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Should I Quit Blogging Or Should I Stay?

This post was most recently updated on August 6th, 2016

Should I Quit Blogging Or Should I Stay?Frustrated bloggers ask me “Should I Quit Blogging Or Should I Stay?”

It’s a very personal decision if you’ve been blogging for a while.

Most bloggers struggle to come up with the right answer when they first ask themselves “should I quit blogging or should I stay?”

After all, blogging is a deep process.

It involves your business, of course, if you’ve been blogging to develop a business.

Most bloggers, or at least the bloggers I’ve coached, first started blogging to have a better life.

They might have started a blog to promote their offline profession or business.

Many started blogging to brand themselves in relation to their authority and expertise on a specific topic, or within a particular niche.

Bloggers often hope to leave their jobs once their blogs “take off” and get really popular.

So, ultimately, they are really seeking financial independence and personal freedom.

“Do I Really Want To Abandon My Dream Of Living The Laptop Lifestyle?”

The personal freedom you potentially have if you become a pro blogger is a pretty compelling reason to not quit blogging, but to stay in the game until you win.

In the blogging business, we call these freedoms “the laptop lifestyle.”

It means different things to different people, but I think what people think of most of all when they hear this term is the freedom to work at home or anywhere you want… the back deck, the coffee shop, a park bench.

This is a pretty big dream to have.

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It allows you to quit your job, move to another city or country even, live anywhere you want, work when you want, where you want.

It gives you unlimited potential for earnings, unlike a regular job.

If you started blogging because you wanted to live the laptop lifestyle, abandoning that dream can be a pretty mind shattering experience.

“Has Blogging Taken Over My Life?”

Despite the dream to live the laptop lifestyle, many people just can’t keep up with the pace of blogging.

They have to maintain a steady level of production, keep up with trends, maintain contact with their readers, expand their activities into the social media realms, post content on their own blogs, interact with other bloggers on their sites, respond to people commenting and asking questions on their blog, on Facebook…

On and on it goes, where it stops, no blogger knows.

Bloggers commonly talk about blogging when they’re online, think about it when they’re spending quality time with the kids, friends or loved ones.

After all that, they dream about it.

One day, they wake up (maybe after a blogging dream, haha) questioning this thing that was supposed to mean freedom.

They ask themselves “has blogging taken over my life?”

This question starts brewing in their minds, especially if they are not getting adequate results from all their effort.

“I’ve Already Decided To Quit Blogging, But Can I Really Let Go?”

Letting go of everything you’ve worked so hard to build is scary.

Bloggers fear losing what they’ve created.

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They fear making a big change, even if they’ve decided it’s the right thing for them to do.

So they hold back.

They decide to write less, or disable comments on their blogs so they don’t have to reply to people, or just blog and cut out the social media promotion and chatter.

I’ve had clients try this, “slow down” procedure.

The problem is… once you decide to quit, it will cripple your ability to keep up with any content schedule, or even stay focused enough to produce high quality content.

I don’t know exactly why this is, but I see it all the time.

Once you’ve got one foot out the door, your mind thinks it’s just time to go.

In other words, nothing good results from quitting half way.

“Should I Quit Blogging Or Should I Stay?”

Make a decision.

Don’t try to have it both ways.

The only way to “quit” blogging while staying in the game is to change the way you’re doing things.

If you’d like to make some serious changes in your blogging, stop doing the same-old-same-old things and start doing things that will get you better results.

I’ve worked with many frustrated bloggers.

Some have been on the verge of quitting.

But with some guidance and re-structuring of their business, they were able to stay in the game… and were glad that they did.

If you’d like to start getting the results you have been looking for, click the image below to consider my 60-day mentoring program.

Should I Quit Blogging Or Should I Stay?

We won’t work on changing your blog.

That will stay the same.

We will work on changing your blogging, though.

Isn’t it time you learn to blog the right way… like the pros?

It can totally change your business, and your results.

Are you wondering, “Should I Quit Blogging Or Should I Stay?”

Tell me your thoughts in the comments section below.

Also, share this article on your social sites if you found it valuable.

-Donna

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.

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71 Responses to Should I Quit Blogging Or Should I Stay?

  1. Clay Smith
    Twitter:
    August 23, 2016 at 6:57 pm #

    HI there Donna,

    This is a very good article that every blogger (I guess) can find himself here.

    This question has struggled and is also struggling for quite long time ago.

    After I read this post, I think that I have some good answers to it.

    Keep up the good work.

    Cheers,
    Clay Smith.

  2. Darrell Harris
    Twitter:
    August 20, 2016 at 11:18 pm #

    Hello Donna
    Great post ! I believe so many people come into blogging with unrealistic expectations.

    Some have been reading Pat Flynn’s Income reports that he shows every month,with those six-figures. But he’s not your average blogger.

    I have just been blogging full-time for a year now and I have learned you definitely need time management , organization plenty of patience and I would highly suggest some income or monetization process in effect. Again thanks for sharing I have been reading and learning from you about 7 months, you give great value.
    Darrell Harris recently posted..How to Make MONEY with Clickbank !My Profile

  3. Atish Ranjan
    Twitter:
    August 11, 2016 at 4:12 am #

    Hello Donna,

    Though it is a personal choice of quitting blogging or stay with it, I would always recommend to stay with it because when you blog, that too professionally to earn money, you get so much freedom in your life.

