I dropped off my daughter at preschool the other day and went to speak with the Director about a concern I was having in my daughter’s classroom. Somewhere in that conversation, the Director asked me, “Do you work or are you at home with the kids?” I replied, “Yes I work. Actually, I work from home.”
That response lead to her asking, “Oh, really? That’s great. What do you do?”
I responded with, “I’m an Adjunct Professor.”
As the words flew out of my mouth, I sank in my chair. And then the disappointment set in.
As many of you know, I was an avid Adjunct Professor for many years. I had a lucrative career, a stable job and a steady income – and then, I gave birth to my second child and fell in love with blogging.
Apparently, I wasn’t ready to tell the Director exactly what I do now in fear of her judging me; that the title of “blogger” just isn’t as established or well known as “Adjunct Professor” – or one in the eyes and minds of others doesn’t equate to as a “real job.” Honestly, I just wasn’t up for explaining what I do since blogging, at this point, still needs an explanation. What exactly would I tell her?
Yes, I blog. I tweet. I facebook. I bring creative campaigns and brand messaging to a whole new breed of consumers. I YouTube. I consult. I write. I develop business and marketing strategies. And the list goes on. Oh and yes, I get paid for doing those things. In essence, I make a living blogging in the social media space, so how exactly do I translate this job title to people who do NOT fully understand this world?
I don’t know about you, but I actually cringe at the thought of explaining what I do to even some family members and close friends. Bottom line? Those that are not active in this world simply DON’T. GET. IT. Moreover, they certainly don’t view this blogging thing as leading to a “real” job.
As a blogger, the personal issue for me has really become – why do I continue to hold back when I am asked that question, “What do you do for a living?” After tons and tons of soul searching upon that conversation with the Director, I’ve since realized that the longer I remain silent, the longer I am simply adding to the rhetoric that blogging and social media do not equate to a “real” job – and for me, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
As a business owner, aren’t I a wonderful role model for my children? Doesn’t this prove that I can dare to dream and make things happen with continued dedication and hard work? Doesn’t this show my daughter that I can be a good mommy AND follow some of my own dreams, too? Doesn’t it show my son that mommy is fully capable of starting her own business and able to contribute to the family income and still use her education, skills and experience?
So why do I continue to listen to the preconceived notions from others who don’t fully understand what I do and who define what a “real” job, is for me and what is not?
Although one job may be much more stable than another and granted, when you freelance, there is much more risk involved since you never really know when that next paycheck is going to come in or where it’s going to come from, that should not make me any less of an employee (whether I am self-employed or work for someone else).
I have been one of the lucky ones to have found a way to make this whole thing work – and I’ve never worked harder at something in my entire life EVERY SINGLE STEP OF THE WAY. Nothing has been handed to me and every opportunity I acted on has been EARNED, just like any other job.
Blogging is the reason I’ve been able to see my babies grow up.
I have this blog to thank for being able to attend Kindergarten parades, birthday parties and story time at school. It’s because of THIS job that I am my own boss and I make my own rules and I punch my own clock – and guess what? I still bring home a paycheck.
In an industry where there really aren’t any concrete benchmarks, I think we need a call to action especially since our blogs currently serve as our virtual online resumes. And in a space where more and more women are finding creative ways to earn income from home, it’s about time that we took some credit for what we’ve established.
So let me be the first to tell the world that I *do* have a real job – it’s called Theta Mom.® It’s my own brand that’s the face of my own company – MY VERY OWN COMPANY and THAT is the REAL JOB that continues to put food on the table for my family.
And at this point in my life, I wouldn’t have it any other way. So maybe it’s about time I started to let the world know, too.
Bravo, Heather!! I think it’s incredible and inspiring that you’ve made blogging work for you, and yes, there’s nothing to be ashamed of here. I wish I could do the same
Thank you Alison!!!
