Pondering A Quandary: Is The Goal Of Setting Goals A Good Goal?

/ Ally Bean

from Gretchen Rubin

Welcome to my quandary of the month.

I took Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies Quiz [HERE] to learn what my personality tendency is. I am a QUESTIONER.

As much as I enjoy irony and want to say I question that result, I don’t. It sounds right to me. And it explains, at least to me, why lately I’ve been having a difficult time deciding what to write about here.

Does this happen to you, too?

It’s not like I’m not writing, totally bereft of words, wondering where Muse is hiding.  Nope, I’m writing oodles but I’m never satisfied with what I write. I have an idea, write a post, edit it into perfection, then question whether I want, or need, to talk about whatever I wrote.

Thus I delete many a post and try writing another one, hoping I’ll stumble on a different idea or point of view that seems worthy of publishing here.

Blogging has become one big old game of Ally Try Again.

And the thing is that after all these years of writing a personal blog my hesitation seems odd to me. I’m a free spirit [read my tagline] so wouldn’t it follow that I should just know | intuit | reason what to write about?

In the past that’s been the case.

However lately, much to my consternation, I’ve been floundering confounded by a strange tension in my mind about what to do next. And I don’t like feeling like this, it doesn’t seem like proactive me, yet here we are.

from Witchy Moms

So in an attempt to make sense of my behavior I decided to explore the concept of setting goals. Perhaps I need some? Could that be my issue?

I do tend to fly by the seat of my pants here.

Have you noticed?

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary a GOAL is: “the end toward which effort is directed : AIM.” Going a bit further, the dictionary suggests synonyms include but are not limited to: objective, intent, purpose.

In addition to the basic dictionary definition there’s always that business dude, Peter Drucker, and his old chestnut S.M.A.R.T.  This acronym stands for: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time bound.

It’s trite, but utilizing it could help me reverse my recent descent into indecision, I guess.

The thing is that the goals I’m contemplating, ones that’d resonate with me, wouldn’t be based on numbers because that’d be silly. I don’t need to focus on word count or publishing deadlines or reader engagement stats to feel like I have it going on here.

Instead I’m thinking about goals based on a personal sense of purpose. Something like a manifesto, but not so intense. It’d be a declaration of my raison d’être stated in the simplest way possible, perhaps embodied in a few NUDGE WORDS, maybe from the Growth or Adventure categories as explained HERE?

My mythical set of goals would be something I could use as motivation, a kind of thesis statement meant to keep me on the right track so that I’d not waste time pussyfooting around in my mind trying to decide what to write about.

Or maybe I’m overthinking this? That’s a possibility too. Following that line of reasoning I have to wonder if I should get over myself and simply show up, then write something, anything even.

Perhaps THAT is the goal after all– and I already know it.

Thoughts, anyone?

from Disappointing Affirmations

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

If you write a personal blog do you find yourself confused about what to write about next? Never? Sometimes? Always? How do you handle that?

Do you tend to set goals for everything you do? Some things you do? None of the things you do? How has that worked out for you?

Do you agree or disagree with the statement: a good enough something, whatever it might be, is better than waiting for a perfect nothing?

243 thoughts on “Pondering A Quandary: Is The Goal Of Setting Goals A Good Goal?”

  1. I’ve let goal-setting fall by the wayside lately. When setting a goal – that thing in the far distance – we can never know all the events, obstacles, twists and turns that will pop on the path to it. Sometimes those twists and turns lead us in a whole different direction. I’ve become more of a “What’s the next right thing today?” kind of person, with long-term objectives in a general space out there, but ready for revision.

    Liked by 4 people

    • Arlene, the question you ask yourself is perfect: “What’s the next right thing today?” That’s exactly what I need to ask myself, too. You’re right about the obstacles and twists. If nothing else about these last 3 years, I’ve learned all about going in a different direction than I planned making me doubt the value of goals. Thanks for the clarifying question.

      Liked by 3 people

  2. Questioning is good ~> The unexamined life is not worth living. Of course, the unlived life is not worth examining . . . 😀

    To answer your questions:

    (1) If you write a personal blog do you find yourself confused about what to write about next? Never? Sometimes? Always? How do you handle that?

    I write when I have something to say . . . NOT because I just want to say something. Lately, I haven’t felt very talkative.

    (2) Do you tend to set goals for everything you do? Some things you do? None of the things you do? How has that worked out for you?

    I used to set goals . . . when I was a kid. Now that I’m retired, I have a single goal ~ Be Happy. Of course, being happy often includes encouraging others to be happy. For that reason, I tend not to moan, whine, or complain on SLTW. I try to make posts neutral or uplifting.

    (3) Do you agree or disagree with the statement: a good enough something, whatever it might be, is better than waiting for a perfect nothing?

    I believe that we should do what we can with what we have where we are (thanks, Teddy Roosevelt). So, yes. Good enough is good enough. Nobody likes perfect people.

    Liked by 5 people

    • Nancy, I had an English prof in college who used to say “the unlived life is not worth examining.” I hadn’t thought of him in years. I liked the guy, so thanks for that memory. And good point.

      I know you approach your blog in a different way than I do here. You write when you want and always have something positive to say. I write because it’s Tuesday [or thereabouts]. Both are good approaches and clearly have brought us this far. We’ve both been at this forever. 🤓

      Laughing about perfect people, dislike of said. I’ve never even been close to perfect so that’s one judgement I’ve ducked. God bless the well-intentioned screw-ups!

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      • Your English professor’s quote is my reply in a nutshell. I remember how the pandemic shutdown made blogging more of a challenge because there simply wasn’t a lot going on, so there wasn’t as much worth sharing on WordPress. But things have definitely picked up again…

        To me, the best blog topics are small, mundane things that happen in life, often unexpectedly. The writer kicks off with, “So, the other day…”, and we’re entertained as we read because the same thing probably never happened to us. Also, I need a blogger to post regularly or I lose interest (no matter how good the writing), so your “Tuesdays” goal is legit. I don’t have to “like” every post to keep following.

        Finally, I store up topics for future use like a squirrel does acorns. Weird stuff comes across my news feed all the time, and the headline alone makes me think, “Hmmm, could make for a good post”. If Thursday approaches and I’m coming up blank, I grab an acorn. I’d rather channel my energy into the writing itself instead of the search for a topic.

        Liked by 2 people

        • Dave, I agree that the Pandemic Lockdown changed blogging, during it, now after it. However we adapt, don’t we?

          I agree with you about being aware of and analyzing the details of your life. I remember a few years back a commenter who was trying to diminish me told me I wrote about mundane things. I took it as a compliment, which flummoxed her. 😁

          I’m glad you understand about my needs to have a weekly goal. If I didn’t I’d fade away from blogland, so I insist on it even if it does occasionally stress me. I adore your idea of keeping a file of the weird stuff you read along the way. I find that I read articles online, then about a month later think that’d make for a good post. But don’t know where I read it, and the time-wasting hunt is on. I can do better with that, thanks for the idea.

          Liked by 1 person

    • I am with you, and I’ll add to your Socrates reference what Einstein suggested, that the important thing is to not stop asking questions.

      I think “good enough” is “good enough” in most cases. Maybe if we’re building a spaceship we need to reset “good enough” to much higher standards than if we’re building a skateboard, in each case, “good enough” might be different, but perfection might always be beyond our reach?

      Liked by 3 people

      • EW, well as a Questioner you can rest assured that I’m all about Einstein’s suggestion. “Keep asking WHY” was the mantra of my undergraduate English major program.

        You’re right that the definition of ‘good enough’ changes depending on what you’re doing. My ‘good enough’ approach to cooking would never make it at Le Cordon Bleu!

        Liked by 2 people

        • I had an instructor once who suggested repeatedly that one should ask “why” until one gets slapped 😳 I’m not sure he meant it as a hyperbole, but I took as such… 😁

          And while I like the idea of many dishes each the size of a quarter, I’m not sure either you or I would want to eat that way every day… In fact, I once read that short of state dinners, QEII used to eat “ordinary food” in “ordinary portions”…

          Liked by 2 people

  3. I’ve always liked the expression, “Perfect is the enemy of good.” I’m not saying it helps, and the fact that I’ve always liked it is the result of my having to remind myself of it. I like a general plan, but I don’t like goals. Goals can often guide us past the fun stuff. I think journeys should include side trips as well as destinations. I also think I like it when you’ve been “pussyfooting around in your mind” before you start writing. Of course, I’m guessing at that, but you seem better suited to flying by the seat of your pants than following an A-to-B-to-C kind of approach.

    The best part of this post (for me) is that I’ve come up with a one-liner for Linda’s challenge tomorrow. I’ll link back to this post. See, you accomplished something unplanned. Thanks!

    Liked by 2 people

  4. Hi. I too question what I am going to write often, and am guilty of deleting half written posts as I kinda lose track and don’t know where it’s heading. I use things/conversations from my daily life in my blog, but also write about access and inclusion, as well as other stuff.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Dorothy, I like your distinction between my gut versus my inner voice. You’re right that the two are different, yet I’ve kind of forgotten that. Will follow your advice. Thanks.

      Liked by 2 people

  6. Pretty heady stuff this morning! For me good enough is good enough. I can overwork things and then it doesn’t feel spontaneous (should any writing feel spontaneous?). Since retirement and especially with the pandemic, my interaction with people is a lot less that that was my fertile ground. I sometimes worry that my readers will not find my stuff as interesting as it once was but it is what it is. I still comes across “stupid people.”

    Liked by 4 people

    • Kate, I have the same situation about not interacting with people as often as I used to and that’s where I found the topics for many blog posts. I look back, see what I wrote, and realize I rather liked talking about people, foibles of said. BUT now I’m more on my own for topics of conversation here and that’s part of why I doubt myself. Certainly no one wants to read my gibberish about life, without a hook based on some “stupid person” I interacted with. Or maybe they do and I don’t realize it. 🤷‍♀️

      Liked by 3 people

  7. I think that you are overthinking it. I just enjoy hearing from you. It doesn’t have to be a big deal. Just share what’s on your mind at that moment. I think you might be making it too complicated.
    I am not a blogger, tho, so do what you want and I’ll be reading! 🙂

    Liked by 3 people

    • Ellen D., your assessment is encouraging. In the past that’s exactly what I’ve done, just rambled on about something. But for some reason this winter doubt has crept into my mind. You’re right that I’ve made this blogging experience too complicated. I need to get back to my focus on flapdoodle and twaddle. THAT’S what I excel at, for better or worse. Thanks for the words of advice.

