Why I blog

I wish everyone I knew kept a personal blog. I love reading about people's lives, and it is even more appealing if I know them in my real world. Unfortunately, no one really does. There are a few friends that keep some sort of blog, but nothing that delves too deep.

Then there are a few local blogs I read (Thank you, Bobby) that are highly personal. I'll admit, those are my favorite. I love to follow along with their lives, the ups and downs, the disasters and triumphs. I guess it's like reading a great book, but I have to wait impatiently for each new chapter. I think it's the honesty that pulls me in.

From what I can gather, my blog has attracted both kinds of readers, people I know and people I don't. I can only presume they read mine for similar reasons.

So why do I even write about all this stuff? Why do I want all of my baggage to go public?

Good question.

Some reasons:

It helps me process. My brain is always, always, always on. I replay conversations in my head over and over trying to figure out just how badly they went and how I could have done better. I'm constantly re-prioritizing my to-do list to achieve the highest level of procrastination. Financially, I shuffle expenditures and savings back and forth and back again to make sure I'm staying on top of things. I think about the goals I haven't met and when I might start on starting them. I think about what to cook for supper, what returns I need to take to the mall, how much protein and carbs I've consumed, and of course, all of my deadlines for school and work. It gets a little crowded. So blogging about some events or thoughts allows me to release my grip a little bit and make some room.

Blogging also keeps me thinking about more important stuff. It makes me look at my life more closely than I would otherwise. It helps me examine relationships and decisions.

OK sure, but why does it need to be public?

The answer is I'm not sure. I think it adds in the element of a deadline, which keeps me motivated.

So the short answer is...I think it helps me wade through the mess.

Whoever you are reading this, I'm glad you do.

I would love it if you would tell me why you read or write blogs, either in the comments or in an e-mail to me.

chandrastauffer@cox.net