Above Header

Spread Your Wings And Challenge Yourself!

https://www.donnamerrilltribe.comFor the past several months, I have been doing a little experimenting on my Facebook Page.

 

I decided to experiment before beginning a campaign selling something, so I had this great idea.  

 

Every week when I had a new post, I put it on my page and then pressed that little button that says “Boost.”  

 

Now, there is a budget option there where you can enter any dollar amount ranging from five dollars to, well just about anything you want

 

I was determined to be a butterfly and spread my wings!  I wanted to step out and fly around Facebook just to see how far I could reach.

 

I know how cluttered Facebook is at the moment and I wanted to see how many eyeballs I could reach, so I would boost my post for $5.  Well that reached over one thousand people.  But there was a problem.  As I continued on my merry way, thinking “Wow..I’m getting lots of exposure,”  I noticed that hardly anyone liked and commented on the post. Hmmm

 

So, I came to the conclusion that this wasn’t working out so well UNTIL………..

 

A friend of mine, Gavin Mountford asked me to join his 30 Day Fan Page Challenge.  Well, heck yea..this would give me a good chance to continue the process of experimentation.  Plus, I like to join 30 day challenges because they are action oriented.  What I mean by this is that every day, I had to commit myself to taking action.  That’s how I learn best.

 

In the 30 day Fan Page Challenge, a group of people joined for the purpose of liking one another’s pages and leaving some comments on them.  Everyone agreed to comment on other people’s fan page status updates to elevate the engagement levels on each of their pages.  I was so happy to re-connect with long lost friends and better yet, making some new ones.  The engagement process became the key factor for what I was looking for.  

 

On day four of this challenge, I checked my “Insights” on my page.  I did a little happy dance when I seen this:

 

donnamerrilltribe.com

 

I know it’s a little fuzzy, but you can get the idea lol.

 

 

 

 

During the challenge, Gavin has given us some pretty handy to-do tips, too.  One of them was to ask a question in our status updates.  Now, I’m not so good at that. 

 

Believe it or not, I’m kind of timid because my dear friend Adrienne Smith is the Question Queen!   Immediately, I started getting the “What-ifs.”    What if no one answers?  What if it’s a stupid question?   AHA…a challenge within a challenge for me.  

 

 

So I pushed that fearful thinking aside and made my own images with questions on them.  Plain and simple!  This one was shared quite a few times, plus it had a reach of  300 people and still climbing as of this writing.

 

 

donnamerrilltribe.com

 

 

Then we took yet another step.  

 

 

As we were syndicating one another, Gavin asked us if we would accept a challenge.  I said yes, and others did too.  But we had no idea what the challenge was.  Come to find out, it was a video challenge.   Now some of the folks there had never made a video in their lives.  And you know what?  They were great!

 

Here’s mine that was done on the fly:

 

 

 

So my dear friends, the point here is that before you start a campaign, you need to test.  This testing was very specific to Facebook Marketing.  

 

 

In addition to the training I was, and still am, active in Facebook marketing. I wanted to see for myself and take some new action, though… get my feet wet so I could become even more comfortable with Facebook marketing.  As of this writing, I’m mid way through this 30 day challenge and learning by applying.  

 

 

If I had not taken a 30 day video challenge a few years ago, I would still be camera shy.  Instead, I easily get in front of the camera, even without make up (that takes a lot for me lol). 

 

If I hadn’t joined a 30 day blog challenge in the past, where I had to write a blog a day for 30 days, I would still be struggling with some aspects of blogging that I learned to overcome.  

 

 

My question to you is this:  Have you ever joined a challenge?  And if so, did it improve your skills?   If not, what is a challenge you would like to take to spread your wings and fly out of your box?

 

 

Blessings,

Donna

 

P.S.  If you would like to visit and like my Facebook Page here is the link:  https://www.facebook.com/Donnamerrilltribe

Donna Merrill
Donna is a well known blogger and creator of "Blogging Magic" - an intensive guide to blogging. "Blogging Magic" is for beginners who are trying to figure out how to bring their blogs to life with tons of visits, comments and social media interaction. It's even for advanced bloggers looking to reach new levels of authority and engagement with their audience.

, , ,

69 Responses to Spread Your Wings And Challenge Yourself!

  1. William Earl Amis Jr III
    Twitter:
    December 23, 2014 at 9:33 pm #

    Donna, amazing and fun!

    I want to re-connect with all the old TSA tribe. What Gavin has accomplished is duplication of our process. “Sharing the love”. Appreciation at it’s best!

    We do the same for our Blogs and he has taken the same steps, read, comment and share. To the social platform, Facebook Fan page.

