1000 USD 2011 Best Guest Blogger Contest Article Approved
No, I’m not a vegetarian, but everyday I generally eat the same salad: a combination of fresh spinach, grilled chicken, a little cheese and onions and my favorite blush wine vinaigrette (go ahead, you can steal my recipe). Sometimes when I’m feeling bold, I’ll even add some mandarin oranges or fresh strawberries to the mix.
It doesn’t matter that I ate one or even two salads the day before – it’s the most delicious salad anyone could eat and it’s healthy.
But this post is obviously not about the health benefits of eating salads everyday – what I’m getting at is the idea that despite the fact that I already know what the salad tastes like – it’s not new to me, yet everyday it has a renewed freshness.
Aside from the occasional times I change up the combination of ingredients the salad remains the same, yet I am still compelled to return to it every single day.
What is it about this salad that is so irresistible? And how can you apply this to your blogging?
The secret that keeps me coming back to this salad, is not some magical ingredient – what keeps me coming back is the enjoyable experience of eating this salad. Not only does it nourish my body, it’s a pleasure to eat. Everyday it zaps my taste buds to life and creates a feeling of well-being.
Can your blog do that?
If you want your blog to pass the salad test, here’s what you can do:
Don’t worry about finding totally new and unheard of ingredients – focus on rearranging various combinations of the classic ingredients in a fresh way. Some days I leave out the chicken, but then add fresh bacon bits. The spinach still remains the same, but it’s enjoyable because I’ve made a small tweak.
Create an enjoyable environment that your readers feel compelled to experience everyday. Your goal should be to create content that leaves readers feeling better than they did before they arrived – it should nourish their minds and have lasting value. Sprinkle it with bite-sized bits of knowledge that they can apply.
Throw in something bold every now and then - don’t over do it, but every now then, don’t be afraid to shake up the salad bowl. Sometimes I skip the oranges and add strawberries – my taste buds never know what to expect.
Use humor to catch people off guard with a laugh. When I wrote, 7 Signs You’re a Hacker & 5 Ways it Can Help your Blog I wanted to create a post that not only made people laugh, but that also imparted some knowledge and made them think in an unexpected way.
Use vivid language that makes your post pop right off the page – you know your mouth started watering at the beginning of this post. I wouldn’t be surprised if a trip to the grocery store is now on your to-do list. 
That was only accomplished by using specific and vivid words that people could imagine that they were seeing, feeling, smelling, hearing, and tasting.
You’ve got to be willing to create an experience that people will be compelled to return to your blog everyday. You want them to crave that unique experience – one that they can only get at your blog.
These tips I’ve mentioned are just a few ways you can create a refreshing and positive experience. What other lessons can we learn from my favorite salad?
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Hey Kiesha,
That was a great analogy between your favorite salad and blogging. The ingredients are still the same but each day it’s a pleasure to eat it.
For example, your blog may not have content that is that much different from the content on other blogs, but if you present it in a fresh way you can separate your blog from the rest.
A small tweak can definitely make a huge difference. Thanks for sharing these tips, and I will definitely try out the ingredients you use in your favorite salad.
John recently posted..The One Thing You Can Use To Find Email Addresses Online For Free
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi John,
Lots of times I’ve discovered that you don’t need brand new ideas, but if you instead, combine or compare a few unlikely ideas, you’ll come up with something refreshing. At least that was what inspired me to compare blogging to a salad. They are two unlikely topics that when paired together create something unexpected.
I hope you enjoyed the experience of reading this blog post
Kiesha recently posted..The Ultimate Guide- Promote My Blog
Great analogy between salads and blogging. The best salads always has some meat in them.. actually a lot of meat in them, not just greens. Make sure your blog is full of meat! Not just fluffy lettuce! ^_^
Henway recently posted..Medifast QA
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Hi Henway,
Yes! You’re so right! Every blog has to have something substantial at its core, but without the extra toppings even that can get boring, though – so they go hand and hand. So, I guess that means that even while you inform, you’ve got to engage and entertain. Sometimes, that’s hard to do
Kiesha recently posted..The Ultimate Guide- Promote My Blog
Twitter: bloginteract
Kiesha,
Leave it to you to come-up with the ability to blend two topics like this and actually pull it off! Just like your post about “Fighting Like A Squirrel For Your Blog”. Great concept…easy to follow.
Bryan
Bryan Hollis recently posted..The Value Of Video Display Advertising
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Bryan!
