Did you happen to answer Sara’s questions On Simplicity? She asked, “What are three traits you’d want people to remember you by?”.
What she discussed can also be equated to our online presence. That is, how do we actually “see” ourselves, and how do others “see” us in blogosphere?
Sara’s article reminded me of when I wrote my “Your Audience – Hitting The Bullseye” post, and replied to Hunter Nuttall’s comment by saying, “this is how I visualize Vered, of MomGrind.
She is like the “Kool-Aid Mom of the Block”. You know the one. The house where all the kids ended up at because the Mom was so cool. She always had good treats, welcomed everyone into her home, would listen intently to stories from each of the kids and never talked down to you. In fact, little boys often had a crush on her. 🙂
Today’s Lesson
I’ve been thinking of how I see myself, and how others might see me.
Because a “non traditional age” blogger, I see myself as a teacher, friend and/or a “mother” to many of you. Just as a mother watches over her children, I follow your progress, watch as you graduate to 100 posts, a one year anniversary, or hitting the front page of Digg. I’m proud of your accomplishments and the communities you’re building on your blogs.
I often read your posts in my reader and check how your comments are building. If your comment count is high, I often just smile and leave. Other times I drop in to say “great job” or share my views on a current post.
Keeping our online persona in mind when we post is important. It sets the tone for our words, and can help in building our communities, as well.
Today’s Assignment
How do you see yourself in blogosphere?
How do you see me?
Photo Credit: Bill in Ash Vegas’ photostream
“What are three traits you’d want people to remember you by?”
In February, Steve Pavlina asked everyone to email him the three adjectives they’d use to describe him. He received 1,101 responses and published the results: http://www.stevepavlina.com/blog/2008/02/steve-pavlina-branding/
I think it would be interesting for us to all know the three words people would use to describe us.
Barbara, you are educational, supportive, and community-ish.
Thanks for the link.
Hunter Nuttall’s last blog post..Self Promotion For Wimps
A very interesting article today, Barbara.
I guess the topic of developing an online reputation is of importance to anyone with a blog- and to those of us who don’t yet.
I see you as supportive, generous, community-oriented
I’d like to think others viewed me as thoughtful, community-minded, and- above all- helpful.
There are so many bloggers who I greatly admire in terms of both their writing and their vibrant communities, that I would really like to help say ‘thank you’ where I can be of help.
To see ourselves as others see us 🙂
Hi Hunter,
You’re welcome
I remember that post of Steve Pavlinaa. It was quite interesting.
The three words I would use to describe you are: unconventional, appreciative, and humerous.
Hi Blogger Dad,
To carry on with Hunter’s idea of three words that describe those who visit BWAB, I see you as being a teacher, a proud father, and most of all, a writer.
You’re much too hard on yourself. By sharing your words you’re making a BIG difference. Although you’re new to blogging, you’re not new to life. I’m guessing you’re touching dozens of people positively with your words, wherever you go.
***smiles*** I don’t mind being called a mother hen (without the negative connotations). And yes, I am and always will be a student. Thank you for your kind words.
Hi Scott,
Thank you.
You’re right. We don’t need a blog to have an online presence.
In addition to your description of yourself as thoughtful, community minded and helpful, I also see you as being supportive, intelligent and analytical.
I see myself as a humorist who sometimes dwells on the serious. Bordering on motivational, though realistic enough to know I’m not making a big difference… yet. I’m still new to blogging in this avenue, so I’m still finding my way. Hopefully, it doesn’t show too much.
From my limited time visiting your site (found through Writer Dad), this is my impression: I see you as a mother-hen (without the negative connotation), kind of how you described yourself. Kind, there for others, finding joy in helping and teaching and sharing in the successes of others. Wise, but also a student, willing and eager to learn from others.
Hi Ajith,
Thank you. Yes, I am almost always a cheerful person. 🙂
I agree, you do write about topics from a different angle, however, I disagree that your writing skills are not the best. All of the posts I’ve read of yours were well written and filled with value.
The three words I would use to describe you are generous, inquisitive, and a team player.
