3 Legal Issues That Can Enhance Your Blogging Efforts

 

 

It's no secret to most of us, that "artists" are often more creative than business-oriented, true?



It's one of the main reasons we often read about famous authors, lyricists, and actors who make millions, and shortly thereafter, are next to broke, or embroiled in some type of legal battle, where they stand to lose their fortunes.

Bad decisions, poor money management, and entrusting their assets to the wrong "professionals" are often to blame. And as scribes, we're cut from a similar cloth.
Even though as writers and bloggers, much of what we say and do online can be protected by the First Amendment, it's important to strive to be strategic, above-board and business-minded, for optimal success and profitability.

With this in mind, here are three legal issues you'll want to consider to safe-guard your blog and protect your bottom line in the future.


DISCLAIMERS:
According to the Freedictionary.com: "A disclaimer is a defensive measure, used generally with the purpose of protection from unwanted claims or liability." Do you address health tips, provide financial, parenting, or legal advice to your readership?
If so, disclaimers can be useful in the event that someone takes your advice and it causes them detriment or loss. We live in a very litigious society, where folks are filing claims for everything from spilled hot coffee, to contractual breaches, to defamation of character, to misleading Ads online.
Fortunately for most of us "starving artists," the only "assets" we really risk losing are our book collections, stash of chocolates, comic book collections, and unopened bottles of wine. Still, better safe than sorry.
Here's an example of what to include in your legal disclaimer:
http://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Legal-Disclaimer-for-Your-Business

DISCLOSURES:
Do you receive financial compensation for affiliate links? Sponsored blog posts? Reviews for books or products on your site? If so, you may want to come clean about it. Why?
Transparency in both business and personal dealings can lead to greater trust and confidence.
Not to mention, you want to make sure that you're in compliance with any online or FTC regulations that govern the way you conduct blog activities. You can read more on this for a better understanding of what disclosures entail. And here's my disclosure: it was rather lengthy so I did not read all the fine print, but make sure you do. :-)

https://www.socialmediaexplorer.com/social-media-marketing/disclosures-for-bloggers-and-brands/

ATTRIBUTIONS:
Okay, so you know how you're sometimes surfing online and find just the right, cute image to accompany your awesome blog post, so you use it? Without going through the proper channels? Don't! Unless you either have copyrights, purchase it from the site that it's listed through, or request specific permission and obtain it from the photographer. I was reading online, some time ago, where a writer was actually sued for thousands of dollars due to this oversight or omission. Ouch. Don't let it be you.
It's for this very reason that I learned how to use my own electronic devices to post my own blog images. Perhaps you should too. 

Keep these three key practices and principles in mind, as you ascend greater heights with your blog this year.

Your turn...

Do you address any or all of these legal matters on your blog? Will you? Do tell.

How to Build a Reading Garden This Summer...

With warmer weather on the horizon, thoughts naturally "migrate" to outdoor activities and fun in the sun. And for those of us that enjoy the escape provided by a good book and nature's divinity, a Reading Garden holds happily-ever-after potential.

First, let me go on record here as admitting that I am not an "expert" on the subject. I actually stumbled upon it recently while doing some blog browsing and I was hooked on the concept.

You can read more here at Sweatpantsandcoffee.com: http://sweatpantsandcoffee.com/creative-lifestyles-create-outdoor-reading-garden/

and here: http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/spaces/reading-garden-design.htm

WHAT IS A READING GARDEN?

A reading garden is an extension of your living space that allows you to create a special nook outdoors to get lost between the pages of a good book or two, and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature.



Image: Freedigitalphotos.net

WHY CREATE ONE?

More and more these days, people are seeking to make their homes the ideal "sanctuary," due to the expense, inconvenience, and hassle of travel to distant lands and posh resorts.
"Stay-cations" are increasing in popularity.
And think about it... a Reading Garden is an opportunity to be creative, have fun, and increase the functionality of your backyard.  It need not be reserved just for barbeques!
 Hello?

THINGS YOU'LL WANT TO CONSIDER... 




JEN'S BACKYARD ROSEBUSH

A Reading Garden, much like an office space, should be a reflection of your personality, lifestyle, and spacial considerations.

Plan out your space and design beforehand. Depending upon your know-how and budget, the services of a professional landscaper might be warranted.  

 

 For a successful project, let's explore a few things of importance here.

•  You'll want to choose furniture that is comfortable, attractive and weatherproof. A good sturdy table umbrella is a smart choice as well.
•  If you don't have a "green thumb" or the desire to do a lot of maintenance or upkeep, opt for something simple like a bird bath, rock garden, and solar lights.
• Make the most of your experience; have herbal teas, Citronella candles, and a set of head phones to block out surrounding noises on hand. 
• Outdoor "pits" can also add warmth, interest and ambiance.