I think I’ve got a personal challenge going – to see if I can find blogging lessons in unusual places…
Thanks! I’m glad you enjoyed the post. I figure, if I can’t come up with ground-breaking traffic generation tips, or crack Google’s SEO algorithm – I can at least find entertaining ways to talk about the everyday blogging stuff we’re all concerned about
Kiesha recently posted..The Ultimate Guide- Promote My Blog
Hello Keisha,
If you or any of us can find that ingredient or combination of ingredients which can make people eat a certain recipe again and again, or in our case visit our website again and again, s/he can just relax and sit back because richness awaits
.
I think everybody wants to find those great ingredients but we know that not everyone can be a chief. But we can always get our hands dirty after reading the advices of a great cook
Alex recently posted..Camioane monstru 3D
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Hi Alex,
I’m definitely no chef, but if I can get my hand on the right cookbook, I can really do some damage in the kitchen
Kiesha recently posted..The Ultimate Guide- Promote My Blog
Twitter: blokube
Awesome analogy and very interesting Post Kiesha.
These are awesome tips. Providing quality content is great way to make your blog readers coming back.
Anyways, Thanks for sharing this awesome analogy. Have a great weekend.
~Dev
Devesh recently posted..3 Surefire Ways to Create Content Like a Mad Man Or Woman
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Devesh!
I think if you can find a fun and engaging way to write content, people return just for the fun experience.
Glad you enjoyed the post
Twitter: liveurlove
Kiesha, it is 11.30 PM here and I did not need to read this now
All I have handy here are brownies! How does that go with your salad?
I love the way you write and the favorite part of the post is definitely the part when you say you don’t have to find totally new ingredients every day. That is true. I sometimes read blog posts that I learn nothing new from but love reading them. All the info is old to me but…there is something new actually. The way it is written. So although it is not something boldy and revealing it teaches me how to write better. Same with your salad. Might be the same salad every day, but if one day you mix it and the other you make it in layers, it will be a different salad every day
Brankica recently posted..140 blogs worth hopping
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Hi Brankica!
I’m sorry! I understand the feeling – it’s the same when I catch a Taco Bell commercial late at night. I immediately start craving tacos – but of course, I’m too lazy to do anything about it.
But anyway, yes, the trick is to find interesting ways to combine the ingredients you have available to you – compare things that no one else would think of (salads and blogging, don’t usually go together) and it will catch people off guard in a refreshing and inspiring way.
This is a really good article. I write entertainment news so it can get a bit redundant. However, i do not just keep regurgitating the news I always do it like an editorial. It evokes more comments that way.
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Nina,
That’s very intuitive of you to do that – most people want to just report without injecting their own personality and opinions. I guess they don’t realize that writing is so much easier when you put yourself into it.
Thanks for stopping by and sharing!
Kiesha recently posted..The Ultimate Guide- Promote My Blog
Twitter: techvivekparmar
It is necessary to update unique content once in a week so that it helps you to gain new readers and increase conversation on blog. Thanks for listing nice tips
Vivek Parmar recently posted..Dreamhost 97 Discount Coupon For March 2011- DISCOUNTCOUPON97
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Vivek,
I don’t know how I missed this comment of yours – but my philosophy is that it’s always better late than never – so here’s a super late reply:
I definitely agree that it’s essential to keep your blog updated – that’s really the only way it will remain active. Even though a few people will comment on old posts, new posts are what most people are really looking for.
Kiesha recently posted..Blogging Tips 101 Contest: 6 Reasons Why You Should Participate
Twitter: netchunks
Hi Kiesha,
Nice analogy between writing a good content and salad. Yes, it really did water my mouth when I started reading the first paragraph. I really like salads.
I agree with you when you said that you do not need to search for new ingredients but you can use the old ones and create an enjoyable post. The key thing that brings visitors to return to read your post is the creativity in your writing.
Regards,
Shiva
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Shiva,
I guess a lot of bloggers don’t realize how far a little creativity can take a blog post. People want to escape from their daily lives when they’re reading. They want to feel like they’ve been taken somewhere else – it’s easier to do that when you use imagery and tell a quick little story just before offering a couple of tips.
Kiesha recently posted..The Ultimate Guide- Promote My Blog
Hey Kiesha, this blog post really made me think more of what I can do to make my own blog better.
My thing is finding something to talk about that would make my reader come back over and over again.