I see myself (or would like to see myself) as somebody who writes about the usual things from a different angle 🙂 May be I am wrong. Most of the time I am serious and don’t use smileys on my posts/comments in my own blog – may use elsewhere. I always got a feeling that I have ideas to write, but my writing skills are not at its best 😀
As for you, Barbara, you just described you well in this post already. I feel that you always have very good (clean) intention while ‘involving and networking’ with the bloggers and your readers and you always have a very positive outlook of things that you talk about or deal with. You must be a cheerful and good person in real life as well.
Cheers,
Ajith
Ajith Edassery’s last blog post..Blog Innovation and sustainability – Take a leaf from Apple
Barbara,
I just found you via Writer Dad. My first impression of you:
encouraging, welcoming, helpful
How I see myself?
1. a person who tries to see the world around her through the lens of her camera;
2. a person who tries to express thoughts and feelings in words in a language that is not her first one (that is German)
3. a person who enjoys participating in the global community of the web.
I wouldn’t be where I’m at without you, Barbara! So, I see you as the proud mother, or proud teacher. You give us (me) wings – and then check in to make sure we’re flying ok. It’s weird, but I find it comforting when you visit me, and I also feel like I don’t want to let you down, after all you’ve done for me. I guess it’s like going back to visit a favorite teacher after you’ve been for for a while – you want to be able to tell them something positive that’s been going on.
How do I see myself? I see myself as positive and affirming. And helping people to live their life on their own terms. I also see myself as conversational – as in the comments section plays a very important part of the whole discussion going on. It’s been a learning process along the way, and one in which I’m really enjoying the journey.
Lance’s last blog post..Sunday Thought For The Day
Three words I’d like people to use when they think of me:
Helper, patterner (ie I see patterns easily), empathizer.
As for how I see you Barbara:
Mentor, connector, community-builder
I think you accurately described how I see you *smile*. I come here each day because I am know I am going to find out how to improve my blog, but in a totally non-preachy, non-guru-ish, sort of way.
As for how I see my blog? It’s like the Lion’s and my actual house. People walk in, kick off their shoes, pull up a stool to our huge island, drink wine, eat munchies, and just start talking and laughing. Ideas are exchanged, humourous anecdotes are told, and friendly bantering occurs. And when it’s time for them to leave, big genuine hugs are exchanged, and promises are made to do it all again soon.
Hmmm…this is easy. I see you as someone who is very committed, passionate and friendly!
Evelyn Lim’s last blog post..An Enchanting Vision From My Angels
How do you see yourself in blogosphere? I see myself as someone who likes to share, encourage, think, teach and LAUGH, I’m a closet comedian. There’s a naughty side, I try to hide, but she slips out every once in a while. Just as in real life, I CAN get along with anyone
How do you see me? Just as you stated, mother hen, supporter, helper, teacher, friend in my head.
How I see myself > I see myself as a woman on a mission to help people think about and practice the art of life balance. I see myself as a voice that reminds people that it’s essential to embrace your sense of self and to incorporate your needs and passions into your life. I also see myself as someone who is equal to my readers (not as some sort of guru) who is learning and exploring the art of life balance along with everyone else.
How do I see you> I see you as a soulful teacher who has the best interest of others on your mind. I see you as someone who appreciates community, life, laughter, and honesty.
Stacey / CreateaBalance’s last blog post..How to Synchronize Your Authentic Voice
Barbara,
Two more great questions:
As to the first, I personally DON’T see myself in the blogosphere. What my commenters write on a day-to-day basis are my self-defintion.
As to the second: You are warm, giving, full of advice and encouragement for both the new blogger and the “seasoned” blogger. When I read your blog, it’s the closest I’ve ever felt to sitting down to a big family dinner. Regardless of numbers, you are the Queen, and I’m proud to feel like a hand-maiden to the Royal Family.
Fondly,
Rita
Barbara, I love your description of how you monitor your friends’/students’ blogs. You sound like a fairy godmother, who stops by to sprinkle a little fairy dust as needed. It’s nice to know you’re out there. 🙂
I’m still trying to figure out what my presence is and if it syncs up with who I am in person. I’m very laidback and friendly, and I wonder if that’s how I come across in writing.
And thanks for mentioning my blog; I *love* reading people’s responses to those Friday questions!