    I will be on the look out for the link to get involved and work it with the rest of all our friends and maybe meet new one’s as my motivation.

    You are the best, Donna!
    William Earl Amis Jr III recently posted..Taking Time To HealMy Profile

  2. Deborah A. Ten Brink
    Twitter:
    October 16, 2014 at 10:56 pm #

    Hello Donna:

    I am so glad you wrote this post! I like a challenge as well. I wasn’t sure if I could get through this one. It takes time and consistency. But so far, I’m loving it! We are on Day 4 already.

    I think challenges are great. They get you outside of your comfort zone — we all know what happens when we do that! We learn, we grow, we experience. That’s exactly what happened to me!

    I am starting a blog that’s only 3 months old and my Fan Page is about that “young” too. It was slowly getting likes and some engagement. At least it was alive, not thriving but alive. Well, that wasn’t good enough for me! I wanted more. Then I actually had two challenges come about simultaneously! That old adage, “Be careful what you wish for” actually happened! 🙂

    I had to commit to the challenges, take action, follow through — I had to spend time and effort otherwise, the challenges were free. What was the result? Oh my, I had so much engagement (which was my intent more than a particular number of page likes) that I was totally astonished! Real genuine comments, real people liking my page, sharing my page, people sharing personal stories and so much more!

    Getting the courage to put myself out there was so worth it! I am really networking, making new friends, and getting my page in front of hundreds of eyeballs! I posted one inspirational quote, 1 post, and it got blasted out to 449 people! I am still in shock!

    I would encourage anyone that really wants to ramp things up to find ways to engage more people. Challenges totally work! 🙂

    Thanks for sharing your experience Donna! You are so motivating!

    Deborah
    Deborah A. Ten Brink recently posted..WordPress Security Best Practices For New BloggersMy Profile

  3. Mark
    Twitter:
    October 10, 2014 at 8:03 pm #

    So well said Donna!

    Even though I’ve yet to formerly join a challenge, I still like being an active member in a blogging syndication network and or an active Facebook group is practically the same thing.

    Because in the blogging syndication network, we’re expected to support each other and comment and share each others content on social media.

    Which means you’ve got to be a really active participant, if you expect to get anything worthwhile out it!

    And even though I’ve never joined one of Gavin’s challenges, I’ve been on one of his list for many years now!

    Great job Donna!
    Mark recently posted..Five Incredibly Simple Reasons Why Far Too Many Dedicated Entrepreneurs Still Struggle!Part TwoMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 13, 2014 at 2:12 pm #

      Hi Mark,

      I so appreciate you coming to this old post of mine! It is sure nice to know you are going through some of my posts and picking up some advice.

      I appreciate it and am humbled by it

      -Dona
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Thank You To Some Amazing BloggersMy Profile

  4. Alan Jenkin
    Twitter:
    March 6, 2014 at 11:46 am #

    Challenges are a great way to get moving and learn new skills. I have taken several at different times, the most recent being a 40-day challenge. I posted an article about that on my blog in January (you can find it by entering “challenge” in the search box.)

    The interesting thing to me about such challenges is that after I finish I find that some of the items in the challenge have become a useful habit that I stay with.

    Thanks for a stimulating post, Donna.

    Alan
    Alan Jenkin recently posted..Why Some People Make It Online And Others Don’tMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      March 9, 2014 at 10:31 pm #

      Hi Alan,

      Challenges are awesome to do. And yes, things along the way become a habit. In this particular one, at this time, it has already become a habit of my DMO.

      Thanks for dropping by!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Getting My Product LiveMy Profile

  5. Chery Schmidt
    Twitter:
    March 2, 2014 at 11:44 pm #

    Hello Donna! I do agree challenges do make us take action HUH? Sweet video my friend! I also like the idea of asking questions. I love your blog and look forward to learning more about this challenge.. Thanks for sharing Chery :))
    Chery Schmidt recently posted..How Long Does It Take To Become Successful Online?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      March 9, 2014 at 1:37 pm #

      Hi Chery!

      Yes I love to challenge myself so I can take action! Thanks for the heads up on my video, and I’ll be seeing you around the social networks!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Getting My Product LiveMy Profile

  6. Sarupa Shah
    Twitter:
    March 2, 2014 at 4:20 pm #

    So nice to hear your voice…and of course the group – supportive syndication you talk of is such a great thing too…!
    Sarupa Shah recently posted..How to make business rituals work!My Profile

  7. Nate Leung
    Twitter:
    February 24, 2014 at 6:33 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Yes, I’ve participated in many challenges. I’ve never done a Facebook challenge before. One that comes to mind that I wouldn’t mind doing is a video challenge. I know that many of us know how powerful videos are and know we should be doing them. I haven’t found many tribes or groups on Facebook that promotes it but if you know of one, I would love be in on it. Thanks for sharing your Facebook fan page experience!
    Nate Leung recently posted..3 Tips On How Cut Startup Costs In Your BusinessMy Profile