Honestly, I think I have more of a challenge in the discipline of writing every day like you have recommended in some of your past post. My salad has been looking more like an empty salad bowl with an occasional chicken or tuna salad thrown in every other week. So again great post and thanks again for sharing.
JB Brathwaite recently posted..Defining and Measuring Social Media Influence
Twitter: weblogbetter
Thanks JB,
Whenever I run into a writer’s block, I just try to think of a personal experience story that conveys some lesson I want to share – that’s when I’m able to fill the page more quickly. Honestly, people want to know about your experiences, they want to know what you’ve done so they can learn from it. Just start sharing those types of stories and the readers will come back again and again.
Kiesha recently posted..The Ultimate Guide- Promote My Blog
Twitter: Ileane
Hey Kiesha, my stomach is growling now too! LOL Great concept Kiesha, thanks for the inspiration and for finding fresh ways to create new content.
Ileane recently posted..Finding The Best Social Media Apps to Boost Your Brand
Twitter: weblogbetter
Thanks Ileane!
Glad you were able to find inspiration here.
Kiesha recently posted..How to Surround Yourself with Writing Inspiration
Hello Keisha,
I could swear I already commented on this post (I think my brain is going all Alzheimer on me).
This is indeed a great analogy, that I can continue with the fact that every blogger wants to know the exact ingredients that can make the readers keep coming back to your read your posts, just like they do when a chief prepares some great meals in a certain restaurant.
Like you did with your salad, mixing the right ingredients then adding your own just to spice it up, can make all the difference. Because you may make a client eat your meal and like it, but if you serve the same ol’ same ol’ you will end up losing it, because he will get used with your food, which will not make it special anymore, the clients taste buds need to be stimulated with something new and original every day.
Alex recently posted..Unghii de facut
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hey Alex,
You did comment, but it must’ve been stuck in moderation. But thanks for being kind enough to share your thoughts fully, greatly appreciated!
Your brain isn’t going Alzheimer on you
Kiesha recently posted..How to Surround Yourself with Writing Inspiration
Twitter: LindaMHewett
Great analogy, Kiesha. After all there are only so many ingredients for our blog posts. I need to work hard on putting the more unusual ideas together and catching readers’ attention.
You’re right – if the salad brings a new flavour it will be remembered.
Gues what I’m having for dinner tonight!
Linda recently posted..What I Learnt From A Coat-Hanger In A Tree And You Can Too
Twitter: weblogbetter
LOL! Hi Linda,
I think that’s why I enjoy your posts so much.
I hope you enjoyed your salad! I find it fun and challenging to come up with unlikely pairings of topics and I think you do an awesome job of that, too!
Kiesha recently posted..How to Surround Yourself with Writing Inspiration
Twitter: keepupweb
Fun post Kiesha! It’s so good to read an article from someone who isn’t warning me to not blog about topics that have been written about often like Twitter. I always feel that if I’m speaking from my heart and sharing personal experiences with my readers, they’ll find value in my posts and come back for more. Thanks for making me smile while I read this too!
Sherryl Perry recently posted..2 Steps to Stalking the Popular Kids and Getting More Traffic
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Hi Sherryl,
I fully believe that regardless of how many times a particular topic has been written about, no one can ever write like you, from your exact level of experience and perspective. I think we all have some unique lessons to share. Don’t be afraid to do that. It’s still original content if you share from your personal experience and lesson bank. Your post just might inspire that lightbulb moment that someone desperately needed. They could’ve read 10 posts about the same topic, but still couldn’t get it until they read your post.
Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts!
Kiesha recently posted..The Ultimate Guide- Promote My Blog
Twitter: ronniedare
Great great analogy of blogging and salad. I think, making it fresh and unique will always be the best ingredient or lemme say the best selling point of both salad and a certain person’s blog.
Ron Leyba recently posted..Philippine Football Team – Philippine Azkals Goalkeeper
Twitter: weblogbetter
Thanks Ron!
I’m glad you enjoyed this post – it’s definitely possible to create refreshing content especially if you use personal experience stories and share your life’s lessons with readers.
Thanks for stopping by and commenting!
Kiesha recently posted..How to Surround Yourself with Writing Inspiration
Twitter: kirapermunian
Hi Keisha, Everytime I get into your blog posts, always I really enjoy your reads. You have this distinct approach in blogging such as this one. I believe these blogging styles that you have are necessary within the blogosphere. Indeed, one can become a successful blogger if s/he can incorporate his/her activities in his/her blogging endeavors .