Hi Barbara
thanks for putting this question for all of us.
there is something about You Al and shilpan (i dont know what) when ever i read your blog i feel like i am no one, finding his identity in this wild world of web, a so called helping hand who seek help from other.
for you i think you are, a mentor for new blogger, inspiration for dimwitted, and a great host who know how to treat her guest (readers*)
Sunil Pathak’s last blog post..Let These Plugins Help You Build Community On Your Blog
I see you as a Kin Keeper. This is the one who keeps the connections strong in a family. Kin Keepers have a knack for networking, supporting people, rallying the family to help another member, and being the go-to person for information.
I see myself as … well … SpaceAgeSage — not quite at home in the more recent the computer age, but long-lived enough to have some nuggets of wisdom to pass along.
SpaceAgeSage’s last blog post..Five things 15 years of marriage have taught me
I agree with the others: I see you as supportive, generous and community-oriented.
I’m not sure how I see myself, but I’m happy with your description. 🙂
Thanks for the link!
Hi Barbara – I also see you as a great teacher, loyal supporter and friend. Also – a great community builder, as well as an honest blogger. So many people who teach about blogging focus on how to make folk rich online, even though they haven’t done it themselves. You don’t do that – you focus on helping folk build a great blog.
As for me – I hope people see me as a worthy mentor. I’ve had three full-time businesses and I’m in the process of launching a 4th, so I hope that qualifies me as experienced enough to help others. I see many people blogging in the same niche as me who have no previous experience and I do shake my head sometimes in wonder.
Also – I hope people see me as honest. I share my mistakes – even the bad ones, like the one business I sank.
And lastly – generous. I link out to my community and other bloggers regularly and I encourage new bloggers. Also, if folk ask for help, I try my best – although I’m not always able to deal with all requests quickly.
I think you’ve described yourself perfectly.
I see myself as the class clown with something important to say.
Hi Ulla,
Welcome to the BWAB community.
Thank you for your kind words.
I like how you described yourself, and your blog is a great reflection of that.
As I read a few of your posts and admired your beautiful photographs, based on what I’ve seen thus far, I see you as being grateful, open minded and courageous.
Hi Lance,
You’re so sweet. Thank you.
Yes, you are positive, affirming and helpful and it shows in the conversations of your blog posts as well as your comment section.
I see you as being compassionate, trustworthy and humble.
Hi Alex,
Thank you.
In addition to you being a helper, patterner, and empathizer, I also see you as being respectful, creative and sincere.
Hi Urban Panther,
Ah ha, we have brother and sister commenting back to back. 🙂
You’ve described your blog to a “T”. Your blog is very welcoming and the conversation is always unpredictable. In addition to that, I see you, as being a person who is enthusiastic, confident and trusting.
Hi Evelyn,
Thank you. Now it’s your turn.
Having read your blog for some time now, I see you as driven, inspirational and as a visionary. You always get me thinking.
Hi Natural,
Thank you
I like that, you see yourself as a closet comedian. Your blog is bringing that side of you to the surface. 🙂
In addition to you being a teacher, I also see you as being considerate, energetic, and caring.
Hi Stacey,
Thank you.
You’ve described yourself very well. Equality with our readers is important, isn’t it?
Having reviewed your blog and some of your older posts, I see you as being focused, responsible, and outgoing.
Hi Sara,
Thank you for your kind words. Yes, I’m “out there”. 🙂
Your laid back and friendly personality does come out in your blog posts, and I also see you as being inquisitive, courteous and unpretentious.
Hi Sunil,
Thank you. It’s an honor to be considered as a mentor.
And, oh my gosh, don’t ever feel like you’re no one. You’re a very important person in this world (and in blogosphere). With your blog, you are not only an educator, you’re honest, unselfish, and kind.
Hi Rita,
Thank you for your kind words, however, I think of myself as a hand maiden, too. One who is on the same level as each and every one of you, learning as we go.
I know I’ve described you as feisty, but I also see you as being observant, persistent and thoughtful.
Hi Vered,
Thank you.
In addition to being the “Kool-Aid mom of the block (or is that blogk?), I see you as being influential, generous and practical.
Hi Catherine,
Thank you. You’re right, I am not the person to ask how to make money online. If I ever get that figured out, you all will be the first to know.
You do see yourself correctly as you are a honest and generous mentor. I also see you as being a great friend who shows perseverance, loyalty and resourcefulness.
Hi Writer Dad,
Thank you.
I agree, you can be like a class clown, however, you are also a proud family man who is grateful, sincere and creative.
