Reciprocity

I generally don't follow other blogs, or Twitter accounts or whatever just because they happen to follow me... and I don't expect it in return.

Usually I start because they've written or posted something that touched me or they've been recommended by someone I respect.

Some I follow as a trial.  Just to see if that little hint continues.  Sometimes it does, sometimes it doesn't.  Every now and then I clean out the list.  It's not a bad thing.

My advice?

Be authentic and don't worry about numbers.  It's much better to have fewer followers that feel a connection with you than a long list of people who don't.

Responsible

For as long as I can remember, I have been called responsible.

I used to hate it every time report cards would come out... "she is very responsible."

It was on every report card.

Just once, I wanted a teacher to write that I was creative or intelligent or entertaining.

But no, I was always responsible.  Which to me, meant dependable, predictable and boring.

Maybe it had something to do with being the oldest child.

Maybe because I was (and still am) quite shy and uncomfortable in large groups so I didn't act out.

I'm sure I was a teacher's dream student.  I made good grades and didn't require much attention.  I was quiet and well behaved.  I'm sure they meant responsible to be a compliment, but I hated it.

Over the years I have come to terms with the label.

Being considered responsible is a good thing.

It is a part of who I am, but it is not all of who I am.