I'll let you know how mine develops in months to come. That is, if I'm not immersed in another project that tickles my fancy...

How about you? Do you have a reading garden? Would this be of interest? What books or "niceties" would yours include?

 

Are You a "Successful" Blogger? 8 Metrics to Consider

Ralph Waldo Emerson defines success as: "To laugh often and much. To win the respect of intelligent people." And motivational speaker and author, Zig Ziglar contends that success "cannot be defined in one sentence."

Truth is, we all define it somewhat differently.  For some, success is merely a matter of achieving one's goals, no matter how basic.
But, when it comes to success in blogging...well, it gets a bit more tricky here.

In a "blog fog" about how to categorize YOUR blogging status?

Aside from boasting thousands of followers, or landing a book contract based upon your site, here are a few key metrics and criteria to consider, in no particular order:


1). Level of engagement 
How well is your work really resonating with your readership? Are people picking up what you're putting down?  Here's an example. I love the fact that not only do I get weekly comments on my regular posts, I also have people that read posts that I've written here several years back, and they take the time to drop me a line, ask a question, or share how much they enjoyed a particular piece. In a nutshell, that means that not only am I blessed to have people visit my site, they also take time to explore, read, and revisit archived earlier work. It helps to keep me motivated. Thanks, guys.

2). Continued growth
I can laugh now. But when I started out, things were pretty pitiful at Pen and Prosper, folks.
In the infancy of my blogging career, the only people that were "following" my work was my Avon lady, a few close friends, and maybe a random stalker or two. LOL
But, I kept going. 3 people turned into 12, 12 people became 30. 30 people became 100, 100 people became 200, 200 people became 300...get the idea here? Are you expanding in reach? Even if it's just a few new readers a month, are your numbers growing? If so, keep going. Success is knocking at your door.

3). Consistency
Blogging is fun, but truth be told, it's a lot of hard work. Hello? And I should know. In addition to blogging for business clients and authors, I have posted over 600 articles and interviews to date at Pen and Prosper. And I've never been away from my keyboard for more than a few weeks at a time, (for vacations, important projects, etc.).  If you can say the same, pat yourself on the back. You deserve it. That's success!
In fact, Neil Patel, branding expert and blogging strategist states that: "Consistency is more important than creativity."   

4). Awards
It's one thing for us to take pride in our blog work, most do. But, to be recognized by peers that you respect in the blogging community? Well, it doesn't get much better than that. I must admit that it was a pivotal point in my blogging career, when I received my first one, and it continues to humble and excite me each year, in receiving subsequent ones. ( A special thanks to the bloggers and organizations that have considered me worthy).  If you're seeking to elevate your exposure level, your online reputation, and your bottom line this year, the social proof provided by winning awards can be the ticket.
Fanstory.com offers monthly contests worth checking into.  

5). Comments from readers
Though opinions vary here, for me a blog without comments is not entirely "successful." Don't get me wrong, I don't always get boatloads of blog comments, but since a blog is intended to be an interactive medium, comments help to assess whether readers find you interesting, engaging, and personable. What do you think here? Does it matter for you?  I'd love to get your views on this one.

6). Social media shares
Sharing is caring. I'm always flattered and tickled pink when readers spotlight my work and spread it within their social media circles. Social shares are the equivalent of votes or virtual hugs. I appreciate those of you who help to promote Pen and Prosper. And I know who you are. :-)
Do you get a lot of Tweets from your Peeps?  If you do, it speaks well of you.

7). Links to your work from fellow bloggers
No man is a success alone. Links from other sites and bloggers help to expand our reach and enable us to achieve more in less time. Google your Blog's name and see what you can find. Typically, the more links and mentions, the better.

8). Business clients acquired through your blogging efforts
More and more folks are earning pay for their say. Are you one of them? If you're making money, and "winning friends and influencing people" you're definitely considered a "success" by most standards. If not, you may want to reconsider your blogging strategy and approach.


Traffic will come and go. Popularity may ebb and flow. But, when it comes to blogging, the
above-listed items are a solid way to view your efforts more objectively and to reach new success levels in the months to come.


Your turn...
Agree or disagree? Which number above do you most relate to, in terms of being a successful blogger? Which are you working on?  Do tell.


Image credit: Freedigitalphotos.net

5 Questions With Author & Blogger Karen Lange...

Can you tell readers a little about who you are and your background?

I’ve been a freelance writer for over ten years; I’m also an editor, author, blogger, and facilitator at the Coffeehouse for Writers. When not doing all the above, I also teach online writing classes for teens and do the bookkeeping for my husband’s and son’s carpentry business.