    Till March 2015, I was doing the job and sidewise part time blogging too, and I know the value of freedom. Ever since I left the job, I am free to set my schedules, go hang out anytime, and sleep till late in the morning which I really like to do.

    Also, I am not bounded in a fixed salary. I can make more money with blogging. I am just loving the laptop lifestyle.

    Thanks for the awesome writeup, Donna!
    Atish Ranjan recently posted..12 Best Web Scraper ToolsMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 18, 2016 at 6:06 pm #

      Hi Atish,

      I do remember when you were a part time blogger and how wonderful you have come a long way to freedom now.

      It is better than that fixed salary. It can be a long shot sometimes….but that is running your own business from offline to online. I’m used to it for a long time now. There will be times when the flood gates open and more cash comes in. Other times we can hit a dry spell. So handling the money is an important factor.

      Blogging is amazing!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Law Of Attraction – My True Life StoryMy Profile

  4. Anand August 10, 2016 at 6:16 am #

    Way to sow seeds of discontent in the minds of happy bloggers, Donna. 🙂 But it’s a very serious issue, and one that can have a huge impact on your life and career, and that of your family too. As Andrew Warner says in the comments, it’s hard to maintain a daily blogging schedule once the spark and excitement is gone. Personally, I think you should only blog as long as you enjoy the writing part. Once you start looking on it as a job or daily routine, it’s going to be downhill from there.
    Anand recently posted..Calculate and Reduce Costs of Digital Marketing and Customer AcquisitionMy Profile

  5. Mitch Mitchell
    Twitter:
    August 9, 2016 at 2:25 am #

    Quite a few comments before mine said what I would have said, that being we’ve all thought about it at one time or another. I thought about it in 2006 after losing all my content when my hosting company totally crashed. I thought about it in 2011 when I felt overwhelmed at the output I was creating, not only for myself but for other clients. I feel pretty good that I didn’t give up, but it’s a common feeling I’d say.
    Mitch Mitchell recently posted..Mobile Friendly Versus Mobile SpeedMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 16, 2016 at 10:28 am #

      Hi Mitch,

      My goodness….your hosting company crashed…now that is a lesson for all of us to keep our eyes out for.

      That can be something that would make one walk away. But I am so glad you are here and still online Mitch.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Law Of Attraction – My True Life StoryMy Profile

  6. Mandy Allen
    Twitter:
    August 7, 2016 at 1:05 pm #

    I’ve seen a lot of blogging companions disappear, never to return. Some leave their blog dormant for a long time (I have done this myself in the past when life got in the way!), and others have gone completely, no domain found anymore. It is a commitment keeping up, and if you are not seeing anything in return for it then it is easier to say ‘I should stop now’. Have I considered stopping? No, not really, I’ve been away from it at times, but I have never thought for a moment that I would stop.

    Enjoy the journey!

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 7, 2016 at 4:21 pm #

      Hi Mandy,

      There does come a time when blogging itself heeds no monetization. When that happens, it is either time to tweak and get more training, or to just leave.

      It is up to the individual to decide what is the best for them to do.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  7. Mary Sloane
    Twitter:
    August 7, 2016 at 11:02 am #

    Interesting thoughts on blogging.

    I blog but I am not a blogger I am a marketer.

    I use my blog to express myself, not nearly enough but I don’t really try to attract a lot of traffic I use it for ideas for my social media and when I need to have somewhere to put together a lot of thoughts.

    I can’t imagine not having a blog but I have changed my mind and my direction on my blog several times, so clearly I am not a blogger, but I do love blogging!

    To Great Success

    Mary
    Mary Sloane recently posted..Are You Caught in the “Hurry” Trap?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 7, 2016 at 12:42 pm #

      Hi Mary,

      There you have it! Indeed you are a marketer and it is a big difference when we call ourselves that rather than a blogger.

      I love the way you go about it because your actions speak louder than words. As a marketer you know the value of your blog and it is not the center stage.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  8. Adeel Sami
    Twitter:
    August 7, 2016 at 12:54 am #

    Hello, Donna!

    I am on and off. Or better say I am not with any decision whether to quit or stay.

    I am giving it a serious thought and will consult with my some close friends as to what should I do; keep or quit.

    But for the success and keep going, we have to connect up with the people from our circle using comments, social media, etc. because it is the people who have to come by, read and contribute to our content.

    If we don’t have means of communication, it surely is the biggest setback to your blogging journey.

    So, turning off anything can be disastrous.

    Thank you for this great write-up, Donna!

    And I am happy to share it on my social life! 🙂

    See me often!

    ~ Adeel
    Adeel Sami recently posted..Which Plugins Do You Use?My Profile

  9. Sonal Talwar
    Twitter:
    August 6, 2016 at 5:44 am #

    Hi Donna

    Great post!

    Blogging is something that needs lot of patience. People quit blogging because they don’t get immediate results. But the fact is that hard work does pay at the end.

    Blogging gets us connected to people all over the world – so its wonderful!

    Thanks for sharing!
    Sonal Talwar recently posted..Friendship Day: Your Friend is your TreasureMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 7, 2016 at 12:40 pm #

      Hi Sonal,

      Patience…it is needed no matter what business one is in online or offline. I’ve seen people in the offline world leave quickly because they thought they just had to open and money will fly in.