Hi Ann (Vintage Mommy),
Thank you. ***smiles***. Although getting older often feels like a race we don’t want to win, I have you beat. 🙂
Now that you’ve added a second blog, more of your personality is showing. I not only see you as being a helper, but I see traits of compassion, patience and trustworthiness.
Hi Linda,
Thank you. As for letting me down, I doubt any of you could do that. Even if you were to quit blogging, I know all of you would continue doing great things in the world by extending a hand and helping others.
Your blog shows you honestly care about elder care and give it your all. I also see you as being sincere, considerate and affectionate.
Re: a picture. That too, will come, however, I think it’s important to realize it’s not what we look like, but what we emit with our words.
Hi SpaceAgeSage,
Thank you. I’ve never heard of a “kin keeper” before, but I like how you defined it.
When I first saw your “handle” of “SpaceAgeSage”, I wasn’t sure what to expect. It was when I visited you, I realized you are wise woman who is grateful, supportive and adventurous.
Hi Mark,
Thank you.
I love your description of yourself. 🙂 Although we all know you’re a creative artist, I also know you’re dedicated, ambitious, and you inspire others to see beauty in unexpected things.
Hi Barbara,
I’m smiling as I read and write because although I may well be older than you, I do think of you as a mentor/parent figure in our blogging community. And I’m often in the position of being quite a bit older than other moms around me, but they have lots more parenting experience than I do (one of the reasons I’m writing Vintage Mommy).
What I love about you and your blog is the lack of HYPE – so refreshing – and the genuine friendliness and support I always find here, and in the comments you leave for me.
As for my presence: in “real life” I’m very friendly, open, and empathetic to a fault. I also have a (sometimes) sharp sense of humor (which I don’t think comes across in One Bag Nation very much). I wanted One Bag Nation to be a place where the organizationally-challenged could find support from someone who is living the struggle (not an expert), and I hope I’ve succeeded in some small way.
As for Vintage Mommy, I’m still finding my way there . . .
Thanks for an interesting post to start off the week! Back to paid work . . .
Hi Barbara,
How do I see myself?
I haven’t had to put it in words since I wrote my About page! I hope I’m seen as a reliable resource person for elder care, and as an honest, caring and giving person overall.
I have to copy Lance’s words about you as I couldn’t have said it one iota better: (Thanks, Lance!)
“I wouldn’t be where I’m at without you, Barbara! So, I see you as the proud mother, or proud teacher. You give us (me) wings – and then check in to make sure we’re flying ok. It’s weird, but I find it comforting when you visit me, and I also feel like I don’t want to let you down, after all you’ve done for me. I guess it’s like going back to visit a favorite teacher after you’ve been for for a while – you want to be able to tell them something positive that’s been going on.”
Especially the not wanting to let you down part!
I was also hoping as I read this post, that you were going to include your photo. Rats! 🙂
You:
Nurturing
Supportive
and Helpful
(3 words for the same thing, really!)
Me?:
Moe
Larry
and Curly
I feel like I’m a tiny pebble at the bottom of the aquarium. Nobody watches the pebbles. They wouldn’t notice if I disappeared. It seems like there are enough pebbles doing the job. Maybe it’s time to pack up and quit.
Keeping with the same analogy, I think you are like the dutiful pet shop owner. You make sure every one feels important and does their best job. So I have an idea of what your reply will be to this.
It’s just that I see how successful the other commenters on this site are, and I wonder why I don’t get that level of comments.
Chase March’s last blog post..Addicted to Podcasts
Barb,
What you said about me is lovely, and I thank you. It’s interesting as I read your impressions of people – you are so “on mark” as to how I view others, that it’s amazing how the English language has so many adjectives!
I do have one question for you…perhaps now is not the day for it, but it could be something, that if you ever have time to do, would interest me greatly:
How many of the bloggers (if any) have you met in person? There is a part of me that has always believed that the computer screen allows people to be more “themselves” than they are in person at times. I am NOT talking dishonesty or deceit here – quite the opposite in fact. I am curious as to what your “take” on that is. If you meet a person whom you know solely through blogging, do your impressions of that person change somewhat, or are you usually able to say that what comes through on “the screen” is what comes through in “real life?”
Thanks,
Rita
Hi Barbara: I think of myself of someone who exposes others to new ideas (hopefully) and encourages them to live their optimal life. I see you as being a gracious hostess, generous, and supportive.
