up in the ranks. The little successes — the RTs from Lonely Planet, the occasional big boosts in traffic — feel even better due to the little failures. If I keep at it and don't let the frustrations ruin the experience, eventually those successes will come more and more frequently.
- It's not anyone's “fault.” I cannot blame everything on the successful bloggers. I can be jealous that they continually get opportunities I would kill for, but I can't blame them for being successful. They've worked hard to get where they are, and what I should be doing is taking note of how they made it happen for themselves.
Obviously I'm not going to become one of the “cool kids” overnight. Contrary to popular belief outside of blogging circles, travel blogging is not easy. It takes a lot of hard work, and even more dedication. It's not something you can just half-ass and expect to be successful at.
I know that, in the end, I'm the only one who can make my blog as successful as I want it to be.
And no amount of whining or feeling sorry for myself is going to change that fact.
Are you feeling like this too? Are there days when you feel like you're just screaming into a void, begging to know if anybody is even out there?
Well, you're not alone. Believe me.
Giving advice on handling this sort of frustration is near impossible. But here are the best tips I can come up with to try and break into that “cool kids” clique. It's my plan of attack, at least:
- Post a variety of quality things. Some insightful, some silly, some practical. You don't want to pigeon hole yourself into one specific sort of advice or writing. (Or maybe you do?) Especially when first starting out, I think a bit of experimentation with your writing can help you figure out what works and what doesn't for your blog. But, no matter what, focus on quality. Proofread your stuff. Make people believe that you know what you're talking about.
- Stay true to yourself. Even though you want to try and hone in on what people want to read by trying a variety of approaches, you also want to stay true to yourself. Don't write about something you don't enjoy. And certainly don't write about something you don't believe in, just because it's what you think people want to hear. Stay true to your own convictions; your voice will shine through.
- Don't make comparisons. No two blogs are the same, because no two bloggers are the same. You shouldn't be comparing yourself to others, or feeling bad because you don't feel like you stack up. If all bloggers were the same, what would be the point? Be who you are, and others will undoubtedly appreciate it.
- Read and comment on other blogs. If you remain in your own little blogging bubble, it's going to be much more difficult for people to find you, and — more importantly — relate to you. Read other travel blogs. Leave comments and share your insights. After all, how can you expect others to do the same on your blog if you're not doing it yourself? Plus, reading other blogs can give you a sense of different styles, and perhaps help you figure out the sorts of things you do and do not want to write about yourself.
- Be active in social networking. Start a Twitter account. Utilize StumbleUpon. Create a Facebook page. Engage with your potential readers, and forge some online relationships with other travel bloggers. Not only will you make some friends, but it's likely that you can help each other out by driving new traffic to one another's sites.
- Be open to guest blogging. A good way to gain some free exposure when you're just starting out is to write a guest post for another (perhaps even more successful) blog. Save something good for your guest posts, and you'll likely be rewarded with some new readers.
- Try new things. Never tried your hand at video editing? Not sure if travel photography is really your thing? Try it out anyway. Who knows, you may discover a new talent. And adding things like strong images and video to your blog will only make it more appealing.
And, most importantly:
- Don't give up. If travel blogging is really what you want to pursue, then don't let those rough days get you down. Don't let anybody tell you that you'll never succeed. Because, if you're serious about it, I think you can make it happen. You have to be persistent. You have to actively go after what you want. Eventually, it will pay off.
The frustrating days suck. But, often, at the end of those days, I get an e-mail from someone who has just discovered my blog, or a great comment, or a kind retweet from someone I respect. And those make all the difference.
So hang in there, fellow travel bloggers.
Because, yes, it seems there is somebody out there, paying attention.
Do you sometimes get frustrated with blogging, too? How do you cope?
Amanda Williams is the award-winning blogger behind A Dangerous Business Travel Blog. She has traveled to more than 60 countries on 6 continents from her home base in Ohio, specializing in experiential and thoughtful travel through the US, Europe, and rest of the world. Amanda only shares tips based on her personal experiences and places she's actually traveled!
Thanks so much for writing this. This is exactly how I’ve been feeling lately and it’s nice to know I’m not alone. One thing I think that helps me is that as flattering as it is to have my content read and shared by other people, writing is first and foremost to me a personal thing I deeply enjoy. Of course, getting recognized for it only adds to the enjoyment of it, but if I keep in mind I’m doing it because I love it, then I think everything will take care of itself naturally. Clearly, sharing and commenting on the work of others is the best way to build a community and we all need to put in the work to see results. Anyway, great article–I loved it!
As evidenced by all these comments, you are not alone! I, too, write because I enjoy it. But, like you said, it is nice to be recognized for all your hard work.
Thanks for reading!
Wow. And I thought I was the only uncool blogger hanging out back behind the bleachers!