      Besides, when it comes to blogging I feel the say way as you…connecting to people all over the world is a blessing.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  10. Priyam Baksi
    Twitter:
    August 5, 2016 at 11:18 am #

    Hey Donna,

    You put up a very sensitive topic really well,
    I saw most blogs die within 3-4 months after they start, there are several reasons for that,

    1. Blogging is not their passion, they started just because they saw others are earning a handsome amount from this industry.

    2. They are too impatient to get their success.

    3. They just though blogging is just about posting content so they copy from other blogs and paste it on theirs.

    4. The funniest thing is, I saw some people also quitting blogging just because the google index process is taking longer than they thought.

    Though I feel if you stick to this ground and hold your breath, then success will surely bite your blog.

    Thanks for sharing ~ Priyam Baksi
    Priyam Baksi recently posted..102 Ways to Kill Your Blog When Success is CloseMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 7, 2016 at 12:38 pm #

      Priyam,

      I have heard all those excuses but never heard of #4….I am really laughing out loud. Guess it is a good thing because it shows that they weren’t cut out for it. Better knowing that sooner than later.

      Indeed, stick to it and know your marketing well – success will surely bite!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  11. Bren Pace
    Twitter:
    August 5, 2016 at 8:59 am #

    Hi Donna,

    Do you know how many times I tried quitting? I think sometimes when one wants to quit it’s possibly because they just haven’t found the right niche. However, as you know, there are other times when a blogger finds out how much is really involved in the process and simply doesn’t have the time nor the passion to continue on. Expectations of making money and being an instant problogger are other deterrents. No matter how great a writer we think we are, it’s ultimately the readers who determine our popularity, no?

    Great post my dear friend. Hope you’re having a Happy Friday!
    Bren Pace recently posted..3 Ways to Find Serenity Despite the ChaosMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 7, 2016 at 12:03 pm #

      Hi Bren,

      Yes…I know from many discussions on Facebook. We cannot get involved in just the process of blogging. We have to put our marketing hats on and give good calls to action in order to prosper from our blogs and many other ways to reach a target audience.

      It is up to our readers to determine not only our popularity, but more than that…choose us to work with them.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  12. Andrew M. Warner
    Twitter:
    August 4, 2016 at 9:20 pm #

    Hey Donna,

    Great topic for discussion. I think every blogger, at one point or another, thinks whether they should quit or now. And I think the reason is that it’s not proving to be as profitable as many people claim it is. So that spark and fire is gone.

    I think people have to approach blogging as not blogging but as a marketing tactic to achieve your financial freedom and live that laptop lifestyle.

    I know I thought about that question before and even as recently as when Adrienne left too. I had the same thoughts, but I realized that it was my approach to things. And also I didn’t give it my full 100%. But also, the thing to remember is that many successful people never became successful from their first attempt.

    They failed at it. Learned from it. And got better the next time around.

    Great post.

    – Andrew

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 7, 2016 at 12:00 pm #

      Hi Andrew.

      Spot on…our blogs are part of a whole marketing tactic to monetize. It take more than writing a post and having comments. It takes a marketing plan and our blog is there for people to come to get to know us.

      I call it a giant business card. As we reciprocate with other bloggers, there is ALWAYS something new to learn.

      But we have to keep our minds on our main goal and that is marketing. If we are out there just blogging with no plan…it is time to change things up.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  13. Corina Ramos
    Twitter:
    August 4, 2016 at 8:22 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I have had my share of struggles with this question. There have been a couple of times I’m ready to throw in the towel but the pros of why I should stay always outweigh the cons so I get back up and keep going. 🙂

    Oh yeah I always have blogging on the mind. The wheels are always spinning about what to write about and how I can improve. 🙂

    I love your suggestion in the end. Sometimes all it takes is a little tweaking. If anyone can coach someone who’s struggling, it’s you my dear.

    I’m with Edward – had the song by the Clash in my head. I still listen to them too. 🙂

    Have a great rest of the week!

    Cori
    Corina Ramos recently posted..18 Boss Bloggers You Should Be Following NowMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 6, 2016 at 8:02 am #

      Hi Cori,

      This is how I wrote the blog….the Clash playing that song. Yes I still listen to them too lol.

      There is always something that comes up that makes us think we want to throw that towel in. But, if we do a little tweaking, we may find that things start happening.

      As for a coach, I would strongly suggest that to anyone in the blogging world or who wants to be in it. The main reason for that is that I lost time without one in the beginning.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  14. ikechi
    Twitter:
    August 4, 2016 at 11:31 am #

    Hi Donna

    There is the temptation to quit blogging but it is a tough decision to close down a blog.

    Brilliant post as you hit the nail, presented the problem and gave an awesome solution. Thanks for sharing take care

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 6, 2016 at 7:53 am #

      Hi Ikechi,

      It is a tough decision to shut down a blog. Unless there is another road one must take with open arms, then one needs to do so.

      If not, keep it open because you just never know……

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  15. Peter Beckenham
    Twitter:
    August 4, 2016 at 9:56 am #

    Hi Donna,

    Yes there are days when I have not felt like doing all that much – maybe it called getting old.

    But I’ve never ever considered calling it quits with my blogging.

    To me blogging has become an integral part of my online life and depsite the demands it places on my time, I’d never consider it work because I just love ot.

