When I was young, I was told to always tell the truth. As I grew up, I discovered honesty was not always the best policy. There were circumstances that require “white lies” to get me out of awkward situations, or just to make people happy. The fact is my opinion will sometimes clash with others. For example, when someone wears an ugly shirt and he obviously like it, I won’t offend him by being honest. Another example, when I lack a certain skill or talent, I will not tell anyone, fearing inadequacy.
From what I’ve observed in the blogging world, people seem to lie (or exaggerate the truth). The common motive behind blogging is notoriety. A good blogger must write something elaborate and sensational to hold the reader’s attention. Is the author’s life really that exciting? Does the author really do what he/she writes down? Does blogging really bring a substantial income? Does everything look that easy?
In my opinion, the truth is usually boring. Reality can be dull. I’m not an Olympic athlete. Not a billionaire. Not a celebrity. Heck, I don’t even have that many friends, let alone exciting ones. I’m just a person with limited social skills and selective taste. I’m unique, in my own way, but certainly not extraordinary.
So why should I even bother writing a long exposé of my life?
This blog is a journal of my reality. There were moments in my life I’ve asked myself, what did I do a year ago? What happened 10 years ago? What went through my mind 20 years ago? I want to be able to look back at my life, and say “I’ve done that!” It’s like my childhood photos – I really miss them. I want to be able to recall important events and people in my life.
I also believe it’s important to note my failures and accomplishments. Someone may benefit from my experiences. That’s what blogging is to me. It’s my small contribution to man kind. No sensationalism for me. My blogging motives have to be honest and true. That’s what blogging is all about for me.
Photo Credit: hersley
Tags: honest, introspection, life, truth
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I try to be honest. But there are a few things I have kept to myself. Like the name of my bf. Or the name of the company that I work.
But my feelings and opinions are all real. If I disagree with someone on something (or to use your example, if someone is wearing a shirt that I don’t care for) and they’re asking, I’ll be honest but I’ll be kind about it.
If someone isn’t asking, there is no place for honesty because I think thats just rude. But if someone is asking for your opinion or for the truth from you, I definitely think you should give it to them honestly. 🙂
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Hi Reggy,
What I meant, with the context of this post, was how some people exaggerate their life or lifestyle to gain popularity. Exaggeration is not honesty. This is where honesty (or transparency) is required. Otherwise, it’s just fiction – I can get that from watching “reality” shows on TV.
Ahhh I see what you mean. Where is the line between artistic license and exaggeration though? Or is there a line between the two?
fragileheart´s last blog post..It’s the final countdown! (to Halloween)
Well, in blogging, it’s about real life. If someone is taking “artistic license”, they might as well go and write a novel. Both it and exaggeration are basically the same thing, not much difference between them.
hi Rudy,
Good post, and interesting question: Can you be honest, and still be “popular” at blogging?
First, I have learned to be sceptical of anything I read online because not everyone shares your ethics (or takes the time to check the “facts” that they quote).
Second, I think one can be honest and just write about real life without exaggeration, and still be entertaining. Case in point, one of my favorite comedians is Bill Cosby. I saw him live many, many years ago, and we had one of his records growing up (yes, that’s how long ago it is). All of his comedy is about real life, but the way he tells it is hillarious (I am reminded of his skit about going to the dentist, or giving his kids chocolate cake for breakfast – his wife was less than happy! He doesn’t have to resort to profanity like a lot of “comedians” today.
Real life, with a good writer and a sense of wit, can be just as entertaining as exaggerated life. It’s just how you look at it.
~ Steve (aka “trade show displays”)
Hey Steve,
If you’re blogging to “entertain”, then yeah, use all of the sarcasm and wit you want. But when you blog about your life experiences, there’s no need for exaggeration. Tell it like it is, as Lin Burress will say. That type of honesty is refreshing. Sort of like how Dooce.com – although I wouldn’t be too abrasive.
Hi Rudy,
I’ve been reading Lin’s blog for a while. I really liked her posts dealing with the entitlement problem we have today, including her post A Sense of Entitlement. Her blog is a very good example of honest blogging.
~ Steve (aka trade show displays)
PS. When I reread her post, I saw that you also commented on it. I think I found your blog via her blog, though not through that post comment but a later one. Anyway, it’s funny to me how interconnected the internet is…
Communities are made from local contacts. Welcome to the local world wide web. 🙂
Okay, I can’t help but wonder, how do you know if some blogger out there is exaggerating or even lying about their life? I have to admit I’ve bumped into blogs where I suspected there was something less than the truth being told but for the most part it’s harmless. However, now I’m sitting here wondering about all the blogs I read and thinking things like – Are those guys really gals? Did she really write that herself? Is he truly making that much money online?
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Hi Melissa,
I’m generally skeptical about the “Make Money Online” sites too. I suppose the easy detection is like the old saying: If it’s too good to be true, it isn’t.
Blogging is so easy to do these days. I just want the integrity restored and be made as the #1 objective.