I was reading my friend Lindsay Bell‘s post, “Social Media Self Confidence,” the other day and it got me thinking. Confidence is a tricky thing. A shortage of confidence can be detrimental and limiting, but an excess of it is dangerous as well.
Confidence can be fleeting. Even the most self-assured among us go through periods of self-doubt. Ever noticed how quickly your confidence can dissipate, often as a result of something entirely insignificant? It’s important to also remember how quickly and easily confidence can be restored by the simplest of gestures.
Last week I was having a difficult day and had convinced myself that nobody was interested in reading my blog. I reluctantly published a post that I had been struggling to write. I received a kind and thoughtful note from someone who had discovered the post through a colleague’s tweet and wanted to let me know that she would be subscribing to my blog. It brightened my day and gave me a much-needed confidence boost. I’m telling you this story as a reminder of the significant impact we can have on others just by making the extra little effort.
Did you recently read a post that you found informative or entertaining, but didn’t share it with others? Did you send a tweet about the post without crediting the author by name (@ Mention) for them to see? Did you read something that really resonated with you/inspired you/enlightened you, but didn’t leave a comment telling the person who wrote it? Not comfortable publicly posting a comment? No problem. You can usually find a “Contact Me” page on someone’s blog that affords you the opportunity to send them a private message that could very well change their outlook on the rest of the day. I’m not referring to the social media luminaries who aren’t lacking for page views or readership interaction (not that they’re immune to struggles with self-confidence). I’m talking about nearly everyone else whose writing might find its way onto your screen somehow.
We’re all guilty of forgetting to do these little things (myself included). The next time you read a post that you find to be valuable, try to remember how agonizing it can be to write and nerve-wracking it is to publish and think about how rewarding it felt the last time someone complimented your work. Then turn around and show the author the same courtesy.
Did something someone wrote or said to you recently improve your confidence level? Please share it with me below in the comments.
Thanks for reading!
Awesome post! It’s true that we often see something we like and rarely take a moment to acknowledge it. This post is a reminder that we all must slow down and take time to enjoy life and others and express our gratitude, even when we’re busy bees–especially when we’re busy bees. Thank you for reminding us to keep doing what we do regardless of whether we think others are watching and to express gratitude when we are thinking or feeling it.
Thanks, Berni! Much appreciated. It seems we’re all busy bees all the time these days. I think you hit on the essential requirement which is to express the gratitude at the exact moment we’re feeling it because the the likelihood of us returning to do so later is small.
Berni…
So True! ” must slow down and take time to enjoy life. And express our gratitude.”
It’s something that I need to constantly remind myself, but gratitude goes such a long way when expressed !
Holly-Thanks for visiting. Berni is spot-on (as usual). If you haven’t already, I highly recommend you check out her site. I think we all underestimate the impact we can have by expressing a little gratitude.
Thanks Holly and Dave for the comment and compliment! Love this post still nearly two months later. 🙂 Go on wit yo bad self, cousin Dave!
Thanks, Cuz! Means a lot coming coming from a shin-kicking lifespark such as yourself!
I was thinking about this the other day – how much I appreciate comments but don’t always comment on other blogs. Some of it is that you don’t want to not add to the conversation…something like “great post” seems so lame. But a Tweet or Share – just as good and not so lame…
Chris-As I said in the post I think it’s something we’re all guilty of to varying degrees. A “great post” can sometimes go a long way but, as you noted, a share can be just as good. It’s acknowledging that you enjoyed the post and deem it worthy of other people’s time as well.
Thanks for the comment (and the share)!
Beautiful post Dave. I love how you took my negative Nellie post and turned it positive! And thanks for that, because I for one can get caught up in the negative. 😉 This post made me think about self confidence differently. You’re right, we all sometimes forget those little things that can make such a huge impact on a person’s day. Thanks again for the reminder. I’m so glad we met, and are friends. Cheers, Lindsay
Thanks, Lindsay! I get caught up in the negative as well. I wrote this post as a reminder to myself as well anyone that reads it. I am glad to have met and befriended you as well. I find that many of your posts speak to me/resonate with me and they’ve inspired me to publish more posts. Thanks!
Everyone experiences moments of self-doubt. For me, it often happens when I go online with an agenda in my head only to be distracted by news or postings that makes you question what you know, who you know, and generally “what’s happening” in your own life. Then I realize how much time I’ve wasted poking around and losing focus…which spirals into a sluggish feeling of lower self confidence. On those days the Internet can feel like a mean place…it steals your time wowing you with the accomplishments of others and then makes you feel bad about what you aren’t accomplishing.
But somehow..on other days…when you are feeling optimistic and everything is “clicking” along, the Internet can feel like an incredible learning opportunity full of useful information and interesting people. It is good advice to take advantage of those high moments of discovery online to reach out to the people behind the postings. You will feel good accomplishing something more social than a simple surf and who knows, the recipient of your message might be having a mean internet day.
It is also useful to be reminded to keep that private message option open and monitored regularly. If you only judge your success by the public comments and tweets (as in the kid who loves to shout comments out in class) you might miss the thoughtful contributions of lower-key customers or colleagues (the kids who save their questions and insights for the one to one conversation with the teacher after class and end up getting the A !!).
Here’s hoping that today is one of those good Internet days.
Kathleen,
Thanks for your comments. If you haven’t already, you should read Lindsay’s post (linked to at the beginning of mine). I think you’ll find yourself relating to a lot of what she describes (similar sentiment to yours regarding the “bad internet” days).
You are absolutely correct about the internet as a whole seemingly having multiple personalities. I definitely prefer the days when it’s uplifting and informative.
I also agree with you about “offline” comments. They are equally valuable. In the case of your note (the one I was referencing in the post, in case you hadn’t guessed), it was more meaningful than any public response I received last week because of its timing and thoughtfulness.
Thanks again. Have a great weekend!
Wow, I feel like I’ve been Freshly Pressed too!
As well you should Kathleen. Thanks for your role in inspiring all of this.
“Last week I was having a difficult day and had convinced myself that nobody was interested in reading my blog.” ~ I’ll bet that’s changed now that you’re Freshly Pressed! 😉
This was a great post! I always have the same fears as you and am shocked any time someone comments, Likes, or follows my blog. I can honestly say that any time either one of those things happen, it increases my confidence…for at least 3 days. 😉
Great job and congrats on being Freshly Pressed!