  8. Sarah Arrow
    Twitter:
    February 24, 2014 at 3:45 pm #

    I love challenges Donna, as you rightly point out they help you overcome both technical and personal objections and gain momentum. I’ll be doing my own challenge at the end of March, let’s hope that I can get into it and get some great action just like you’ve done.
    Sarah Arrow recently posted..Content Marketing: 50 Creative Video Marketing IdeasMy Profile

  9. David Merrill 101
    Twitter:
    February 24, 2014 at 11:11 am #

    I love seeing how you can take one little idea and just spin it into immediate action.

    I tend to wait until I know a whole lot of the rationale for doing something before I’ll begin. By the time I get started, the thing I was going to get started is already outdated!

    You have a great ability for learning something at 9 a.m. and implementing it by noon, even if you don’t fully understand it.

    That’s what I call spreading your wings, Donna.
    David Merrill 101 recently posted..What Traffic and Conversion Strategies Do You Use?My Profile

  10. Jullieanne van Zyl February 24, 2014 at 4:28 am #

    Hi Donna it sounds like a really good challenge! I have done a few internet marketing challenges and got a lot out of them, they’re a great way to get motivated and get things done! BTW Donna, it’s much better to post a sponsored story ad on FB than to boost your post, because with an ad you can target people who are interested in your topics.
    Jullieanne van Zyl recently posted..Gain Full Control of Your Internet BusinessMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 24, 2014 at 10:47 am #

      Hi Julieanne,

      Yes, indeed it is better to post a sponsored story ad on FB than to boost the post. I was doing that boosting experiment to no avail.

      In marketing, I plan to target people who are interested in my topic. Took several Facebook Marketing courses and will be putting into action very soon.

      Thanks for your input!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  11. Heather
    Twitter:
    February 24, 2014 at 3:52 am #

    I have joined a challenge but nothing like this. I will have to see if I can’t find something to join. This sounds AWESOME!
    Heather recently posted..Homeschool conference coming upMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 24, 2014 at 11:03 am #

      H Heather,

      Welcome to my blog.

      This challenge is still going on FYI at this time. We are taking it for another 30 days.

      To me, there is nothing better than giving myself a challenge to improve my skills.

      If you want to join in, just go to my Facebook Page and it is there, or PM me and I’ll give you the information.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  12. Shelley Alexander February 24, 2014 at 12:29 am #

    Donna, I’m so glad that the 30 day challenge really helped you get some tangible results with Facebook. Their new metrics has made it extremely difficult to reach your fan base so you can get engagement so I sure Gavin’s challenge has been wonderful. Thanks for sharing your experience!
    Shelley Alexander recently posted..10 Incredible Turmeric Recipes You Must Try!My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 24, 2014 at 10:44 am #

      Hi Shelley,

      Yes Facebook’s new metrics does make it difficult to reach our fan base, so this is one great reason why I joined this challenge.

      The engagement rate is great and we decided to keep it rolling…..

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  13. Jeevan Jacob John
    Twitter:
    February 23, 2014 at 7:51 pm #

    Awesome 😀

    I love challenges – Well, I view life as one big challenge (and that’s why it is interesting).

    In the past, I have joined challenges (almost all of them were challenges I made up for myself…to do better, and for the most part, it went well). I still do challenges, but they are part of my experiments now 🙂

    Anyways, looks like you guys are having fun with the fan page challenge. I would love to join, but I don’t have a page now (I don’t plan to start now). I am just not putting much effort into FB anymore, at least not with pages, maybe a little with my personal profile, but that’s it).

    Thanks for sharing, Donna!
    Jeevan Jacob John recently posted..Why not create your own Images?My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 24, 2014 at 10:43 am #

      Hi Jeevan,

      I too love to challenge myself. I guess when it comes to competition, I like to compete with myself he he.

      Yes, we are having fun connecting with people that are new as well as re-connecting with those who I have lost touch with.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  14. Holly
    Twitter:
    February 23, 2014 at 6:10 pm #

    I have joined several 30 day blog posting challenges… although several others too like a fitness challenge or a proper eating challenge…. Not so much on line type challenges.. the video challenge sounds like a great idea… but you have given me an idea to throw at my mastermind group.. to see what we can come up with for a challenge!!
    Holly recently posted..So How’d I Get Like This?My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 23, 2014 at 6:35 pm #

      Holly,

      Glad I have given you an idea. I’m sure if you belong to a mastermind group a video challenge would be helpful. It doesn’t matter how many days you choose, just something to get started.