    Those that are thinking about quitting their blog should realize that they are then joining the ranks of the 90%+ of other failed bloggers. It’s truly amazing how many seemingly “active” blogs only 6 moths ago are now dead and buried as part as engagement and new content creation is concerned.

    Folks who simply stop accepting coments for example, remind me of the old saying that you just can’t be a little bit pregnant!

    Either you are or you aren’t

    And with blogging…

    Either you’re in or you’re out.

    If you’re thinking of quiting and its because of the results you’ve achieved so far, then Donna you’ve provided the perfect solution in this post.

    Always a pleasure to visit and learn from one of the master bloggers of our time

    Best wishes from the remote Thai village blogger

    Peter
    Peter Beckenham recently posted..Email Marketing Hacks – Top 9 Trends for 2016My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 6, 2016 at 7:52 am #

      Hi Peter,

      It is so true that 90% will leave blogging, even if they are top bloggers. I think it is because they didn’t balance their blog with their marketing. If one is totally focused on their blog, fiddle around with plugins and designs, there isn’t much time left to do the other side of it…marketing.

      For me, I spend more time off my blog than on it with clients, emails, and marketing. Although I love my blog because of the friendships I make with it and the content I can write, it isn’t center stage, but part of the whole.

      Indeed, either you are in or you are out!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  16. Kimsea Sok
    Twitter:
    August 4, 2016 at 7:38 am #

    Donna! It’s brilliant tips as usually you did.

    I would admit that I used to get stuck and confused about blogging, and I asked myself this same question.

    You know? At the time, I went to downtown to a place where nobody there. I’ve sat and been thinking alone.

    I asked myself, “why I wasted lots of time with blogging?” I’ve got no answer of the question, but continued sitting and thinking about it.

    I’ve been thinking lots of such when I work for companies and when I was writing blog. I spent over 3 hours alone at the place untill understood something.

    Once again, I asked myself, “why I’m alone in this lonely place with the fucking nobody?”

    You know what? In 2013, I divorced and quitted my job. I don’t to go outside and see other people such friends. I’m so isolate at the time.

    Not really. I’m not isolate, but enjoy with my work.

    I went no where because I was enjoyed with blogging and learning new things. I don’t to meetup with my friend as we have different interests. They’re always dissuade me related to blogging and what I love.

    I told myself, I found my passion and what I love.

    But again question, why I cannot generate income from blogging while other made thousand dollar?

    Well. It’s what you’re trying to explain. I don’t learn from my mistakes. I didn’t try any new way doing my business.

    I spent my $25 investment to join a MLM company Called EmpwerNetwork and $500 per month for marketing training.

    It’s the time I learn how people make money from online business and blogging. I didn’t success with the MLM business, but at least found the to go out.

    To a newbie. You don’t need to quite as you aren’t quitter, but you must find a new way to go out.
    Kimsea Sok recently posted..Attention: Why Majority Of New Blogs Often Die After Few Months Of Their Existence (How To Avoid Being A Victim)My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 6, 2016 at 7:30 am #

      Hi Kimsea,

      We can have the passion, and put a great deal of time into blogging, but we MUST have a business plan. I spent my first year of blogging with an MLM company who taught me very well how to make them rich…not me. Yes, I can be called a mistake, but I pushed forward to new ventures.

      What I learned then was that I needed to have my own way of making money. So I started to create my own e-products and coaching. Of course, I hired a pro to help me. Creating my first product with a coach was difficult but so exciting. I also had to learn marketing.

      When it comes to that, I still hire others for the various ways I can market my own products and services.

      We cannot look at others who “say” they make a certain amount of money per day… But look to ourselves..be in competition with ourselves and keep moving forward.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

      • Kimsea Sok
        Twitter:
        August 6, 2016 at 11:07 am #

        Donna, you said for sure.

        The MLM company taught us how to make team rich why I quitted it.

        You know? I’ve been thinking about creating a new product such write an eBook or some training course. I bought some equipment for home studio, but not yet enough to go. I’ve got to way for the commission from this, but thought still not enough.

        I have no choice hence I need to be calm.

        I don’t know how the feel is when my product is launched, but it must be awesome. though
        Kimsea Sok recently posted..How To Become A Freelance Writer Even If You Are Bad At WritingMy Profile

        • Donna Merrill
          Twitter:
          August 7, 2016 at 10:35 am #

          Hi Kimsea,

          We teach people how to do this all the time. Many struggle because they think they need so much equipment, but not so.

          If you wanted to start writing an eBook….do it right now on a document on your computer. Write without spell checking or grammar. Set up a schedule each day to write something. Then when you are done, go back and edit it. Don’t worry about the order…you will do that when you edit.

          This is where so many get stuck and never get going. Try it 🙂

          In no time you will have it done. An Ebook is a great way for people to know you. Let them opt in with name and email. You can start building a good list that way. Engage with them and sell them things you deem necessary in your sales funnel.

          Hope this helps!