      Liked by 1 person

      • People LIKE what you write, Ally. If they didn’t . . . they would scurry away without leaving comments.

        And you get a prodigious number of comments.
        On each and every post.

        Write on! 😀

        Liked by 2 people

        • Thanks, Nancy. It’s rewarding to know that I have a following of lovely + intelligent readers who are adept commenters. This makes me happy but it take a lot of time to keep up with the “prodigious number of comments.” That I never anticipated when I started blogging.

          Like

  8. Sometimes I’ll write a post and think, who is gonna care about this? And then… I’ll get lots of comments and engagement. So, I never know what posts are going to really resonate with my readers. I can guess, but I am often surprised. I try my best on everything I publish, but I know my best is not perfect. But it’s the best I can do at the time, and it is good enough. As far as goals go, I don’t bother. I’m retired now; I had enough of “goal setting” in my career. I sometimes make a to do list, but those are really just tasks I don’t want to forget. And each day I try to think of “what seeds I have planted.” I also think about what am I doing for others. This would be my personal sense of purpose, as you mentioned. Lastly, like the previous comment, I do want my blog to be uplifting and positive, so I do write with that in mind.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Betty, you raise a wonderful point. I’ve had the same experience where I’ll publish something I think might be drivel and I get inundated with conversation about it. You said exactly what I feel: “I try my best on everything I publish, but I know my best is not perfect.” I need to remember that as I keep this blog.

      I agree about the purpose of goal setting, it’s great for when you’re in a job but in other areas of life… maybe not necessary? I also agree with your idea that we’re planting seeds each day, so focus on that. I don’t know if I rise to uplifting and positive, leaning more toward truthful and kind [enough] but that’s okay too. Thanks for joining the conversation here. Nice to meet you.

      Liked by 2 people

  9. Ally Bean, you described my personal blog journey to a T! I fully and often do the *great idea-write it out-edit and edit-look at it all again-ask why-hit trash* process. Honestly I think that is the biggest reason I took up the challenge of writing with Wynne and Vicki. I needed a schedule and routine and a general overall concept to guide some sort of coherent process of writing. While I am not in charge over at HoTM maybe you should come write with us even though you were a bit unsure I believe. Although- if I am quite honest I do some trashing over there as well… but do manage to turn out one post per week. That is a huge accomplishment for this random blogger.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deb, I’m glad to know I’m not the only one who writes, edits, then deletes. I didn’t used to be like that, but lately, like this winter, that’s who I’ve become. I like to post once a week here so that’s my routine, my goal, I guess. I can understand how writing for HoTM has given you focus and a schedule. That’s what I’m thinking about by adopting a few nudge words as my guiding lights for writing here. As for writing over there, I have enough indecision going on writing for this blog, I can’t commit to being anything more. That’d be too much for me, but thanks.

      Liked by 2 people

      • I understand the no thanks Ally Bean. I can honestly say that the first thing to go when I feel it’s time will be the contributions to HoTM. There is nothing goal oriented about my personal blog and I like that, I just don’t like writing what I sometimes feel is incidental trivia that should be a Facebook post rather than out on WP. I don’t do FB for a reason and I’d like there to be a modicum of content in the posts I write here. I am on the “don’t overthink it” bandwagon. Do what feels correct, or don’t. I will read whatever you decide to write because it is the connection to you that matters rather that is flapdoodle, twaddle or that you simply want to say hello and leave it at that!

        Liked by 1 person

        • You are a wonderful person. I’ll take your advice to heart [no pun intended]. I appreciate your support. It’s not like writing a blog is my lifeblood, but I do want to do it as well as I can– and not bore anyone in the process. I’m not on FB for the reason you mention. When I was there years ago it seemed inane. In blogland there’s some depth which appeals to me, an introvert, so here I stay.

          Liked by 1 person

  10. No plan, no goals here for me, except to enjoy. This is a hobby, so it needs to be fun and not like work, where I have lists and plans and goals. I always have something to say, and usually it’s incredibly trivial! My advice is to write whatever pops into your head and let it flow…

    Liked by 3 people

    • Paula, I’m lukewarm to the concept of goals in general and you make an excellent point. I’ve done well just being in the moment and blathering on about something, so just do that again and again. I don’t know how or why I’ve gotten confused about what to say here, but I admit I have.

      Liked by 3 people

      • It could be that you post infrequently. If I only posted once a week, I imagine I might think each post needed to be excellent. But since I post multiple times per day, I’m mostly relaxed about their meaninglessness 😀

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        • HA! Oh you make a good point, do more, worry less. I used to, pre-pandemic, post a couple of times a week, but once we went into lockdown I shifted to making this blog a weekly thing. So I’d have some structure in my life. Now, however, I might not need that structure…

          Liked by 3 people

  11. When I first started blogging, I had, or thought I had, a lot to say and that it would be easy. These days, I seem to have less and less to say. Sometimes I have difficulty coming up with a topic so I wait until one finds me. I have never scheduled my blogs because that would make them feel like work. Some are better and more interesting or funny than others. Some are a good bitch session. Others would probably be considering boring to all but me. Whatever happens happens. As far as goals go, my goals are not really related to blogging but may become the subject of one eventually.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Jenn, I felt the same way when I started blogging, so much to say. However at this point I feel like I’ve said it all, at least once if not twice, so I toss out ideas because I don’t want to repeat myself. BUT maybe I should repeat myself to see who I’ve morphed into now. I take your point about how not everything I write will be interesting or funny to other people, and that’s okay.

      From the beginning I’ve had a day-of-the-week schedule for this blog, usually posting on Tuesday, maybe more. I know myself well enough to know that if I didn’t tell me that I’d show up on a certain day, or days, I’d never write a thing. I need that motivation.

      Liked by 1 person

  12. What an interesting conundrum! And I love the mythical goal statement you included. I always write to process something – and that’s essentially what you’ve done here. Writing about what to write perhaps is the perfect way to work it out. Maybe? Whatever it is you discover, I’ll just say for what seems like the 100th time, you are always so utterly engaging and delightful no matter what you choose to write about!

    Liked by 1 person

  13. You know what I find interesting and maddening? It’s the smarter, more talented folks who second guess themselves into not speaking or writing–or spending a ton of time rewriting. Fools and idiots will say/ tweet/ write whatever comes into their heads without any hesitation, research, or revision. And they will think it’s brilliant.

    Liked by 3 people

    • AutumnAshbough, YOU’VE MADE MY DAY! I’m laughing here at your astute observation– and I’m not just saying that because my behavior puts me into your talented folks category! 🤓

      Liked by 2 people

  14. Loved this peek into the Ally head/heart. I hear you…and the question you raise, you ‘questioner’ you, is one I wrestle with, too. Is my writing worthy? A flap-doodle-y ramble? I prefer to write when I’m inspired by something in particular, rather than honor a compulsion/obligation to just pump something out. However your ruminating lands, I hope you remember we love what you write because of the authenticity and “Ally-ness” that I believe is natural. It just IS. xo! 😘

    Liked by 2 people

    • Victoria, thanks for your kind thoughts and encouraging ideas. I don’t know why over this last winter I’ve gotten the yips about posting here, but I have. I stick to a weekly blogging commitment because I need to *force* myself to show up here. I am a sloth by nature. If I didn’t plan to show up, I might take two years to write another post. It’d be a good post, but who’d be here to read it by then?!! 😉

      Liked by 1 person

  15. I spent my career leading organizations through strategic planning—setting goals and then determining how to achieve them, and executing those plans. When I first retired, I continued to do that for my personal life. It became tiresome and I realized I wasn’t living in the present, but still planning for some ideal future. I’ve tried—not always successfully—to focus more on the present and process: what matters now and what can I do that is joyful. Instead of focusing so much on outcome, I try to think more about process, play, and even learning. Surprisingly, outcome often follows, and it’s richer than what I might have planned. I don’t think I described that well, Ally, but I think at a certain stage of life, goal-setting can limit us, whereas playfulness and openness can open new vistas. For what it’s worth….
    I really like Arlene’s question above. Another that often works is: “What do I need now?”

    Liked by 2 people

    • Donna, you make perfect sense to me. I appreciate your point of view. When working I had to have plans and goals strategies, too. It was wrapped into the jobs, but now I have to wonder, thanks to your insight, why I’m still even fussing around with such things. I need to focus on the process, enjoy it for all it’s worth, and let the rest go. I like to play, with words, with ideas, with board games, with life. I’ll try living more in the moment and see where it takes me. It’s not like I have to write a perfect post each time, I’m very clear on that, so why not loosen up a bit. Got it, thanks.

      Liked by 1 person

  16. I’m sick of setting goals, my world for the last year in the run up to book pub. And I can relate to this: “a strange tension in my mind about what to do next.”

    Today I have low expectations for myself; it actually feels good to have few goals. I may even skip my Pilates class. I’ll light a candle and ponder how to do nothing and be okay with it.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Marian, you’re an inspiration. I like your plan for the day and it makes good sense to me. I’ve lived most of my life with an established set of goals dragging me forward, but now I think I’ll follow your lead and just let it flow. The candle is a nice touch.

      Liked by 1 person

  17. This was such a cool post, and I really needed this! It makes me a little bit sad to think of the blog posts you’ve discarded – yet, I’ve done the same thing.

    To answer your questions:

    1. I do write a blog – I enjoy writing about the things I’m sewing and arts & crafts projects. A hobby blog gives me lots of things to write about. In fact, if I didn’t write about my hobbies, I probably wouldn’t blog at all.

    2. I don’t enjoy goals – and when I took the quiz, I found out that I’m a “rebel”! Ah ha! That explains so much! I set a New Year’s goal of doing a certain weekly project, and I’ve become MISERABLE doing it.