Hehe! You should post every 3 days! 🙂
Sound advice, Anne! Not sure how I’ll replicate the experience of being Freshly Pressed next time I need a boost in confidence.
Thanks! It certainly made my week (on a Monday no less)! I think we can all relate to that experience of getting a confidence boost from a reader interaction. It’s important to keep that in mind when reading other people’s posts. I’m doing my best to constantly remind myself to offer feedback.
Blogging is a form of hospitality; just as it takes courage to invite someone into your home, I feel it requires even more courage to invite the world to your blog. What you say about confidence is so true. I remember the first time someone actually meaningful commented on one of my posts…I couldn’t get the smile off my face for, yes, days. It fueled me to keep writing when I thought, this is ridiculous, I should give up.
I like the way you’ve characterized blogging here. Many people take of their shoes and behave appropriately when visiting your blog, but don’t send a Thank You note afterwards to let you know they enjoyed the visit. Of course, it’s also important that the host or hostess rolls out the welcome mat and offers their guests refreshments.
Well, being Freshly Pressed should do something to boost your confidence…tremendously, I hope!
You offer great perspective here. Feedback is important, and for those of us with blogs and readers, it’s a two-way street. This is why I do my absolute best to respond to the vast majority of my readers…speaking of which, I have about 60 comments to respond to this morning. And that’s a wonderful feeling!
Thanks for the reminder. A personal touch is important — and perhaps, given the medium, ESPECIALLY in the blogosphere!
🙂
Thanks for the comment, Mikalee! Being Freshly Pressed definitely delivered a jolt of confidence today. You’re right about the two-way street. It’s definitely good to keep the feedback flowing in both directions. I’m trying to keep that in mind in my interactions with visitors to my blog as well as when I’m reading other people’s posts.
What a nice reminder. I recently wrote a post asking people why they blogged, and received some amazing and unexpected feedback. Hope you receive the same 🙂
Thanks! It’s been great to see the responses to this post. It seems to have resonated with a number of folks. I think most of us can relate to the experience of lacking confidence in our writing at times and receiving an unexpected boost from a reader.
First-time visitor … and congrats on being Freshly Pressed. Your journey is similar to mine. I firmly believe that if someone takes the time to comment, time the time to reply – then take it one step further – take the time to visit. Thanks for your sharing your thoughts.
Thanks! I’m honored to be featured. I’m glad you relate to some of my experiences. I agree that reciprocity is important in these interactions. I took a look at your site. Really enjoyed the “On 25 Things about Me” post. I’ve always wanted to write one of those. Haven’t seen a Mark Whiten reference in quite some time. Well done!
Many thanks … FYI: I’ve done a twist of that – several posts about 25 people I didn’t graduate with. Just something you may enjoy in your spare time. Thanks for visiting.
Great post! It’s so easy to forget to acknowledge that someone’s words or actions positively impacted you. You appreciate it, but walk away without sharing that appreciation. I’m guilty of that, too. (Argh!) Thanks for the reminder to give people proper snaps! : )
P.S. Congrats on getting FP’d!! Confidence booster! ; )
Thanks! We’re all guilty of that at times. I wrote this post as a reminder to myself as much as my readers. Seeing how much reader feedback has impacted my outlook, I’m doing my best to pay it forward.
Great post! And a good reason for me to finally get on board with the other social medias I have intentionally been ignoring. Impact noted! Congrats!
Thanks! I hope you find your further social media exploration to be rewarding.
I know exactly what you mean. Hardly anyone leaves public comments on my blog but e-mails me directly. Although it would no doubt help my traffic – and profile with WordPress – if there were more visible comments, it is deeply satisfying when someone – albeit privately – sends you a comment telling you that your blog had a positive or entertaining effect on them.
Absolutely. It’s often more meaningful because people tend to express more in an email than they would in a public comment. That said, I agree with you that it helps tremendously to have the comments on the blog itself.
Great post! I have been thinking about this very same issue lately and wanted to thank you for bringing it to light so eloquently. When my mother told me the other day, “I don’t get your blog,” I had a moment of self-doubt, but the same day I received a few comments on and offline that truly did make me feel good, no matter how brief or simple. Even a “like” goes a long way! Keep writing! Not everything is for everyone, but there’s definitely something for someone.
Thanks, Vika! It’s funny how much your outlook can change in a given day because of positive or negative interactions that you have. I appreciate the comment and support. As you said, not everything is for everyone and Mothers aren’t always right either.
I like this… it would make MY day if someone left me a thoughtful comment, or even tweeted me. Will put this into action…everyone can do with a little more confidence. Lovely blog post, by the way. Congrats on getting Freshly Pressed.
Thanks, Fiona! You are most certainly correct. Everyone can indeed do with a little more confidence. I appreciate the kind words and congrats.
Good points, Dave. Finding a balance between self-doubt and arrogance is a life-long pursuit.
Thanks, Karl. I’d like to think there’s a happy medium, but I suppose it’s a delicate balance.
Good stuff, Dave. I’m glad they rewarded this one with a FP. Congrats on that and I’ll be following you for future stuff.
Thanks, Lance! I’m honored that they chose to feature me today. Welcome aboard. I hope you’ll enjoy my other posts.
I agree with you. It is definitely a boost if someone tells you that that you helped them in some way. We should not be shy and tell people that help and inspire us.
Thanks. It’s easy to forget or assume that because we are inspired by someone’s writing that they don’t need the feedback, but you never know the impact you can have by commenting.
I’ve only been doing this since July but have, of course, previously been reading other folks’ blogs and always tried to at least click Like if something didn’t immediately spring to mind to say. It’s only polite to say ‘thanks’ when you’ve been visiting.
Since starting blogging I’m often having to remind myself why I’m writing the blog in the first place. I find that you can get more isolated by blogging than if you hadn’t started, so my comforter in times of the ‘great low’ is just remembering my purpose in writing. I’m selfishly writing for me. A record of a hobby and the odd (yes very odd) opinion on some current event about which I couldn’t keep my mouth shut. But waiting for reaction is like being a little kid again waiting for praise or blame ‘cos you’ve done something you’re unsure of.
Don’t you think that many of the social networking modes are very lonely places? I reckon that, just as you very wisely point out, we need to exercise all the manners and polite conversation habits that we can muster in order to make sure we don’t isolate each other further. Minds need to touch and be acknowledged. Many thanks for posting this.
