25 Successful Blogger Traits
1) A Champion Mindset - What is the one thing all champions have in common? Give up? Winning! You don’t call them a champion until they win. If you are going to be a champions mindset, you have to thinkand act like winners and champions.
Champions don’t whine. Champions don’t complain. Champions over come the odds and to succeed inspite of their circumstances.
Be a champion!
2) Willingness to Learn - Knowledge is the reservoir of which your blog flows. It’s imperative you continue to learn about your niche. This is how you will product quality content. Likewise, you must continuing studying many areas of blogging, Internet marketing, and life.
3) Follow Up - This is essential for business and life. But if you desire to be a successful blogger, then you must respond to people when they reach out to you. In addition, follow up on your obligations. If you tell someone you are going to do something by all means, do it. Follow up is essential in blogging and life.
4) Task Completion - You must get things done. Let’s be real. At the end of the day, what you know does not matter. it is a matter of what you do. Task Completion is at the core of this. You must get things d one.
5) Capacity to Plan – Completing various tasks can be irrelevant if they are not logically working together with the aim of moving you closer to your goals. The capacity to plan and weave these various task into a strategy to maximize your effectiveness is critical. This capacity is expanded with use.
6) Execution - Carrying out a plan through to completion is what execution is all about. Don’t waste your time planning, if you aren’t going to execute. Execution goes a couple steps beyond task completion. Execution involves getting things done efficiently and effectively. Every component must work together in harmony.
7) Ability to Take the Shot – Imagine your basketball team is down 1 point with 5 seconds on the clock. it’s the championship game. Do you want to take the shot?
I do! You must have that swagger and confidence in your skills and abilities, your knowledge and study habits. Maybe your blog is not in the championship game, but there is no one to pass the ball to. It is your responsibility, and your shot.
8 ) Mentor – I am not telling you to go and spend $10,000 on a mentor (Ask for my affiliate link if you must), but I am encouraging you to find someone or multiple people that know more than you and learn from them.
You are still thinking this is going to cost. You can pay if you like, but at least find blogs in the various niches that you need to be successful.
9) A Network of Bloggers – The President of the Blogosphere calls this the “Ninjas”. Having a group/team/network of bloggers to bounce ideas off of is awesome. you must experience the blogosphere for all the wonderful people that are out there. Reach out!
10) Play Well with Social Medial - Resistance is futile. Submit to the social media outlets of the world. It’s ok, they broke me down as well. MySpace, Facebook, and YouTube won a long time ago. Now their are legions of new school social media outlets waiting on you.
Get your Twitter page (follow me Twitter.com/thinktaylor), Plurk (follow me Plurk.com/thinktaylor), Technorati, Digg, stumble upon and more. Get them now. If you want to know how to use them all net work with the Social Media Queen, Brilliant Jeni… Twitter.com/brilliantjeni
11) An Opinion – You must have something to say. You do own a blog or are blogging. Take a side, get off the fence, and be yourself. Remember, the last point, you cannot please everyone. Don’t try by walking the tight rope on issues. Pick a side and let your opinion be heard.
12) An Idea – You must have something to talk about and have a clue on how you are going to tie it all together. What subjects will be discussed, how will it relate? Why is it of any interest? Your ideas will bring all these things together.
13) Passion – I have heard it said that passion is that eternal elixir of life. Release that power and share it with your Blog Family. Don’t hold back and pour it on. Passion is great and full of excitement, love, and joy.
14) Perseverance – Keep going despite all adversity. This is perseverance. you are going to have everything from writers block to someone stealing your niche ideas. What are you going to do, cry? That may have worked in kindergarten, but the Blogosphere doesn’t work that way. Well, not yet.
15) Thick Skin - Face facts, everyone is not going to like you. Suck it up. Have some think skin and keep pushing your plan. you cannot satisfy everyone. Don’t try!
16) Hope – You must hang on to the possibility that what you are doing can make a difference. It can make a difference in your readers, the society at large, even yourself. Hang on to the hope that you can reach someone.
17) A Pen & Paper – I am old school. I use a pen and paper. My ideas just flow better. Must be something about the way the pen glides across the paper. Typing on the computer just doesn’t do it for me. Let’s take it back in time and break out the refined wood and ink.
18) An Editors Mentality – At times, it is beneficial to think like an editor with an eye for the story. Create the drama, intrigue, and suspense with your word choice. Likewise, you must edit your blog as well for clarity, originality, and flare. These are some of the task of an editor. They have to please the rules of grammar and the needs of the reader.
19) An Marketers Mentality - Contrary to what you may believe, marketing is not all about making sales. Marketing is about customer satisfaction. Focus on satisfying the customer and they will lead an ocean of buyers to you. In the case of bloggers, focus on your readers so they bring others. Provide good product and service recommendations. Make your blog easy to navigate. Return emails frequently. Make your blog more visually appealing. These and many more are the task of the marketer, but they all are grounded in customer satisfaction. (Your readers are the customers.)
