It Takes a Village
75The Social Community at HubPages
As in any social networking community, it takes some time to learn the ropes, get involved and time to know how what you write will be received.
For some, learning is a continuous journey. I’m making that journey and have received some very real encouragement and recognition from many people along the way. That’s ok - I LOVE recognition.
Learning the ways of a community sometimes takes the effort of an entire village (at least for me), and I'm grateful for this one.
Puttering Along
I am quite content to continue posting while placing a few ads. If it makes a few cents, I’m ok with that. But that’s not my reason for joining this community. The writer in me was drawn to this site to write and making fans along the way has been an added bonus.
I do know there are some who are most assuredly looking to make a few bucks. With that in mind, I try to remember to use the “share it” button at the bottom and send links out to other sites. I do sometimes forget, but it’s easy to fix, I just go back to correct that omission when the thought crosses my mind.
I often find I have to remind myself to slow down and enjoy the journey. So today I have decided to do just that.
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30 30 Challenge
This has eaten into my time in a big way, and I have come to the conclusion that I need to take a break and get back to reading some of your great hubs.
This is one of the two concerns I had going in to the challenge. It seems in this respect I know myself well, and now I must let slide the 30 30 challenge for a bit while I do some catch up.
I work full time and have a large family. HubPages tends to draw me away from them as well even though I try hard not to let my “Big Mac 2 / 4” take up too much of my time (that’s my computer’s name – and yes, some people call me crazy for talking to my computer).
The 30 30 Challenge is a great idea, and it does increase the traffic to your Hubs. If you are here to make a buck, that is a blessing.
I am here to write and learn, and for me it’s a little difficult to keep up. I like to think of myself as bright - if somewhat slow.
I like to read the other Hubs of those taking the Challenge, and there are many great articles every day. I also need to keep up with y’all and that takes just as much time. So, until I can do justice to the Hubs I want to read...this might be it for a few days.
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What I have learned
I don’t like confrontation. Surprising given my name, but I have found it to be utterly true. I don’t like being considered stupid either. I have one hub where both have occurred. While this certainly brings more traffic and more comments, it’s not why I am here.
Does anyone know how to completely delete a hub? I’ve made an attempt to change it, but I'm still not happy with it.
I have learned that if I want to avoid being considered stupid, I need to stick to what I know – go figure. In that light, I’ve taken the proverbial red pen to my short list of topics to write about and am pretty much staring at a blank page.
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Going forward
I like it here. I like the opportunity that HubPages provides, and I like most of the people I have met. I also realize that many of you are here for more than just the social aspect, and sometimes looking back, I wonder that you have taken the time to read some of the dribble I have written. Thank you though, sincerely.
Right now I have a blank page to work with. You'd think that would be an inspiration wouldn't you? But I am second guessing myself and wondering - those few things I do know about - would anyone else be interested, and would they add value?
I am still pondering.
One thing is for sure, I will take the time to take my own advice and not publish something until I have let it sit for a bit, re-read it, remove and re-write where necessary.
I am looking forward to reading your Hubs my friends. I'm pretty sure I'll be back with some of my own once I give my head a shake or two. But in the meantime, I'll see you around the water cooler.
Join HubPages
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I invite you to join us, it's one of the best social websites I have seen and offers opportunity to generate revenue. Sign up here.
I look forward to meeting you
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Comments
Very insightful and honest. I'm not sure how to delete a hub and I've got a couple of hubs that I want to update but can't change everything on the page once created. Thanks for your update and I hope you get to spend more time with the family.
Storytellersrus, I'm so glad I'm not alone in the way I feel. I completely understand that no one is perfect, I'm aware of a great many of my own imperfections. I'll try to keep that in mind when reading some of the not so gracious comments. Maybe I just need to grow a thicker skin.
Thanks for stopping in and giving me your encouragement. It's very much appreciated.
affnetseo, thank you. Family time first, then some time to catch up.
HP can indeed start to eat into your time and life. I am starting to spend more and more time away. This is a great site but in the whole scheme of things I sometimes wonder if its worth the aggravation. I know we should not take things too seriously, but I am a very passionate person and believe in standing my ground. I see alot of bullying and sad behavior on here but its just a small picture of a greater problem growing worldwide.
I have deleted several hubs over the past few months that I felt were just too personal or not performing well. I try not to flood the site with alot of hubs as I have grown tired of the same from other writers. I just don't see how its possible to put out more then one quality hub a day, let alone 5 or 6 that is becoming the trend. You are a great writer Duchess and an even better person. I think you sell yourself short sometimes. I know I respect you greatly.