You go girl!! We need you. We need you to share your successes and hold your head proud. Even harder than stating your a successful blogger is trying to explain to your friends & family you aspire to be one. The lack of support from sheer disbelief of any possibility of making an income is overwhelming. But then I show them your site. I tell them your story. And they say “maybe…”. You rock, and so does your job and you are an idol to us someday-we-will-make-it-like-her club members
I SO loved reading this comment Jessica and I know EXACTLY what you are talking about. When I first started my blog, THAT even required an explanation…I agree, the more we openly talk about this and hold our head high, the better off it will be – for all of us!
And for the record, I love seeing my inbox light up with your email addy because it reminds me that there IS a reason to continue writing, for readers like YOU.
xoxo
When people ask, I simply tell them I’m a writer – then I can talk about my latest blogging project because they have a framework. People know what writers do (we write), and they have some idea that it is a profession. I’ve found that the more confidence I have in what I do, the more likely my listener is to take what I do seriously.
Agreed Tricia! As I mentioned to Amanda, when it comes to a business relationship, I am so confident about what I do but it’s trying to explain to those not in this space that becomes difficult for me. I like the idea of “writer” since that’s universal – but I’m hoping that one day “blogging” will be seen and regarded in this light as well.
It really depends on who it is what information I’m willing to offer. To the schools, I just do freelance work. I’d like to keep my blogging separate from the schools since those are places that are parts of my children’s daily (and weekly) lives. If it were a local businessperson that I had gotten into that conversation with, I would’ve offered up exactly what I do since it could lead to a working relationship. I know this is going to sound funny for a blogger, but I try to keep my personal life personal. I like that my blog is my space to be free about my feelings without worrying who may be reading that day that I know and may see frequently in my daily life.
Excellent points Amanda and I do the same when it comes to a potential business relationship. I am first to tell them EXACTLY what I do and I’m proud of it. But, when it comes to explaining to people in my life that are not in this world, that’s where the line is blurred for me, but I like the idea of leaving it open as freelancing and as Tricia stated, “writer,” which in that context, others would understand.
One time on an airplane, the guy sitting next to me asked what I did and when I told him I was a blogger, he literally laughed in my face…so I understand why you hesitated to tell the director what you did.
I think that some people just don’t understand blogging or how it can be a job, so they laugh because they really don’t know what to do or say. I don’t let it get to me anymore though!
Kudos! You should be proud of what you do, because you do it so well.
I happen to be impressed with anyone who says “I own my own business.” Upon occasion, you might be asked what type, but I think you’d be surprised by how many people DO appreciate social media, understand strategy and branding and probably think you’re cutting-edge for not being 20 and being in social media.
Yes, great point!! Cutting-edge and I am not 20. LOVE that! 😉
I would be hard pressed to find anyone who should be MORE proud of what you’ve done through blogging. I understand the hesitation, because I’m sure you’ve had the requisite eyes-glaze-over look from someone at some time when you bring up the word blog. But your company does so very much. I truly believe that woman like you are changing the landscape for freelance work.
Angela – that means SO much to me, and I’ve always agreed that a success for one blogger is a success for ALL bloggers. Thank you!
Come on now–you have made it work–you are a role model for the rest of us, and give us all hope that we can do it too. That being said, I still say I am “just” a SAHM — not a blogger because I don’t earn like a “real” job, and not a writer, because my book isn’t published. We all need to learn to hold ourselves up and be proud of what we do. Cheers.
Being proud of what we do. I’ve learned my lesson, from now on, let the world hear us! 😉
Love this! I so get it and am afraid to say I’m still not great at owning up to it. The new problem I have is that I started another business that came to me as a result of blogging but isn’t totally blogging so now I have a hard time explaining what I do even within the community of bloggers that have always been the “safe place” where I could be myself. That is the problem with self-owned business of any kind that isn’t restaurant or retail, it’s always hard to define and people love to define us. Thanks for sharing this. Solidarity sister.;)
I can relate. Sometimes the word “teacher” slips out when people ask me what I do for a living. (I taught for seven years.)