    3. I 100% agree with the statement. Perfection is poison to me.

    Thank you for this opportunity to reflect! It helped me a lot!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Michelle, thanks for reading along on this post [that I managed to post] and commenting. I can understand how having a blog dedicated to a hobby would by its nature provide a source of obvious things to write about. That makes sense.

      I’m with you about goals. I want to love them, kind of feel like I should state them and feel empowered by them, but they drag me down. In fact I was surprised I wasn’t a Rebel.

      Yep the whole idea of perfection is a red herring. Some of us [me] bought into it early on, but eventually came to realize it is a ruse designed to squash us [me]. Glad this post resonated with you.

      Liked by 1 person

  18. I’ve never been much of a goal-setter, and as a muller and an introvert, I’ve always just sat with things until they feel right. (Although in my professional life as an aviation CEO I have to live and work in ways that run counter to what I’ve just stated.) My blog started with writing about narcissism, but once I was finished with that topic, I moved on to photography, which I really enjoy.

    I think people very much like your insights and humour demonstrated in your posts, so if you’re feeling a bit mentally itchy, you perhaps need to let that sensation unfold itself. Explore it as it opens. Goal-setting and structure are good things, but not always. Maybe this is one of those times. This is just me, though. Good luck, Ally. 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

    • Lynette, you raise a good point. Goals in a work setting are a different animal than goals in personal life. And writing a blog like this one is part of my personal life. I’m fascinated by your blog’s evolution, btw. You’ve found your happy now and it is wonderful for you, for us.

      Your reasoning about my situation makes sense: I could just let the insights and the humor unfold in my mind, then scribble them onto virtual paper here. I sometimes find that if I walk away from blogging for a day or a week I come back refreshed, but this winter I’ve been not doing much so my focus has been more on blogging than usual. Maybe with spring I’ll snap out of this indecisive mode and get my groove back. 🤞🏻

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  19. We all fall short on inspiration at one point or another. I rely on the numerous prompts hosted by many thoughtful people in blogosphere. I then give it my own twist. Sometimes, something would nudge me to write a post/ poem spontaneously.

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  20. Blogging, for me, is my ‘Codex Vitae’. I wrote a blog post about it, but the short version is ‘the capture of all you’ve learned throughout your life’.
    I took Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies Quiz and I’m a Rebel which fits with my answers to your questions: I write for myself, not for what I think others expect; I don’t think in terms of goals – I just finish whatever I start… eventually; perfection is impossible (for me) because what might seem perfect today will not seem perfect at some future date.

    Of course, what works for rebels might not work for other tendencies. For example, you encourage comments by saying “Cool kids leave comments. Be a cool kid.” That value judgement and imperative, while fine in a personal blog, is a type of wording that in other settings might not be well received by rebels but would be fine for Upholders (perhaps)!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Margy, I was surprised that I wasn’t a rebel, but the quiz doesn’t lie! I guess that just goes to show I am a questioner after all. 😉

      I like your ‘Codex Vitae’ concept and have adhered to it here even if I didn’t realize I was doing that. My personal writing prompt for this blog is “what up, buttercup?” I don’t know that I write for what others expect though. I just show up and try to be me, but maybe that is what others expect? I’ll think on that. 🤔

      Interesting take on my comment prompt. I think of it as the opposite. I figure Questioners + Rebels are cool kids already by nature, so they’re going to jump right in with that invitation. While Upholders + Obligers are out there doing what is expected of them, which is avoiding us Cool Kids who don’t always follow the rules.

      Liked by 1 person

  21. Ally, I sometimes have a long time between posts, but it is not because I’m confused as to what to write. When I come up with an idea or ideas, I’ll let them marinate for a couple of days just to make sure they are something I’m passionate about committing to the blogosphere. If it turns out I just don’t have the “juice” to write it up, I’ll then wait upon the next idea or ideas to come to me, and then do that “passion check” again. I don’t have any posting goals or objectives – if I only post once or twice a month that’s fine with me. FYI goals were often a “bad word” in my work career because some places I worked at would actually give you your goals instead of mutually deciding what to be evaluated on and work towards. Their use of the word goals really translated to job duties! I guess since I like to wait for the perfect subject or subjects that I want to write about, that makes me ok with a perfect nothing?

    Liked by 1 person

    • Bruce, I like your writing process and how it leads to writing about topics with a passion. Obviously this works well for you. I often have half-finished ideas floating around in files, but I don’t think I’m passionate enough about much of anything so if I waited for passion to find me, I’d never write a thing.

      I know you’re right about the word GOAL. For me personal goals have been useful in the past, but maybe no longer. When it comes to work goals, like sales goals, they can have a bad vibe to them, depending. I always took them with a grain of salt. Like you said the word is often translated into job duties instead of professional achievements.

      Liked by 1 person

  22. I took the quiz only to learn that I am an upholder. That doesn’t seem to fit. Actually Ally, The four categories seem too narrow. In my opinion (for what thats worth) there should be a few more categories. But hey, what do I know?

    Writing. My love, my joy and my bane. I spend more time editing than I do writing, and at the end of the day, I usually trash my work and start over. My journaling and memoirs are another story. I write for a while or a time, do a quick edit and then save and close it out until another writing session. Of course the latter are not meant for general consumption.

    Have a good day friend.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Johnny, I hear you about the quiz categories. I’m somewhere between a Questioner and a Rebel, but there’s no easy way to say that. Still maybe the quiz is meant to be a catalyst for self-inquiry… which it has done for me.

      I like to write, and like you I edit more than I write. In some ways that’s where the fun is, making each word right, musing on how to say things better. If nothing else keeping this personal blog has given me what I need to keep my brain clicking.

      Like

  23. Thanks for the quiz link Ally, turns out I’m an Obliger (no big surprise to me) and your result seems to find well also 🙂

    I’m also a Life Coach who has issues with goals. There, I’ve said it out loud. I particularly have trouble with SMART goals as, like you, I’m not driven by stats but by purpose and fulfillment.

    In terms of writing, I go through periods when I write lengthy posts and let them stew for a bit, before editing heavily or binning them, as I’m not sure whether I’m OK with posting them. It may be that they’re personal, or political, or anything which doesn’t chime with what I want my blog to be about. Not that I’ve made any particular statement or specific decision about what I want my blog to be about either… so it’s all a bit moot. I just like writing, and I like engaging, so I’ll keep on trying to work it out.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Deb, I want to like goals that involve numbers but I find them off-putting, more contrived than realistic. I mean, I sometime have achieved good things with the SMART concept, but not often. It seems limiting rather than empowering.

      I see you do the same thing that I do about deciding what to post. I rarely post anything I’m hesitant to say; I live by a “when in doubt, don’t” philosophy about blogging. This means that in reality, like you said, any idea that “doesn’t chime with what I want my blog to be about” is deleted.

      Liked by 1 person

  24. Ally, I don’t tend to have blogging goals. Maybe I should. But currently I don’t, because goals feel too much like work. Writing a blog post is relaxing and unscheduled. I tend to write on subjects that interest me or that show what I’m currently dealing with. For example, the plagiarism post came out of having to speak on the subject at a writer conference that same week. Like you, I sometimes delete posts and start new ones because the ones I wind up completing are the ones that resonate more with where I’m at.

    I have goals for book writing. But they are pretty loose. I don’t have a deadline for manuscripts I’m currently writing. Some authors have daily page counts and word counts. I might get to that point. But I’m not there now.

    I didn’t take the quiz, because I’m naturally a rebel. 😊

    Liked by 1 person

    • L. Marie, in truth I’m surprised I didn’t rate as a Rebel. Heaven knows this blog, its genesis and continuation, has been about me, a Free Spirit, doing my thing.

      I hear ‘ya about your lack of blogging goals. I don’t really have any either other than to show up weekly. I’m encouraged to know that you, too, write something then shuck it for something better. That’s how I’ve been all winter.

      I adore the idea of having loose goals. I’ve never entertained that idea, always thinking of goals as strict stubborn things intending to force me into compliance. I could groove on loose goals, perhaps stated as nudge words.

      Liked by 1 person

  25. I write in my blog every day, but I have a prompt word that gives me some guidance about what to write about. Sometimes, though, even that guide word is nothing more than an excuse for me to start typing. I think personal blogging is quite personal and if it works for you to set a goal, that’s great. But if it doesn’t work for you or motivate you, then don’t do it. I’m an Upholder, not a Questioner, and goals work really well for me, but if they’re not your thing, go with your own flow.

    Liked by 1 person

    • NGS, well said. I take your point and agree 100%. I know that goals, the formal kind based on SMART, don’t do much for me, but I am wondering about finding a few nudge words to call my own. I’m grateful that Muse hasn’t deserted me, just baffled where Confidence has wandered off to?

      Like

  26. I’m an Obliger, and I was impressed at how well the category fit. I have to say, however, that I would have been Someone Different years ago.

    On to some of your questions:

    If you write a personal blog do you find yourself confused about what to write about next?
    *Often. But I’d say even when I do know what I want to write about, I often procrastinate because I know once I start, it’s an hours-long commitment, thanks to my perfectionism. Writing is huge to me, and I can’t be casual about it in any way. That’s my Head Trash.

    Do you tend to set goals for everything you do? Some things you do? None of the things you do? How has that worked out for you?
    *I set goals most often to create Good Habits: daily walking for X number of miles; flossing; meditating and deep breathing for at least 5-10 minutes a day–like that. Goals for my blog writing do NOT work out, ever, unless I vow to post every single day of a month.

    Do you agree or disagree with the statement: a good enough something, whatever it might be, is better than waiting for a perfect nothing?
    *I wish I did; I truly, truly do. I would love to stop being so persnickety about so many things. It’s tiresome and frustrating. I work at it all the time. I think this is a personal decision.

    For some people, Goals are like a threat–something looming or hanging over their head. I get that. After all, if you don’t reach it, Failure is the result. Who wants to deal with that?

    Liked by 1 person

    • nance, I’m pleased to know you’re an Obliger and that it fits you. When the results of this quiz hit, they really do.