If you're SURE you want to delete a hub, Duchess, go to the particular one, and at the top you will see clickable 'buttons'-one is edit, then, I believe, comes delete. Click on that and HubPages gives you 24 hours to mull it over, then it's gone. I have done this when I found that once I titled a hub, I was bound to it, even though I had written no content!
Anyway, good going on this one-don't delete it!
A sincere thank you Scott for such high praise. I will endeavor to stop selling myself short as you say. The quality is what I am shooting for, so I'll keep that goal set as high as I'm capable of.
I still need to know how to delete a hub. I could probably remove some of that dribble I spoke about.
Ok lorlie, I won't delete this one. Thanks for the instruction on how to delete one. I will put that to good use.
Dutchess - When I mistitled a hub I found two ways to correct the error. (1) Delete it and start over, or (2) Change the title within the "Edit" function. Gus
Thanks Gus, I knew about your point number 2, just learned about point number 1.
Good to know I'm not the only one!
Thanks, Duchess for writing this. This is a social network, so you really can do whatever you want, so long as you don't break any rules, of course! I've actually been meaning to unpublish/delete at least 2 of my earlier hubs due to a lack of traffic, as it does not justice to the amount of hub I've written (I feel it to be a misnomer).
By the way, all of us gets hate mail and get fingers pointed at us by outside sources...We just gotta have tough skin and stick together! Just look at all the support you have! Thank you, Duchess!
You are right Dohn you and many others offer lots and lots of support. (almost a village full)
Thank you all.
I need thicker skin, that's the story I'm hearing.
Duchess, I have yet to read one of your hubs that sound “stupid” quite the contrary! I have always enjoyed your writing, which is beautifully done. Like you, I started writing here because I enjoy the challenge. This is one place we can all stay informed on a wide variety of issues through the research done on the writer’s part.
If you have a hub, you're not completely satisfied with, I would suggest going back in and revamping it; sometimes, that is all it takes. When it comes to confrontation sit back, take 10 deep breaths and then respond----or not! Many times, it is best to move on without a response.
You continue with the great hubs and we will keep reading them!
Hi Duchess, I think it takes awhile to figure out how to use hubpages to your advantage, in the meantime, don't let anyone intimidate you. You have as much right to hubpages as anybody.
@ Nancy' Niche. Thank you for the compliment I am humbled, truly. I appreciate the kind words, and while I freely admit to loving recognition, I hope no one thinks I am out looking for that (at least not in this case. Honest). It's nice to hear none the less.
Thank you for the revamping suggestions, I have actually tried that :(
I promise not to make any hasty moves.
@ Flightkeer - love the Avatar! I don't normally let people intimidate me, don't know what my problem is.
Thanks for your encouragement!
190 fans 42 hubs and a score of 97 in 4 months! You go girl there's nothing wrong with your writing!
This was great to read and I have struggled with similar issues - I think I started hubpages to make a few bucks, then realized as I started to survey the scene, there are some very talented people on hubs with interesting material, so I began reading their hubs - then, I decided to write from the heart and not think about the money - making. That makes me happy and I always find that doing what I love leads to good things. I honestly don't have a handle on how to make money here, but will trust it comes if I do my thing, and if not, that's okay too. If I wasn't working full time and working on another business, I would try to 30 day challenge, but I know it is brutal! I'm like you and enjoy getting feedback and interaction and meeting people! I think my best bet is to simply write from inspiration and enjoy the ride! Kartika
Duchess, I can't even think of the one you mean, and I've read a LOT of your hubs. I sure don't think you're stupid--NEVER! But you have the instructions on how to delete if you feel like it, just go "edit", then "delete" then wait 24 hours, OR, change your mind.
I was thinking myself of deleting a couple of the first hubs that have slid down from timing out, but I didn't. They aren't hurting anything but my hubscore and I'm not sure it matters that much.
I know how you feel about the challenge. I'm on day 27 and have written 23 hubs, this time, and I don't think I'm quite gonna make the goal, this time. It DOES take a lot of time. But that's still ok, it's all good, we've both written hubs that we might not have had we not taken that challenge, and that's good! I LIKE your hubs!