          -Donna
          Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  17. Sarah Arrow
    Twitter:
    August 3, 2016 at 12:29 pm #

    Loved reading this Donna, thank you for sharing your experiences and wisdom with us. The irony of online marketing, including blogging, is until you have a substantial following you can eat, sleep and dream blogging! A mentor certainly helps you get to grips with planning, writing and publishing, but there’s also the networking aspect – and that can known the stuffing out many a good blogger.
    Simply put, it can be draining as a side hustle if you are not prepared to give it your all. But if you do? Then the virtual world is your oyster 🙂
    Sarah Arrow recently posted..Coaches: 9 Ways to Show Your Expertise When You’re First Starting OutMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 6, 2016 at 7:00 am #

      Hi Sarah,

      So true that if you love what you are doing, and prepared to give it your all your virtual world is your oyster!

      With all we have to do online, blogging is part of a business plan. Once we realize that, and enjoy it, there is no problem at all. We just keep things at our own pace and it works out so great.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  18. Joy Healey
    Twitter:
    August 3, 2016 at 11:45 am #

    Hi Donna,

    Yes, I guess most bloggers go through this occasionally.

    My closest was when I was experiencing the worst of my technical problems. I thought I had them cracked, but then more problems last week – and maybe even this week. Not sure….

    These are the things that drive me potty.

    I’ve long since accepted that somehow money won’t pour in from blogging, but it’s become a part of my life and business that I enjoy. “Meeting” and chatting with friends. I’ve probably shared more of my thoughts an experiences online than ever I have face-to-face! Scary 🙂

    Interesting to read the other comments on here, too!

    But it certainly takes a huge chunk out of the week! I think slowing down and exploring other ways to attract traffic to my blog is the way I shall go for a while, but – as long as I can fix these technical glitches – I can’t see me quitting blogging altogether.

    Thanks for an interesting subject that’s generated some very thought-provoking comments too.

    Joy – Blogging After Dark
    Joy Healey recently posted..Tips For Nervous Video MarketersMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 6, 2016 at 6:52 am #

      Hi Joy,

      The most exciting part of blogging is meeting people…like you! I too feel close to those I’ve met more than any other people in the world. It is a different kind of friendship….non imposing, but so free to express ourselves.

      As bloggers most of us share the same interests no matter what niche we are in. Plus, there is always a helping hand and so many people on this old planet of ours that are there for us if things go wrong.

      I am so happy we have connected.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  19. Kim Willis
    Twitter:
    August 3, 2016 at 10:30 am #

    Hi Donna

    Thought provoking post

    I couldn’t conceive abandoning my blog. It’s part of me, and that’s the way it will stay.

    My blog generates leads and through blog commenting it opened the doors to a new community of people, some of whom I’ve done business with.

    Why would I quit that?

    But more than this. It helps bolster my credibility, posture, and authority. If people took a holistic big picture approach to their blog, they would never abandon it.

    Thanks for your leadership, Donna

    Kim
    Kim Willis recently posted..8 Simple Ways to Stay Motivated in Your Home BusinessMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 6, 2016 at 6:45 am #

      Hi Kim,

      You know how to use your blog as a good part of your business plan. As long as our blogs generates leads, and shows credibility, it is a keeper!

      There is that misconception that all one has to do is blog and it becomes a cash machine. But you and I both know that it takes a business plan and a good sense of marketing in order for a blog to work for you.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  20. Stella Chiu
    Twitter:
    August 2, 2016 at 9:33 pm #

    Hi, Donna

    What a awesome post. There is a good question,”Has blogging taken over my life ?” For me, not yet, but I feel overwhelming more than anything else. As I am learning the skill in time management, the things will becoming much easier.

    The people, who will think about abandon blogging, are the ones coming in with wrong perception – life of blogging is much easier than that of normal job.

    Now they find out the true, there are only two options for them: either they quit or changing their ways of doing blogging.

    Enjoy the post!

    Stella Chiu

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 6, 2016 at 6:42 am #

      Hi Stella,

      You are on target. Time management is key when it comes to blogging. We can choose to make it the center of our lives and spend endless time on it. OR….we can work Smart.

      You are on the right track my friend.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  21. Sherman Smith August 2, 2016 at 3:45 pm #

    Hey Donna,

    I think the majority of bloggers have thought about this some time in their journey. I have quite a few times. This is because of schedule changes or through frustration.

    With that said, I looked at this as an indicator that maybe I needed to make some changes as far as my routine, content, how I promote, etc.. And sure it enough, that’s what it is. Yes blogging can be time consuming and frustrate you if you’re not getting the results you want. But all it takes in a lot of cases, some minor tweaks to get beyond that difficult hump.

    Thanks for sharing Donna! Have a great rest of the week!
    Sherman Smith recently posted..Why Solopreneurs Struggle With Generating Blog TrafficMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 6, 2016 at 6:35 am #

      Hi Sherman,

      I do see so many people get frustrated when results aren’t working. I know that feeling so well. It is so true that sometimes a few tweaks can do the trick.

      I have…a few times lol. As long as results keep coming in, blogging, although time consuming, is worth it.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  22. Dana
    Twitter:
    August 2, 2016 at 2:59 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I have NO doubt this comes up for quite a few bloggers. It’s so rewarding, but yes, it’s a lot of work. Not for the faint of heart – and it’s certainly not for people looking for quick results (is anything?).

    I had a blog a few years ago. Wasn’t sure what I was going to do with it, but I enjoyed writing. After abandoning it, I realized how much I’d missed it. I had to re-evaluate my “why” and develop some new strategies while keeping things realistic regarding my activities. All in all though, I’m happy I’ve decided to get back into it.