Kerry Ann is right; you ARE a role model for many mommy bloggers, Heather. I’m glad you shared this. In my “world” and country, where blogging is not yet seen as a “serious” profession, the challenge to own the job “blogger” is just as difficult. I’ve known people who’ve judged me for being a work-at-home mom with a blog, and it hurts. I suppose it’s because part of my blog’s mission is to inspire moms who are like me, who work from home doing freelance work.
The first step I made to “professionalizing” and owning my job as a blogger was designing a business card with the job description “W-riter E-ditor B-logger” on the design. Not your usual business card, but it’s “me,” and it brands what I do, as a freelancer. It was a small step, but a step to owning my new job as a writing specialist. Next step is working to my website so that it’s consistent as a brand.
So keep it up, Heather. You don’t know how many women you’ve inspired–including myself–to own their blogs as proudly as you do!
You are a writer for sure, but you are so much more than that. Marketing consultant or online brand consultant sounds very impressive…best of all it’s TRUE! You are a kickass business woman Heather!
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Amen! I’m glad you’ve gotten past being fearful of sharing what it is that you do and that you’re proud of it. When people ask what I do, I don’t say “blogger” because a) nobody really understands what that is and b) I feel I am so much more than a blogger. I use the words that really describe what I do: “I run my own social media and writing business.”
I’ve never been hesitant to share what I do, but I do understand how it might feel weird to try and explain a job that can be hard to understand for those that aren’t in it. But you’re right, we can be an inspiration to others, so let’s be proud!
You’re a business owner, social media consultant and writer. To me, it’s as simple as that. But I work in advertising, and am surrounded by all things media, social and otherwise. More and more big companies are adding Facebook and Twitter to their campaigns. It’s quickly becoming commonplace. So go forth! Share your title!
I get it, Heather, I really do. I don’t tell a lot of people that I blog either, I feel like they will think I’m wasting my time. While mine isn’t bringing in a paycheck, it is something I just need to do… for me. So, I try to worry less about what others think about it (they’re the ones missing out on so much support, communication, learning, etc that we all get from each other) and focus on how it works for me.
You are an inspiration to so many people and I’m sure you don’t need me to remind you of that so maybe you should tell people that you’re a business woman and an inpirerer (is that a word?!)
I burst out of the gate like a horse at the Kentucky Derby when someone asks me what I do.
I am a humor blogger.
Have never been prouder in my life.
Yay! Amen! This is wonderful. I have the same issue. Especially since at this point in time I am still trying to earn my opportunities. It’s so difficult to explain but, you have put it so succinctly. I am rushing over to share this with my family and friends. Thank you. And yes, we should start standing up for what we do.
oxoxox
My husband tells everyone what I do – he is more proud of it than I am. I rarely tell anyone in my “real life” what I do. Strange. I guess I usually just say “I’m a writer.”
You, my dear, don’t owe anyone any explanations. You…are simply amazing.
So interesting because you, of all people, are an example of how this can work so well! But I get it.
Maybe part of the issue is that “blogger” can cover so many different approaches. There are those who simply blog to share stories with family & friends, those who make a bit of money and all the way up the spectrum to those who earn their living from it as you do. With no disrespect to “blogging,” what you do isn’t simply that – you do run your own social media and marketing business. I think most people who make money off this do more than just “blog.” Even Dooce isn’t just a blogger.
Oh my goodness. Heather, if I were you, I would be SHOUTING it from the rooftops! What you have created is amazing. You should be super proud of the community that has formed around your business and the fact that you were able to make a business out of a blog is wonderful! I know I would love to be in your shoes. I don’t like to mention what I do for a living because I’d rather say “I’m a writer” but I can’t right now. Maybe someday . . .
I know you probably already do this but if I get into the conversation with someone about the fact that I blog and they don’t really “get” it, I hand them my blog business card and tell them to check it out. It’s just easier, lol!
Girl, you need to be proud of what you do and what you’re accomplished! You rock! (You do know that right?!?!) I couldn’t be more inspired when I think about you and the Theta Mom brand. You were able to start and develop your own successful company and take care of your kids. How many people can say they did that?! You’re fabulous and should wear that blogger badge with pride!
I absolutely LOVE this!