Thanks for the comment. There is nothing wrong with writing for yourself. That’s often the material that readers respond to the most, especially if it resonates with them personally. I have found most social networks to be, well, social, but I agree that some can enable isolating and antisocial behavior depending on one’s personality. Oh, and I can definitely relate to their child-like experience of waiting for feedback to my writing (positive or negative).
Congrats on the freshly-pressed. Hope it also boosts your writing confidence. Well done.
Thanks! It certainly has. Very cool honor.
Nice post, I’m a marketer too so will keep up with your blog! Thanks
Thanks, Susie!
So simple, so true.
Thanks. It’s a simple concept that is too often overlooked or forgotten. I hope this post serves as a reminder to both myself and my readers.
Great post. I can empathize with “bloggers regret”, that sometimes fleeting/sometimes enduring feeling that recent blog post you thought was so charming, funny, educational was nothing more than an intrusion of hubris. “Who would want to read my drivel??” A momentary slip in confidence one must always fight off! So far, so good …
Thanks, Mike! Well said. Fleeting would be nice. More often it’s enduring, but then something like today happens and completely alters my outlook. Keep fighting the good fight.
Confidence is funny. For me it’s, well kinda like the rest of me, either on a high or on a low without a lot of grey area. No one’s going to help me with that I don’t think.
The best love-sharing/confidence-building I’ve seen is the guest posts. Asking someone if they will write on your page is the highest compliment and directly exposes all your readers to another blog.
I’ve included links to other blogs I enjoy in my posts and in my comments a few times now. It’s really exciting when I see in my statistics that someone clicked those links! And I love it when the blog owners finds them!
Thanks for the comment, Anne. I agree with you that asking someone to write a guest post for your blog is the highest compliment you can pay to their writing. I can relate to the experience you describe monitoring the blog stats. It’s been fun to see how many people have clicked through to read the post by Lindsay Bell that inspired this one. Good for you for supporting other people’s writing and featuring it on your blog. We all need to do more of that.
What a beautiful post on what is, in essence, a reminder to say, “Thank you.” 🙂
Thank you!
Thank you for the thanks! Can’t be said often enough. I’m glad you enjoyed the post!
I too thought this was incredibly well written and makes the people that do read it appreciate it that much more. Especially because the vast majority of the people that will be reading it, are bloggers just like you and I. My friend that, that is still overseas, and I talk almost everyday and he is the one that talked me into starting to write. And since I have started writing the things that I have found are worthy of mentioning to the free world, I have become slightly critical about how many people view what I have written. I have over 225 views in less than a week on my entire page and though that is a good number in my opinion, I would love to hear some feed back from the people that dont know me personally. All of the people that I have steered towards my page have all had great reviews on the content of my page. But I dont know how much of that is biased opinions, and how much is unobjective criticism. Reading this post has really hit the nail on the head though. Excellent job my friend.
Thanks for commenting and sharing your experience. First of all, I’d kill for 225 views most weeks. Second of all, I think you overestimate people’s willingness to compliment your writing just to be nice. If you’re receiving positive feedback (even from people you know personally), it’s probably because you’re producing good content. It’s that much more rewarding to hear from stranger such as yourself that a post resonated with them, but you should still be proud of the reaction your writing elicits from friends. Thanks for the feedback!
You are right. I even started wring comments on Amazon…
Interesting. I probably don’t do that often enough because it seems much less personal, but it’s worth letting people know I’ve enjoyed their work, even in such a public forum. Thanks for the comment!
This is a really great post. It’s so heartfelt and true – one small thing can make such a difference. Thanks for sharing this and congrats on being freshly pressed – it’s well deserved! 🙂
Thanks, Dounia! I’m incredibly surprised and honored to find myself freshly pressed today. It’s been especially rewarding to receive so many comments with positive feedback from readers. I appreciate the support!
Congrats on being FP! Yes – this is so true! I live for the comments I get – so I try to leave comments on other blogs as well. I learned that from blogging here on WP. But one person wrote to me that she loved my blog – even though she isn’t a parent (and my topics are on parenting) – it made my week!
Thanks! I think it’s easy to forget how meaningful reader comments can be when the shoe is on the other foot and we’re reading someone else’s blog. Hearing feedback like you describe from people who don’t necessarily have shared experiences is even more rewarding. Well done!
even hitting the like button or using the ratings stars is SO appreciated. Thanks for putting into words what all of us feel. 🙂
And congrats on being Pressed!
My pleasure. It’s true that a small gesture like clicking the like button can mean a great deal to the blogger. Thanks for the comment & congrats!
As a writer and fellow blogger, I agree that leaving a comment does help me. When a writer toils over what to say and how to present it, and then doesn’t get feedback, it’s a definite confidence killer.
As for reading something that raised my confidence, I can’t say I have, although I’ve read numerous articles and blogs that inspired me.
http://valentinedefrancis.wordpress.com
Thanks for visiting my blog and commenting. Posting your thoughts and opinions for all to see can leave you feeling exposed and insecure. Having the validation of people liking, sharing or commenting on your post is incredibly reassuring and uplifting.
Great post and congrats on being FP.
It’s amazing how quickly we fall into the “comments = love” mentality when we start blogging. I’m dreadful, checking my email every 10 minutes after publishing a post to see if anyone loves me yet. It’s a bit of a sickness.
On the other hand, I do my best to comment on blogs when I read something I like, and share favourite blog posts with my own blog followers each week. Spreading the love is just as important as feeling the love. More so, sometimes.
Thanks, Jo. Much appreciated. I think we all fall victim to the unhealthy need for reassurance that you describe. It’s only natural.
Kudos to you for already being proactive about commenting on and sharing the posts that you most enjoy. It’s something I’m trying to be more conscientious about. I agree with you that spreading the love is equally important as feeling it.
A very well written post.Thanks for sharing your thoughts! 😉
Thanks, Reina! I’m glad you enjoyed it and appreciate you letting me know via this comment.
nice post. votes of confidence are always a nice thing. some nicer than others.
Thanks, John. Agreed. Some are indeed more impactful than others.
confidence. nice post…..i like!
Thanks, Mulyadi! Much appreciated. I’m glad you like it.
i do comment, lots actually and I find that when people comment on my pages they really write stuff, we even get into conversations, I love it when it gets interactive, i even have people leaving messages for each other on my pages, so funny, and then replying to the replies, great post, I am glad you wrote it, a nice simple doable message, blogging is fun and it is about them too not just us.. c
Thanks, Cecilia! Kudos to you for fostering such a great community environment on your blog. I agree with you about how great it can be when the conversations via the comments become interactive. Thanks for sharing.