      Then you can be accountable for one another. Videos are always a great way to boost your blog posts and to also get rid of those camera shy jitters.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  15. Jeevan Jacob John
    Twitter:
    February 22, 2014 at 10:57 pm #

    Awesome 😀

    I love challenges – Well, I view life as one big challenge (and that’s why it is interesting).

    In the past, I have joined challenges (almost all of them were challenges I made up for myself…to do better, and for the most part, it went well). I still do challenges, but they are part of my experiments now 🙂

    Anyways, looks like you guys are having fun with the fan page challenge. I would love to join, but I don’t have a page now (I don’t plan to start now). I am just not putting much effort into FB anymore, at least not with pages, maybe a little with my personal profile, but that’s it).

    Btw, I am seeing the mobile page on laptop (WP Touch….I have seen this on other blogs, so I am not sure what the problem is). Just wanted to let you know 🙂
    Jeevan Jacob John recently posted..Why not create your own Images?My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 23, 2014 at 6:27 pm #

      Hi Jeevan,

      I too make up challenges for myself. When it comes to competition I like to compete with me!

      I’m doing this challenge on Facebook to increase insights. Once they are increased I can then advertize on Facebook in a costly manner.

      Thanks for the heads up about seeing the mobile page …

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  16. Atish Ranjan
    Twitter:
    February 22, 2014 at 3:49 pm #

    Its interesting! Honestly speaking I haven’t been to any challenge of this kind although I like challenges in my real life but yes I should take some blogging challenges as well in order to discover myself more.

    Thanks for the Idea Donna.
    Atish Ranjan recently posted..How I came to Blogging – A Complete StoryMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 23, 2014 at 12:59 pm #

      Hi Atish,

      I too am always challenging myself. I have made a commitment to challenges in the past, so that I could improve my skills. A blogging challenge – now writing blogs is a breeze for me. Also a Youtube video challenge – And now I can get up in front of the camera easily, or I can even do a Keynote presentation.

      This one is about Facebook. So far, as of this writing, Facebook is a hot topic because many are advertising on that platform. I will be too, but want to get my insights up so that it will be more cost efficient when I do.

      Thanks for stopping by,

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  17. William Butler
    Twitter:
    February 20, 2014 at 8:15 pm #

    Hi Donna,
    Congratulations on your progress. I’m glad you stepped up to the plate and are doing even more for yourself. 🙂 I have not been involved in Facebook marketing.

    As to your call of action, I’ve yet to participate in a challenge. Right now I’m looking into Slideshare. Perhaps, as you’ve just done, I would go for the video, as I’ve not done one for my blog yet.

    All the best!
    Bill
    William Butler recently posted..Decisions! Decisions! 10 Ways To Make Right DecisionsMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 21, 2014 at 2:21 pm #

      Hi Bill,

      I love Slideshare! Actually practicing that too at the moment. Hubs and I are making sales pages and it includes Slideshare.

      Truth be known…I stink at it. I’m trying to master the art of reading them without sounding like I am. Practice Practice…that’s what I’m doing and for me it is a big challenge. But I won’t give up until I master it.

      As for going for videos…It works like a charm once you master that and put it on your blog. People get to really see and hear who you are and they just love it. Just as long as it is a short one.

      Good luck with it!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  18. gladys
    Twitter:
    February 20, 2014 at 5:14 pm #

    Hello Ms. Donna

    Yes I do accept challenges. I think my life has been a life of challenge, but I know without the challenges there will be no growth.

    Thank you for giving us all the information on challenges. They do take up a lot of time, when a person does not know what to do in a challenge.

    I joined one at the beginning of 2013, and I could not keep up with it.
    They had required many things, which I had no knowledge. The only thing I got familiar with was in the “liking a page”.

    Donna, you have inspired me to maybe try again.
    I am glad you are doing great with it.

    Thank you again for inspiring your readers

    Gladys
    gladys recently posted..Personal Development and Your Personal ValuesMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 21, 2014 at 2:18 pm #

      Hi Gladys,

      Personal challenges are so important. I too have gone through many of them in my life. But I went out to seek help to guide me through.

      Business challenges are sort of the same thing. Now if one is over your head, I would suggest finding one that is simple and will benefit the means to an end.

      When I was getting “stuck” writing blogs, I joined a 30 day blog challenge. That sure helped me so much with finding information, and having more confidence.

