Somewhere along my blogging absence (so anytime between September 2006 and now), I became incredibly self-conscious of what I put on my blog. First, it’s prevented me from even thinking of things to write about. Second, it has stopped me dead in my tracks AS I’m writing a post. I am constantly afraid of stating my opinion, only to have someone come and call me out. Especially on things that I feel very strongly about. Even though, honestly, if I’m wrong, I appreciate finding out. That way I can quit being an idiot.
The silliest part about this is the fact that I don’t have a large audience or even anyone who comments on my blog to call me out. Pointless worry. Though, there is the record of what I’ve stated that’s out there. Recently, I’ve read a lot about educating children just getting online about the permanence of the internet. Something I haven’t really thought long and hard about the consequences. My informal opinion is if something I’ve posted online prevents me from getting a job, then that’s not a horrid thing, since in the long run that meant some part of my personality would’ve clashed. I suppose there is the client to consider. However, I guess that’s where the disclaimer, “The views expressed here don’t necessarily reflect the views of my employer,” comes in.
Ashley,
Have you ever checked out dooce.com, and clicked on her Hate page? I often feel the same way you do about putting myself out there as a blogger, but after reading all her hate mail (she has 4 million readers, so inevitably gets some wackos writing stuff) and how she handles it, it convinced me to try and be a bit braver.
Besides, you’re a good writer, so, You Go!
Thanks for the compliment! I guess that’s a good point about the random wackos. Right-o! I’ll stand by my opinion, unless somehow has a legit valid point!
You know, I read somewhere that social media (including blogs) creates prisions for people because they’re scared of the politics. I’m glad to see I’m not the only one who struggles with this. It does take a certain amount of bravery to put yourself out there for “everyone” to see but in my opinion, blogging is a FANTASTIC exercize in self growth.
Totally with you on the it being an exercise in self growth. That’s why I’ve always wanted to get back into it. Thus far, I haven’t truly thought about the workplace politics portion. It’s still more of, “I’m going to post something in a rant, and someone is going to point out that I’m off my rocker in my declarations.” Like the financial aid rant I posted today.
It’ll be interesting to see how this view changes once I’m permanently employed as opposed to being an intern for a company for just three months.