You said that really well. Reading these comments, it’s great to know that there are so many other bloggers who have the same anxiety over their writing, and I really appreciate you bringing this to light and making it OK to talk about. My confidence in my blog sometimes gets diminished when I publish a post that I think is really, really good and it kind of waffles as far as comments and “Likes.” I want to eventually be able to make my living just by writing, so I get nervous a lot when I’m not getting comments because if my blog doesn’t do well, how am I ever supposed to actually sell anything?
However, I do have a few followers who I don’t know from “real life” who consistently support me and give me a boost when I need it. They are my bloggy cheerleaders who, when I feel least confident, I write for. I don’t know what I’d do without them. I support them in the way of comments, too, and I try to spread the love around by commenting on other blogs that hit me a certain way. It’s all about being a viable member of a community.
Thanks! I appreciate the kind words. There’s definitely no shortage of bloggers who can empathize and relate to the feelings of self-doubt and insecurity that so often follow a post going live. Hang in there. It sounds like you’re on the right track. It’s always helpful to have a few “bloggy cheerleaders” around to give you a boosting in confidence when you need it. I’ve got a few of those and I probably value them a lot more than they realize.
A very true post! Thank you for the reminder!
And do you know, this holds true not just in the blogging world, but, also in other aspects of our life. Appreciation/acknowledgement goes such a long way in encouraging us to keep going. It is such a simple thing to give and yet we are so stingy with it.
Congratulations on being Freshly Pressed! 🙂
Thanks! My pleasure. Agreed about the point extending beyond the virtual world and into real life interactions. We all need to work on being a little freer about expressing our appreciation.
I’m too shy to leave a comment about how true your post is, so I’ll just probably leave without saying anything.
Edward-Too late my friend. Thanks for breaking from your shyness (albeit briefly) to let me know you agreed with my post.
A global discussion is the most wonderful thing. It makes the world a smaller and safer place. Thanks for this post, I look forward to you putting your words together again; sometimes a most difficult thing to do 🙂
Janet-Agreed. It has been a very cool and rewarding experience to interact with bloggers around the world through the comments today. Thanks for the kind words.
Wow – thank you for this post! I hesitated for quite some time to start a blog, and even when I did, my insecurities kept me from allowing many people to find out about it. I’m slowly becoming a little more confident, and mostly because of kind words left on my posts from complete strangers who were nice enough to share their encouraging thoughts. What a difference those gestures make!
Congratulations!
Thanks! I appreciate you sharing your experience with me as well. I’m glad to hear your confidence is growing (as well it should if your posts are eliciting positive feedback from strangers). Mine has certainly been given a major boost today. I’m grateful for all of the feedback and comments.
I like your post and couldn’t agree more about the comments. Enjoy the Freshly Pressed barrage – now is a good time to pump yourself up for the eventual dip though! So five months from now, if attention wanes again, that’s when the real confidence test will occur. Sorry if that sounds like a downer comment!
Big props on the FP! Best of luck to you!
Thanks! Much appreciated. Not a downer at all. That’s the reality of the situation. This has been an awesome experience and major confidence booster today and hopefully it helps to carry me through the leaner times that are sure to come.
Confidence is when you stand upright and recite CONFIDENCE 3 times and charge into the fray 😀
Duly noted. In the absence of a nearby fray, I’ll have to settle for reciting CONFIDENCE 3 times before diving into my next post.
Wow, reading this chain of conversation is a first experience, and quite eye opening. I’m from the ‘older’ generation…. someone who has been a closet writer for years, squirreling my thoughts away in ‘My Documents’ without an audience. And then I heard about blogging…… yup, I know, I’m behind the times. So a friend recommended Word Press.org, then I saw a link for reeeally quick set up of WP, then I found examples, then “voila!” I’m here. Amazing. Confidence? Positive feedback? Please accept a humble observation from an oldster……. Be true to yourself. Forget about anticipating a desired response…… Give, Give, Give. I guarantee huge returns in your personal AND professional life. Now…… how the heck do I get started on this “blogging stuff”?? Carol
Carol-What serendipity! Thanks for sharing your observation. I do my best to be true to myself but it’s difficult to avoid the natural inclination to seek external validation. WP.com is definitely an easier and faster route to blogging than the self-hosted WP.org option (in my opinion, at least). I’d suggest you start by digging through the archives of your writing stored on your hard drive and perhaps posting some of it on your blog until your ready to share new material. Good luck to you. Thanks for visiting my blog and commenting.
I love reading comments on blogs; they often give me a different prospective from my own.
One of my favorite comments is on a blog I wrote called “Italian Financial Crisis.” A blogger new to me named Maloquacious wrote, “You Rock my Gondola!” That made me laugh and created a warm connected feeling with someone who read what I had written…blogging can be wonderful.
Dave, have you noticed how many people responded and relate to your confidence theme? We all need a boost now and then. Mostly now.
Ronnie
Ronnie-Thanks for sharing that story with me. I agree that sometimes a random comment from a stranger in response to a post can be a wonderful (and often entertaining) experience.
I have been completely overwhelmed by the response to this post. It’s reassuring to know that there are so many people who can relate to this issue. It’s been a well-timed jolt of confidence for which I’m truly grateful.
Yes, a blogger’s public service!
Ronnie
Someone wrote the following comment to my post titled: “Best Photos of 2011”.
Hmm. Maybe it was a mistake to visit your blog. Should I stop photographing? No! I’ll just come here again and learn how to do. I think your photos are outstanding.
I made my day to know that some of my photos had moved someone that much. “liking” is definitely easier and quicker but I love receiving comments. Short ones or long ones. Doesn’t matter. I love them all.
What a great comment you received. Thanks for sharing it with me. Liking is indeed the path of least resistance, but it at least lets the author know you appreciated their work. That said, comments are definitely more meaningful and interesting.
I recently had someone take the time to comment that he applauds the difficulty of recipes I tackle on my blog, and that was kind of cool. I struggle through baking stuff sometimes, and it’s nice that others appreciate the amount of work I do to make sure something comes out just right before presenting them with a recipe. Great post yourself, I sometimes struggle with confidence – like you mentioned, the tiniest, most insignificant thing can have a ridiculous effect on how I was feeling moments ago. Sometimes it’s for the better though 🙂
Thanks for the kind words and for sharing your related experience. I appreciate the support (and could use some baking lessons).
please allow me to re-post this entry, with due credits of course. This alone, is a confidence booster. Keep it up Dave! God bless.