      You said writing is “an hours-long commitment” and it’s the same for me. That’s why deleting all that I do means I’m behind schedule, if I even have one, for publishing here and then I feel stressed. In my case it’s not perfectionism that slows me down, it’s wanting to keep my ideas current and relevant. If it’s been said before in this blog, or somewhere else, I hesitate to talk about it again.

      I understand your need for perfectionism. Among people who are conscientious by nature, I think it afflicts us all to some degree. In most areas of my life I’ve gotten over it, but not all. And yes, I find Goals, especially the SMART ones, more like veiled threats than empowering Ideals. But maybe a few nudge words could be helpful?

      Like

  27. When it comes to blogging you know I keep it light and try not to overthink things. I used to write about seriously personal topics on another site and got burned… so now I keep it vague. And hopefully fun.
    😉

    Liked by 1 person

  28. Methinks you are overthinking this. And I’m starting to think the word GOAL is a four-letter word… not just because it uses four letters, either. How about we determine a goal as a sort of directional guideline that you want to take, knowing full well there will be things along the way that will capture our attention and pull us away. Maybe towards a new destination. When fixated on a goal, I don’t remember who said it above in the comments, we can lose sight of the joys along the way. I’m all about the joys.

    You are way more organised that I will ever be. I’ve never had a set schedule for posting and there are times where I have sat and wanted to write something and then realised I had nothing of worth (in my humble opinion) to share. It’s weird this wanting to write. That’s usually when I will pick up a challenge to give me a boost. (I used to only do challenges and THAT was a chore. Good gawd, all that reading and participating and commenting on the other participants’ works? Just can’t do it anymore. Not on the regular!) And I’m definitely a pantser when it comes to writing (most times).

    I think that when we are authentic, it shines through – you are definitely authentic. So don’t be fretting so much. You’ve taken the littlest subject and pulled us all in!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Dale, you’re encouraging to the nth degree and I appreciate that. I like your revised definition of a goal: “as a sort of directional guideline that you want to take, knowing full well there will be things along the way that will capture our attention and pull us away.” YES, that’s perfect. I can go with that.

      I decided when I started blogging that I’d have a day of the week that’d be mine. I’m a woman, who at one time was very busy but now is less so, and who needs that little bit of structure in my blogging efforts. After that it’s anyone’s guess what I’ll do here. And I’m 100% with you about NOT doing challenges anymore. You said it, they’re a chore that verges on work. I stopped with them a few years ago, during the pandemic actually.

      Thanks for the compliment. I attempt to be authentic with all that I say [and do], but lately I’ve felt confused in a way that is new to me. Perhaps it’ll pass, having now talked about it here.

      Liked by 1 person

      • I hate being held to anything. And I did the test and I’m half-pissed that I fall in the “Obliger” category. I thought I was past that by now. Got more work to do, apparently.

        And I completely respect that. We do what works for us. The pandemic caused a flurry of posts from people who used to post 1-2-3 per week. Suddenly, they had nothing better to do (with varying results, needless to say). I still do a challenge now and again – but I am a wicked woman in that I don’t link up to said challenge so I have zero obligation to read others as they have none to read me. I’m very good with that… Though the hosts of the challenges don’t appreciate it. Too bad.)

        You are authentic. It comes out in your writing. And I think it’s normal to go through shifts where we feel the need to readjust. I am confident you will find your way.

        Liked by 1 person

        • Hmmm, you are an Obliger? You don’t seem like one, but there you go. Imagine, an online quiz that isn’t entirely accurate. GO FIGURE.

          I noticed the increase in blog posts during the pandemic lockdown phase, too. Some were brilliant, some not so much. I’ve never done a challenge and not hooked up like I was supposed to. Right there with that admission I’d say you’re not an Obliger. Yes I question your result. 🙄

          I do think that in reality I’m readjusting my expectations of who I am as a blogger and that’s why I’ve had a time of it deciding what to write about. Once I feel back in my groove, this quandary will be moot.

          Liked by 1 person

          • Right? It’s all wrong. I WAS more so before… Hmmm… must be some residue 😉 These being perfectly accurate 😀

            Yeah. Peeps were really looking for something to do. I did so diligently for years. I’m pretty done with the whole thing. Like… I have a post I want to write inspired by yesterday’s prompt. I might still write it today (when I do so later, there is less guilt with the no hook up 🤭🤫

            Also, let us remember that there are lulls and dips in pretty much anything we do.

            Liked by 1 person

  29. Oh my gosh, everyone here in the comments has a wise quote to share! I don’t. But I agree, the pandemic made it more difficult to come up with anything interesting to write about. I don’t push myself to write – hey, I do have a line after all! Quality over quantity! 😅 Not exactly original but I believe in it. Great post, Ally!

    Liked by 1 person

    • The Snow Melts Somewhere, I agree that the commenters here are a wise braintrust. They always come through with insights. You’re right about the pandemic. I was looking back to what I wrote pre-pandemic and the ideas flowed, but now I feel less engaged with the world so I have less to say I guess. Quality over quantity is good advice. Thanks.

      Liked by 1 person

  30. First off, I’m an obliger, which doesn’t surprise me at all. Second, I definitely write more when I have a goal, like the upcoming A to Z. I do struggle with the notion that no one is really interested in my little drivel. You, on the other hand, always have some very thought provoking/entertaining posts. Keep going!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Janet, I can see how you’re an Obliger. That makes sense to me. You have a positive relationship with goals so you’ll do great with the A to Z challenge again this year. The thing is I don’t sit down to be funny or thought provoking, but that’s what happens. Thanks for the encouragement.

      Liked by 1 person

  31. 1) I’m not usually confused about what to write next; I usually just take it as it comes. Generally speaking, there’s always something mundane in my life that I don’t mind writing about. And, if all else fails, there are books to discuss. Or lipstick!

    2) I set kind of “soft” goals. Like I have a goal of blogging once per week, I have a goal of learning a new piano piece or something like that. When it comes to things like fitness I don’t have specific goals as regards RESULTS, I just have goals as to do something. Like, a Peloton ride but without thinking of the outcome, if that makes sense.

    3) Good enough is good enough! Done is better than not done, in my opinion. Sometimes it’s just a matter of doing something, and it doesn’t have to be perfect.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Nicole, you’ve a wise approach to life. I hope to become less confused about what topics to write about– by writing about my confusion. The thing is I’ve been at this a long time and sometimes I feel like I’m repeating myself instead of talking about something fresh. Like lipstick! 💄

      I like your concept of soft goals. That’s something that makes sense to me. I show up here weekly, I go for walks daily, I eat healthy. All things, soft goals, that are about controlling the process, being consistent, and not focusing on the results.

      I’ve evolved [devolved?] into someone who is less uptight about perfection. That’s been a surprise to me about aging. I like good enough more than I used to.

      Like

  32. When I was a salaried employee I was an infamous goal setter but for my own writing, no. My publisher (now defunct) used to push us to turn out books but that really doesn’t result in a quality product — I learnt the painful, painful way!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Jan, you raise a good point about how goals in the workplace are different than goals in your personal life. I wonder if some of us are just goal-adverse so that they don’t land with us. I do tend to prefer quality.

      Like

  33. I took the quiz and came out as a questioner. I also write a personal blog and once in awhile struggle for ideas. I follow “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron and my blog ideas usually evolve from my morning pages. If I come up with several ideas in the morning, I’ll write them in advance and schedule them throughout the week.

    Liked by 1 person

  34. The goal of my blog has been to review every book I read (“review” changing w the seasons of life) and to fill in empty days with stuff I’m interested in.

    My problem usually isn’t a loss for words but not being as clever as I think I am. Thankfully, Mrs B is there to help remind me. Keeps me humble 😉

    I will take a mediocre something any day over not getting something. I prefer quantity over quality…

    Liked by 1 person

  35. Of course I have goals in my life, but they tend to sort themselves into a kind of ever-changing hierarchy. At work, my primary goal might be finishing Boat A before Friday. Then, it begins to rain, and I can’t work. So, my new goal is getting the laundry done while I’m waiting for the rain to stop. While I’m doing the laundry, I get a call from Boat B, asking if I can come over and answer a question. My new goal? Getting to Boat B and back home in time to get the laundry in the dryer. And so on: and on and on and on.

    On the other hand, my work taught me the Rule of Good Enough. There is no perfect coat of varnish. If I manage to avoid the rain, the pollen shows up. If there’s no wind and no pollen, the yard crew from hell decides to mow right next to my project. Once they’re done, and I’ve put on a nice fresh coat of varnish, some insect or other will decide to swarm. You can’t make a living seeking perfection. I promise my customers I’ll try for 100%, but probably will hit only 95-98%. I’ve yet to find one who doesn’t think that’s just fine.

    As for blogging? I have no real goals, except to provide the best writing or best photography I’m capable of. Others may do better, but I’ll do the best I can. As for topics — on both blogs, I have 360 ‘drafts’ in my files right now. The photo and poem I just published have been lurking around for a while: the photo since 2016, and the poem for at least that long. As I like to say, I take the Paul Masson approach to it all: I serve no rhyme (or anything else) until its time!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Linda, your ever-changing goals are what I suspect we all do. I’m forever waiting on something somewhere that holds me up from doing what I want to do, so down the to-do list I go. Next. I’d never thought about the difficulties implicit in varnishing boats, yet I can instantly understand your situation. I like your pragmatic approach: “You can’t make a living seeking perfection.”

      I’m amazed by the number of drafts you have at your disposal. I try to keep mine around 10. Any more than that I feel frazzled. I’d forgotten about the Paul Masson commercials. Your adaptation is perfectly in keeping with your approach to blogging. We all find our ways, don’t we?

      Liked by 1 person

  36. I took the quiz and came out as an Upholder.

    I have lots of ideas for blog posts. My problem is that most of the ideas take time to research, find photos, etc. and I tend to just throw posts together at the last minute.

    I haven’t set a goal since I was a student. If I want to do something, I just do it.🤷‍♀️ For instance, I’m focused on nutrition and exercise, but I’m not going to put myself in a box and say I’m going to cut carbs to 100/day or exercise x minutes/week. I just do the best I can each day and consider that good enough because it’s improvement.