@ Nancy, Thanks! Don't know how the score of 97 is reached though. But it certainly makes me think of those school days when 97 meant 97%. But is it really? LOL
@kartika you are so right, there are many talented people here! You as well. Continue to write from the heart! We are loving it.
@Paradise. You are one of those who I am struggling to keep up with. I don't know how you do it! I know you read a LOT of my hubs my friend and I do appreciate it. It's my turn to read yours. I'm on a Hub sabbatical for a day or two just to get that done. As always, thanks for the support
Thanks for sharing. I love reading your hubs because you really talk to your readers. Its almost as if you were sitting next to us chatting. So relaxed and straight to the point.
Enjoy the break. I don't think I'm quite up to the 30 30 just yet!
I think you are too hard on yourself, although I confess I sometimes have similar feelings. You definitely are not stupid and the number of comments you have received on this hub since it was published says a lot. Like you, I don't enjoy confrontation...this limits my list of topics, although I still have many hubs I wish to publish. I became your fan because I like your writing and I am learning from you and others.
Alan
I think a lot of hubbers go through this sort of soul searching after a little time spent on HP. The place does tend to sort of suck you in till you wonder what you are doing here in the first place! I write only occasionally, and purely for my own enjoyment, and I'm thrilled people take the time to actually read my hubs. :)
Hang in there, DOB!
now why did I love reading this so much? it's because it almost felt as if I was sitting across you (over a cup of tea, of course!) and you were talking to me from your heart....a wonderful feeling I must say!
yes, people who write for the pure love of writing, and yet hope to earn something from it, without making it the focus of their writing all go through conflicts like yours. I for one, initially couldn't even bring myself to place adds on my hubs, let alone links! I felt it was all 'so wrong'. Then of course, a part of you, the practical side does tells u, that if we are spending so much time here, esp. if it's at the expense of 'family' time...might as well earn something from it!
But I guess, we have to find our own balance here...and if it helps, just know that you're doing great...and that your hubs might not be earning millions, but they have earned u some real respect and admiration of your readers! all my love -
@ Laura, since we are sitting and chatting, let me just say, if you are not sure you want to do the 30 30, then I suggest you wait. There might come a time when you think it a good idea. Wait for that. That's just my suggestion.
@escritor, thank you for the encouragement! As dohn said, this is a community and we are here to help each other.
@Feline, it shows that you write for enjoyment! We all benefit from it. and :) thanks.
@myownworld - I'm taking this and framing it somewhere. Thank you..
"Your hubs might not be earning millions, but they have earned u some real respect and admiration of your readers!"
Thank you for your honesty. I have/am experiencing much of the same angst & questions, but remind myself that I write because that is what I do or what I am.
Keep pressing on . . .
Hi Ken, thanks for becoming a fan! I'll press on...once I get caught up that is. Thanks for your words of encouragement
I have enjoyed reading your hubs. HP is addictive; there are days when I sign in to write but end up reading other hubs for 2 hours. I do hope that you will continue writing, even if it is only occasionally.
Thanks Wife Who Saves, I intend to write, just need to catch up on what everyone else is writing, and I need to stick to things I know about, at least until I grow a thicker skin:)
I am new to hubpages, and I know I am not ready for a 30 hub in 30 day challenge. You can not force yourself to write, that takes the fun away. Take a break, do something fun, and you will come back with lots to write about.
Actually susansisk, I can force myself to write. Many times my best stuff is written under pressure. My issue is the time. I need time to catch up here, and I need time with family. I could use an influx of ideas though, and maybe think before I post some things. I'll get to where I'm comfortable I'm sure.
Enjoy the journey DOB. Your a great writer!
Duchess O Blunt, I admire your honesty and I feel the same way at times. In fact, I need to take your advice and sit an wait before I publish mine, I find errors after I read (months down the road) then I am embarassed!!! You are wonderful writer, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
@bayareagreatthing, I am enjoying the journey (even the bumps). Thanks for the compliment.
@Ladybird33, yes I find that waiting to hit the publish button is hard to do but in most cases very good advise. Thank you for your compliment too.
Don't feel condemned for stepping back and taking a break.
I have enjoyed every hub of yours that I have read to date. I believe the break you are taking will make your thoughts flow easier, your future hubs to be more enjoyable to write and more profound us, your fans and followers to read. You don't have to meet a 30-30 deadline to impress us, because the quality of the content of your writing does.