I’d be honored if you thought highly enough of the post that you wanted to share it with others. Thanks for the support!
Ironic how your post on confidence in social media got freshly pressed. 🙂 You’re right, it is very important to voice our opinions, especially when it’s positive feedback. Writing a blog can often feel like you’re tossing your words out to an empty void in space, where surely no one will read what you wrote- but that one person who makes a simple comment can make it seem worthwhile.
Christina-Funny, I tweeted something similar this afternoon about the irony of their selection. Thanks for reading and commenting. I agree that sometimes it feels as though you’ve sent your posts out into the abyss with no response but a deafening silence. Comments (even one or two) can be reassuring and validating.
New to WordPress but saw you on Freshpress and thought I’d read your blog. Personally, I find that confidence comes from within and also the lack of teetering of it. Confidence must be based on something that doesn’t change eventhough life does present tremendous challenges. One of the bloggers said, ” Finding a balance between self-doubt and arrogance is a life-long pursuit”; I would add that it is a never-ending pursuit. The kind of confidence that relies on a scale is not confidence but perhaps a place where we have become comfortable and a misnomer for confidence.
I believe true confidence is only possible when it is placed in One who does not change. God and His ways never change and trials serve to bring us to a higher character if we are faithful to persevere or they can be the mirrors which reflect the lack of something to hold us firm when the storms of life move in.
I’ve worked with many patients in my career and find that the day before the Cancer word is spoken in their diagnosis….they were confident, alive, hopeful but one word changes that. Yet, when they didn’t know their body was fighting cancer they were confident. But really, they were comfortable in the knowledge or lack of knowledge they had at that moment. Life can continue but one’s mindset must be yoked to something or someone stronger. A place they can rise higher, without doubt.
That being said, a good word can go a long way to give one hope; but hope can be a temporary state of mind if one cannot find the source of hope. The dark times always come and perhaps give light to what is really important in life.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Confidence can certainly come from within, but that confidence is often nurtured and reinforced through external validation (for better or worse).
Thanks for this. I’m just getting started in the world of blogging and I appreciate the encouragement.
My pleasure! I appreciate you letting me know you found the post to be encouraging. I hope you find the blogging experience to be rewarding. Good luck with it!
“nerve-wracking” should not have been hyphenated.
I disagree, but thanks for letting me know. FYI… http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nerve-racking
This is really interesting. I have only been on a blogging website one day now, but before that I was an avid content writer. Which, in my personal opinion is even worse. You go through the day writing as much as you can, hoping the quality doesn’t diminish due to the unreasonable deadlines, and you hope with all your heart someone will stop, read and rate your work to put some meaning into what you have done. I’ll take this advice into my blogging ventures. 🙂
Glad to hear you found this post helpful as you venture into the blogosphere. It’s definitely helpful that the medium provides a forum for feedback in a way that traditional channels for disseminating content writing do not. Good luck with your blog!
Bula! Dave, I am touched by your BLOG on Confidence. I have recently opened my own BLOG, new to this so am getting there. I kind of stumbled on this page and am mighty glad I did as this has given me the added boost.
If you passionate about something, the confidence will grow on you..i guess we just have to believe in ourselves.
Vinaka (Thank you)
Michelle (Suva, Fiji)
Thanks, Michelle! Very cool to hear from someone in Fiji. I’m glad you found the post to be helpful. Vinaka for your comment!
You convinced me to comment. What you say is true, every little thing someone does can have a huge impact on you. It’s interesting to observe how fragile the human condition can be at times.
Thanks, Hamilton! I appreciate you commenting on the post. Fragile indeed. I couldn’t have dreamed that I’d receive this kind of response to the post. It just goes to show how many of us have experienced the same self-doubt and insecurity about our writing.
Interestingly, I was thinking about the importance of commenting and “liking” blogs today. I feel good when someone has seen one of my photos and “liked” it. It does have a way of offering a pick me up, something we all can use.
I was fortunate today as I met an amazing photographer who took time to discuss his work with me. His passion was obvious and truly inspirational. Additionally, he was glad that I understood that he does not just come upon a scene, point and shoot. Photography is an art and he is a true artist. He took time out of his day to talk to me, share his expertise and love of his work. I was able to let him know I understood the depth of his commitment and ability – a win-win situation.
Thank you for reminding us all to let others know when they have made a difference.
Paula-It’s true. Everyone can use a pick me up now and then.Glad to hear you had such a great experience with the photographer today. I’m glad to provide the reminder. It’s as much for myself as it is for my readers. Thanks for the comment!
Great post. I think most people blog for themselves and so if others come along for the ride–that is great. Since blogging is usually somewhat personal, whether it is recipes or how-I-spent-my-summer-vacation, we tend to take it personally if we don’t gather a crowd or God forbid, get a nasty comment. I always pay it forward, as you are suggesting when someone comments favorably on my blog and I have learned to ignore the nasty people or if I’m really feeling confident–I delete them.
Thanks! Much appreciated. I guess I’d argue I blog for myself and my readers as my writing tends to be a mixture of personal and professional. A few negative comments here and there are inevitable, but you seem to have the right outlook about them. They are best left ignored. Thanks for sharing!
Great post Dave! Other than the fear of a blank page, it does take a lot of courage and effort to publish a post. Then we start wondering who’s going to read it and is the post worth publishing in the first place. I totally agree with you. Comments even a simple, short one goes a long way. For me, it usually makes my day.
Thanks! I feel the same way. In the case of today, the comments have made the rest of my year.
Extremely well put! I usually do try to comment when I read something good, in all the ways you described, because I think I intuitively understood what you’ve so well and clearly explained. But I could not have said it better myself! 🙂 This also explains the day I got 152 views — quite a lot for my young blog — and zero comments…
Thanks and congratulations on being freshly pressed!
Thanks! I appreciate the kind words. 152 views in a day is impressive on its own and kudos to you for intuitively understanding and doing something most folks need to be made aware of or reminded about.
well. i m kind of miss transparency right now, ie. i dont do sth for others and others dont pay attention on me as well. i think this is a give-and-share relation. helping others are helping urself in fact. i ll keep your words in mind. good luck!