    Something is always better than nothing in my book.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Bijoux, excellent point about the time it takes to research and find photos that support your topic. I spend a lot of time doing that, too.

      You’re part of the anti-goal crowd! Quite a few people here are and I may be part of that crowd considering how reluctant I am to set specific goals. I do the same thing as you. I work toward being healthy but don’t sweat the details.

      Yes I’ve come to the good enough portion of my life. Once upon a time I was a fussy about everything, but no more. Now it’s more about me actually showing up rather than being perfect.

      Like

  37. Team Questioner here. I don’t really have any blogging goals, except that I want to post a few times each month. I could post more if I wasn’t always questioning the relevance of what I write. I have a whole bunch of drafts that never were posted because, after reading what I wrote, I said “what’s the point?” or “who cares” or “why do I think I’m the expert?’ or some such personal pushback.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Janis, another Questioner and aren’t we just the best? 😉 Your assessment and thinking about your drafts is EXACTLY what I find myself saying, too. If I can’t figure out why I’d care about what I wrote, I can’t expect someone else to think it’s important. So I hit delete.

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  38. I am also a Questioner in Gretchen Rubin’s personality framework.

    If you write a personal blog do you find yourself confused about what to write about next? Never? Sometimes? Always? How do you handle that?
    – I only started writing a blog about 2 years ago and I feel like I always have too much to say and too little time, but maybe (hopefully for readers?!) that will fade as time passes?

    Do you tend to set goals for everything you do? Some things you do? None of the things you do? How has that worked out for you?
    – I’m definitely a goal-setter, but I don’t necessarily label everything as a “goal”. Everything (and I mean everything) makes it on a list in my house.

    Do you agree or disagree with the statement: a good enough something, whatever it might be, is better than waiting for a perfect nothing?
    – In principle, yes. But in actuality, it does often wilt my soul a bit when I know I can’t do/experience/produce something that is perfect. I know intellectually this isn’t possible or even desirable…but deep down a part of me always craves perfect, or whatever figment of “perfect” my mind has conjured up. I’m getting better at ignoring that voice and just marching ahead and doing my best, but it’s a tricky dynamic for my particular personality type.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Elisabeth, hello fellow Questioner. Nice to know ‘ya!

      When I started blogging I was never at a loss for topics, so I understand your answer. In some ways I think that after you’ve explored a topic a few times, like I have at this point, ennui sets in and that’s why I’m feeling insecure about what to post.

      Good point about the word goal. I do many things, but don’t call them goals. Action items, maybe?

      I used to be a perfectionist so I understand your answer. You know everything isn’t perfect, can’t be perfect, but the dream lives on. I’m glad you’re getting better at marching ahead. That’s progress.

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  39. It’s funny that you say you have things to write about but don’t want to write about anything….or something along those lines. Me too. 

    When I took the quiz and discovered that I am an Obliger, I laughed. “You can count on me, and I’m counting on you to count on me.” 

    I’ve had your Seven Existential Questions post written for WEEKS and it’s still sitting in my unpublished posts folder alongside 20 others. Maybe you (the questioner) and me (the obliger) should join our forces for good. Or evil. I’m down for either. 🤣

    Liked by 1 person

  40. I can certainly relate to questioning whether something I’ve written is worthy of publication. At times I look at my blog and think does anyone care about this stuff other than me? Once I get a thought out in writing, do I even care about it? Sometimes…sometimes not. I will say that those of your posts that make it to publication always entertain.

    As far as goals, I have spent much of my life setting and pursuing goals. I’ve spent some time of late setting goal setting aside and focusing on being more in the moment, but I am feeling the pull to be working towards something again.

    I definitely agree that a good enough something is better than a perfect nothing.

    Good luck finding resolution to your quandry!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Christie, your statement “Once I get a thought out in writing, do I even care about it?” resonates with me. That’s what happens with me, too. I write then think *meh* not worth hitting publish.

      I’ve had goals in my life and achieved some of them, but when it comes to blogging I’ve never had an aim. I fly by the seat of the pants which works, until I get filled with doubt and wonder if I need a goal to work toward.

      Well other than my showing up weekly goal. Which I do, more or less.

      Like

  41. Apparently I’m an obliger. I think that’s because I’m still doing a lot of mom related stuff, serve and assist is my thing, my role at the moment.

    I feel like I have a lot of things to blog about. Maybe I should keep more bottled up, but I also feel like sharing things that are happening to me might be relatable to other people. It also tends to serve as an outlet for me. There are things I blog about that day to day me doesn’t get to reveal.

    I start lists of things I want to share, and there just aren’t enough hours in the day to write them. I end up writing several posts at a time, because I like to work ahead. Then if something else happens, something timely – I might post something current and push the other to the side. I do sometimes write something and then I go back and re-read it and I wonder if I should bother, but I usually just roll with it. For me it comes down to time.

    I do not set goals for myself – but I do make lists. Not sure if my to do lists count as goals. My to do list keep me on task which is where I want to be.

    To me, it depends on the thing. The project I just did for Mini and her friends – well, that I was a perfectionist about. Other things? I might just be glad to have it done and let myself off the hook. I do like to tell my kids that it’s important to do something right the first time.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Ernie, I can see you as an Obliger. Sure, makes sense. You have more interaction with people and I’d guess that’d contribute to your feeling that you have a lot to say. For someone like you who pays attention to people, then writing about them is ezpz. You have a catalyst all the time.

      I don’t know if a to-do list is an example of goal-setting or not. I don’t think of them that way, but the definition of a goal can mean just about anything anyone wants it to mean. Some commenters consider a to-do list a place for goals, others do not. I think of a to-do list as a place for action items, but that may just be semantics.

      I agree about the need for perfectionism in only certain specific situations. When it comes to blogging good enough works for me– which is saying something from a former perfectionist.

      Like

  42. My erratic blogging “schedule” started far before the pandemic – but, as you said, that made it worse. Maybe I should follow your lead and make a point to show up on a specific day (or month!)

    I also have crafted posts only to let them languish and then delete without ever posting because even I had lost the thread of what I was trying to convey.

    I think you do a very good job at showing up and I think whatever you publish will be a well thought out and well written piece; even if you were to write about a ridiculously mundane topic. The “Ally-ness” will always shine through and I think that’s why people read.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Gigi, thanks you for the compliment. I try to not waste anyone’s time with what I write but I also want to be true to myself. That’s why I decided early on to make myself show up here on a certain day [or thereabout] so I’d actually show up here.

      I like your idea that your posts are languishing. I understand the lost thread aspect of that. I’ll go back and read something, then wonder what I was trying to say. I hit delete and that answers that.

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  43. You are definitely a questioner; that’s reflected on your blog and is partly why you have so many comments. We’re all eager to answer your questions! I think a perfect nothing is still nothing; so many goals are ruined by perfectionism. I set goals in certain things but not for blogging. I am free-wheeling in that endeavor and write when and what I want. Off to take the test. You know I’m a sucker for those!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Margaret, I didn’t think about how I ask questions here which indicates I’m a Questioner. Great insight into me. I agree that nothing is nothing, perfect or not. I used to be a perfectionist but have gotten over myself. I call that aging gracefully. I can’t wait to learn which tendency is your tendency.

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  44. I’m an Upholder and it does fit. “Discipline is my freedom.”
    Upholders respond readily to outer and inner expectations. They want to know what’s expected of them, and to meet those expectations. They thrive with routines but may struggle with last-minute changes or when the rules are unclear.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Margaret, yep, you’re an Upholder. I can see that about you. What a description: discipline is freedom! I know that you’re good with routine so this makes sense. Nothing to question about it. 😉

      Like

    • Donna, you are encouraging and flatter me. Thank you. I don’t know how I got the yips about writing here after all this time, but I did. I’m beginning to wonder if this is a symptom of cabin fever and once spring is truly here, I’ll get my bounce back.

      Liked by 1 person

    • KDKH, it’s weird, isn’t it? I write something, then go *meh* when I see my idea written. Once upon a time I didn’t worry, but now I’m indecisive. Hoping that as spring happens I’ll get my groove back.

      Liked by 1 person

  48. I’m down with that last statement. Sort of like “don’t let perfect get in the way of good enough.” Maybe you should resurrect some of those blogs you set aside for one reason or another and see if they might resonate with people.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Eilene, good idea. I do have a few drafts that I started then wandered away from. It’s great being a free spirit able to write about anything here, but it’s also a curse to not have a particular theme for what I write about.

      Liked by 1 person

  49. Ally, I think you’re overthinking it…and possibly your own worst critic? All your posts are good/interesting/entertaining no matter what you are writing about. I never have a hard time coming up with topics, just time to write about them…..but then I’ve only been blogging for 5 years. I tend not to be a goal-setter, esp. now that I’m retired.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Joni, I suspect you’re right. I am overthinking things and this winter I’ve felt more indecisive: stuck at home, stuck in my head. I’m not much for goals either. And after talking with everyone in the comments I’m even less inclined to believe in the power of goals.

      Liked by 1 person

  50. Pingback: Are We There Yet?—1LinerWeds – No Facilities

  51. As a person who lacks ambition, in general, I’m allergic to goals and am content to simply enjoy the ride and see where the road takes me. I look at blogging as a kind of show-and-tell session and am happy to share whatever is holding my interest on any given day. Letting the days unfold as they will keeps me sane. It’s better than trying to force something to happen. I definitely agree that a good enough something is better than waiting for a perfect nothing.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Barbara, I’m like you. The older I get the less I want any goals, partially because I associate them with work, partially because I’m too mellow to care about them anymore. I LOVE YOUR DESCRIPTION OF BLOGGING: “I look at blogging as a kind of show-and-tell session and am happy to share whatever is holding my interest on any given day.” That’s perfect and the way I’m going to think about it in the future. Thanks.