I signed up for the 30-30 just to have a goal to work to accomplish. When I signed up, I had NO idea how long it actually takes to finish a hub. The hub I published a few days ago on "How I Overcame My Emotional Depression" took me over 14 hours to write. At this rate, my 30-30 will be measured in weeks not days, but I have decided if it takes me 30 weeks to get my 30 that's OK. My purpose in writing and publishing hubs is to share subjects that I hope will add value to the lives of the reader. That kind of hub can not be hurried.
Keep on Keeping ON! You are a great writer and the BEST IS YET TO COME.
Thank you Legacy.
I feel like this sounds like I am complaining, or fishing for compliments. That truly was not my intent.
I plan to finish my 30 hubs, I just think I need to be sure I keep up with everyone else at the same time. I don't want my efforts to keep in touch and keep up with everyone else to add to the pressure that 30 hubs in 30 days can make.
I'm still trying to catch up.
Thank you for your kinds words and encouragement!
I can't imagine you have ever written a 'stupid' hub! This site should be fun though and you should not feel pressurized to keep churning them out when you are either not inspired or frankly have other things to do. I tried to do a challenge and almost made it but I did feel like it was taking up way too much of my time. Now I am only publishing when I feel like it and it is much better fun. There are so many other things to do after all..... (like my garden which is full of weeds!)
Hi Catherine, I'm hoping you can get some time to spare for your garden. Although I have a particular affinity to weeds (they don't require attention LOL).
I'm with you. I don't look forward to publishing a Hub just for the numbers or just for the money making aspect. Don't get me wrong, I know there are those who do a great job with that - hats off to them. There might even come a time when I might try my hand at it.
But for now, I want to enjoy HubPages, and the people you meet here. Thanks for the reminder that this is supposed to be FUN
Wow you sure can open the proverbial can of worms LOL. I am definitely keeping up with you! Can't wait to read your next. Two of my greatest joys in life reading and writing.
Well Tammy, I can see this will be a mutually beneficial endeavor as I will be keeping up with you as well.
I have enjoyed your writing. IMO your HUBs have been top quality both in conception and execution. You are also a very nice lady. I hope you stick around. :)
Thanks James, I do plan on sticking around, just not following through so closely with the 30/30 Challenge as I had first intended.
Thanks for your comments.
Hello Duchess, I just ran across your name by reading a comment that you wrote on another hubber hub, and your comment made me come over and, "check you out." Just this one makes me want to be a fan. I too am not a controversial or confrontational person, ergo I write so as not to cause any, and from what your fans are saying you don't either. I must read more. I really enjoyed this one. I am anxious to read more.
What a nice thing to say fastfreta! Thank you. I look forward to a mutual getting aquatinted.
Gosh, Duchess, I think I might like a nasty comment or two if it meant my words were being read. I too enjoy writing, but what makes it even better is when I find that people are actually reading what I've written. So, kudos to you for being intelligent enough to write something that gets a reaction! That just proves you are smarter than those who call you stupid. In my mind, name calling is for the insecure.
So keep up the writing, and know that lots of us are enjoying what you write!
XOXO
Cheeky
Thank you Cheeky Chick. Great encouragement!
Storytellersrus says:
4 weeks ago
Duchess, I appreciate your honesty. This is actually a fun read for me because I can relate completely to your angst and your sense of overwhelmedness (is that a word?) lol.
I have deleted hubs for a couple reasons, one being I felt I had made myself too vulnerable and two, I didn't feel what I wrote was at all interesting to others. In fact, there was a period when I deleted about ten hubs including one with lots of comments called Daily Haiku. I also deleted lots of my fans, thinking I just wanted to be done with it all. I guess my insecurities took control in that moment.
I am not here to make money, but to improve my writing by writing what I like. There are so few rules here, it is easy to experiment. When someone makes a harsh statement, I venture to guess it wasn't meant to be hurtful as much as to encourage discussion. There are days when I might be the person to write something stupid and other days when I might be the one to receive someone else's frustrated attack. Truth be told, we are a community and none of us are perfect in our personalities or our abilities. In these moments, I only hope there is a big compassionate heart out there knowing I can do better, forgiving my blunders.
I feel the need to read other's hubs, as you do. I used to pile them up and select as many as I could reach each Saturday. That was sort of my day off. But as the fan base increased, it became overwhelming. Still, I strive to read what my friends are writing, which is why I took a break today and found this inspiring hub.
It is inspiring, Duchess, in its direct or BLUNT nature and in its soul speak. I thank you for writing it.