Thanks! I appreciate it. Helping others can indeed be very rewarding.
I really enjoyed this post and the reminder to tell people how much I appreciate what they’ve done. Not to mention, it brought me to reflect and get a little more confidence to prepare myself to write a paper. Thank you.
Thanks, Nicole! Glad you enjoyed the post and good luck with the paper!
I hate constantly having to shake that self-doubt monkey off my back!
Great post. Nodded my head in agreement the whole way through reading it.
Thanks! I’m glad to hear you related to the post. Keep shaking the monkey off!
Confidence is important as well as gratitude. Great post. Reminiscent of the confidence of Cyd and Rege on the dwarf planet Haumea.
Thanks, Ani! Can’t say I know Cyd, Rege or Haumea, but confidence and gratitude are indeed both very important.
Confidence is key 🙂
Agreed 🙂
Thanks for posting this. It echoes thoughts that I have as I make my way into the blogging world. It seems endless and far reaching and impersonal, yet the things people write are incredibly personal.
In the “real”, i.e., non-virtual world, people have told me a lot lately that they appreciate my cooking and baking. I never really considered myself talented at either of those two things, but with this affirmation, I’m realizing that the things I make actually do taste pretty good and it isn’t just because I can follow directions. I’m enjoying the time spent in the kitchen and realizing strengths about myself just from a few comments.
It makes me remember how important it is to affirm others. I wrote about that fact on my blog a couple weeks ago, but I like the spin you’ve put on things.
Congrats on the freshpressed feature.
Thanks, Jamie! I appreciate the support and congrats. Glad to hear your efforts in the kitchen are being validated and it’s leading to you enjoying the experience even more. We should all aspire to affirm others more often.
Great post. You made everyone realize how much it hurts us, if no one appreciate our work. I wrote two posts on this same issue in my blog, although not many people read them. one is Am I over confident & Talent deserves recognition.
Keep up the good work. Waiting to read more from you.
Thanks! I appreciate the support and kind words.
Actually today I was having a bad day myself. In the sense that my confidence was so low at a family reunion I had. I was doubting every action I made, which happens to me quite often. And there was no one to tell me to be confident in my actions or to trust myself, because no one knew what was going on inside my head. So I have to rely on myself to be the one who lifts me up. Everyone is responsible for their own mood and so am I, so finally I just told myself to stop second-guessing every word I said and to just act however I felt right.
I enjoyed your post. And it’s so true that lack of compliments can lead to lack of confidence. But everyone needs to keep in mind that lack of confidence will keep you from doing things that will bring you compliments. 😉 I’ve learned that by experience!
I’m sorry to hear about the difficult experience you had yesterday at your family reunion. You are right that confidence breeds compliments which, in turn, increases confidence. I hope today is a better day for you.
I give you props for responding to each persons comment here. Haha. But yeah it’s very nice to see other people commenting. I usually think the ones that see the post but don’t comment are most likely shy or might think they are creeper-ish somehow. But people put posts up for reasons.
Thanks, Monica! It’s been a bit overwhelming, but anyone taking the time to share their thoughts with me deserves acknowledgement. It’s been incredibly rewarding hearing from so many people in response this post.
Good post…yes,we should enjoy life.Each minutes is precious & never can be repeated again…
Thanks
Thanks, Amalia! Agreed!
Awesome post! Confidence is something we build from within. It is true how we as humans go through “rough periods” when confidence seems to be lacking. We search for approval… from others. Confidence stems from within…. Its all about self love. Setting challenges for ourselves and conquering those feats.Loving yourself…. Staying true to yourself. Congrats on being “freshly pressed.” Well deserved.
Thanks! Much appreciated.
I read something that really resonated with in me/inspired me/enlightened me. So I left this comment!
I believe this is the first post (Freshly pressed) which I read fully!!!
I’m glad to see that you follow what you say! You have literally replied every one who has commented here! Oh Great!!!
One sentence that can improve our confidence is:
“If one man can do it, every man can do it”.
Do visit my blog, I hope you can find something that can inspire you or enlighten you as well!
Thanks!
Thanks, Avinash! I’m honored to be the first Freshly Pressed post that you read entirely and I appreciate you noticing that I’m responding to everyone individually. It’s important that I follow my own advice. Thanks for reading and taking the time to comment.
Brilliant post, thanks for this. I try to at least ‘like’ every post I enjoy and usually leave a comment, but I too forget sometimes.
It means the world to me when someone takes time out of their day to comment on my blog, so I’m resolving to give that same gift to others.
Thanks! Liking a post at least lets the blogger know that someone enjoyed it but, as you noted, taking the time to comment is much more meaningful. Kudos to you for making the decision to pay it forward.
Hi there. I’ve been blogging for a year and nine months now, and never been FP’d, which I used to find very disheartening at a time when only my family bothered to read my blog, or friends who had no clue how to leave a comment 😛
But I kept at it, and built myself a community of my own, whose ‘likes’ and comments boost my confidence every time I publish something, and I no longer think of being freshly pressed as validation for my efforts. Every now and then, someone new subscribes out of the blue and that never fails to put a big grin on my face! Key is to reach out, and as you say so rightly, to leave a comment if something you read resonated, as it did here 🙂
Thanks for reaching out and commenting Munira! I can honestly say I never aspired to be FP’d, but it was an awesome surprise when it happened yesterday. I’m honored. Good for you for persevering and building a community that supports and validates your writing. I can definitely relate to the experience of being giddy over a random new subscriber or comment.
I think the first and foremost thing to improve confidence is to be FEARLESS. Though many would say that fear is important but courage does helps build confidence and fearless attitude help cement it.
I think it takes a certain amount of fearlessness and courage to publicly publish your thoughts and opinions in a post. Repeating the process can build confidence over time. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with me.
Its amazing how bouts of confidence ebb and flow, even in a given day. The smallest of gestures can make or break your day. I love how you have added the “motivate others” bit in the end. We often undermine the power of little gestures, thinking that it won’t affect others – I’m glad you brought it up! 🙂
Happy blogging!
Thanks! The smallest of gestures can indeed wield a lot of power.
Very nice 🙂 I am new to blogging actually and have not written anything yet. Your post is the first one I just read. Every person requires motivation be it the positive one or the negative. You have portrayed the concept of appreciation in a very good way and pointed out something which we consider to be POINTLESS. A small simple concern to anyone can transform our whole day even 🙂
Thanks for the kinds words. I’m honored to have been the first post you read. Best of luck with your own blogging!