      Liked by 2 people

  52. I’m going out on a limb here and say some goals have a lot to do with age, and that somethings don’t respond well to goals. That being said, I’m fairly goal oriented but I can’t force a post if I don’t have a topic I’m comfortable with and behind or times when health issues get in the way. I work well with goals for projects or commitments I’ve made, but somethings I don’t attach a goal to. This morning I’m headed out to finish pruning raspberries that I started yesterday. 🙂

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    • Judy, good observation about the relationship between your age and setting goals. I hadn’t thought about that, but you’re right. When I was younger and felt I needed to prove myself I was much more goal-oriented, but now… I’m older… and more free-spirited… so goals don’t spur me to action. I see them more as guideposts along the way rather than something I must do. Good luck with the raspberries.

      Liked by 1 person

    • Belladonna, you’re right about the “oh well!” It’s not that I don’t have things to say, it’s that I doubt the need to say them… so I hit delete.

      Like

  54. First off, because I’m curious by nature, I took the Gretchen Rubin quiz before reading the rest of your blog. I, too, am a Questioner.

    Also sounds right to me.

    1. If you write a personal blog do you find yourself confused about what to write about next? Rarely. I just write about my life, and it seems there’s always something interesting going on. Or at least, something going on that I can make interesting through my writing.

    2. I tend to set goals for some things I do (e.g., walk four miles a day, finish painting by next Thursday). Works out great for me. I’m very disciplined.

    3. Do you agree or disagree with the statement: a good enough something, whatever it might be, is better than waiting for a perfect nothing? Yes! Perfection is impossible to attain.

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    • Mark, I can easily believe you’re a Questioner. Welcome to the club. [I’ll tell you about the secret handshake later.]

      It’s wonderful that you know what you want to write about and do it without hesitation. Perhaps I’ll once again achieve that level of confidence.

      I’m glad goal setting works for you. I like it in theory, but am finding it difficult to do in reality. I may be too rebellious.

      I agree that perfection is impossible to attain. That’s a great way to phrase it.

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  55. Setting goals is important! I think your question is a reminder that you are actively involved in the goal setting process and that’s a great thing.

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    • Bachir Bastien, a few other commenters have said they like the idea of setting goals, too. It works for them– and you I assume. I’m more on the fence about it, but I take your point. Thanks for joining in.

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  57. Goals? ah…. I am conflicted about goals. I think it is a great practice to set them mentally, and if they require a lot of planning, a list is helpful. The tendency for managers and administration to get caught up with noting down goal-oriented processes, evaluating objectives against K.P.I (key performance indicators), rationales and SMART goals, I feel can be a pretty annoying waste of time when you could be DOING the thing you are musing about. It frustrated me no end that as a student nurse, instead of getting in and helping a patient bath, dress their wounds and generally care for them, they were starting to introduce a “Nursing Process,” whereby we wrote what, how, when and why we did something for the patient first before doing it. Tasks that to me should be intuitive. If a patient has a heart attack, we begin CPR immediately – we don’t write down a goal directed plan with steps first. Goals are great for training and learning the ropes, but impractical in busy jobs that require thinking on the go. My daughter is currently studying this kind of stuff in the admin area and I still get frustrated by it. Now I know why they need so many managers – they are all busy writing and evaluating goals and kpi’s. Don’t get me wrong, I am not against goals, but I don’t think they have nor can they be the main event. Personal goals end up being a bit like NY resolutions for me but I do find value in a bullet agenda – when life is super busy. As for Blogging to a schedule, for me that does become a bit of a chore, but does make the writer also more disciplined. Regarding blogging generally, answering all the comments recieved can be time-consuming, but the commentary on blogs is increasing in importance as we move forward and develop a little blogging community. The dialogue of comments is often fascinating and Ally, you are especially adept at getting a great conversation going. That is a talent. I try to read as many of the interesting and enlightening comments you receive on a post, as possible, but there are way too many. That is a problem many bloggers would like to have.
    Your final statement: is good enough better than waiting for a perfect nothing. This makes me think of political discussion of climate change actions – in Australia – effects to institute change are often stymied with the argument that it is not perfect in solving our energy issues – (but neither was fossil fuels). So yes, good enough is a start and we have to start somewhere. Great post!

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    • Amanda, I’m laughing and nodding my head in agreement about goals: “I feel [they] can be a pretty annoying waste of time when you could be DOING the thing you are musing about.” That’s EXACTLY my take on the goals that were forced on me by my employer. To what end, I’d wonder? Couldn’t we just do things and then evaluate what actually happened rather than dither on about theoretical ideas? I can understand why your daughter’s studies are aggravating to you.

      I appreciate you attempting to read some/all of the comments here. I read them of course because that’s what I said I’d do, but it takes time. I enjoy learning what, and how, people think about topics– then talking with them here. I never set out to have so many readers/commenters, but here we are. Again an example of not having a goal, just do something, then carry on with the results.

      I hadn’t thought of that last question as being applicable to political situations and yet it is. The same thing happens here. The complaint is a solution isn’t perfect, so we cannot in good conscience accept it, when trying something, anything, would be an improvement. Politicians everywhere are the same.

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  58. Oh, yes, I sometimes have no idea what to write about, and feel that I couldn’t possibly have anything new (or remotely interesting) to write. The way I usually get over it is guilt and my stubborn nature. I feel guilty about going too long between posts, and I’m too stubborn to give up on blogging. How long that will last, we’ll find out!

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    • Ann, your logic makes perfect sense to me. I’m the same way. I question whether I have anything new to write about BUT I won’t give up. For as long as that approach lasts, I’m all for it.

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  59. 1) I write what comes into my head and my heart. It’s random and rarely ever planned. And yet I am very goal orientated in relationship to projects etc but not writing. It just happens when it happens. I might post once in two weeks or twice in one day. Sometimes I have trouble tying up the package to look pretty but I always hit post. I have 2 items in my draft file.
    2) As mentioned above super goal orientated and always have a to do list going. It works for me and I know that’s how I role best. I tried being goal less and list less for a few weeks one year and didn’t like it at all. If I took that quiz it would shown I am very task driven and like to help others.
    3)A good enough something versus a perfect nothing. Oh definitely do it and do it to the best you can but don’t stop if it is not perfect. Put it out there and perhaps perfect it as time goes along.
    I love your brand of funny, sassy, random, quirky posts. I do hope you decide to continue writing because I will keep reading and keep smiling. Bernie

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    • Bernie, I agree that you write from your head & heart– and you do it well. I’m glad to read what you’re talking about whenever you post.

      Once upon a time, in a lifetime long ago, I was super goal-oriented, too. I understand your approach and how you need it to move forward. After talking with commenters here I’ve come to wonder if being goal-oriented is more situational than personality-driven. Once my situation changed/relaxed, so did my focus on goals and lists.

      Well said: “Put it out there and perhaps perfect it as time goes along.” That’s the kind of pragmatic thinking I need to remember when I try to decide what to write about here. Thanks for that and for the compliments. You’re the best.

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    • Meant to say, it’s my understanding that if you’re task driven and like to help others, then you’d be an Upholder according to the four tendencies. Just in case that means anything to you.

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  60. Well, I’m the wrong person to ask this year as I too am floundering and not posting every week. It’s also the first year I haven’t had a “theme”. Maybe I need a week theme to keep me going?

    I don’t think you’re floundering at all though. All your posts are informative, and entertaining. Keep doing what you do!!

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  61. When I started my blog (I think it was ten years ago), I had a goal. I was about to publish a book about China during WWII, and I wanted to blog about things related to the book. Later, when I published a book that took place in the Philippines and Vanuatu, I wrote some posts related to that book. In the meantime, I blogged about anything that interested, hoping others would also find it interesting. I guess I don’t have a goal now. And I’m fine with that.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Nicki, I didn’t know why you started your blog but it makes perfect sense. I’ve never had anything to promote on this blog, which is a blessing and a curse. I’m glad you’ve continued on with your blog, making it more a personal blog set in the now. You don’t need a goal for it– and in truth I don’t think I need a goal for this blog either.

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  62. Great blog post Ally. It is a debatable and thought provoking topic and as a Men’s Fashion Blogger I have never been stagnant about what to write next because I always select new ideas and outfits to write about with the goal as you stated here and that is to help men dress better. It is as simple as that and the tips I write about are as simple as ABC given that you have the right clothing set to wear for that outfit and that fancy event you plan on attend.

    As for you Ally it is normal to feel that way , to feel like you are clueless avoid what to write about hence the need of taking a break

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    • Mthobisi Magagula, you make a good point. By writing a blog that is about a specific topic, a niche blog, you always have something interesting and fresh to say. I think it’s the same way for people who write about their families and daily life, there’s always something current. But I don’t do either of those things here so I sometimes lose my way about what I’m going on about in this blog. In truth I also think part of my indecisiveness is because this has been a long uneven winter and cabin fever has gotten the best of me. 🫤

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  63. My blog, has long been dominated by weekly feature posts that I like to stay committed to, so I find myself from time to time posting some very imperfect somethings to maintain my GOAL of keeping those weekly features moving along uninterrupted. At least it works OK for my Saturday Squirrel posts, because there is no such thing as an imperfect squirrel photo…

    Liked by 1 person

    • evilsquirrel13, good point, excellent example. I like knowing the structure of your blogging schedule and feel like that’s a worthy goal. You put more emphasis on your plan to show up than on your content. Not that there’s anything wrong with what you post.

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  64. I know I should read (or at least skim) through the comments so I won’t be repetitive, but it’s been a week (in what has become a long string of such weeks), so I apologize in advance if I share nothing new and useful.

    First thought: You seem to have an existing mission statement of sorts: “…this is my old-school personal blog answering the question: “What up, Buttercup?”” Perhaps this doesn’t go far enough to define purpose for you? I’m having a similar problem myself lately. Something about my blog or how I’m blogging just isn’t doing it for me, but I haven’t figured out why. I’d love for you to figure out what’s blocking you and let us know, with hope that it might help me figure out my own stuff. 🙂

    Perhaps we are wrestling with similar questions because we are both Questioners. I didn’t have to take the quiz to know–but, probably because I am a questioner, I did. And, yep, that’s me. Shocker. Why? is always my guiding question (not What? or How?). If there’s no good answer to Why?, any enterprise is a non-starter.