      Glad to know you have been inspired!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  19. Mayura
    Twitter:
    February 20, 2014 at 10:41 am #

    Hey Donna,

    Experimenting all the way! Isn’t it? 🙂

    Eventhough I wasn’t online much lately, I saw you have shared about the boost in engagement at Facebook. I recall you participated in 30 day blogging challenges, and found more traffic and engagement happening over here too. Guess you gonna make use of those experiments very soon along with the makeover 🙂

    Interesting how Facebook promotion could reach thousands of eyes, yet lack the engagement. Hmm… If you didn’t do, how would you (and we) ever know? 🙂

    BTW did you notice more traffic to your blog via Facebook, Donna? I heard it was working for some business pages, and may be they were merely satisfied with new likes they were getting.

    Actually, I haven’t participated in challenges online except for the technical challenges I’ve been getting dear. I’m thrilled by ’em though 😀 Right now, I’m challenging myself on learning new programming languages, new skills and others are pretty much happening offline relates to conquering few fears and achieving ever-wanted dreams.

    Love the enthusiasm in your video, Donna 🙂 You always sending inspirational brain waves through ’em.

    Well, almost crawling to the weekend and enjoy the rest of your week dear 🙂

    Cheers…
    Mayura recently posted..How to Enable Domain Redirection in BloggerMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 21, 2014 at 2:15 pm #

      Hi Mayura,

      My “boosted” posts did have a reach but no engagement. Because Mister Google is ranking us now with our social media activity, I wanted to experiment.

      The thing is, if someone merely likes a post, Google doesn’t count that. Only if it is commented on and a conversation starts rolling.

      Yes, I have people trickling in to my blog, but the REAL REASON why I’m doing this is to have my Facebook insights high. Why? Because I soon will be advertising on Facebook.

      When Facebook sees a lot of action, the advertising is cheaper.

      So there you go….my method to my madness!

      Have a great weekend and please don’t work so hard!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  20. Sherman Smith February 20, 2014 at 1:08 am #

    Hey Donna,

    I haven’t joined any 30 day challenges yet, but I can definitely see how they can push you above and beyond your limits. This can be beneficial in the long run.

    I have noticed within the last couple of weeks that you’ve been asking questions on facebook. They are some great questions because they do have me pondering. They are great for those of us that started home businesses because they really help us dig deeper as to why we started businesses as well as come up with questions of our own.

    Thanks for sharing and it sounds like you are on a roll!

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 21, 2014 at 2:11 pm #

      Hi Sherman,

      It is good to know I’m “reaching” out there on Facebook…thanks for the feedback.

      I’m focusing questions that pertain to some information I want to gather for further blog posts.

      You see, there is a method to my madness he he he

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  21. Monna Ellithorpe
    Twitter:
    February 19, 2014 at 5:42 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I found your post from Gavin’s FB Challenge, so obviously it does work, if we work with it.

    I’ve joined a couple of challenges before but never have seen these kinds of results.

    Nice to have met you, because I probably wouldn’t have, except for Gavin.

    Monna
    Monna Ellithorpe recently posted..For You – Create Yourself Writing WorkshopMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 20, 2014 at 8:47 pm #

      Hi Monna,

      Look how well this works. Not only do we syndicate one another, but get to know each other so well, that we go to blogs, and meet on all the social platforms.

      The FB Challenge is Great! And now I’m seeing members spreading out to Google+, Twitter, and of course blogs.

      See you tomorrow!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  22. Jon Patrick February 19, 2014 at 10:13 am #

    Thanks for this!
    Wish I’d seen a fan page challenge, definitely could learn tons from that! I did a 30 day blog challenge last year, and it honestly changed my approach to blogging. The prospect of daily blogging no longer seemed so impossible, and daily viewing of a variety of posts from people outside my normal, daily rounds opened my eyes to a whole list of new ways to format, present, and write!
    You should to a Fan page challenge! (hint, hint!)
    Jon Patrick recently posted..How to Talk to People about your My Fun Life BusinessMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 20, 2014 at 8:40 pm #

      Hi Jon,

      I’ve also took a 30 day blog challenge and now it has simplified how I blog and making those rounds so much easier.

      I love a good challenge. And this one is still going on and will continue after the 30 days are up. I needed some more discipline with how I manage Facebook and am still learning…..Well I guess learning NEVER stops in this business!

      As for your hint….he he he!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  23. Marc Korn February 19, 2014 at 12:01 am #

    Hi Donna,

    Great post and great testimonial video…I have taken many 30 day challenges and this Fan Page Focus Challenge is one of the best.

    The challenges are definitely action oriented and you have to make a commitment and be accountable. But, when you take massive daily ACTION, the results are astounding…

    Keep up the great work,
    Marc

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 19, 2014 at 12:01 pm #

      Hi Marc,

      I am so happy we re-connected during this challenge. The best thing about it for me is meeting up with old friends we lost touch with like YOU!

