I read a quote today that I really liked about something called the “Human Condition”.

“Whatever our differences, our shared humanity is always a starting point for mutual understanding. We ponder the questions of life, chance, and will. We may come to different conclusions, but our compassion for each other begins with the understanding that everyone is engaged in the same difficult and glorious struggle for meaning.”

In itself, that quote has a lot of meaning that anyone can apply to their daily life. For this post, however, I’m going to look at this from a blogging perspective. If that quote were to be written specifically about being a blogger, this is how I imagine that it could read.

“No matter what our chosen niche is, our shared experiences as a blogger always provide a point for mutual understanding. We ponder how to get traffic, how to turn traffic into loyal readership, and why our blog isn’t as popular as it could be. We may come to different conclusions, and some of us may be granted more success than others, but our compassion for fellow bloggers begins with the understanding that everyone is on the same difficult and addictive path of blogging.”

I admit, in it’s blogging version it’s a lot less awe inspiring than the original quote, but hopefully it will make a lasting impression in your mind. All bloggers go through the same struggles - no matter if they are just starting out or if they have been well established for years.

Realize That You Aren’t Alone
No matter what your dilemma, someone else is either going through it with you or has gone through it in the past. Losing RSS subscribers? Thousands of people experience that on a daily basis. Do you have writers block? So do probably about 10,000 other bloggers at any given moment. Once you come to accept that the problems you are going through are not unique to you, it’s important to get help if you need it. On the other hand, remember that at one time you were probably confused about something related to blogging. If you see someone in need of help with their blog (especially if they are a newbie) go ahead and help them - they should be appreciative.

Your Blog’s Rate Of Success Is For A Reason
It’s very easy to get angry towards or jealous of other bloggers who seem to be receiving unprecedented success. Before you do, realize that they were at one time in the same place as you, and they had to work their way to the top. As I stated above, don’t let yourself get arrogant if you do make it to the top; remember that you were in their shoes not too long ago. NEVER let yourself believe that luck is the only factor in becoming popular. It takes work and it takes time.

Other People Might See Things Differently Than You
It can be frustrating when someone else takes a completely different view of blogging than you do. The important thing to do here is to respect each other’s opinions. You each have your own reasons for believing what you do, so be careful when talking down an opinion that you don’t hold. Remember that no matter what your opinion, there is someone out there who disagrees with you.

I hope that you take the message behind both versions of this quote to heart - it may make things a bit easier for you.