20) A Chess Masters Mentality – When you first learn how to play chess, you think it is all about the Queen. As you progress to the intermediate levels, clinging to tatics such as pins, forks, and discoveries. if your lucky, your game will expand to strategic by analyzing pawn structure. But grow in understanding that it is always about the end game and checkmate.
Blogging is no different. When you first get started you might cling to certain techniques and skills. Think like a chess master with an eye on your end game. What are you trying to accomplish or express?
21) A Conscious Mentality – Be aware that you effect other people. Whether you’re a role model or not is irrelevant, your actions effect other people. Be sure your actions portray a sense of justice and honor. There is more than enough resources for everyone to live well. you don’t have to cheat and get over on people.
22) Self Expression – Your blog is your chance to completely express your individuality. You truly are an amazing person and now you have the opportunity to share that person to the world. You obviously started your blog to say something or express yourself.
23) Appreciation - We live in a truly special time in the history of the world. The Internet is less than 20 years old, and we are building blogs for income, expression, and much more. This is a very special opportunity. i wonder how many of you really appreciate this opportunity.
24) Balance - At the end of the day, we are not just bloggers. We are husbands, wives, siblings, community leaders, parents, friends, concerned about our health, wealth, and education. Maintain balance between the offline world and our home in the Blogosphere.
25) Enjoyment - Remember to stop and have fun. I know blogging can be enjoyable, but try to have real fun. You can take pictures and post on your blog, but life is too short and it is meant to be enjoyed!
First in the Mind, then in Reality!
25 Comments
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6:19 am on November 26th, 2008
Repetition on thick skin …intentional or not??? Other than that, yet another fricken awesome list post, Freddie. Some really good food for thought!
Cheers
Nota Bene Consultings last blog post..Who The Hell Is Flurrie Creative?
8:59 am on November 26th, 2008
Yeah boyeeeeeeeeee, I’m feeling the list TaylorMade! I saw the repetition of number 15 but kept on going! It was just a lil speed bump
Great list dude, being yourself man….I wish more folks would do this. Don’t try to be the next whoever….just do yo! All that other stuff you listed is icing on the cake, if you can’t be you it’s worth nothing! (Well, not absolutely nothing, but you know what I mean sucka)
9:47 am on November 26th, 2008
@ Nota – That was not intentional and I have removed from the post. I was moving them around a bit and must have rushed it out. Thanks for pointing it out.
Glad you loved the post. I really enjoy writing them.
@ Normal Joe – YEEEEaaaaahhhhhh Sooonnnnnn!!!! Got rid of the speed bump, so you could mash the gas down the list.
You got to be yourself and I have had that pushed down my throat by you for months now and it is appreciated. Keep it coming, Sammich Man!
9:13 pm on November 27th, 2008
Though long, I read it all. And I found it worth reading. The traits mentioned are really what makes you a true blogger. Following all or even few of them can make a difference.
Nice judgment in composing the posts and jotting down the points. Posts such as these are not less than mentor and keeps in me the ‘blogging spirit’ alive!
Riturajs last blog post..Down To Earth: The ‘Flat-Mobile’ Car
2:38 am on November 28th, 2008
Wow! Way too many to pick favourites here! And I totally agree with Joe. Bloggers need to be who they are – because you can only hold a persona for so long.
5:02 am on November 28th, 2008
Great list blog post, read it all and was impressed with the amount of great advice. I especially liked being yourself and highlighting your own perspective because we all have different lifes and should rejoice in our differences.
I also liked the advice on always learn more about your niche and join the blogging community. It’s really important to take the online journey together and learn and reflect on information that is helpful to readers.
wynter joness last blog post..Look before you Flip! 5 rules for buying websites.
10:30 am on November 28th, 2008
@ Riturajs – Yeah it is a long post, but I am glad you enjoyed it. Got to keep that blogging spirit alive! Thanks for getting involved.
@ Tom – It becomes a hassle trying to be someone that you are not. It is really crazy when you could just be yourself and have more people appreciate you for that.
@ – Wynter – Thank you for stopping by Wynter. Glad to hear you like the post. Being yourself seems to resonate with everyone the most. That is great because I feel that it is important.
Constant learning is critical in this world of blogging because you have to stay on top of your subjects and this craft. Joining a community and having some bloggers to bounce ideas off of is essential.
10:26 pm on November 29th, 2008
Freddie,
I think one more would be adaptation or willingness to change. Technology is always changing and you need to be willing to adapt to the new technology. Many of the problems I have in everyday business is that my bosses are dinosaurs that are stuck in their old ways and are afraid to upgrade to to cost, learning, and uncertainty. If you want to continue to be successful you need to be able to adapt to the economy, culture, and technological changes in your field.
Adam
Adam – Creadivs last blog post..Powered By Lithium Hosting
11:40 pm on November 30th, 2008
@ Adam – That is a great suggestion. I may just add that one to the list. If I do, I will give you a link and credit. Thank you for the input. You are so right because this field is constantly changing and you better be willing to move with the shake ups or you will definitely be left behind.
Sucks to hear your bosses don’t have the foresight to get with the innovation curve. Easy for me to say from the outside and not have to shell out the bucks to make the changes happen, but it is the best move for the long run.