      This only goes to show that when people take ACTION, things do happen.

      Great to be working with you,

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  24. Adrienne
    Twitter:
    February 18, 2014 at 8:35 pm #

    Hey Donna,

    Glad to hear that you’ve been doing so well and connecting with some old friends and meeting some new ones. That’s always the fun part to me.

    The questions are just downright fun aren’t they? People have fun with them and you get to learn more about your friends so it’s a win win I believe. Glad you went for it anyway and hope after this is over you’ll continue.

    I don’t do a lot of challenges but I believe it was last year or the year before I did a 100 day challenge and I stuck to it. It helped me get my reach out there and schedule my time much better so that was fun. I got to meet some new people as well so they can be very helpful.

    Glad you’re doing so well and keep up the great work.

    ~Adrienne
    Adrienne recently posted..Why Branding Matters: Powerful Tips from Brand.comMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 18, 2014 at 8:54 pm #

      Hi Adrienne,

      It’s a heck of a lot of fun, especially re-connecting with long lost friends. And meeting new ones is especially right up my alley.

      I love to do a challenge here and there. This one will be going on after the 30 days..we will continue in this group.

      This is why I love it. Everyone is accountable just like the little Facebook group we belong to. No wishy washy folks in it.

      Wow…100 day challenge? Girl you must have learned so much doing that one. When we stick to a challenge, we do benefit in so many ways.

      I remember my first one being on Youtube. It took me longer to get dressed than it did to do a video. Now I just get in front of the camera and bla bla bla.

      Talk soon,

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  25. Rachel Lavern
    Twitter:
    February 18, 2014 at 2:57 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I, too, have enjoyed participating this Gavin’s Facebook Fan Page challenge. I think that it was your post that grabbed my attention and motivated me to join in. I agree, it has been great re-connecting with people who I used to communicate with and now interacting daily with people who I knew of, but never had a ‘conversation’ with.

    I hate that I am often unavailable to join in on the 30-minute sessions though. The handful that I was able to attend were awesome.
    Rachel Lavern recently posted..How to Crush ProcrastinationMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 18, 2014 at 7:24 pm #

      Hey Rachel!

      I am so glad you are in the challenge! It’s no biggie that you couldn’t make the sessions, you can catch the replays.

      The good thing is you are there every day taking action and meeting new people and re-connecting with those that you haven’t hung out with in a while.

      As we slow down on our meetings, we will still connect every day and visit people. I’m loving it!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  26. Susan Cooper
    Twitter:
    February 18, 2014 at 12:56 pm #

    That is very cool. Donna. I had been considering doing something similar on Facebook, but haven’t yet done so. I need to get on it, don’t you think? I loved your video. It was fun seeing you and hearing your voice. I do allot of podcast at the moment so I know how fun they can be. 🙂
    Susan Cooper recently posted..Ode To My Garage: Poem (Podcast)My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 18, 2014 at 7:14 pm #

      Hi Susan,

      Many people are down on Facebook these days, but if one wants to market, there are new ways to do it.

      Here, on this challenge Marketing my product is in the back of my mind. So I needed to start ranking higher not only on Facebook, but all together.

      See…there is a method to my madness!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  27. Jennifer Kennedy February 18, 2014 at 11:40 am #

    Hey Donna!!!

    Good for you getting out there and challenging yourself! Woohoo!! I’ve joined a few challenges in the past, but did not follow through. 🙁 But, I have signed up for a 15 day Video Challenge starting in March, which I’m going to push myself to finish. I really want to make video a part of my blog posts and this will give me the drive to do so! With the challenges I’ve done in the past, I’ve learned so much and like you said, was able to push past a lot of fears!

    I actually plan on creating my own challenge in March as well around creating curriculum for an ecourse. I’m looking forward to getting people excited about creating courses!

    Thank you so much for sharing your experience. Have a good one!
    Jennifer Kennedy recently posted..Not Sure Where to Begin? Start with these Free WorksheetsMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 18, 2014 at 7:04 pm #

      Hi Jennifer,

      How fantastic! Once you do a 15 day Video challenge, you will be so comfortable and get your blog posts noticed more.

      If I didn’t take that video challenge a few years ago, I would still be fumbling around. Now, I’m so confident that I do it without makeup and it really doesn’t matter. Fear is all clear!

      Let me know about your new course I am interested!

      Thanks,

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  28. Corina Ramos
    Twitter:
    February 18, 2014 at 11:38 am #

    Hi Donna,

    I’ve never done a 30-day challenge. I’m like you in that I love learning new things and this would be a great way for me to step out of my comfort zone and really try something new.

    I remember seeing this challenge on Facebook. I’m definitely joining the next one but is it only for specific niches?