Whatsoever style of blogging should you use, blogging is always extremely rewarding.
Thanks for the great share.
kirapermunian recently posted..The BIG Traffic Generation Blogging Contest
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Hi Kirapermunian!
Thanks for taking the time to check out and comment on this post – I really appreciate that!
It’s an honor to know that you enjoy my posts. I like to include tidbits from my personal experience and combine two very different ideas to make a point about blogging. It’s a challenge that I enjoy tremendously.
Kiesha recently posted..The Ultimate Guide- Promote My Blog
Twitter: kikolani
Love the salad analogy! I have a lot of salads at lunch myself, and just tonight I realized I was bored of them as they were, so I decided to boil some eggs to add in to it tomorrow. Still a salad, but with an added flavor. I’ve been trying that with my writing style – adding in bits that are more like how I speak and less formal. It helps not only the readers, but makes you enjoy your writing more too I think!
Kristi recently posted..Increase Traffic, Comments and Social Shares to Your Blog Posts
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Thanks, Kristi!
You’re right – it does make writing more enjoyable. I tend to enjoy these types of posts where I get to talk a little about my own experience and compare things in unusual ways. I guess I get a kick out of it – and it makes me even happier when I know my readers have enjoyed the posts, too
Kiesha recently posted..What Should I Blog About
Hi, Kiesha. Mouthwatering is right!
When I subscribed to your site, I never knew that I would be up for the most innovative pieces ever. You have a gift for really capturing your audience’s attention. Keep it up! 
And about blogging being likened to a salad, you are right. You do not always have to come up with something new to attract attention. Just pour some freshness in and you are up.
Thanks for the cool post. 
Wes Towers recently posted..Are Relationships Now the Key to Relevance Online
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Wes,
It excites me to know that you find my posts to be innovative! I realize I can’t always provide groundbreaking, completely new topics about blogging, but I know how to tell a story – so that’s what I try to do when I blog. No matter how old people get, everybody still loves a good story.
Thanks again!
Kiesha recently posted..5 Ways To Use Email Marketing To Promote Your Blog
Twitter: bizchickblogs
Hey Kiesha – Re-arranging ingredients – So key!
Recently I read on Jay Baer’s site that the biggest concern for bloggers shouldn’t be quality, it should be randomness. I think sometimes people get random because they are scrambling for new ideas all the time. Keeping the topic pure but just re-arranging things, like a salad, is definitely the way to go!
Cheers,
Tia
bizchickblogs recently posted..Celebrating Women
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Tia!
Thanks, I’m glad you agree. Whenever I’m struggling to write, the best thing for me to do is walk away from the computer. Before I know it, I’ll be watching a show or a movie and something about blogging will pop into my head.
Kiesha recently posted..What Should I Blog About
Twitter: Kharim
Great post Kiesha. It’s all about putting life into your blog and making it delicious. If your blog is plain and boring, then your first time visitors will be turned off. On the other hand, if it’s tastey like a lovely salad bowl then you can bet they will be coming back for more.
Kharim Tomlinson recently posted..How High Speed Internet Access Has Improved Blogging
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Thanks, Kharim!
I like the idea of creating an interesting and delicious blog. I figure, no one else has my exact experiences, knowledge and skills combination – so I better take advantage of that and use it to set my writing apart from others.
Kiesha recently posted..What Should I Blog About
Twitter: ditesco
Great analogy Kiesha. Not sure my blog will pass the test, but I certainly understood what is need to be done to make it so. Freshness is definitely one “basic” and important ingredient to make it as “tasty” as possible, lol. Thumbs up
DiTesco recently posted..Home Based Business
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Thanks DiTesco!
I appreciate your comment! I think your blog passes the test just fine.
Kiesha recently posted..What Should I Blog About
Twitter: JimiJones
Fantastic way to weave a valuable message into a lesson. It really is a great idea to mix things up occassionally. Otherwise, things become repetitive and stale. Much like a salad, our content could use a little spice. m:-)
Enjoyed this creative post!
Jimi Jones recently posted..How to Find Fulfillment in Life
Twitter: JimiJones
So excited about that salad (and my hunger), I can’t even type my email address correctly.
Jimi Jones recently posted..The Sunday Seven Weekly
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Hi Jimi!