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    • Rita, I’ve no doubt that you’re a Questioner, too. We approach life in the same way, ask *why* then take it from there. If at all, I suppose.

      I understand about feeling *meh* about blogging. Thinking on this while replying to comments on this post, it occurs to me that after I write something then delete it, it’s because I feel like I’ve said it before. And I don’t want to repeat myself. However considering that readers come and go here, saying it again would be fresh for them. Which isn’t a bad thing, just a different way for me to think about blogging.

      Liked by 1 person

        • Oh I definitely need some new adventures. I think cabin fever has also contributed to my sense of confusion about what to write. Thankfully spring is here now and I’ll be able to do things without fear of snow, ice, gloom, sleet, and assorted other weather annoyances. Well other than tornadoes, but you get my drift.

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  65. I haven’t posted on my writer’s blog in over a year; mainly because I started questioning every post. Should I write that? Would anyone want to read it? It’s weird but when I’m posting as Izzy I feel like I have to be “on” and be someone other than who I am. On my lindalouslife blog, I can just be me and don’t seem to get myself as tied up in knots about it. Good luck in finding what works for you.

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    • Linda, I understand your dilemma. On Instagram I just post photos with a few sentences, never thinking much about it. BUT on this blog I’ve gotten to a point where I doubt myself which seems weird. Like you I wonder: Would anyone want to read it? So I delete about as much as I publish.

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  66. Since I have no schedule for my blog, I just write whenever something strikes me to share. So, I don’t really set goals. I have real-world deadlines that I abide by. I started to take that quiz, but then got bored and quit. I wonder what THAT says about me? Ha.

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  67. Oh, what a quandry! Incidentally, I am mostly a planner but I have been described by friends as a fly by the seat of my pants gal when it comes to vacation planning. I can’t seem to commit to a certain time that seems so far in the future! Some of my friends book vacations a year in advance or more! I can barely get myself to book things 3 months in advance! LOL

    Anyway, on your questions of the day: (1) I don’t have a personal blog so no answer here; (2) I think I set goals for the important items but I also am fairly flexible specially when it’s something I have no control over. I need to plan so I think a goal is necessary for that, in my mind at least; (3) For the most part, yes, good enough is preferrable to waiting for perfection that may never come — but there are exceptions for those when it’s not advisable to settle.

    This was a fun exercise, as usual, Ally Bean!

    Liked by 1 person

    • M, I’m with you about not being able to plan for vacations. I like being more spontaneous about fun things, like a vacay. I have friends like yours who plan a year out or more, but that’d stress me waiting to see what was going to go wrong with my plans.

      Thanks for answering the questions. Your statement is what I’ve come to realize about myself too: I set goals for the important items but I also am fairly flexible specially when it’s something I have no control over. You raise a good point that there are exceptions to the ‘good enough’ idea when you really can’t settle. I agree.

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  68. I get dizzy, thinking about goals. I got a little dizzy reading about YOU thinking about goals. What I teach my writing students is “Don’t Think!” This is for creative writing, and we bloggers are creative when we write and post. So, no, I don’t set goals for my blog (and really not for much else, either). I do trust my gut/instinct/feelings/heart when I write. I just let it come out and then I don’t think about it much. I share it and hope others “get” my story or what I’m saying. And you know, your gut has already showed you that you write fun/interesting things that so many of us enjoy. So my mantra? Don’t over think this. 🙂

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    • Pam, see this is exactly what happened to me when I got thinking about goals, what they are, do I need them, et cetera, et cetera. My addled brain became knotted thinking about the topic.

      Up until this past winter I’ve gone with my instincts about what to write here. I never much worried about it, but lately I’ve felt unclear about what to publish. I write many posts, but then read them and either say *meh* or feel like I’m repeating myself so I delete them.

      I like your mantra and appreciate you sharing it here. I gotta get out of my head if I’m to regain my confidence. I think I have the writing yips. 🫤

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  69. I agree with the last question, Ally.
    Regarding blogging: I haven’t been blogging as much as I used to and I’ve given permission to myself to not feel bad about that. I have a life outside blogging and when that life is busy or has nothing to report, I don’t write. Or sometimes I’m too emotional about a topic and choose to sit on my hands. Don’t feel as if you HAVE to write. Let the force take you where it may. When Yoda is in your brain and he says, “Do or do not,” tell him to f-off and go get a massage or have an adult refreshment. Write when you want to, not when you think you need to. Let life fall before you and I promise, the written word will come.
    So says me…or maybe all those words were crap. You can choose.
    As for goals, I posted them on Facebook today: Lose 10 lbs, eat healthy, non-inflammatory foods (no fried chicken from the grocery deli), get back to swimming, and resolve a couple of physical health issues. I post them because then they are out there and someone is going to hold be accountable. I’m hoping to stick with all of them because I need to and maybe that will give me something to write about on my own blog.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Mary, you are a wise woman. You’re definitely onto something with “I’ve given permission to myself to not feel bad about” not writing. I need to join you in telling Yoda to fork off, because that little dude’s voice isn’t helping me either. Part of my difficulty, and perhaps yours too, is that I am/we are conscientious by nature. So once I say I’m going to do something I do it, but sometimes drive myself crazy in the process. Case in point

      Having specific health goals is different [at least in my mind] than having blogging goals. I like that you posted yours on FB so friends will hold you accountable. Makes sense. And like you said, your experiences achieving your health goals may make for some great blog posts. 😉

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  70. You sent me down a few rabbit holes with this post: Took the quiz. I’m an Upholder, surprise, surprise. Also, I’d never heard of Nudge Words before. I like it!
    To respond to your third question, I like the adage: Perfect is the enemy of good. I’ve always been a perfectionist, but I’ve happily been feeling that tendency ebb as I get older. I’m still more perfectionistic than many, and it remains high in certain situations, but I’m glad it’s fading without me even trying to make it fade. In fact, part of me wonders if that’s what’s happening to you with your writing problem. It could be some unexplainable personality change born out of just getting older.

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    • The Travel Architect, I’d never heard of Nudge Words either but when I saw the categories and read the suggestions I liked the concept.

      Yours is an insightful comment. I’m a recovering perfectionist who never set out to be less perfectionistic but know that I am now. In most areas of my life. You’ve nailed it in that I’m struggling with my high writing standards that might no longer serve me here. Hence my indecisive behavior and all the deleting.

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  71. I set zero goals for my blog. Maybe that shows? 😜
    I think you are overthinking it, but we’re really good at that, so maybe that is what you should do today. (or when you wrote this, I’m behind)

    I had a giggle at the How Can I Trust My Gut When It Can’t Even Handle Milk meme.
    I love the Disappointing Affirmations Insta: I find myself cackling out loud reading them!

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    • Suz, I’ve come to believe what you suggest, that I’m overthinking this blog thing. I’ve done well just showing and blathering on without a single goal in sight so that is what I’ll continue to do. It’s been a long dreary weird winter and I’m blaming my indecision on it. Cabin fever got to me.

      I’m with you about Disappointing Affirmations. I laugh every time. Whoever does it has a great sense of humor.

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  72. Please excuse me while I focus on the least of things. Gretchen Rubin! I haven’t thought about her in years. I really enjoyed her for a long time and then she started to feel like one of those “one theory to lead them all” people who annoy me. And I discovered my “do no label me” core. I may go check her out and see what’s happening these days. She was a very bright woman as I recall.

    Goals. It’s my belief that different people need something different from goals. I know people who write down detailed, lengthy goals daily. They benefit from easy steps, one too another. Some spectrum folks need this because they have difficulty going from one task to the next and even the tasks of writing down and crossing off give them benefits.

    Some people need general direction. They need to know that they’re headed generally toward something. Often creative types have an idea in their head but not a lot of detail. They want to take advantage of what happens along the way. Other creative people may want those detailed steps.

    Some people get bogged down in steps. If they try the detailed thing they will never move forward. They’ll spend all days making lists and have to start over the next day. I used to work with a woman something like this. Are Franklyn planners still a thing? You wouldn’t catch her peeing without hers.

    Some people want to focus on what is happening now. It’s like they’re on a journey and see the world’s biggest ball of string and want to find out what that’s all about. That’s both potentially good and bad. Lots of potential for experiences, also potential for forgetting to pay the bills.

    Kind of like diet and exercise, I don’t think there’s any limit on what might be the right thing to do things. You do you. So long and my bills are paid, I get to appointments, and remain generally healthy, I’m a wanderer.

    And remember, all who wander are not lost.

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    • Zazzy, I’d forgotten about Gretchen Rubin, too. Then I stumbled on her Four Tendencies Quiz and took it. From my memory of her your assessment seems spot on. She was alway ALL about being happy– and that rubbed me the wrong way. I’m more of let’s be balanced person, so I feel uncomfortable not acknowledging the less joyful parts of life. Still, taking the quiz did get me thinking and that’s good.

      Your explanation of how various people think about goals is brilliant. You’ve figured it out, of course. I’m the creative person who has “an idea in their head but not a lot of detail.” You foist too much detail on me and I rebel. Or try to find my own way of doing things. There’s a bit of ornery in me.

      I remember Franklin planners and still have one in fact. HOWEVER I don’t do any of the complicated steps about values and plans and action points– or whatever it was I was supposed to be doing. I know people, though, who still swear by being uber organized like your co-worker who wouldn’t pee without one. [Love that] I kept mine because it’s a pretty shade of green leather and makes for a stylish datebook.

      I’m with you about personal priorities. I want to stay safe a la paying bills, eating healthy, not going into unfriendly spaces, but after that I float along. More so than ever after Covid-19. Like you I wander but am [usually] not lost.

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  73. I took the test and I am an Obliger – not really sure on that as I only answer to myself and I guess my boss.

    I like that last meme Ally – it made me smile.

    For my blog, I have it easier than others because the same day that I take my longer walks (which, on the weekend, could involve walks in more than one venue in a single day), I draft a summary of what I saw or what happened that day. When I finally go through my photos, I just match the photos to the draft summary I did, sometimes months before. In sorting through photos, I usually remember some things, so I open Notepad and write a few notes then to use later. It makes it easier for when it’s time to actually write and finalize the post. I do plan ahead for special holiday posts, as I want to write them and take photos long enough in advance so I’m not scrambling at the last minute.

