BLOGGING: WHAT'S YOUR MOTIVATION?

Motivation is essential to achieve any type of success whether it is in business, fitness, relationships, or even blogging. Webster’s Dictionary defines motivation as “the psychological feature that arouses an organism to action;” and “the reason for the action.”

When I started blogging I asked myself the following questions: What type of incentive am I seeking? What will make me feel sufficient? When will I feel that I’ve achieved enough? Basically, what was my goal or desired outcome? The answers to these questions were very important for me because they determined where my motivation was coming from; me or others.

First and foremost, let me state my motivation. Many don’t know this, but for me, blogging has been a self-help mechanism.  I have not always been plus size. I was involved in an accident that left me with a back injury. Due to this injury I could no longer run or exercise and I gained 80lbs! Family and friends stated their disbelief of my new girth right to my face. Comments like “KIAH, WHAT HAPPENED”! It was absolutely dreadful and I fell into a deep depression. It was during this bout of depression that I realized the powerful influence society and media have on people’s perception of beauty. I knew I wanted to be a part of debunking that perception. MOTIVATION!

I love fashion. I would love fashion and pay for it even if I weren’t a fashion blogger. I don’t blog for money and I don’t blog for popularity, I blog to influence. A successful blog for me isn’t about page views or how large the number is under my followers tab. I wanted to create a space for women to come and see a larger sized girl prove that style has no size. 

The other day I received an email from a follower stating that they don’t understand how and why I’m never listed as a “top blogger” or “blogger to know” when those types of articles come out. I thanked her for thinking that I should be, but then stated that I don’t need to be. I’m not offended by it, and I’m genuinely happy for those who are featured. Actually, I’ve found many fabulous blogs from such lists. I’m famous for saying “I DON’T DO COMPETITION”. Competition is a waste of time and energy. I always tell my daughter that there will always be somebody prettier, thinner, curvier, more popular, more creative, and wealthier, so to just be the best HER that she could be. I live by that same motto.

You see, being on the “list” is not what I need to feel sufficient. I feel I’ve achieved enough simply by receiving some sort of positive contact. Shoot me an email. Leave a comment. Click “like”. Share it! As bloggers we expect and desire some sort of encouragement. It lets us know that somebody cares. It’s rather discouraging to post an outfit or do a write-up and get not a one AMEN!  

So I leave you with this bit of advice. Check your motivation! What are you blogging for? Is it positive? Use blogging as an opportunity to grow as a person not as a blog. Do it for YOU! I’ve learned so much about myself like I’m a lot more creative than I thought I was, I’ve got pretty thick skin, and I actually do like people (haha). I feel like for once in my life I’m actually doing something because I love it! I’ve considered quitting numerous times during these past 5 years but then I get that one email that tells me I have made a difference in someone’s life and I’m reminded of why I started doing this in the first place.

I don’t know how long I will keep doing this but I do know that I will leave satisfied with the fact that through my motivation, this blog has brought me many friends, opportunities, and most importantly, self-love (no matter my dress size). Mission accomplished!  

LOVE,

Kiah