Marelisa’s last blog post..How to Make Decisions
Hi Marelisa,
Thank you. I do my best to be supportive. I only wish I had more time. 🙁
With your blog, you do expose us to new ideas. Even when you write about topics that are tried and true, you put a new spin on them, making your readers reevaluate how they’re living their lives. I see you as a researcher who is very methodical and thorough. Your enthusiasm for life and goodwill toward your readers shines through.
Hi Chase,
Thank you. I like that, “a pet shop owner”. 🙂
I certainly don’t see you as a pebble in an aquarium of my pet shop. You’re the quiet puppy that sits back and takes it all in. By doing so, you’ve become a good listener who analyzes what makes others tick, while being humble about your accomplishments in the process.
Should you pack it in? I would say “No” (unless you don’t get joy from blogging anymore). Although many in the BWAB community have quickly gained recognition, for me it took me over ten months of consistent writing before my community really started to take off. Like you Chase, I enjoy writing and that’s what has kept me going (soon to be 18 months).
Hi Chris,
Thank you. From what you said about yourself, you’ve been very adaptable to the roles you chose to project. I must say though, with the current series you’re running, you have your readers on the edges of their seats. The “writer” in you is shining. In you I see a caring, sensitive, and unselfish person who puts others first. It’s seen in your devotion as a husband, father and friend.
Hi Rita,
You’re welcome.
To answer your question, I’ve never met any of the bloggers in person. In fact, in my real life, no one even understands what a blog is, and why I blog. Haha!
I can only speak for myself, but if any of you were to meet me in real life, I’m the same as I project on my blog. Although some may try to be something they’re not (via their blog), it’s a tough stance to take if they want to have a future in blogging. I can’t see someone keeping up the facade for long.
In a perfect world, a dream of mine would be to have loads of money, be like Oprah, and send you all a plane ticket for a BWAB convention. How cool would that be? 🙂
I see you as my teacher, a wise sage…As far as how I see myself, in the beginning, I wanted to just fit in, then I wanted to be seen as the witty guy, then I wanted to be the introspective blogger. Now I just want to write, and I don’t really care how I’m viewed. I guess you can say that over the past 7 months, I’ve matured.
Hmmm… Difficult question. I see myself as someone who has insight he wants to share, for others enjoyment.
I see you as a pioneer and champion of the blogosphere community. Emphasizing the importance of comments, responding to comments, and the like.
Very community oriented.
Bamboo Forest’s last blog post..The Stain Demon Can and Will Taint Your Life
Barb,
lol. I don’t want you to be Oprah. I’m quite fond of Barb. (Though certainly having Oprah’s money wouldn’t be too bad!) I travel with my “bridge buddies” – we all met on the net in 2000 and took our first trip together in 2001. That first trip was HARD. I think (actually, I know, because we’ve since discussed it) that with the exception of myself and one other person, everyone was “nervous.” And those who were nervous were quite diferent – not in a bad way, but in a much “quieter” way. There was tremendous awkwardness when somebody (and not I!) said to 2 of the women “you’re not at all like you are on the net.”
Given that you called me “observant,” all I am doing is sharing an observation – NOT criticising a soul.
🙂
Rita
We’ll be going on our 10th trip together this fall. And now, everybody behaves on the net like they are in person – not the other way around. I do believe that the screen DOES embolden a lot of people!
There you go being nurturing and supportive again. 😉
Thanks for the kind words.
Hi Bamboo,
Thank you. As you know, I love my community. 🙂
With your blog, you do share your insight, and I also see you as someone who has a great sense of humor, is imaginative, and enjoys leading your audience into lively discussions.
Hi Mark,
You’re welcome
Hi Rita,
Yeah! That’s what I meant…if I had Oprah’s resources. 🙂 Your trips with your bridge buddies sounds like a fascinating experience. Now that you’ve been doing it for so long, it must be like a gathering of great friends.
Hi J.D.
***smiles*** You already make me proud. 🙂 I am humbled by your kind words. Thank you.
You’re not JUST a mentor, you ARE a mentor to many. I also see you as an intelligent, self-disciplined, idea driven individual who loves to teach others on subjects that can make this world a better place.