    I set goals a lot of times, but never follow through with them. I am strict about my walking goal as it is an important personal goal. I have set a goal in Goodreads to read 25 books this year – that is an unrealistic goal I set as I really only read books, sometimes an entire book, on long holiday weekends. But I wondered why other bloggers would be able to blog, write and work? So I set that goal for myself. I realized in part, that there is only “me” doing everything at the house – no help, so everything falls on my shoulders. I don’t want to break this goal, so I’m going to try harder. I read a lot the three days I had no internet after the storm – yay me, but elimating being online isn’t really doable, especially while I still work.

    I am no longer a perfectionist in keeping the house perfect inside and out … since I began my walking regimen and mostly since blogging, I have really let house chores slllllllllllllllllllllllllllide. 🙂

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    • Linda the Obliger, nice to meet you! 😉 I like your system for having your blog post topics all lined up. You are a niche blogger so as long as you want to go for walks, you’ll have blog fodder. There’s something good to be said for that approach. I’m more free-spirited, for better or worse.

      Good insight into why you don’t read as much as you think you could. So true that when you are solely responsible for keeping a house going, reading books can be a lower priority. Plus all the walking you do! It’s a miracle you have time to work. I’m no longer the perfectionist I once was. I don’t know if it’s aging or the impact of staying home during the pandemic, but I’m much mellower than I once was.

      Liked by 1 person

      • Ally, I wrote more random posts before I took as many nature photos and I had two semi-regular features called “Tuesday Musings” and “Friday Frivolity” which encompassed some non-walking thoughts. I do realize that I cannot write just about walks as it will get tiresome to readers. The other rainy morning as I sorted through photos from last Summer, I realized that returning to the same venues over and over again will become boring – I’ll need to expand my horizons, but that probably will have to wait until I’m retired. Last year’s slew of birds I saw was unusual. Several of my usual haunts are going to be impacted by construction this year – I’ll forego those trips. No need getting stressed out dealing with construction, road rage on weekends.

        I was a perfectionist in the garden and to an extent inside as well. At one time I could tell you where every item was located in the house and garage, but no longer. It does take time getting it all done and I turn blinders on to a lot these days. I have had a few friends who had very serious health issues and all of them told me “housework and yardwork can wait – enjoy your life while you are healthy.” So I took that to heart … maybe a little too much. 🙂

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        • “No need getting stressed out dealing with construction, road rage on weekends.” You’ve summed up why I don’t get to as many parks as I’d like. Once road *improvements* start it’s frustrating to try to get to them and takes the joy out of the walks. Of course once the roads are fixed I’m filled with glee, so call me fickle.

          I’m laughing. When we first moved here I was into gardening in the way you were. I had a PLAN and notebooks filled with detailed notes about all the plants. I was the Lady of the Garden, but now I’m much mellower and indifferent to what happens out there. I like what I see and that’s good enough for me.

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          • Not only construction, just too many nuts on the road. This morning a speeding Camaro T-boned a vehicle and flipped it over and that driver who was hit walked away without a scratch. We had a bad crash last week where two teens were joyriding and killed a young girl and left her sister and mom in critical condition – the drivers at fault have not been found yet.

            I had a spiral-bound book of index cards and I glued all the plants and bushes info into them with instructions on what to fertilize, when to prune and took photos of them. I was just like you – nothing out of place and when I knew it was going to rain heavily, I ran around the yard and put all the pots and baskets under the patio awning to keep them from getting waterlogged. I was a slave to the garden.

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            • Good point about the nuts out there driving on the roads. I figure you have to have your head on a swivel whenever you’re driving. It gets tiring.

              Yes, a slave to the garden is a good way to explain it. I loved how pretty it looked, but there came a point when enough was enough.

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  74. I gave up goal setting in retirement. However, I do use “nudge words” – a term I had not heard before! Maybe it’s a “manifesto” – another term you used I like. “Active Body, Connected Heart, Creative Spirit, Contemplative Mind”. It does’t lend itself to inspiring blog posts, but it helps me live life daily – goal-less and content.

    I had taken the tendency quiz years ago, but couldn’t recall which I was…. took it again and Obliger. Ugh. I had hoped I was getting out of the people-pleasing, meet other expectations, conflict avoiding, accommodating mind-set. Apparently not.

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    • Pat, I like your logic about why you gave up goals in general. I like your manifesto. It covers all the bases and must keep you on the straight and narrow.

      Until I read that article I’d not seen the term “nudge words” either, but once I thought about the concept I realized that might be what I need to help me feel confident about what I publish here. Nudges might do me better than goals.

      Another Obliger, eh? It’s interesting how you took the quiz years ago and got the same answer both times. If nothing else, you’re consistent.

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    • Neil, thanks for this insight. I often have ideas but once I write them out I don’t want to publish what I wrote. I suppose it’s all a process I need to go through, but it is darned frustrating.

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    • Erik, I know of SMART goals from my work experiences, but to apply them to this personal blog just doesn’t work for me. It seems silly, in fact. The quiz is interesting. So far most people feel the results describe them, at least in general.

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  77. If you write a personal blog do you find yourself confused about what to write about next? Never? Sometimes? Always? How do you handle that? I’d say Sometimes, and how I get around it is by participating in the prompts and being a slight rebel to them by taking my own twist to them to satisfy my desire to use the material in front of me or to use what I captured in photos for the week. (I took the test and this morning, without enough coffee, I ended up as an Obliger. 🤔)

    Do you tend to set goals for everything you do? Some things you do? None of the things you do? How has that worked out for you? I’ve tried all of the goal-setting routines, sometimes they work, or I should say, initially they work, but then I get bored once I master it. And then I need to tweak it. I do find that if my husband is also working on the same goal, I tend to stick to it better as in the competition to see who will stick the longest. 🤣

    Do you agree or disagree with the statement: a good enough something, whatever it might be, is better than waiting for a perfect nothing? Yes – perfection is overrated. Now, Ally, I wonder…do you prefer to read perfectly written blogs or ones that reveal the imperfections of the personal blogger? And, Ally, as I’ve said before, you have a delightful blog that is uniquely you and there’s nothing wrong with that in my book!

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    • Shelley, dare I say that you are most obliging to take the quiz before you’ve had your coffee? The results are an interesting insight into yourself for everyone. I like how you adapt prompts to your own content making them your own. THAT’s the way to do it, rebelliously but on target too. You’re great at that.

      Yes, yes, about all the goal-setting procedures out there. I’ve tried many of them too and either was unimpressed or considered them a starting point for productivity. Must tweak it. The thing is that once you heap rules and processes on me I no longer want to play your goal-setting game. And they’re all games to a certain point so I see how competition kept/keeps you engaged for a while.

      Excellent point about how I like to read whatever other bloggers write regardless of whether it’s perfect or not. I try to do my best but I also know that many things I post are good enough and over the years I’ve gotten comfortable with that. Thanks once again for the compliments about this blog. I appreciate your support– and common sense.

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      • I have to confess too…there were three questions on the quiz that I didn’t even read the question I just read the four options and chose which one felt the most like me. Perhaps I’m a rebel after all?! 🤣😂🤣 Especially since I agree with this line too!! “The thing is that once you heap rules and processes on me I no longer want to play your goal-setting game.” And now I’m wondering if I should have a glass of wine and retake the test? 🍷🤔

        I so appreciate how your blog and your comments on other blogs give us food for thought and entertains us at the same time! Thank you for all you do to keep the blogosphere a happening place to be! 🤗😀

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  78. I took the quiz. Rebel was the result. If you look at my answers, that makes sense.

    If you write a personal blog do you find yourself confused about what to write about next? Never? Sometimes? Always? How do you handle that? My low output should answer make the responses to these questions self-explanatory.

    Do you tend to set goals for everything you do? Some things you do? None of the things you do? How has that worked out for you? I don’t set goals so I can’t react negatively when I don’t achieve them!

    Do you agree or disagree with the statement: a good enough something, whatever it might be, is better than waiting for a perfect nothing? Have you heard the expression – Perfection is the enemy of the good? And my personal mantra – Sometimes good enough is OK or is it sometimes OK is good enough?

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    • hbsuefred, I thought I’d be a Rebel but came out as a Questioner. I think there needs to be a tendency between those two that explains me better!

      I’m laughing about your realization that your low output answers the question. Well said, good reasoning.

      “I don’t set goals so I can’t react negatively when I don’t achieve them!” Amen to that. I feel the same way.

      I agree that perfection can be the enemy and that OK can be your best goal… if we were making goals… which we’re not. 😉

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  79. I am a recovering perfectionist, so when written, it usually gets posted. I find ideas come from numerous places, but reading a wide range of subjects, novels mostly, is a great sound of inspiration. Thanks for your “questioning” post! I enjoyed it much.

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    • WaltTheWerf, thanks for sharing your sources of inspiration for blog posts. I, too, read about many subjects, but have to admit I read fewer novels now than I once did. The odd thing for me is that I write myself silly, then have second thoughts about hitting publish. I used to feel like I knew what I was doing here, but now… not so much. HOWEVER ever onward go I!

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      • I used to be part of a song-writer’s group we called “More than Gold.” We named it that, because not every song will be exceptional. The important thing is to keep honing, keep trying, because the next one just may be. This you have said you’ll do, onward you go!

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  80. Here is what happens when I set goals for my blog/writing: life gets in the way. The best practice of writing is just showing up regularly (at least for me), that’s why NaBloPoMo works… I am usually terrified to write 30 posts in a row but then it almost always turns out to be easy, because you can make ANYTHING a blog post LOL

    Just show up here, write without too much thought, is my advice.

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    • San, thanks for your support. You’re right about how life gets in the way. Isn’t that one of the lessons of the pandemic? Forget your plans, just do what you can. I plan on continuing to not have any blogging goals and keep flying by the seat of my pants here. Good point about NaBloPoMo, it’s a JUST DO IT experience.

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