OMG, What is She Going to Say Today?!

I just have to laugh.

Had a great conversation today with someone who is referenced in my book whose opinion I truly value. I always get an objective, well-put opinion and an update on the current happenings. I’m smiling as I write. I warned her, “You just gave me a great idea”. She laughed mildly and said “Behave on Facebook, now. Tongues are flappin’.” Yes, mom.

This is the beauty of blogging. Stirring up controversy over social issues, discussing pertinent topics that need attention, and engaging those reading in deep thought and conversation. Look what I started when I talked about having to fire a client. Everyone’s out there wondering, “OMG, was she referring to me? Did I do something on that list? Did I get fired?!” I stirred the pot to a simmer. [Just to clarify for everyone, 1) yes, it's perfectly acceptable to fire a client (business owners do it everyday with letters filled with finesse or politely telling a customer to leave their store) and 2) I've only had to fire 5 clients in my whole career - trust me, if it were you, you'd already know. And believe me - if you knew the whole detailed story behind that blog post, you'd totally get it and realize that I had to put up with a lot of shit behavior to get to the point of firing someone as a client.]

It’s not easy being a blogger or business owner. You’re in the public eye, putting yourself “out there” for all to read, judge and evaluate. Some of you read without putting a comment out there… but simply reflect on the words on the page. Perhaps you’re not as willing to put your commentary “out there” like I am. That’s cool. We’re not all meant to be outwardly expressive. Some of you see a flash of a link on Facebook and think “OMG, what is she going to say today?!” That’s fun, really, to me. I have to keep you guessing.

I laugh because I know I’m vocal. It’s who I am. I used to be an extreme introvert growing up, in a family where you spoke when spoken to. When I got into finance and then running my own business, my true personality started to shine through – a personality that had been stifled for 18+ years under a mother who reigned with an iron fist on what was “proper and appropriate” versus what was not. I don’t like observing or experiencing behavior that I view as socially “wrong” and not be able to do or say something about it. If we don’t discuss it or bring it out in the open – whatever your position is – we cheat ourselves in developing position statements and feelings about certain subject matters. What’s the point in absorbing things we see wrong in the world without attempting to fix it or call them out on the mat? I’d rather discuss it. Maybe you would too… but in your own forum or comfort level.

Which brings me to my point. Blogging and writing articles are meant to discuss topics and subject matter of interest to the writer, who often develops a following of readers. You’re interested in what I have to say; that’s why you’re here reading. You may not agree or even like everything that I write. But it does make you think. Or, you may enjoy my tongue and cheek expression and that’s what keeps you coming back for more. Whatever your reason for reading, you’re more than welcome to add your 2 cents. Anytime. I’m game for conversation and the occasional debate.

If something I write resonates with you, it probably means that you identify with it – perhaps an action you took, something you did, said, wrote, caused, experienced, etc. It doesn’t necessarily mean that I’m talking about you. There’s a difference. If I stirred up a feeling or emotion, that’s a good thing. It means I made you pause and think a bit. I intentionally write about subjects and issues that make people talk. That’s part of being a writer… it’s my job (that I don’t get paid for!). I probably have my husband to thank for helping me be more expressive, because he’s definitely one to tell you what’s on his mind. There’s no filter installed on him. Me, ok well there’s a bit of a filter. As I get older I wonder some days if I need to change it. LOL

I know I’m controversial at times. I don’t mind stirring up debate. Again, the beauty of blogging – I love it. I stand behind the statements that I make and the opinions I develop because they’ve been carefully crafted and thought out. I’m not afraid to have someone disagree with me openly. In fact, I welcome your differing opinion or thoughts… because it forces me to challenge myself and think more openly. So please do comment! Let’s chat. Stop worrying about what I’m going to say about who, what or whomever or if it’s about you. Most likely, it’s not. Start looking forward to me engaging you with provoking thoughts and something to reflect on. That’s way more positive thinking and worth your time.