Richest blogger in the cemetery
I read this great quote shared by Prasatt:
Be more generous than necessary. No one on their deathbed has ever regretted giving too much away. There is no point to being the richest person in the cemetery. Kevin Kelly
I love it. It’s so true, just like the saying, “always be a little kinder than necessary.”
Costs nothing, means everything. A precious gift for both the giver and the receiver. Something no money can buy.
I also think generosity is an important aspect of personal blogging. Not that everything needs to be free. If you feel like adding a “Buy me a coffee” button, or want to try other ways to make a few bucks, go for it. Give it a try.
But first, you really need to be honest with yourself about the intent.
- Is it an additional way for your readers to show appreciation, and a lovely little bonus, a bit like getting reader comments?
- Or is it a way to motivate yourself to keep going, to at least make some money for the time you put in?
If the answer even slightly leans toward the latter, don’t do it. You will get disappointed.
“I offer all this for free and people don’t even think it’s worth a cup of coffee. Why even bother continuing?”
You'll end up quitting blogging for the wrong reasons. Or maybe you started blogging for the wrong ones.
I have a full-time job. I would love to work 75 percent and spend more time blogging, but my salary won’t allow it. I could try asking my readers to support me, I even get the question sometimes, but don't dare do it.
I’m afraid it would lead to me getting “clever” about blogging. I’m afraid it would turn passion into pressure.
That's my two cents (which is 100% more than I earn from blogging).