My articles have appeared in print and online for women’s, parenting, writing and other publications, and my latest projects include writing site content for a web design firm. A transplant from southern NJ, my husband and I live in the lovely north central Kentucky area. We are blessed with two sons, a daughter, a daughter in law, and a very handsome 8-year-old grandson.

What’s the best writing-related advice you’ve ever received?

When I began writing more seriously as an adult, a friend and writing mentor told me to “Call yourself a writer.” Although I did so timidly at first, her advice was spot on. The more I called and thought of myself as a writer, the more confident I became. This simple step lent courage and determination in those early years. It helped teach and motivate me to learn and grow, facilitating my first steps into the world of writing.

Why do you think writers should take writing classes?

No matter how much we know, there’s always something new to learn. Continued learning broadens horizons, and stretches and polishes skills. It also offers an opportunity to meet and interact with others, further enriching our writing and lives.

What’s your favorite creative, but non-writing activity?

I love to read. While it may not be viewed as a “creative” activity, I find it stimulates my mind, offering ideas and insight. Reading self help, inspirational, and educational material stretches me, offering encouragement and an opportunity to grow and reflect. Reading fiction holds entertainment value, which provides stress relief and much needed down time. These factors inspire and energize my creativity, making me a better person and writer.

How do you feel about blogging? Do you believe that all writers should?

Blogging is a great way to connect with writers and other creatives. It offers opportunities to improve skills, practice writing in various genres, and share thoughts with others. It can help build a platform, offering exposure in the writing and other communities. The social media potential is huge; you never know how far your post might spread through Twitter and other avenues. Blogging offers a means to showcase writing for potential clients, readers, publishers, agents, etc. While a writer doesn’t need to write a blog, I believe that doing so can provide valuable practice and visibility.

Thank you for inviting me to stop by for the interview!

Karen Lange is a freelance writer, editor, speaker, and blogger, an online writing instructor, and the author of Write for Life and Homeschool Co-ops 101. Her articles have been featured in women’s, writing, parenting, and other print and online publications. If she’s not reading and eating dark chocolate, she’s most likely hanging out with her grandson.
She teaches "Boot Camp for Writers!" at Coffeehouseforwriters.com.

Visit Karen at her blog, karenelange.blogspot.com.

　

Writer's Stress? Count the Ways You've Been Blessed

 

Not too long ago, I was feeling down and out. My singing the blues would rival Billie Holiday. It was a particularly tough week, where personal and professional setbacks and disappointments clouded my horizons and my perspective.

A string of events left me feeling stuck and frustrated. To make matters worse, the news of the untimely death of music icon, Prince, devastated me. I was a huge fan.

My usual “default” position of turning to comfort foods was no longer an option. I was already having trouble fitting into my skinny jeans, and, well… feared putting on additional pounds.

In an act of desperation, I decided to reframe my thoughts. To feel better, I made myself focus on my blessings, rather than my burdens. And you should too.

A PARADIGM SHIFT CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE

Far too often we become focused on the negative things that are woven into the everyday fabric of life (a bad boss, financial woes, family dysfunction, moral decay, violence around us), that we forget how blessed and fortunate we are. Not to mention, writers are typically sensitive souls.
We feel so deeply. True?
Still...

When I retrained my brain, and took the time to reflect, there were countless blessings I was able to recognize and embrace, in the midst of my rough patch:

BLESSINGS ARE ALL AROUND US…

Here is a short list of mine
Health blessings-- Not currently ill or on medication
Peace of mind blessings-- I’m not dealing with any grudges or unforgiveness in my heart.
Food & Shelter--There’s food in the cupboard and a roof over my head.
Relational blessings--I have friends and family that I love and who love me; I have self-love.
Simple pleasures blessings-- I know the joy of a good book, good music, good food, laughter, nature, bubble baths, herbal tea, personal freedom.
Spiritual blessings--I have a religious foundation and a relationship with God.             Creature comforts--An impressive candy stash, collection of diverse books, music, a big back yard for summer parties.
Creative gifts blessings--I am innovative and talented with expressing myself with words.
I love that I get to do what I love;sometimes helping other people to live better in the process. I love being part of the blogging community.
　
By the time I took inventory of my life, I felt much better. You should try it.
This “exercise” doesn’t require a gym membership, and there's no "heavy lifting" to strain you.

Go even further here. Why not keep a weekly “Blessings Journal” to capture and chronicle the many awesome things that may go unnoticed in your hurried state?
Referring back to it from time to time can help you move forward in positivity, grace and gratitude.

..And if you are blessed (like I am) to still be able to celebrate this "Mother's Day" with your mom, add that to the top of your list.

Happy Mother's Day to you and yours.
Have a wonderful weekend.

Thoughts? Do you keep a blessings journal?