Thoughts On Blogging

***DISCLAIMER: I'm currently half asleep and drugged up on cold medicine while writing this so please don't judge my grammar too much lol.

I've always considered myself a pretty confident person. Sure, I have my moments. But I generally love myself and am proud of who I am. The downside is, I am very, very sensitive. I don't take criticism well because I feel like it's a personal attack and I want everyone to love me.

I began blogging because I had so many people in my life encouraging me to do so, to share my style and creativity with the world. I was so excited about the idea, but again, so afraid that others wouldn't approve. That I wouldn't be good enough.

I've followed bloggers like Sydney of The Daybook, Emily of Cupcakes and Cashmere, and Rachel of Pink Peonies since the very beginning. I found myself thinking, "I will never be that pretty... or skinny.", "I will never be able to afford those clothes that people like to see.", and "I could never take pictures that amazing". I'll be honest, those thoughts still run through my mind. I mean, who really cares about a college girl from a suburban farm town and what she wears everyday or what goes on in her life? The whole idea just seems silly.

Truth is, this blog is for me. I shouldn't care about what everyone else thinks, even though I do.

It's so easy to criticize in one's mind and to look at someone's blog and think, "Not so much liking that outfit..." or, "Her pictures really aren't very good". I'm guilty of this as I'm sure everyone is. It makes me feel so sad to think that those thoughts have even gone through my mind.

I see negative comments on popular bloggers posts and just want to cry for them since I would have such a hard time handling that.

Since I've begun this whole blogging process, my mindset on the idea of blogging has changed. I am so appreciative of this little space that I get to call mine. I'm so appreciative of the wonderful people who continue to support me. I am so appreciative of all of the beautiful and unique minds of each and every blogger out there.

The beauty of all of these online "spaces" is that they are truly that, a personal space where people are able to share their special talents and loves. It's so fun to discover new blogs and people who are so different than me and so beautiful in their own way. I will never be perfect, but by supporting and appreciating the unique styles and talents of each and every blogger in this huge little blogosphere (and the world in general) I know I can become a better person.

Blogging shouldn't be about coveting another's items, wanting to dress like Rachel Zoe, having a perfect love life, decorating a home like a Martha Stewart, or cooking like you're the winner of Top Chef. It should be about taking your own talents and using them to the best of your ability, then sharing them with the world.

I just wanted to let all of you beautiful people know how much I love and appreciate you all. Keep blogging, keep speaking your mind and being yourself. Cause I for one, LOVE it!