    Besides, I’ve met so many awesome people. I wouldn’t trade that for anything.
    Dana recently posted..3 Ways Your Workout Can Hurt You (and How to Protect Yourself)My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 6, 2016 at 6:33 am #

      Hi Dana,

      No, nothing in this world has quick results! You and I both know from many experiences in our lives that whatever we set out to do from blogging to wellness….it takes time and patience to achieve something that is long lasting.

      I learn so much from you about wellness and look forward to reading your blog posts Dana. You always give me such great incentive.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  23. Srimanta Ghosh
    Twitter:
    August 2, 2016 at 7:10 am #

    Hi Donna,

    First of all, I would like to say thanks to you for such kind of post. Really, here you point out some things new bloggers do. What do they think? Some newbie bloggers things that it’s a very easy ways and huge profitable online business. Yes, they are right. It can be a great source to earn good cash. But they sound keep in mind a tree can’t give you fruits after planted it yesterday. When they face any problem such technical or making a good blog even those are unable to make money with their blog 2/3 months old blog, they left then and then and think it’s not for them. Really, I think so.. blogging is not for them. They should left.
    I’m doing this job since 5 years, faced so many problems and fixed them with some of my friends like you and learning new strategy each day from fellow bloggers. Always, I want to say that Blogging is my passion I don’t wanna quit the great profession.

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 6, 2016 at 6:30 am #

      Hi Srimanta,

      I love the saying you have given here: “a tree can’t give you fruits after planted it yesterday.” All bloggers have to keep that mindset.

      Whenever we are creating any kind of business it is going to take time. Even offline businesses….the usual rate of return is about two years. So why should blogging be different?

      Probably because people are lead to believe it is easy. But you and I know it is not so.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  24. Harleena Singh
    Twitter:
    August 2, 2016 at 3:01 am #

    Hi Donna,

    Wonderful post indeed! I guess most bloggers can relate to this one 🙂

    Yes, we all go through several ups and downs in blogging, especially when we start off, and slowly with time, we tend to settle down, once we learn the ways about.

    But yes, the thought of quitting does come in, as I’ve heard several bloggers mention it as well. Perhaps they enter the blogosphere with a lot of expectations or have seen others do the same and feel it’s all very easy, but their dreams are shattered once the learn that it’s not all an easy process.

    Patience is what is required in blogging, to have the time and make full efforts to learn the process and remain persistent. Good things come to those who wait, isn’t it?

    Thanks for sharing. Have a nice week ahead 🙂
    Harleena Singh recently posted..How to Repair a Relationship After InfidelityMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 4, 2016 at 10:00 am #

      Hi Harleena,

      You put it so well when you stated that some bloggers dreams are shattered once the learn that it’s not all an easy process. I think that’s the most common reason.

      It is work and very time consuming part of a business plan. There are many options but if one is not monetizing online like they wanted to….then it may be time to do something else.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  25. David A Rhodes
    Twitter:
    August 1, 2016 at 11:51 pm #

    Hi Donna
    Excellent reading. I could not imagine not having a blog. I would miss the joy of reading and learning from folks like yourself.
    I would recommend to anyone to check out your 60 day mentoring program.
    Sincerely
    David Rhodes
    David A Rhodes recently posted..Don’t Fall For The Latest Internet Identity Theft ScamMy Profile

  26. Deborah A. Ten Brink
    Twitter:
    August 1, 2016 at 9:07 pm #

    Do you know what I’ve noticed in 2016 Donna? It’s as if everyone is soul searching, looking deep inside to decide what to do with their life. Blogging included.

    As you say, to blog or quit blogging is a very personal decision. It depends on so many factors that are unique to each individual blogger. Only you can decide what is right for you. But what you’ve done so brilliantly in your post is to let bloggers know that they are not alone in this challenge.

    Also, you point out reality – either blog or don’t blog. I agree with this. As you know, I recently had changes in my life that made blogging a challenge. I took a break. But I always knew I would take it up again. While on a break, I still answered questions and maintained my blog.

    Whatever someone decides, the best advice I have is to consider all pros and cons for staying an active blogger. Then take some serious time to consider all points. Then, when you make a final decision, it will be a decision you will not regret. 🙂

    Your posts are always so timely! Thanks again Donna!
    Deborah A. Ten Brink recently posted..Networking With Other Artist BloggersMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 4, 2016 at 9:41 am #

      Hi Deborah,

      It sure is a big decision to make, especially if you are blogging for a time. The best thing to do is step back and weigh that decision.

      Sometimes It may just be that there is no time for comments so people shut the comments down. Other times, they start writing articles on other platforms like Kingged and leave their blog because it is working for them there.

      Whatever it is…we are unique and we have to do some soul searching in order to make that decision. I have worked with many successful marketers and they never even blogged a day in their life.

      It is a decision but has to be well thought out. Thanks!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  27. Mark
    Twitter:
    August 1, 2016 at 8:11 pm #

    Bravo Donna!

    And so brilliantly laid out as well!I’m sure once frustration
    really sets in, a blogger, but especially, a struggling newbie blogger,
    finds them self right on the edge!

    Just teetering, and depending on whether or not, they find
    some reputable coaching, like you & David offer, they’re probably
    all but done unfortunately!

    And boy what a shame coach, because truth told, they probably do have a lot
    to offer their target market audience!

