Midwest Mary

In February, I wrote a post on what makes me happy. My happiness list was so long, and the response to this post so great, that I decided to make it a series. This is the sixth post in the happiness series, and it focuses on the joy I receive from blogging.

Writing is my passion. I have a need to write and have as long as I could put words on paper. It is like oxygen for me.

I’ve written for several newspapers, including the Chicago Tribune, a few magazines, copy for radio and cable television, a resume-writing company, marketing for several companies, and an advertising agency. In addition, I’ve written twelve books and speeches and presentations on topics related to those books. I’ve also written several blogs. Midwest Mary was the first one I wrote and is now the only blog I currently write.

I began writing posts on Midwest Mary in 2012. Until the last two years, I posted about once a month because of caregiving responsibilities and time needed for other writing projects. Now, blogging is my main project with small side jobs. My typical schedule is to post on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

My goal for Midwest Mary is to raise awareness of the extraordinary blessings in our world and present positive and hopeful posts. When I do post on a heavy topic. I strive to offer solutions, or at least, suggestions.

Blogging makes me happy for many reasons, the first being the freedom to write on topics of personal interest. I enjoy researching and writing about my findings. As a newer photographer, I also share my photos.

And of course, we bloggers like to express our views. Our blogs are outlets to voice our opinions and the lessons we’ve learned, as well as, share our experiences.

In addition, there is satisfaction in the immediate response by readers. Unlike books that take years to write and another year or more to have published, writing a post takes days, at most, and offers opportunities to receive feedback immediately after publication. Readers share their thoughts and further information after reading, which I thoroughly appreciate.

Writing the blog also allows for an opportunity to hone my writing skills. The more often I write, and the variety of topics and writing styles I utilize, the more I can improve.

Because of the interactive ability, I also get to “meet” my readers. I truly believe I am gaining friendships with followers all over the world who “Like” and comment on my posts as well as the blogs to which I respond. In fact, my blogging friendship list is at least as long as my happiness list. I care about so many of my followers and am fascinated by what I learn from their responses and posts.

And if you are considering writing a blog, I urge you to do so. It’s well worth the time. Your writing skills will improve, you can share your expertise with others, you will learn about ideas and customs across the globe.

*

Following are the other posts in this happiness series. Please check them out if you haven’t already read them.

My Garden Makes Me Happy
Go Away to Your Happy Place
Happy, Pain-Free Exercise
What Makes Us Happy,
My Happy Home

*©2024, Mary K. Doyle