    I was thinking about doing a boost on Facebook to some of my posts too but I didn’t know what I would get from it so thanks for sharing your experience with that.

    Enjoy the rest of the challenge! Have a great day!
    Corina Ramos recently posted..Excellent Ways For Mom Bloggers to Monetize Their BlogsMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 18, 2014 at 6:55 pm #

      Hi Corina,

      You can always jump into the challenge..it’s not too late and I think we will be continuing it. PM me if you want to and I’ll give you the link.

      Boosting my posts were fine, but no engagement. And that’s what we need!

      The challenge group engages one half hour a day. And, if you cannot do it at the time the group meets, you can do it on your own time.

      I’ve received a lot more mileage from this because of the quality content. And I have many new friends too!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  29. Michael Belk February 18, 2014 at 11:37 am #

    That is an inspirational message to never give up because everyone needs to challenge themselves to be successful.

    That for the great example of making things happen.
    Michael Belk recently posted..Why Do Married Women Flirt with Other Men? Understanding Your Wife’s BehaviorMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 18, 2014 at 9:27 pm #

      Hi Michael,

      Yes sir! In order to be successful at ANYTHING, we have to challenge ourselves.

      Whenever we find ourselves afraid to get out of that darn box, it’s time for a challenge…any kind!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  30. Jacs Henderson
    Twitter:
    February 18, 2014 at 10:44 am #

    I’m so happy to be part of the Challenge too – and this is a fantastic account Donna, of what is happening to us all.
    We are having fun and making an impact on our facebook pages – Big Time!!
    And I agree, that a 30 day challenge forces daily action – which focuses on the learning and doing something each day makes you, faster at the task and also more competent and confident!!
    Fantastic Donna 🙂
    Jacs
    Jacs Henderson recently posted..Are You A Train Spotter? Consider #1 The Affiliate Marketing 6 Key Step Success CycleMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 18, 2014 at 6:36 pm #

      Hi Jacs,

      Besides all the fun I’m having, connecting with old and new friends – like YOU, this challenge already has me fine tuning Facebook.

      The great part is that because it is action oriented, it has already became part of me and I don’t need to spend extra time on Facebook.

      One half hour is all we need to get our rankings going sky high.

      I love to experiment and this one is fantastic.

      Great seeing you here on my blog Jacs,

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  31. Barbara Charles
    Twitter:
    February 18, 2014 at 8:15 am #

    Hi Donna,

    Very interesting and good to know. No, I’ve never joined a challenge although I’ve thought of it many, many times. It just seems like most people I know who joined them got discouraged about half way through and stopped. So I’m glad you wrote this post because it gives me hope that I can try it.

    I’d like to do a writing a post 30 days but I’d like to be sure that people do comment on the posts.

    But you’re right – it’s all about learning and challenging yourself to grow.

    Great job. Thanks for inspiring me.

    Have a great day!
    Barbara
    Barbara Charles recently posted..Living The Millionaire MindsetMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 18, 2014 at 6:23 pm #

      Hi Barbara,

      Actually Beth Hewitt does an on-going 30 day blogging challenge. She has been doing this for over a year now. I did join a while back just to challenge myself. My rankings went over the roof!

      Her group is pretty solid, so if and when you wanted to join let me know and I’ll hook you two up in case you don’t know her.

      I do find that I’m enjoying spending one half hour per day on Facebook and meeting new people and re kindling with ones I haven’t been in touch with in ages!

      Every time I join a challenge, it does become a habit. 🙂

      Keep warm!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  32. Sylviane Nuccio
    Twitter:
    February 18, 2014 at 7:42 am #

    Hi Merrill,

    Oh thank you so much for that. I actually want to launch an new facebook page, even though I’ve recently read over and over that our facebook pages are no longer what they used to be.

    The reason why I want to launch a new facebook page is that I want to promote myself now as a CPC coach (Certified Professional Coach) because I’m about to get that darn certification now 🙂

    Thanks so much for this info Donna.
    Sylviane Nuccio recently posted..How Can You Become A Better WriterMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 18, 2014 at 3:37 pm #

      Sylviane,

      Now matter what you have heard about Facebook pages, I would go for it! I have been studying Facebook marketing lately. Now, from your page, you can advertize your services.

      Then get people to come and like your page. The newest thing as of this writing is getting people’s eyes on what you share from your fan page.

      Long story, but right now it is very hot in the marketing arena. So put up a page, load it with some good content and then promote yourself.

      If you have any questions, ask me about it. I’ll be glad to help you out.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

    • Angela McCall
      Twitter:
      February 22, 2014 at 3:24 am #

      Hi Donna,

      I have joined 30-day challenge on both Google+ and facebook. It was good. I participated but at the end I end up withdrawing because I just didn’t have ample time to finish the challenge.