I love this. When I get asked the question, I always say “I freelance write”, which is true, but the only reason that I have the opportunity to do it is because I am first and foremost a blogger.
I love this! Honestly, you’re an inspiration to me and so many other women out there. My hope is that one day I can do exactly what you’re doing now. Working in your own company as a blogger!
Like Gigi, I say I run my own social media and writing business. It works for me and if they ask more, I usually tell them.
You can be so proud of what you have accomplished and I think blogger just doesn’t say it all. You started a social media business from the ground up. Say that. It is successful and sounds as awesome as it is.
xo
Heather, I get exactly what your saying. Adjunct Professor is a known quantity. Blogger sounds made up, like a consultant 😉 I don’t have any answers, just support. It’s wonderful to be able to see our children grow up. That’s one of the reasons why I’m an underpaid blogger and novelist. Although novelist makes people’s eyes light up a little bit the next question is always a killer….”So are you, like a NYT bestseller or anything?” Nope, not anything. Just a writer, blogger and mom who is happy to walk her kids to school every morning!
Love your honesty in this post. I think we, as women, do this in so many different areas. There is always something that sounds better or looks better or is easier to own up to. It is hard to just have confidence in exactly who we are. But you have a million reasons to be.
This is something that, I too, have struggled with. I was consulting with someone not too long ago and the first question she asked was, “When someone asks you what you do for a living, what do you say?”
I said, “Well, I typically end up telling them that I’m a graphic designer which then ends with me telling them I’m a web designer, when I REALLY want to tell them I’m a BLOG designer because that’s what I do and love. Something inside of me feels like I don’t know how to justify that.”
Since that conversation with her, I’ve started to own it. Who cares if it requires more explanation or I get a funny look in the end, blogging is something that I am fortunate enough to make a living off of, as well. I’m VERY thankful for it and as weird as it seems to some, it pays the bills and I’m proud of what I do.
Such a great post, Heather!
This is a great post! I have acquired so many tangible, real life skills from blogging. I have learned so much. And, while I do not earn an income from blog (well, not a income that could do any more than get me a latte once a month), I still value the work that I put into my blog and know that the work that I do for my blog is real and worthy of me calling it such.
Beautifully written! You are all those things you mentioned, and of course, an inspiration to others. xo
You are such a role model. I know what you mean but for me, I spent the last few years saying I’m a writer and then feeling like crap because I wasn’t really writing once I left my job. As a blogger, I KNOW in my heart how hard I work and how much all of it means to me–the community, the back and forth, the feedback, the opportunities, the events, etc. Nothing in my professional life ever meant so much. (That’s a bit sad, but so it goes.)
Keep on inspiring us Heather!
Wow, you are awesome…look at what you have created! You SHOULD feel proud…Cheers to your success, why not share it with everyone?!
I saw this post in my inbox and had to come comment. I can tell from the long line of previous comments that this touched many other Moms and bloggers.
Yes, I have been in this situation… the situation of explaining something people don’t understand. Most people still think of MySpace or scrapbook style blogs. I was recently asked, “Who reads your blog?” …”People read… that?” I often become flustered and self-conscious talking about my blog. It is not a household name, I don’t spend a lot of money on it, but I do try to put my heart and soul into my “job”. I share food tips, recipes, parenting stories, and offer personal product testimonials and advertising. Yes, Blogging is a job.
We are trail blazers, pioneers of sorts in a new emerging fields. We reach a wide audience and perform a service. I do not have a big blog like yours, nor is my brand trademarked yet, but it is what I love doing. Thank you for starting this conversation and giving us a forum to discuss this.
Love this… I left the “corporate world” ~20 months ago after the birth of my second. After being in sales and on the road for the last 15 years, I am cherishing the time with my two boys. I am heavily involved in charity work now – so no paycheck. And, yet, I still have that voice saying – “Are you really doing enough…. Shouldn’t you be “working?” For those of us that make the choice to step away from “work” a while – it’s a long journey to feel comfortable in our own skin. I love the social media space and what it has become. I’m thankful for creative women, like you, forging the way – out of the office, out of the “norm” and out of the “traditional” landscape. Keep it up!