I’m just a mentor testing paths and sharing lessons learned. I’m learning to fly. Someday I’ll spread my wings and make you proud.
I see you as the friendly neighbor who goes out of her way to welcome the new bloggers to the neighborhood. You’re the Barbara Walters of blogging — you ask the questions we want to know. You’re a builder of bridges. You’re a teacher who makes us think, and the kind that little kids give apples to.
If I was just going by your AV, I guess I would see you as a strong, warrior princess that’s a good sword fighter.
J.D. Meier’s last blog post..3 Myths About Strengths and Weaknesses
I’m like Writer Dad. I see myself as the class clown. They guy who makes you spew your chocolate milk out your nose.
I don’t take my blog too seriously. I write just for fun. Maybe I’ll put all this in a book one day…who knows?
But in the mean time, my blog is the kind of place the “serious” bloggers like to check in on, for a mental “Time Out”, to have a good laugh.
I see your blog as fairly serious for serious writers. Helpful, informative, and generating good discussion.
Hi Barbara,
I echo the sentiment that you are indeed the selfless, nurturing Mother Hen. You make the blogosphere a better place!
Al at 7P’s last blog post..What’s More Important: Who You Are or What You Do?
Barbara,
I appreciate your blog so much and since I love learning new things, I am always rewarded here when I stop by for a visit. Yesterday I lost my internet connection and was so out of sorts when I could not post anything or visit sites until after 8pm! I’m back now!
I would describe your blog as a place as wonderful and helpful at Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle’s Home from the Betty MacDonald Books (She also wrote THE EGG and I) for adults! Giving wonderous life lessons and comforting your community as we all land here with a heap of questions and great hopes.
I want to see myself as wise, trusted and lovingly generous person who has something worthwhile to share with others.
One of my children says I am like Dr. Phil – I am hoping that is not the case, but I do wish I could inspire more people to be their very best authentic selves.
Oh would it not be lovely to have Oprah’s money! Kindness, money, wisdom , and actions – Now that would be a winning combination.
Say how do you all get smiley faces on your comments?
Patricia’s last blog post..Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Kind of Woman
Barbara,
I have to admit that I picture you as a mom. Or an older sister. I don’t know how old you are and it doesn’t matter. But you have that maternal presence.
I guess I’m kind of the truth seeker. That’s how I picture myself. I also like to encourage others in their opinions and ideas. And help promote blogs.
Hi Friar,
Thank you. Yes, you are like a class clown, but in your writings and posts, I also see enthusiasm for life, respect for what your mother taught you (see his fishing post) and in your cartoons, the artist side of you is coming through.
Hi Al,
Thank you. Now let’s talk about you. I see you as being unselfish, determined, and realistic. Just as your blog contains the seven “P’s”, you’re doing a great job of using them as the mantra for your posts.
Hi Patricia,
Thank you. I think you’re doing a great job of showing that you are wise, trusting and generous. Those who do visit your site are inspired. It’s also due to the fact you are considerate, sincere, and unselfish.
To get a smiley, use the colon (:) and the right parentheses )
In combination they will result in 🙂
Hi Ellen,
Thank you. Promoting other blogs is a great way to pay it forward, isn’t it? With you being a photographer, I see your artistic side in your writings. In your personality, I see that hard working, self reliance that is so common with the Midwestern ethics.
Barbara -you remind me of the perfect host at a party. You have plenty of nibbles to share (interesting points in your posts) you introduce new people to the party, help put new people at ease, get people mingling, and introduce good conversation starters that everyone can participate in. People feel comfortable and included and like hanging around.
In some ways I see myself as a bit of a square peg in a round hole in the blogosphere. I mean that in a good way though. I guess I am a little different and I am just starting to trust my instincts and start showing through my blog how quirky and different I can be.
Leanne Magraith | Forever Change’s last blog post..There are Four Elephants Waiting for me in my Car
Hi Leanne,
What sweet words, thank you.
Hey, different is a great quality. But, I also see you as being self disciplined, sympathetic and sincere. I witness that in your “About” page and in several of your posts. I also like your courage in starting another self help blog when you knew there were so many others.
At this point, I don’t think I am “seen” yet. I’ve only been blogging for a few months and not very consistently at that so I don’t have many comments. I am timid in my writing, grammar and content. I am working on that (writing more) on both of my blogs and it’s a struggle.