I think as long as you’re creative enough to know how to blend things in unexpected ways, you’ll always be able to capture your audience’s attention – at least for a minute or two.
Thanks! I’m glad you found the lesson amongst my silly-ness
Kiesha recently posted..What Should I Blog About
Twitter: fionastolze
Hi Keisha
This post made me smile. Thanks for sharing these lovely ideas. I so agree with what you say about giving the readers the feeling that they go away with much more than they came. I just recently changed my blog and it’s great when readers leave feedback that they enoyed being on your site and are looking forward to your next post. I’d love to retweet this. I’m sure many others would love reading this too. Thanks.
Fiona Stolze
Inspired Art and Living
http://fionastolze.com
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Fiona!
You’re so right about that – it refreshes me every time I hear someone has enjoyed reading a post of mine. I’m glad this post was able to make you smile. I like to think that people read my blog and at least get a giggle or two (or a smile) out of the deal.
Kiesha recently posted..5 Ways To Use Email Marketing To Promote Your Blog
Kiesha, you are so good at writing these analogy posts. I thoroughly enjoyed the read. Now I’m off to do something “bold” for my next post. LOL!
Lisa Irby recently posted..Yes- Banner Advertising Still Works But…
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Thanks, Lisa!
You’ve always got some great and super valuable stuff.
Now you got me all curious! I can’t wait to read your next post
Kiesha recently posted..What Should I Blog About
Twitter: technicallyeasy
Salad and blogging…really? When I read the title I wasn’t sure what to expect, or at least how you would explain the comparison. Nicely done.
I agree that you must keep your writing and blog fresh and give your visitors something new, or at least change it up for them. Something I need to learn is to change up my writing style, or at least add some life to my posts.
Paul Salmon recently posted..3 Best Current Laptops of 2011
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Thanks, Paul!
I figure, the more outlandish and unusual a comparison you can make about blogging, the better. I like to write things that make me laugh while I’m writing them. That lets me know right away whether or not others will do the same and enjoy the post.
Yeah, I’m sure this title had a lot of people wondering what the heck I was gonna talk about. Can you imagine what people thought about my “Fight Like a Squirrel for your Blog Post”?
Kiesha recently posted..What Should I Blog About
Keisha, awesome post. I hope my blog is like that salad. I try my best to create an enjoyable environment by injecting humor and personality into every post and podcast.. it makes it fun for my visitors and for me, too.
Thanks for sharing these great tips..
Hector
Hector Cuevas recently posted..BBP 014- A Behind The Scenes Look At A 100 Hour Blog ReDesign
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Thanks Hector!
You’ve definitely got a refreshing blog – there’s always some thing intriguing to read or download there. And yes, you’ve definitely got to have a healthy sense of humor, otherwise you’d go nuts! Hey that’s another good ingredient for a salad!
Kiesha recently posted..What Should I Blog About
Twitter: evelyn_parham
Hi Kiesha,
Great analogy! This has really helped me when I get writer’s block and just don’t know what to write about.
Take care,
Evelyn
Evelyn recently posted..Spring is in the Air and Magic is Everywhere
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Hi Evelyn!
Honestly, if more people wrote about their own personal experiences, they’d have so much more to blog about. You don’t always have to write about some completely new concept all the time – just write about old things, but in a new way.
Thanks for stopping by and sharing! I appreciate you so much.
Kiesha recently posted..What Should I Blog About
Twitter: stevenpapas
Well done Kiesha. Apparently, many things in life can be depicted as salad. It applies very well to blogging for sure. I liked what you say about using existing ingredients and combining them in a unique way. Creativity and imagination are must have traits of a successful blogger.
steven papas recently posted..Garmin GPS 60CSx Handheld Navigator Review
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Steven!
Thanks for stopping by to share your thoughts. Having the freedom to be creative is one of the reasons why I love blogging so much.
Kiesha recently posted..Could you still make blogging friends after a heated debate
Twitter: bbrian017
For the record I am very similar to you with regards to my salad. I loved the analogy and the article it was simply amazing. I’ve been inspired by this article to add little twist to my articles and mix things up. Like you said I won’t over due it too much but I will add a little twist. I plan on using ideas from this article in my writings this week.
I would like to add I think this idea would benefit both the blog and the reader. Something new and entertaining with a twist is always good for the reader but can also keep the interest level high for the writer. Things that are new, changed or made unique is always a motivating factor to any blogger to continue producing content.
bbrian017 recently posted..It’s nothing unique- It’s called hard work
Twitter: weblogbetter
Thanks, Brian!