Yes, yes, yes! I SO get this. What a fabulous post! I usually start off telling people I am a writer. When they ask what I write, and I begin to talk about blogging, the reactions are so frustrating. Never has anyone said to me, “That’s great.” Or, “Good for you!” They always treat me as less than. I hate it.
You should be proud. You have worked hard to build something amazing. Those of us who get it love and respect you. Those who don’t? Don’t matter. Go on with your bad self, woman! Muah!
Many people can be an Adjunct Professor. Few make a living from blogging. I’d say you have something to brag about!
What’s so funny about this post is that I would love to tell someone I blog for a living. One of my goals is to make that happen. I work in TV and that’s very cool but I’d like to work from home and have more time with my family. Be proud of what you do, not many people have made it work…yet. 😉
It’s refreshing to read that even professional bloggers feel self-conscious about admitting what they do. Blogging is just a hobby for me (so far) and I definitely struggle with explaining it to people who aren’t involved with social media. Thanks for being so down-to-earth, as usual.
Heather, you are one hell of a business woman! Own it!! You are one of the trailblazers for so many bloggers and women out there- you are showing all that dreams ARE possible!
I tend to answer that question nowadays that I am a freelance writer. I share that I also blog, because, well, to be honest, all the work that I have been fortunate to have is due to the content on my blog!
I am so proud of you…and learn from you every day!
Bravo Heather…I struggle with this same exact thing. Whenever I tell someone I’m a blogger I get that glazed over look – they have no idea what I am talking about. But like Gigi, I normally say I own a social media company – since that’s what I do. It’s funny though – I notice that when you say you work from home no one takes it seriously. They have no idea {until they’ve been there} how hard it is to raise family while working from home. I say own it – you are incredible and successful – be proud!
And you should be congratulated for your success and for paving the way.
Fantastic post! I hope more bloggers can share their title with pride.
First, I would like to say that you are an inspiration to me, you have accomplished so much yet you remain so approachable and down to earth. But I get what you’re saying, it’s like there is a stigma about bloggers. My husband was telling one of his colleagues that I started blogging and he said that I didn’t seem like “the type to blog–you know, a complainer.” Isn’t that crazy?
This post? You? Your message? All phenomenal, Heather!
Hat tip to you, my friend!
xo
AMAZING and YES and THANK YOU.
I think the explanation you wrote sounded perfect! Great post.
Heather, I’m new to the world of blogging and I’ve spent the last couple of days going through your blog, starting from the beginning, and I find your blog to be very inspirational. I love how you speak of community, support, giving us a voice as women and mothers, and everything else.
All though I am not yet a mother and do not yet work from home, I could really relate to this blog entry. Recently I posted a blog entry about my dream being to be a stay at home mom who works from home, the entry is titled Dreams, Goals, and Aspirations vs Economic Feasibility and the Opinions of Others. It is located on the first page of my blog. I can relate to your blog entry because I do not have the support of my family when it comes to being a work at home mom, this makes me not want to tell anyone what I want to do for the same reason you did not tell the director of your daughter’s preschool what you do, the fear of being judged.
-Marie
Brilliant post. It’s so hard when we step or are forced out of the rat race to redefine our roles either for ourselves or others. As always, you’ve put it beautifully because you are at core a writer. And yes a blogger. And a social media marketing professional. And an entrepreneur. And a mother. All absolutely legitimate, working roles.
Heck, if you of all bloggers aren’t recognised for the talent and hard work and clout (with a C!) you bring to the table, what happens to the rest of us? Own it, mama. You deserve it 100%.
I know you wrote this post a while ago, but I had to laugh because a few months ago, when I decided to take up blogging, my sister sent me a link to a children’s book actually called “My
Mommy is a Blogger.”
The book is actually really cute and can be found at: http://sommerpoquette.com/
And no, I am not getting paid to recommend this or review it, I just thought it was awesome, and thought of it when I read your post!
From one proud mommy blogger to another!
Alexa