I’m guilty of this myself.
Although, as a new blogger, I also find myself disheartened when I’ve poured my ‘heart and soul’ into a blog and though I can see that people have stopped by, they’ve not left a comment.
I remind myself that the blog is mainly for me to develop my writing and get out what I want to say and it matters that people drop by – even if they don’t alway announce their arrival and instead just slip away.
So here is a hi and an acknowledgment for your post! 🙂
Thanks for saying hello and acknowledging my post. I like your approach. It does matter that people have dropped by even if they don’t leave a comment, but all the better if they do.
Great post, Dave! Confidence is critical.
We all struggle with this issue sometimes, but you pressed through it. That’s great inspiration for us all!
Now, look at your reward! Congratulations on your Freshly Pressed nod!
Thanks, Michael! Glad to have provided some small bit of inspiration. You are right. It’s an issue that we all struggle with from time to time and it has been rewarding to hear from so many people that can relate to the experience I described.
Nicolita1279@aol.com
Um, ok. Thanks for stopping by!
good post ……….i like it.
Thanks! Glad you liked it.
You are spot on with your reminder to comment and recognize a valuable piece. Thank you for sharing what most of us feel… is anybody listening/reading/commenting? I appreciate your reminder to let other writers know how effective their blogs are in our everyday living.
Thanks! I’m glad you appreciated the post. It’s as much a reminder for myself as my readers.
Congrats! One of the most meaningful posts I’ve ever read. Glad that it got FPd so that more bloggers will be reading this.
I have often wondered why we hesitate to leave a comment even after reading a post to the last line.
One more thing I appreciate here: You have replied to all the comments though they are pouring in by now. Many writers pretend to be not concerned about the replies, and that in turn affects their readership. Keep on writing! We are reading!
Thanks, Bindu! That means a lot to me. I greatly appreciate the influx of readers and comments I’ve received from being FP’d and feel that it’s important to acknowledge anyone that took the time to write a comment. Thanks for the support!
A wonderful reminder of the “Golden Rule” – do unto others as you’d have them do unto you. You’ve made me think of all the times I was inspired and didn’t share it. Wonderful post; congrats on Fresh Pressed!
MJ
Thanks, MJ! Simple concept but, as you noted, one that’s easily forgotten. Thanks for taking the time to comment. I appreciate the feedback and congrats.
This is a great post, thanks so much for it! I’m so glad that you were Freshly Pressed (CONGRATS), otherwise I would have never found your blog. I think that it is very important to at least say “Thank You” to someone for something they’ve done or said that impacted you. I really appreciate this. I hope that your confidence is encouraged as you have encouraged, I’m sure, countless others. Stay blessed, a blessing and encouraged!!!
Thanks! My pleasure. My confidence has received a huge boost from this. I’m honored to have been Freshly Pressed and overwhelmed by the amount of positive feedback I’ve received through the comments. Thanks for taking the time to write. I’m glad you enjoyed the post.
Sometimes, I simply click the like button after the post, hope this is also uplifting. Indicating you a post is also good if you are really in a hurry.
It’s a nice easy to let someone know you stopped by and enjoyed their post. I appreciate any likes I receive.
I very much get uplifted from people sharing, discussing, liking or just reading my posts. I’d love to know what it is that makes people more likely to share a post – is there any good research on the topic?
I don’t know about about the research (although I’m sure there’s some available), but I’d imagine people are most likely to share the posts that have the greatest impact on them. Thanks for stopping by!
I have shared many a Post and many a Blog author on my blurb. I find most blogger’s out there want to be recognized or they wouldn’t bother to post at all..they would keep their blog diary hidden in their software drawer……
Nice Piece tho-
I think you’re right that most folks want want to be recognized. It’s human nature. Thanks for reading and taking the time to comment. Glad you enjoyed the post.
I think you’re right that most folks want to be recognized. It’s human nature. Thanks for reading and taking the time to comment. Glad you enjoyed the post.
It was certainly brave of you to leave a post which was so open to many on this network. I’m sure your post will be read by many and agreed that it can be a daunting task to write a post you feel that others could relate to. Sometimes it can be hard to share your feelings on the internet and it can be hard to portray the way we are speaking to the world. I find it hard to speak with others on the internet, as it is hard to internet if someone is genuine or not, I find the blogs very helpful indeed.
Thanks. I appreciate that. I think it always takes a certain amount of courage to share a post publicly. Of course, I had no idea this post would be Freshly Pressed, and therefore read by so many people.
Not trying for a shameless plug – or maybe I am – but… your blog was listed on the main dashboard of wordpress when I logged in this morning. I’m a romantic when it comes to confidence boosting reading material so naturally your “Confidence” entry caught my eye. In a way, it parallels the post I currently have on my blog – about admiration.
The next time you admire something about someone, tell them, and remember that someone might be thinking the same thing about you. Your post encourages people to SAY what they are feeling, mine touches more on being aware that you’re not the only one with feelings.
Thanks for sharing! 🙂 I’m going to read a little bit more of your blog – and if you’re lucky, I might follow you. Ha! Who am I kidding – I’ll follow. LOL
Have a good one!
Thanks, Alicia! I’m glad you liked the post. I enjoyed yours as well. I’d love to hear your thoughts on any of the other posts you read on my blog. Thanks for following too! Have a great day.
I guess confidence means different things to different people. Its a topic I’ve coached many people on and the thing I hear over and over again is the comment “people think I’m confident but I’m not inside”.
I used to have an anonymous blog. I now have a public one – I guess you could say that is a growth in confidence, Putting yourself out there and in the public domain can leave you feeling exposed – and can feel like a big step. I’d encourage anyone to start by leaving small comments and gain some credibility. You’ll be surprised by the positive feedback you’ll get.
Carolyn-Thanks for reading and commenting. I think you’re right. Everyone has their own definition of confidence and many people project an air of confidence while lacking it internally. Sharing your thoughts in a public forum can indeed live you feeling exposed but, as you noted, the positive feedback you receive can be surprising and incredibly rewarding.
Thanks a bunch for this post, Dave! Bless you for reminding us that a blogger deserves a pat on the back for his/her hard work. I totally agree, it’s not easy weaving the tapestry of perfect prose. I’m so grateful for the ‘likes’ and comments I get…what a boost!