    But because, they never got they expert coaching/mentoring and guidance
    they desperately needed in time, they quit, probably, when they were just o
    n the verge of some real, long lasting success!

    Another excellent post as usual Coach!Thanks!
    Mark recently posted..How To Consistently Generate Magnetic Content Marketing Ideas!My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 4, 2016 at 9:37 am #

      Hi Mark,

      I appreciate your kind words about David and I.. Indeed without coaching and/or mentoring, especial the one to one kind…I would have been gone a long time ago. As we grow our business, we start to see we need some kind of specific mentoring one way or another.

      It could be our time management, or learning something new in our marketing strategies. No matter what it is, we have to be able to put the money time and energy into our business in order for it to grow so we can stay with it and not run away.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  28. Francis Quarshie
    Twitter:
    August 1, 2016 at 7:12 pm #

    Hey Donna,

    This post is meant for me.

    I’ve thought of quitting several times. Why?

    “Lack of knowledge makes us perish”

    Blogging is time consuming, especially, for part-timers like me.

    If you like follow all best practices, you may still fail.

    So, I realized I needed to start following proven ones – practices that work – to keep moving.

    You become frustrated when you’re not thriving.

    Finally, I decided to stay when I started climbing up gradually.

    It is taking over me slowly. Hope it does fully. Still waiting and hoping.

    Good post, Donna.

    Thanks for sharing.

    Francis
    Francis Quarshie recently posted..23 Essential Blogging Tools to Grow With. Want Proof?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 2, 2016 at 11:34 am #

      Hi Francis,

      Blogging takes time and patience especially when working on it part time. It is a work in progress and if you have that in your mindset, it reduces anxiety. As we blog, we are always learning.

      I have to say, nothing out there is “proven” Why? Because I can give you ways that are “proven” for me, but for you, it can be different. So when you mention that, these things online do work but always keep in mind, how it will work for you.

      We are all unique and that is the first thing you need to realize. We can take many lessons online….I have, but we twist it in a way that suits our needs. Then it can work.

      I am glad you didn’t give up,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  29. Ben
    Twitter:
    August 1, 2016 at 4:13 pm #

    Hi Donna. I couldn’t imagine shutting down my blog. It is working for me and I get to do what I want when I want without having to beg a boss.

    I think there are three things that play into people quitting their blogs. One is a natural progression. They’ve accomplished what they came to do and are ready to move onto their next phase. That’s cool.

    Two, they didn’t take the time to research what they were getting into when they started their blog. Maybe they were drawn in by the hype, and there is plenty, but you should always research these things, especially when it affects your ability to provide for your family. Blogging takes time and effort, just like any other business, or a job.

    Three, people like to make things harder than they have to be. It seems to be human nature, like they have to justify their existence by creating struggle for themselves. Right now I write to blog posts every week. I’ll write one tonight to publish tomorrow and I’ll (hopefully) write one on Wednesday to publish on Thursday or Friday. No big deal.

    I spend the rest of my time working on other parts of my business and spending tim with my family. School starts this week here, so I’ll be adding home schooling back into the mix again. I couldn’t do that if I had a regular job.

    Thanks for the post Donna.
    Ben recently posted..Foods That Reduce InflammationMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 2, 2016 at 11:22 am #

      Hi Ben,

      You are on target with all three points. Natural progression is one thing that happens the minute we start a blog. It will never end and that’s what is so exciting about it.

      Indeed, some people like to make things harder than it seems. Justifying their existence by creating a struggle is something I have noticed with many I’ve met along the way. They get so caught up in this that they seem to me like they are walking on a treadmill.

      I think the biggest one of all is that some come into blogging and didn’t realize how much time and work they need to put into it as part of a whole in their business plan.

      Thanks for your awesome feedback,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  30. Monna Ellithorpe
    Twitter:
    August 1, 2016 at 3:04 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    How did you know I was thinking about this very thing or at least doing something different with my blog?

    I can’t quite let it go completely either but still not sure what I am going to do.

    As always, thank you for giving me some points to think about.

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 1, 2016 at 10:57 pm #

      Hi Monna,

      I wouldn’t abandon your blog completely. Just think about what you want to accomplish. Forget about design, and all that….Think of what exactly it is you want to monetize.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  31. Hussain Omar
    Twitter:
    August 1, 2016 at 2:08 pm #

    Hey Donna,

    Another great post!

    I think a lot of people don’t put SMART goals, they start what they do with great passion and gradually they lose the energy, and end by being disappointed somewhere in the middle.

    Thanks for sharing!

    Regards
    Hussain
    Hussain Omar recently posted..How to Make Money on YouTube Without AdSenseMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 1, 2016 at 10:56 pm #

      Hi Hussain,

      So true…some people are so passionate and that’s fine..but we need to be smart about our goals.

      When we are, we can balance our passion and persistence.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  32. Chery Schmidt
    Twitter:
    August 1, 2016 at 1:49 pm #

    Hello Donna, What a great post my friend! I have been on the fence as what to do with my blog for theb past few months now! So I decided to just take me time and not be so active!! And you know what? This gave me some time to really think abut things! To take stock in what I have going on and what needs to change. Yeppers, more then half way through 2016 and time to make some decisions.

