100 Followers And A Personal Admission

Just over two weeks ago I started this blog and the reception has been unlike anything I imagined. I’ve hit 100 followers and been nominated for two blogging awards. To thank everyone for the support I’ve decided to share something deeply personal about myself as a way of really understanding me. I’ve suffered from anxiety and low self-esteem for the past ten years or so. It’s made it hard for me to meet new people, believe in myself and to form a lasting relationship with someone.

As a society I’ve always thought there was a lot of pressure on guys to act as if we’re strong and can take anything. But the reality is a lot different. I’m currently waiting to see if I’ve passed my masters in Creative Writing, I don’t have a job and sometimes it makes me feel as if I’ve done something wrong and that I’m failing at life. I struggle with my self-esteem every day and it’s a constant fight to feel as if I can make something of myself.

I’ve been knocked down so many times that some days I wonder what is the point of getting back up. Hiding how I feel has become the norm around people because I wonder how they’d react or if they’d judge me. But I’m trying to change that. This year I’ve told myself I’m going to enjoy myself more, take risks, step outside my comfort zone.

Starting this blog was one of those choices because I’ve always loved comics. I love them because they give us a chance to aspire to be something greater. I’m trying to find what makes me really happy and I’m hoping by this time next year I’ll have figured it out.

Sharing this story hasn’t been easy, but starting a conversation about mental health issues never is. From the bottom of my heart I want to thank everyone who has followed, commented, liked or even brushed over my words. Because the written word gives me strength and I don’t want to hide anymore.

Author: thecomicvault

A place for superheroes, positive mental health and pop culture references. Unlock your inner geek and step inside.

27 thoughts on “100 Followers And A Personal Admission”

  4. I knew I had made a right choice in nominating you for an award. Fist off congratulations on making it to 100 followers. In so short a time, that is an incredible achievement, but not a big surprise. Why not? Well your blog is amazing. The posts you write are diverse and really insightful, and not only that, they look great too.

    I also have to give you a very big compliment to share so personal a story. As I myself struggle daily with a lack of self confidence, and also at times have trouble interacting socially I can relate. All I can say is keep on fighting, and trust me when I say things do get better. Keep believing in yourself, and as this post and your entire blog shows, there are more than enough people here that listen to what you say (or in this case write lol😂).

    Keep up the great work, and you will hit 200 followers and beyond in no-time! 😀

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  6. Thanks for sharing your story, Jamie.
    Sometimes we have to step outside our comfort zone to find something new we’ll love.
    I really like what you’ve done with your blog. Great content and writing. I don’t follow many blogs that focus on comics, which makes me appreciate your blog even more.
    Congrats on all your subscibers!

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  7. Congratulations for your achievement and a personal thank you for appreciating my site too.

    I feel most of us with low self- esteem have this exterior of being able to voice our thoughts loud enough for our personal ones to be hidden for fear of being judged.

    I do it daily so no-one can see my weakness as I hide it well but it’s what blogs are made up of. Our like minded inner interests we can voice and share with the many others who feel the same way. Your ideas are always great to hear and it’s a pleasure to read them on a lovely site. Keep growing with those brilliant words of yours and i hope more will appreciate your efforts in the world.

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    1. Thanks for your thoughts and kind words. A part of me perceives it as weakness to admit I hide things, even though I know it’s far better to voice it. Doing this was cathartic so hopefully I’ll be able to share it with more people.

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  9. A huge congrats mate! You rocketed right up to 100, which is not at all common on WordPress. Good on you! That’s where good content and consistent posting will get you! Here’s to the next 100.
    Thank you for sharing your personal story. Keep your head up and keep doing you. You have a great community here who’s rooting for you 100%.

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  10. Congratulations on your 100 followers! Hitting that in TWO WEEKS is crazy impressive! I also appreciate the open honesty with which you wrote this post. Letting your guard down in such a way is very unnerving but it can also be inspiring for those who get to read the results. I wish you the best of luck on your journey.

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  12. Congratulations on your 100 followers, Jamie. It’s very encouraging when you see your number of followers steadily growing. LOL it’s even more fun when WP gives you a little star 😀
    I’m currently waiting to see if I’ve passed my masters in Creative Writing When will you find out? I salute you for all the study you’ve done. I look forward to you telling us you’ve reached 150, then 200, then…

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      1. Make sure you post the results…whether good or otherwise. A piece of paper doesn’t really matter. After reading Bluebirds, you know you can write and people who have read your work know you can write. You’re already published 🙂

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  15. I have a theory that many of us who blog are socially anxious introverts. I know that when I try to speak words out of my mouth hole I’m not nearly as eloquent as I am when I’m typing, and if I spend two days in a row socialising I need to go and lie down in the dark for a while from overstimulation.

    That was only partly a joke.

    Congratulations on the 100 followers, that’s really impressive! I hope you start feeling more confident and inspired. You sound like a great guy. Chin up! Keep your powder dry!

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