1:04 am on December 1st, 2008
i think the most important blogger trait is passion. We need to be passionate on what we do to keep us persevering to be a better blogger.
Blogging from Scratchs last blog post..Site is for sale and November Income Report
10:08 am on December 1st, 2008
I am going to print this list. THANKS!!
Blue’s Moms last blog post..I Am Thankful My Daughter Is In Prison
10:12 am on December 1st, 2008
I like #11. There is nothing Humble about my opinion. So you won’t be finding any IMHO on my page!!
I have to learn to stay focused and not get distracted!!
Great list.
Thanks
Ms Sparkys last blog post..Contractor (KBR) for military committed serious violations
10:25 am on December 1st, 2008
@ Blogging from Scratch – Passion is everything! I can go for that. In fact, not just in blogging, but in life passion is very important. Thanks for the comment.
@ Blue’s Mom – Glad to hear you like enough to print out. That means a lot to me. Hope you enjoy it!
@ Ms Sparky – LOL! Let your opinion fly with no remorse or hesitation. That is what I am talking about. And that is why people will love your site and what you have to say…because you are not afraid to be yourself and let others see it! Keep it up!
6:47 pm on December 1st, 2008
Nice article Freddie. I have been feeling your list lately man.
Also, I see that product you got us previewing “Coming Soon” in that prime location on your blog… what’s that all about?
bigknoxys last blog post..MISSION TO FIND THE BLOGGERHOOD: Where is your site?
6:48 pm on December 1st, 2008
Also man, I think your eyes in your header keep looking at me even when I scroll down on your page… how you get it to do that???
bigknoxys last blog post..MISSION TO FIND THE BLOGGERHOOD: Where is your site?
9:16 pm on December 1st, 2008
@ Big Knoxy – Glad you are feeling the list, man. I got like 9 more coming at some point. Been working on them. Figured that would be one of my things, you know? I enjoy putting them together and people seem to really like them.
The ebook was an experiment I did on writing ebooks. You can check that out in the IM Experiment catagory. It is #1. The ebook will be given away on the site with email sign up. I want to build my subscription base and following, so I put together an ebook.
As for the eyes, yeah man, you got to watch it. If you stare into them too long….I will be able to read your thoughts!
Mmmmuuuuhahahhahahaaaa!
10:32 pm on December 1st, 2008
MAN!! I knew them eyes were following me… I just didn’t know they were reading my thoughts!!! DOH!!!
Cool, I’ll have to check out that IM Experiment man.
Be Easy!
bigknoxys last blog post..MISSION TO FIND THE BLOGGERHOOD: Where is your site?
12:19 am on December 2nd, 2008
@ BigKnoxy – LOL! Don’t be freaked out, man. I won’t tell everyone what you are up to. But you need to stop having those thoughts about the Blogger Hood. Just let it go, man!
You can check the experiment to see how I got the book written for me, but the book is about to drop this week. It is ready, I am just polishing up some things.
7:19 pm on December 4th, 2008
knoxy, I know, I just noticed the eyes and I’m kinda freaked out – they’re just staring me down
Simon – Site Flippings last blog post..Some Enjoyable Posts In The Blogosphere 3-12-2008
9:25 pm on December 4th, 2008
LOL! Simon, don’t be scare, just look into my eyes! Muuuhahahhahaaaa!!!!
9:23 pm on January 13th, 2009
Excellent post Freddie!
A couple of my favorites –
“9) A Network of Bloggers – The President of the Blogosphere calls this the “Ninjas”. Having a group/team/network of bloggers to bounce ideas off of is awesome. you must experience the blogosphere for all the wonderful people that are out there. Reach out!”
10) Play Well with Social Medial – Resistance is futile. Submit to the social media outlets of the world. It’s ok, they broke me down as well. ”
I loved those! Made be laugh. But so, so true.
Your post reminded me of an old, old article which was once published in the National Enquirer, of all places. “24 Qualities that Geniuses Have in Common.” It’s one of my all-time favorites and I think you would like it too: agentgenius.com/?p=9251
Annas last blog post..Twenty-Two Months
8:23 pm on January 22nd, 2009
the more i think about it, the more “a willingness to learn” strikes me of the utmost importance. use the blog experience as an excuse to learn something. it virtually guarantees that the discover process will yield material from the writer, and something interesting or valuable for the reader.
Matty Bylooss last blog post..Wordless Wednesday: 1.21.09
8:57 am on January 23rd, 2009
@ Anna – That was a great post. I checked it out. Thanks!
@ Matty – Man, glad you are really digging into my site. You are right about a willingness to learn…it is everything. You have to be willing to stretch yourself if you are ever going to stretch anyone else.
Freddie Taylors last blog post..Who Should Be in Superbowl instead of the Cardinals?
12:59 pm on January 23rd, 2009
Just trying to stay a student of life. Humble, open and out there. I think it’s a good policy.
Matty Bylooss last blog post..Wordless Wednesday: 1.21.09
7:36 am on October 10th, 2009
chess mentality is best because we have to know the chance of opposition as well as our's favourable condition.