Happy first of May, book nerds! It’s a start of another month and I know we all are hoping it’ll be much better than the last one. I’m not always an optimist but first-days-of-the-month make me more positive than usual. April was rather so-so for me but I’m crossing my fingers that May will be more fun and upbeat. (See? Optimistic.)
As of late, the book blogging community got involved in some rough issues here and there and I’ve seen negativity around more times that I could count with my fingers and toes. While I never dipped in or allowed myself to be a part of this, I’m afraid I felt disheartened by some of the tweets/posts I’ve read. Especially, I think, the ones that say how “bitter and sad” the book blogging community has become. (This post by Amber of Mile Long Bookshelf really opened my eyes to how others perceive the book blogging community.)
The thing is- I’ve never looked at the bookish blogosphere as anything other than my happy place. I love this community- I feel so accepted and appreciated. Even when I don’t receive many comments. Even when no one checks out my blog that much. I wish everyone could see it the way that I do. With the things I’ve seen recently though, I could understand why they don’t.
The first day of May seems to be offering a fresh start so I’m moving on from last month’s debacles. I wrote down a list of reminders for myself, that I’m now sharing with you guys too, so that we could keep this community a happy place for ourselves and for everyone- maybe even make it happier.
- Be thoughtful and understanding.
- Give newbies love.
- Drop random nice notes/comments/emails/tweets.
- Showcase the bloggers you love on your blog.
- Give credit where it is due.
- Look at negative things in a positive way.
- Be kind.
- Kill with sweetness.
- Let things go.
- Share to show you care.
- Remember: this is a community not a competition.
- Agree to disagree.
- Send virtual hugs.
- Don’t be greedy.
- Be constructive, not destructive.
- Think before you speak.
- Blog to have fun.
- Don’t try to be anyone but yourself.
- All book lovers are friends.
- Stay away from drama.
- Be excited for others and show support.
- Spread warm fuzzies.
How else can we make this community a happier place? Share your thoughts!
22 Responses
Very well said Hazel :)
#MovingOnMay lol
Thanks, Ella! I like that hashtag. ;)
I love this! I think it’s some general blogging rules that people should follow :)
Thank youuu! I wouldn’t call them rules- maybe just reminders or guidelines. :)
Wonderful list Hazel! *spread warm fuzzies*
*Gives hug*
This list is perfect :)
Nothing feels better than a nice comment/tweet about books, blogging, random stuff…
I love each and every one of these! *goes forth to spread warm fuzzies!*
I love that you’re promoting so much positivity after the past few days and I really couldn’t put this any better. You are awesome little lady & i’m glad I know you ^_^ *hugs*.
These are really great advice! They’re like bits of deliciously sweet chocolate! I’ll keep these in mind for sure! :D
Awesome list! Totally agree! Hugs :)
Missie @ A Flurry of Ponderings
23. Assume positive intent. I don’t know the situations being referenced, but this is just a good life philosopher.
I have a feeling May will be a fantastic month (also because this month is my prom, gradnight, senior brunch, and graduation!)also because there are a ton of books being released. Yeahhh that incident on Twitter crazy. I really hope it won’t happen again (the plagiarizing and bullying).
*hugs Hazel*
The community definitely needs some peace and calming down. I especially agree with giving virtual hugs. I do that practically every day, haha! <3 Hope you have an awesome month, Hazel. :)
Lovely post, Hazel! I agree with all 22 beautiful ways to make this a better place for everyone.
I must say though, I had no idea people thought the book community was going down hill! I have honestly seen nothing by niceness from everyone I come across. I’m still fairly new though, so I don’t see everything.
But if everyone stuck to these? Well gee. We would all be happy chappies all the time. xx
Like! :))
This is so wonderful Hazel! I’m so glad you wrote this because lately I’ve felt a lot of negativity in the community and sometimes all that negativity just bogs you down. And it’s so sad because most times, the community is what I find the best part about blogging but seriously at times, it can be downright nasty. So I’m super happy you wrote this post to give us a little reminder to make the community an even happier place and spread the love! :)
LOVE THIS! I’m bookmarking this post & doing a little from your list every day. This is such a wonderful idea to heal the book blogging community. :)
Hazel! I just adore this post. It’s always important for me to help keep the book blogging community as positive a place as I can, as it’s my happy place too. I’m so glad that you feel the same way! I think the tips you’ve shared are definitely things people should take to heart.