I’m glad you were inspired by this post. Being creative and combining unlikely ideas really does making blogging and writing so much more fun for me. It also opens up endless possibilities for blog posts. I think when I have fun writing, that transfers to readers – they’ll enjoy reading it.
Kiesha recently posted..Could you still make blogging friends after a heated debate
What a compelling analogy! Thanks for reassuring us that a great blog post doesn’t have to have completely new ideas everyday. Readers probably return to their favorite blogs because they know they can count on certain content, but toss in a surprise ingredient and their delight is kicked up a notch.
Use of analogy, as you have done, is a clever technique for helping readers see a relationship among ideas in a more immediate and memorable way and a straight explanation.
Thanks for this great tip. Now over to my blog to toss the salad a bit.
Flora M Brown, Ph.D. recently posted..Forget Your Own Happiness- You Owe Me
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Hi Flora!
I’m glad you enjoyed the post! I love creating interesting analogies – it presents a challenge and I’m always looking out for what other strange topics I can compare blogging to – it means there’s infinite possibilities to write about
Kiesha recently posted..The Ultimate Guide- Promote My Blog
Twitter: thatimthing
Kiesha… you are a woman after my own stomach. We eat salad every single night. Right now we’re deep into cucumbers, jalapeno stuffed olives, feta cheese, pancetta, red onions and splash of Italian dressing. Yum!
No matter how you make your salad, it’s going to be good to some people, and not so good for others. And that’s the takeaway message I get from your salad analogy. You have to create your content your way… with your own personality and style. No, it’s not going to be yummy to all people. But those who love it, will absolutely love it because it’s infused with your special ingredients.
Sometimes there’s nothing new under the sun. But it’s the way YOU explain it that makes all the difference.
Good stuff!
Dahlia
Dahlia Valentine recently posted..86 Resources That’ll Help You Become a Profitable Amazon Affiliate
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Dahlia,
That’s very insightful of you! Yes, not everyone is going to like my blog and that’s totally fine. I think once bloggers accept that fact, it will remove the anxiety that blocks creativity and they’ll begin to produce content that is truly interesting and valuable. Sometimes all readers need is to be entertained, other times they need to learn something – it’s okay to produce different types of content that serves these different functions.
Kiesha recently posted..The Ultimate Guide- Promote My Blog
Twitter: WebTrafficCafe
I love me a good salad!
I definitely agree with you, Kiesha – it’s never about reinvented a wheel, but about getting our taste buds excited….
I am not too great with this whole salad analogy, but I get your point!
Ana
Ana | DoFollow Blog Finder Tool recently posted..Best Aweber Autoresponder Review You bet!
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Ana!
If I had to reinvent the wheel everyday, I’d be out of luck!
Thanks for stopping by and taking a moment to comment.
Kiesha recently posted..Could you still make blogging friends after a heated debate
Twitter: StephensHeather
Hi Kiesha,
Interesting and fresh perspective. Basically the ingredients to a successful blog are pretty standard but we all need to add our own spice to the mix!
Thanks for the fun read!
Heather
Heather C Stephens recently posted..Join the Clever Marketer Mastermind Community- Blog Commenting Tribe!
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Heather!
I love the idea of adding our own spices to the mix – that’s really what makes the greatest impact and allows us to stand out even more. It’s sad that not enough people are taking advantage of that.
Kiesha recently posted..What Should I Blog About
Twitter: MavisNong
Hi Kiesha,
Interesting analogy. You’re so right about re-arranging the ingredients, it makes it fun and enjoyable.
Thanks for another great read and good luck with the contest!
Mavis
Mavis Nong recently posted..Attraction Marketing – How I Promote My Blog and Command Attention on Facebook!
Twitter: weblogbetter
Thanks, Mavis!
I wouldn’t be able to write if I couldn’t rearrange and shake things up from time to time
Kiesha recently posted..The Walmart Guide to Increasing the Average Time Spent on Site
Twitter: sfihomebizz
Hey Kiesha, Congrats on winning the contest. Amazing comparison between healthy food and healthy blogging. Your articles always full of life, stories, freshness, unique spices as ingredients as you have mentioned in this article.
Kavita recently posted..Do you make money blogging without spending a dime
Twitter: weblogbetter
Thanks Kavita!