I started blogging almost 4 years ago, but I had no idea there were actually other bloggers out there until I joined Twitter earlier this year (Okay, so I KNEW there were bloggers out there. But I never really read many other blogs and I certainly didn’t know people were getting famous doing this kind of stuff). Although I do love my Twitter (a bit TOO much judging from the hours I fritter away on that thing), the whole popularity contest of it all does get to me.
I guess it all depends on WHY you blog. I blog because I want to write. Sure, it’s great that I’m able to reach more readers than I did before back in my Twitterless days. And, sure, I’d love to be popular and make money off this blogging thing (wouldn’t we all?!), but it would probably have to come at the expense of my writing style. You see, I’m not exactly a top travel blogger kind of girl. My posts are way too long. I blather on about cookies. I don’t post on a regular basis. Any “travel advice” I do give is not to be heeded. I have no idea what SEO means. And, honestly, I’m too stubborn to change (and too busy eating cookies to deal with the hassle).
I’m pretty resigned to the fact that I’m destined for a life of unpopularity (it’s not exactly like it’s a NEW thing… let’s just say I was never exactly the cheerleader type). But it is frustrating to see who has become popular. There are some popular bloggers out there who deserve every little bit of their fame — they are amazing writers who post insightful, engaging pieces. But, unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. I’ve read more than my fair share of hackneyed top ten lists. I don’t want to read that stuff, and, frankly, I’m surprised anyone else does.
You definitely are not alone, Sally. And, for the record, I love your blog, and your writing style. I laugh out loud every time I read one of your posts. If staying “unpopular” means that you keep writing like you do, then please, don’t ever become a cool kid!
Awww, thanks! And no need to worry about me becoming popular anytime soon… unless, you know, hell starts freezing over or something.
You never know. With technology these days…
Hi Sally
I’m a super fan of your writing, with the vast sea of boring posts out there you stand out in a good way. I generally don’t like long posts (the ADD in me) but I always get sucked into your writing.
Please keep it up.
I don’t know if this helps, but you’ve got the right attitude and approach. Dan and I have never been part of the “cool travel bloggers” and have been disheartened when we go to travel blogging conferences and people say, “Now, who are you & what’s your blog again?” But, we were the underdogs chosen for the Gap Wanderers in Residence program so I do believe that hard work (we’ve been at it 3.5 years) and perseverance do pay off. Fortunately, high school is just high school – stick with your goals and the petty stuff becomes unimportant.
Thanks so much for the words of support, Audrey! It really means a lot. You and Dan have something great; I love reading your blog!
I’m so glad I found you on Twitter via @yTravelBlog RT. Thanks for an inspiring post for all of us travel bloggers out there!
You’re very welcome! I’m so flattered by all the amazing feedback. I’m glad you found me, too!
Poor Shaun has to deal with the brunt of my freakouts in this area. I *literally* brought up the highschool analogy the other day. I was never popular in highschool – I was in art club and anime club. Am I doomed in the blogging world? lol
Keep it up. There is a community of people who feel the same way and want to be there to support. <3
I think we all worry about the same thing sometimes, Erica. (Obviously we do – look at all the comments on this post!!)
I was never cool in high school, either. I was smart. I was on the Quiz Bowl team and did school musicals. But, I found my niche of great friends anyway. And I’m doing that now in the travel blogging community, too.
You are not doomed at all because you bring something unique to the table. With all the sameness that’s out there, you have to be unique.
[…] Is Anybody Out there? Hang in there travel bloggers by Amanda at a Dangerous Business […]
Great post Amanda. And I think you highlight a lot of the keys to success here. You can’t give up, you can’t allow feelings of frustration and jealousy at others success get in the way of your travels- nor the cool club group.
I always think these things
Cool means being yourself when everyone else is trying to be like everyone else. Find your niche, do what others aren’t
Find those who are where you want to be and learn from them. Find out what they did and then do better and more.
Instead of thinking why not me, instead think If they can then there is no reason why I can’t. They don’t have anything I don’t have- they either just no more than me now or they have had more time.
Help others along the way. Period!!! Make a difference in people’s lives and they’ll keep coming back regardless of where you sit on the list.
Also, I have encountered some, need I say, jerks along the way- I use them as a powerful motivator for me to move forward to kick them out of the park.
All fantastic advice, Caz. Thanks! I strive to do all the things you mentioned. It does take some reminding every now and then, though!
Great post and really encouraging. I’ve just started writing and blogging (evident in the fact that I’m still in the single digits with posts and they’re still choppy) and besides wrapping my head around twitter, wp, etc. I’m also struggling with the idea of self promotion. I didn’t decide to start writing to promote myself, but to figure out who I am and where I’m going. But, it is a way to interact with a really phenomenal community comprised of others going through some of the same changes I am and their feedback has been immeasurably valuable and encouraging.
As for the cool kids, never been one, never will be one, and am cool with that 🙂 That being said there are really some wonderful people in this community (some are deservedly very popular) and I thoroughly enjoy reading about their adventures because of their pure love of it, not because their good at networking, tweeting, etc.
Anywho…Keep on keepin on, I dig ya!