      I’d say if you didn’t really have the time to do the challenge every day even only watching that video 5-minutes a day, it is a LOT for me coz I just didn’t really have that time.

      Anyway, great share! Thank you. Hope you have a super weekend.

      Angela.
      Angela McCall recently posted..Where Can You Get Free Photos And Images For Your BlogMy Profile

      • donna merrill
        Twitter:
        February 22, 2014 at 6:30 pm #

        Hi Angela,

        Yes, I have been keeping up the Facebook challenge. You see, pretty soon I will be advertising on Facebook. If my “Insights” are highly ranked, the ads will be less costly.

        So that is why I’m making the time to do so. It doesn’t take much for me because I visit Facebook three times a day and only spend 10 or 15 minutes each time.

        I schedule my updates too. So I’m not spending so much extra time on it.

        Plus I’m enjoying re-visiting old friends and finding new ones.

        -Donna
        donna merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  33. Lisa
    Twitter:
    February 18, 2014 at 6:38 am #

    Hi Donna, I haven’t done any of those challenges yet though I did challenge myself to do one more post per week from 1-2 to 3-4. Life itself has given me too many challenges to be able to commit to any at this point. But it is something I’d love to do it. Especially with video. I’m repainting my room and need to get a good mic to get started. I hope by months end. Love your hair by the way!
    Thanks for the inspiration too on doing challenges.
    Lisa recently posted..Tumblr Tips To Help Grow Your Blog and Social MentionsMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 18, 2014 at 6:19 pm #

      Hi Lisa,

      So you are challenging already! Video is a great way to insert into your posts. They can be of you and/or screen shares or even slide shows.

      I don’t know if you are using a Mac, but if you are, the Snowball is wonderful for sound. I have it and it makes a great difference.

      Good luck with your repainting and thanks, my hair is always undergoing changes he he.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  34. Harleena Singh
    Twitter:
    February 18, 2014 at 1:08 am #

    Hi Donna,

    That sounds pretty interesting I must say 🙂

    No, I’ve never tried any such challenges, except the ones we had in school where we had to outdo each other and that made us better in a way.

    I’ve also been thinking of taking the $5 boost, but somehow mine shows a minimum of $15, which made me rethink if it’s really worth it all. Not sure why it showed that much as the minimum amount, so the idea just fizzled off.

    I agree about asking questions and putting updates that generate people to think and talk to you literally through FB, but I honestly keep away from that as I’d be spending hours on FB and what would happen to work! I used to do that long back, but I stopped to reduce the engagement, which as a tis is too much because of the notifications I get, once my posts are shared on the various FB groups – I just prefer to runaway from FB when I get the chance and limit my time there 🙂

    But you are doing great, and it IS good to take up such challenges and overcome your fears. Making videos is also on my to-do list now!

    Thanks for sharing. Have a nice week ahead 🙂

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 18, 2014 at 6:16 pm #

      Hi Harleena,

      When you see that “boost” it will automatically show $15 or $30. What you need to do is press other and put in your own $5.

      I do know how time consuming FB can be. This is why I took up the challenge because our group does it one half hour per day and we syndicate one another at that time.

      So, for more exposure and higher rankings, I joined for this purpose.

      Not only did I see my insights rating higher, but also my Google status.

      I just love experimenting!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

  35. Kumar Gauraw
    Twitter:
    February 17, 2014 at 11:05 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    This is a great idea and to be honest, I have not participated in a challenge of this type yet although I like challenges 🙂 Oh no, I love challenges!

    As I share this with you, right now I am participating in a challenge using Fitbit program to see who in my friend circle can log maximum number of steps (walking, running, playing – all inclusive) this month. We are all working hard and getting in better shape as a retult.

    So, yes, I love challenges but I haven’t participated in one of this kind yet. Thank you for opening this idea for consideration and yes, I think it has a great return on investment. I look forward to participating in something like this in future.

    Regards,
    Kumar
    Kumar Gauraw recently posted..Why Living With Integrity Is So Important For True LeadershipMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 18, 2014 at 3:34 pm #

      Wow Kumar,

      That is a great challenge you are participating in. I’m sure it keeps you going and has become part of your routine, which makes it a habit.

      Challenges have a way of doing that. As we participate, it becomes a habit and then what we think we couldn’t do, becomes easy to us.

      This particular challenge came at a great time for me because, as you well know with all the help you have given me, my product is out and I needed this challenge to keep me on point with advertising.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Not All Comments Are EqualMy Profile

Leave a Reply

CommentLuv badge

Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy
error: Content is protected !!