I appreciate you taking the time to stop by and comment! Have a great weekend!
Kiesha recently posted..5 Tips for Becoming a Successful Guest Blogger
Twitter: HappyWivesClub
This looks like an old blog post but I just saw it on your Twitter page today. Quick question for you. I came across a website today that referred people to her Facebook page for comments. I know it’s not ideal but since most of my blog followers actually comment to me directly on Facebook fan page I’m extremely active and receive probably 50-100 comments a day but the blog usually receives only a few. Do you think it’s a bad move to just move the conversation onto FB altogether?
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Twitter: weblogbetter
Wow, it’s funny how things change – since writing this post, I’ve switch to a vegan diet – ha!
Kiesha recently posted..5 Tips for Becoming a Successful Guest Blogger
Twitter: HappyWivesClub
That’s funny. I had delicious vegan and gluten free butternut squash soup tonight (it’s so creamy and they use parsnip instead of cream) and a vegan spinach quinoa salad. I’m not vegan but there is a place called Mendocino Farms that makes amazing vegan dishes so that’t the only time I eat vegan
.
Fawn recently posted..Making Marriage a Priority When You’re Busy
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Fawn!
Ever since I switch a few months ago, I feel ten times better. I also make my own veggie/fruit juice and I think the concentrated nutrients I get from that makes all the difference. I watched documentaries: “Forks Over Knives”, “Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead”, and “Dying to Have Known” – and now I’m determined to stick to it!
Kiesha recently posted..Get More Blog Readers Thanks To Twimbow
Twitter: abhibalani
LOLz . I never thought to compare salad with blogging. Really enjoyed the informative tips with a salad style.
And yes i think rather searching for something new everyday can let us stuck, rearranging is a good option there.
But i don’t think skipping orange and adding strawberries is that much easier with less confidence.
Abhi Balani (OddBlogger) recently posted..4 Reasons that You Shouldn’t Cut Corners on SEO
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Abhi,
You make a good point about confidence – it actually makes the biggest difference about whether or not you’ll be able to write with a high level of creativity. Lack of confidence is easily sensed in word choice and tone, so it’s definitely important to summon enough courage and confidence to write in a refreshing way.
Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts!
Kiesha recently posted..Blogging Tips 101 Contest: 6 Reasons Why You Should Participate
Twitter: bloggersethics
That is so true. It is important to learn and keep learning new things everyday. You need to keep your mind receptive.
tushar recently posted..The Change in Blogging Scenario
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Tushar!
It sounds like you already know the winning combination. I like to think of writing as exploration rather than a demonstration that I already know it all. You learn a lot more that way.
Thanks for stopping by and sharing!
Kiesha recently posted..Blogging Tips 101 Contest: 6 Reasons Why You Should Participate
Twitter: tracyschutz
Hi Kiesha,
Ok- I must say I am not a fan of salads, but I completely “get” your analogy! This is how I feel about my daily bowl of oatmeal. Yes, it’s still the same beige, creamy goodness, but yet I can mix it up just a little and still look forward to it each day! Well said, and you make a very valid point about not trying to always look for new “ingredients.” We don’t have to reinvent the wheel!
Thanks for sharing,
Tracy
Tracy recently posted..12 Most Essential Teacher Tips for Classroom Management
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Tracy,
Yes, oatmeal is definitely another one of those meals that you can just switch up and combine new ingredients to keep the tastebuds guessing from day to day. Hey – that could be the topic of another interesting take on blogging!
Thanks for stopping by and sharing!
Kiesha recently posted..Blogging Tips 101 Contest: 6 Reasons Why You Should Participate
Twitter: techcrates
Pretty interesting article and great analogy …
Liked the #1,3 and #4 points to make our blog pass the salad test !!
Salman recently posted..Nokia X201 Review – Full Qwerty
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Salman,
I’m glad to hear it! Looks like you’re on your way to passing the salad test!
Kiesha recently posted..Blogging Tips 101 Contest: 6 Reasons Why You Should Participate
Twitter: bilalkamoon
I’m vegetarian… I think I’m offended (;
Bilal Kamoon recently posted..The Self-Reflection Manifesto: 60+ Questions To Ask Yourself Today
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Bilal,
There’s no need to be offended – since writing this, I’ve actually turned to a vegan diet – who knew?