Thanks, Brooks! And I know what you mean when you’re talking about trying to reconcile just blogging for yourself, and promoting your writing. The travel blogging community is awesome, though, which is lucky. Most of them truly want to see others succeed, too!
Good timing and thanks to Andrea of Inspiring Travellers for pointing me this way. Am just about to write a highly self doubting post which also aims to ‘fess up about a few tings too and questions the interest in my nano-niche: train travel. Good idea or bad idea?
We all have those moments of self-doubt. Writing about it actually made me feel better. And all the feedback I’ve gotten has been amazing. If it’s something you feel the need to write, then do it!
Judging by the number of comments you have here, I’d say you’re in the cool club. I asked a buddy of mine, who runs a small business selling Flip Flops what’s the secret to his success. He said tenacity. You have to keep going, even when you don’t want to.
When you think about it in life, you have 2 choice: continue or give up. I’ve been blogging for 15 months. 1 post a day M-F. It has paid off. You can’t give up.
Thanks, Ben. And don’t worry, I don’t plan to give up!
Some days can be pretty lonely. On those days, we try to remember the advice of a friend: “If it were easy, everybody would do it.” Stay strong!
Great advice! And so true.
It’s the same in other communities too! When I started my blog about almost two years ago, I was trying to be a food blogger and didn’t anticipate that I would spend so much time away from a working oven. All of the stuff you’re saying could be applied to that community as well, there’s the group of top food bloggers and there were the rest of us struggling to get any sort of recognition. Now that my food/oven situation doesn’t lend itself nicely to posting regularly about cooking and baking, I’m attempting to squeeze myself into this community. It’s tough! But I’m trying.
So, yup, let’s stick together. Great post!
Thanks for the feedback, Kirsten! I’m glad that other sorts of bloggers outside the travel realm can relate, too!
As frustrating as it gets sometimes, the travel blogging community is fantastic. So many great people out there doing great things, and willing to support one another (as evidenced by all the comments on this post!). It’s really the community that keeps me at it.
Great post Amanda – a lot of the previous comments have summed up our thoughts perfectly!
We’re new to the travel blogging scene (less than one month in!) and at the moment we’re just having fun expressing our thoughts via our blog. The majority of the community has welcomed us with open arms but we see exactly what you mean about the “cool kids” – the ones who have thousands of Twitter followers, rank high on those top bloggers list, etc and it’s very hard not to get jealous.
But so long as _someone_ is reading, we’re gonna keep going! I guess when you start worrying about making these lists, that’s when you’re gonna start getting frustrated and burnt out!
Thanks so much, Kieron! And wow, you guys are only about a month into blogging? That’s awesome! You’re doing amazingly well from the looks of it!
It certainly IS hard to not get jealous sometimes. But staying positive helps a lot, I’ve found!
DB – You are a mind reader! All the above is so true.
I have wrote some posts that I thought were great and no response. Other posts have surprised me with their response. Like you say, focus on the positive things that happen with your blog. Whilst I want to appear on a top blogs list one day, I am carrying on because I do love to write. it also enables me to connect with people that I would never meet in real life, if I did have my blog.
Haha, you weren’t aware of my wicked mind-reading skills?? 😉
I know a lot of bloggers can relate. Hell, these sorts of things can apply to any area of life, really. I like your point about blogging enabling you to connect with people you would never ordinarily meet. That’s so true! One of the things I love about being a blogger.
Thanks for a a great post!!! Being 100% honest w/ ya I so feel the same way sometimes too (I’d be lying if I said I didn’t). I am a baby blogger too (I just started mine a few months ago). The thing is I really don’t let it get to me though, I will think about it but just brush it off. Afterall I know Im posting once a week sometimes twice a week hell sometimes I go a few weeks w/o posting. When I do post I just make sure its 100% ME & am being honest with my self. Also I always remember some of the cool kids have been doing it for years and well hell I am just in the planning stages of my RTW trip, I havent even left…lol!!! Anyway I love the advice you give cus that is what I tell myself and I dont get discouraged, down the road the readership will pick up.
Oh & the cool kids can only be cool if we allow them too. One thing that pisses me off about the cool kids is that they don’t ever participate in #TNI or interact as much on Twitter with the rest of the community. I love interacting with everyone on Twitter (HELL I TWEET TOO MUCH) but you know what its those relationships that you build on twitter that are gonna help ya down the road.
Oh and us BABY BLOGGERS (as I call us) need to stick together.
XOXO
Thanks for reading, Jaime! And you make a good point about the “cool kids” not being very active on Twitter and such. Of course, that isn’t universally true, but I definitely know what you mean.
The cool kids were once the “baby bloggers”, you have to start somewhere. I agree, it’s all about building relationships, it is who you know but not just the cool kids. If you surround yourself with awesome people then awesome things happen, regardless of how popular they are.
Great, positive advice, Nick!
So agree with that line “cool kids are only cool because we allow them”. Totally fits into everyday life as well!