Congrats on FP! 🙂
Thanks, Mal! My pleasure. It was an honor to be FP’d. I’m glad you enjoyed the post. It will serve as a reminder for myself as much as my readers.
Dave, FP’d! Congrats! Great post and it actually served to raise MY confidence today. Encouraging to see so many folks responding positively to the message delivered within and I hope the goodwill and courtesy spreads throughout the blogosphere as a result. Best Wishes, Bruce.
Thanks, Bruce! Great to hear from you and very glad that the post served as a confidence booster for you as well. I agree. Wonderful to see so many people in agreement about acknowledging people for their work. Hope all is well.
Your new freshly pressed status must have given you a great boost, eh? 🙂
And I agree with your post. I remember the day my blog got its first subscriber, halfway across the world from me in Texas – it definitely helped me to carry on writing in what often looked like a void!
It most certainly has. What an awesome surprise to start the week on such a high note. The validation from perfect strangers can definitely carry us through some of the leaner times (as I’m hoping this outpouring of FP traffic does for me). Thanks for reading and taking the time to comment.
great post. confidence is crucial.
i was going through a bad time recently. even am right now.
i was almost on the verge of even deleting my blog … not because of the blog …
but i was just so dissapointed with life. one minute i was full of confidence and the next … is a long story.
but yes, keep blogging. sometimes people read and think “wow” but leave without a comment just like a stranger giving a smile on the road. the smile means a lot.
the sad part is the virtual smile is hard to see or realize unless we leave behind a 🙂 🙂 😀
Thanks, Amira! I am so sorry to hear that you’re going through a difficult time. Please don’t give up on your blog. It’s a great outlet and posting can often be cathartic (even though it’s nerve-racking). I appreciate the 🙂
Ha! I just started a blog about cover letters. After several years of sending resumes into the void with barely a peep in response, I started writing provocative cover letters, just to see if I could get a reaction. I will be posting a mix of past and current missives.
And no, no employer has answered so far. To be fair, they must be inundated, but how can you NOT call a person who uses the term “rain-o-dildo-phobia” when applying for a real estate job?
Interesting project. Never hurts to try some outside the box ideas. I’d love to know the context in which that term was used in a cover letter. Best of luck with the search!
Very well written post with great advice!
Thanks! Glad you liked it!
Bravo! Your candor and your courage in writing about your own struggles are laudable. Lots of blogs out there, but few wear their hearts on their sleeves; gives me confidence about moving forward on my own work. Like you say, confidence is powerful stuff; combined with a little humility, it’s unbeatable. One of my favorite quotes is from Goethe:
Whatever you can do
Or dream you can
Begin it.
Boldness has genius, power, and magic
In It
Thanks, Moulton! Much appreciated.
“confidence is powerful stuff; combined with a little humility, it’s unbeatable”
Well said. Great quote too. Thanks for sharing.
that is really very good post. I believe, confidence is not static. i blog a lot and comment a lot. any one may get confidence but mostly it won’t be permanent. Due to various reasons the confidence level may decrease over the time (may be you feel somebody is better thank you, or something like that). In those cases, what they really needed at that time is a boost in confidence, and as you said it can be achieved by social engagement. In my experience keeping the confidence is more challenging than getting it once.
It also has another face of it, i.e., keeping and maintaining other’s confidence on us.
oops,after reading your blog i just realized that i forgot to put ‘Contact Me’ page in my website, i need to add it soon. thanks.
Thanks! You are right. Maintaining the confidence level in the aftermath of a boost is important. This is a challenge I’ll soon be faced with after this influx of traffic from being Freshly Pressed dies down. Glad you enjoyed the post and got an idea for your blog from visiting. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Interesting One!
Thanks, Santosh!
Great post! . . . You’ve really tapped into our humanness – how tenuous our feelings of self-worth can be, and how little it takes to “make someone’s day”!! . . . Congrats on being “Freshly Pressed”!
http://arabianmusings.wordpress.com/
Thanks, Michele! Much appreciated.
Wow, great post. I do try to comment when I find a post that makes a mark in my day…like this one! You very said very concisely how I think many bloggers feel about recieving feedback. It is a definite confidence booster. I can’t count the number of times of considered closing down my blog and then the perfect message comes across from a reader to change my outlook. Wishing you many more happy blogging moments!
Thanks! I appreciate the kind words and well wishes. Nothing beats a well-timed message arriving out of the blue. Keep fighting the good fight. An awesome surprise (like being Freshly Pressed) might arrive when you least expect it.
Such a great post and a great point.
I need a boost of confidence myself and it really is those little things that help.
Thanks! I’m glad you enjoyed the post. I hope someone delivers a confidence boost to you soon. Hang in there.
This brightened my day (night, actually. 12.24am).
I’ll keep this is mind, buddy.
What you wrote is helpful to many.
I’m actually one of those people who writes things but wouldn’t publish them sometimes.
Your blog is lovely. Neat theme too!
Thanks, Jenn. I appreciate the kind words. I’d encourage you to start publishing your writing more. It can be surprisingly rewarding.
David Cuter’s Blog. —> How i read your blog name
🙂
now i felt compel to drop a line. how true that many a times we reserve our praise for things we read/listened/watched that has somehow inspire, motivate or moved us in someways and do nothing about it. thanks to you Dave for sharing your thoughts in a humble and gentle approach, I have been greatly reminded. Kudos
Thanks, Deni! I think we can all use this reminder from time to time (myself included). Glad you liked the post.
wow, yes i did share via tweeting. blimey! I never thought to mention the author! To be honest I thought the twitter inferface did that when you pressed SHARE.
Thanks for sharing. Unfortunately, some blogs are set up to say “via @wordpressdotcom” by default (mine included).
Thank you for the reminding, Dave 🙂
This is a great post 🙂
Honestly, I am not really confidence in writing, because I know that my english is not very good.
This post make me feeling better
Yulia
http://www.mylifeismyrainbow.wordpress.com
Thanks, Yulla. Glad to hear the post helped in some small way.
Hi Dave, thank you for posting this, it’s just what I needed to read! I’m a relatively new blogger with few followers, and still getting the hang of it, so every comment or follow means a lot.
My pleasure! Keep at it. You never know where it’ll lead you. I certainly didn’t expect to be Freshly Pressed. Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
What you are talking about is value sharing. If I find value in the information you provide, give value back by giving you credit or props on your blog. This is a great reminder!