Kiesha recently posted..Blogging Tips 101 Contest: 6 Reasons Why You Should Participate
Twitter: lifenleisure
Coincidentally, I’m eating a salad right now while typing this comment. I agree. Salads need to be more than just a bunch of veggies tossed together with some dressing. It needs to have fresh ingredients, look pleasing and appetizing, and suit the taste of the one eating it. Like you said, it’s just very much like blogging. I’ll never look at a salad the same way again after this.
Adeline recently posted..How You Can Help the Victims of Typhoon Sendong
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Adeline!
Thanks for stopping by!
LOL! Wow – now, that’s amazing timing! Glad this has you thinking in new ways about blogging!
Kiesha recently posted..Blogging Tips 101 Contest: 6 Reasons Why You Should Participate
Twitter: slbphoenix
Love the post, Kiesha! Salad and blogging-never would I have thought! Great way to think outside the box. Sally
Sally recently posted..Holiday Blues – 7 Steps To Gain Control Over Them
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Sally!
Yes, in order to keep things fresh, you definitely have to think outside the box – that’s for sure. I try to make sure I’m doing that as often as possible.
Kiesha recently posted..Blogging Tips 101 Contest: 6 Reasons Why You Should Participate
Twitter: Kevin
Great Ideas on the Sense of Humour on your blog posts. Now I’ve a question how do you find a Sense of humour lmao… I am so utterly not whitty. Ok Ok i have the occasional whitty remark.
Anyhow yes great post and idea.
kevin from Linkies contest Linkies
Kevin Linkie recently posted..New Giveaway Links added to the list of places to Advertise your Giveaways
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Kevin!
I think a sense of humor is definitely something that has to be nurtured – however, I think in order to be clever and witty, you just need to use intelligence – something that everyone has at their disposal on most days – at least
Kiesha recently posted..Top 3 Tips To Getting More Traffic to Your Facebook Fan Page
Twitter: tdanagpaoa
That was a great blogging. It’s a pleasure to eat salad nowadays.
Thanks for sharing these tips!
Twitter: weblogbetter
It sure is a pleasure! Thanks, Dan!
Kiesha recently posted..How to Increase Twitter Followers and Keep Them
Great analogy! Food for both the mind and the soul.
I’ve been in a writing runt lately and your salad post just shook things up for me! Thanks!
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Monique,
I’m glad to hear that this post as shaken things up for you! I’d love to have an opportunity to read whatever you come up with as a result of reading this post – feel free to share your links with me!
Kiesha recently posted..Yet Another Giveaway: 5 Blog Engage Accounts!
Twitter: JymTarrant
Brilliant analogy Keisha.
I love salads as much as blogging so nice to get the two in one post.
Have to say I’m all for unusual ingredients – as long as they work.
I’m also a big fan of using ingredients grown in your own or your friends gardens (your own or guest bloggers content, not important or ‘paid’ article)
And of course, the fresher the ingredients (more regular your updates) the better.
Oh – and don’t mess it up with cheap salad dressing.
Thanks Keisha, love it! Happy New Year!
Jym | Naming Your Blog recently posted..5 Simple Blog Post Ideas for Quick, Valuable Content
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Jym,
I like that you bring up the point – don’t mess it up with cheap dressing – that gets me thinking about this even more – could that cheap dressing be “bad design” – too many blinking graphics and ads? Yes, that’s definitely some good advice to follow.
Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts!
Kiesha recently posted..3 Better Ways to Research Keywords
Twitter: melaniekissell
Absolutely scrumptious and delectable post, Kiesha!
Love the analogy,
Melanie
Twitter: weblogbetter
Thanks, Melanie! I appreciate you stopping by!!
Kiesha recently posted..Top 3 Tips To Getting More Traffic to Your Facebook Fan Page
Twitter: hajraks
Hey Kiesha,
This is such an enjoyable and useful post! Who ever taught our salad could teach us all about blogging. Blogging does get tough at time but what is makes it easier and understandable is to keep learning and keep moving. I have been around for one year and still feel that I have loads to still accomplish.
Great post and now for some blog-salad evaluation!
Thanks
Hajra recently posted..A Little Bit of Sunshine
Twitter: weblogbetter
Hi Hajra!
Blogging years are like dog years – what you learn in 1 year of blogging is the equivalent of 7 years worth of average living – so you’re doing just fine!
Kiesha recently posted..3 Better Ways to Research Keywords
Twitter: hajraks
My! Thanks to people like you around who help us make it all the more easier!Thanks again for the recipe!