    Good timing with this post Donna! This is exactly the kick I needed..
    Thank YOU
    Chery :))
    Chery Schmidt recently posted..Internet Marketing & Living Your Life On Your Own TermsMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 1, 2016 at 10:48 pm #

      Hi Chery,

      Taking time and being away for a while is great to do because when you come back you do so with fresh eyes. I like to take long weekends sometimes to do just that. It gives us a better perspective.

      There is always room for growth with our blogs….we just have to decide exactly what it is we want to do.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  33. Ravi Chahar
    Twitter:
    August 1, 2016 at 11:28 am #

    Hey Donna,

    It’s the matter of choice whether someone wants to quit blogging or not. But the point is why? I mean blogging is an amazing thing to dwell into.

    Though the lifestyle would remain to your laptop but still, the world is your and you can do anything you want.

    Some people quit blogging because they don’t get the results ever after so much hard work But people forget that to achieve their goals, they should have the patience and keep working.

    Thanks for this wonderful article.
    Enjoy the day.
    ~Ravi
    Ravi Chahar recently posted..30 Things To Do Before Launching A Website on The Web.My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 1, 2016 at 10:35 pm #

      Hi Ravi,

      You put it nicely… Blogging is a wonderful world to be in! The part I always treasure is getting to know people all over the globe..including you my friend.

      But I do think the major issue is that bloggers can get so caught up in blogging itself, that they don’t get the results expected. It is the marketing hat they need to put on while living that laptop lifestyle.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  34. Ryan Biddulph
    Twitter:
    August 1, 2016 at 11:16 am #

    Hi Donna,

    After 8 years online I rarely if ever thought about quitting. Sure I got disgusted and frustrated and flipped out and the like but never once did I envision going back to work to leave my laptop lifestyle.

    I couldn’t dream of spending the rest of my life in NJ versus living here in Istanbul, or in Bali, or Fiji. I love NJ. Awesome place. But the culture around the globe is so rich, dripping with history, compared to the convenience, comfort and family living in NJ. Those 3 are the reasons why I got home. Mainly fam. So yep, even if I got fed up I had no reason to quit because my heart is primarily around the globe, minus da fam.

    Love the last few paragraphs. Change your blogging versus changing your blog. Excellent. That’s why you’re such a good coach. You see it’s more about being versus doing. That’s why when I talk to clients and readers I stress the being/energy aspect of things, which opens a whole new world to folks. And this usually means doing fewer things in a more focused, targeted manner, versus running around like a mad blogger trying to be in 1000 places at once.

    Fabulous post Donna. Thanks for the inspired share.

    Ryan

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 1, 2016 at 12:46 pm #

      Hi Ryan,

      I know you well and never could imagine you quitting being a globe trotter. And to do so, you need to be online. You do it so well.

      We all get to the point where we want to throw our laptop at the wall being a blogger, but at that moment, we can learn from the frustration.

      We acknowledge that feeling, then sit and ponder why do we feel that way. Whenever that happens to me…great ideas start flowing. I don’t give in to my emotions, but learn something from them. Hey that’s what they are there for lol.

      I just read your latest book on Amazon and gave you a great 5 star review BTW.

      -Cheers Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  35. Brent Jones
    Twitter:
    August 1, 2016 at 10:52 am #

    Hi Donna,

    Y’know, I think just about every blogger debates this very question from time-to-time…

    I know I do.

    I live the “laptop lifestyle” as many people call it, but that’s through freelancing — especially now that I have a team in place and I don’t have to focus on so many of the day-to-day tasks.

    But my blog is really a side project. It generates some revenue for me, but certainly nowhere near what I earn through my primary focus…

    There’s more than one way to skin a cat, I suppose. (Always hated that saying, but couldn’t think of another more fitting option…)

    Anyway, I like the way you laid out the options in this post. As always, you’re one of the best at speaking to the heart of any issue.

    Best,

    Brent
    Brent Jones recently posted..Without These 3 Things, You Will Fail as a Freelancer:My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 1, 2016 at 12:41 pm #

      Hi Brent,

      Indeed, there is more than one way to skin a cat (It is an icky term lol) We have our blogs, but we need our marketing techniques.

      This is where there seems to be a huge gap when it comes to some bloggers. They will go about it all wrong and get frustrated and leave.

      However, I always say that our blogs are an amazing business card for us. So if a person is a freelancer for instance, and someone wants to hire them, there is an extensive resume called a blog.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

  36. Edward Thorpe
    Twitter:
    August 1, 2016 at 10:26 am #

    Hi Donna,

    Around & around it goes… to…deep thoughts, at least this post goes down to the nitty gritty.

    Brilliant post and brilliant copy that presents a problem and offers a solution. (I think I recently read something about that’s the essence of blogging?)
    Thanks,
    Edward
    P.S. I read this with The Clash’s ‘Should I Stay Or Should I Go’ rifting through my head. Lovely.
    Edward Thorpe recently posted..You Are Not All That SpecialMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 1, 2016 at 10:45 am #

      Hi Ed,

      I have to say, I was thinking of the same song! I still listen to the Clash!

      It is the essence of blogging.. there are many times a blogger will want to leave…but then what? Some come into blogging with high expectations and then realize it takes time to monetize.

      Others have been around for years and haven’t monetized at all. This is why having a good knowledge of the marketing side of blogging is of the utmost importance.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Your Blog Is A Sales FunnelMy Profile

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