I’m not just a Blogger, I’m a Storyteller

September 12, 2016
by
shai habon

“I have one life and one chance to make it count for something… My faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can with whatever I have to try to make a difference.” – Jimmy Carter

A month ago, I remember telling my friends that I want my blog to be different. My goal is to write stories that matter – stories that people can relate with, articles that others would enjoy and things that a lot can feel happy about. It’s easy to just put up a site, buy a domain and write about random things but for me, the real challenge is – creating an impact.

After my blog launch, stories just came gushing out of me. I became so busy attending events and receiving gift packs and sample items from brands and companies has really been overwhelming. My blog log became pretty busy with collaboration invites and sponsored requests. My family, friends and social media followers have also been very active in sharing and commenting on my blog posts. Of course, I can’t be more than happy with all these kinds of support.

However, a week ago, I started feeling drained and laxed. I know it’s quite early (and too unlikely for me) to experience such kind of depreciation. With all the activities around, content creation should just be a breeze. It came to a point when I had to ask myself “Why am I running out of ideas?” And then I realized that I’ve been out of my league for quite some time and that’s the reason why I feel lost. I’ve been too busy looking for tales and information outside my realm and I failed to recognize the storyteller in me. I know that I have lots of stories to tell – accounts that don’t just narrate my personal experiences, but most importantly, stories that talk about significant people, places and ideas.

This is when I started searching for ways to make my blogger life more interesting and today I’ve finally come up with an answer.

Let me introduce to you these two new categories (in this blog) – “People” and “Advocacies”. No, this is not a showbiz segment where people are interviewed because they are (just) stars and no, this isn’t paid. My goal is to feature individuals and groups who have been instrumental in different ways, whether it’s in the field of sports, education, business, beauty, fashion, social media or even those who have changed the lives of others in their own little ways.

Same things apply with advocacies. I want to spread news about certain campaigns and missions that I feel strong about. There are voices that need to be heard and my ultimate goal for this blog is to be an instrument for change. I know it may sound too ambitious and preachy but I always believe in the power of words.

WE have our own stories to tell and let me share mine by opening up this new chapter in my life, this time as a blogger and as an advocate. I’m treating it as a big leap because it’ll be a challenge for me. I know it will take a lot of time and courage to learn more and write about these things but I am definitely up for it.

So be ready to see more posts about people, NGOs, volunteer opportunities and groups because I’m putting them all on spotlight and I know that their kwentos are worth the read.

To my fellow bloggers, remember that blogging is a great career tool for creating opportunities for ourselves and the GOAL is to be a better person through blogging.

Let me end this post by sharing this quote from Mother Teresa who has always been my life inspo –

“We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.”

PS: Feel free to suggest names of people, groups and organisations and I’ll be happy to connect with them!

PS2: Don’t worry I will still do lots of reviews, event PRs and life tips. After all, I am still a lifestyle blogger and this space will always be about the things that I love.

Xx,

Shai

***Photos are from Unicef

Comments Off

79 Comments

kelly
12th Sep 2016 - 9:49 am

I read this post very carefully and i felt really happy that there are bloggers, like you, that are not superficial, frivolous and unaware of the reality.
Keep the great work. 😉
shai habon
12th Sep 2016 - 9:55 am

Thank you! 🙂
Marissa Samson
12th Sep 2016 - 9:57 am

Hi Shai!
Can you include Kabisera Resto Bar in 7th St Bonifacio High, BGC, in your blog write up? Kabisera has story to tell. I will introduce to you Chef Tim who is incharge on this . Thanks
shai habon
12th Sep 2016 - 10:05 am

Hi Ms. Marissa, sure! Please send me an email – contact@shairahabon.com. I’ll be more than happy to do this feature 🙂
Maan Austria
12th Sep 2016 - 10:39 am

I’m glad there’s a blogger like you who features inspirational stories about normal people and not the typical showbiz stories. Yup, sometimes it’s just so boring to read articles about showbiz news- the same story over and over again. Good thing your blog has refreshing articles about people and advocacies. It is very inspiring to read stories about normal people in their nornal life and how they face the struggles of life. ?
ROBERT LEE
12th Sep 2016 - 11:02 am

Shaira,

I applaud you for adding two new categories that makes sense. Yes, the commercial side of blogging is a part of you and what you do as an influencer of brands. But what can you do for those who are ignored? I promise you this is the most fulfilling thing you can do on your blog. As an influencer, the responsibility includes influencing not the customers to buy products, but also for the brands to take a look at giving back to the community. It includes influencing people who follow you to have a more meaningful life by helping others.
shai habon
12th Sep 2016 - 12:02 pm

Thank you always Maan for the support. I may not know you personally but I always feel the love! XX
shai habon
12th Sep 2016 - 12:03 pm

Hi Sir Robert, yes! I hope I’ll be able to fulfil that role too. Thank you for the support and let’s keep in touch 🙂
Berlin
12th Sep 2016 - 1:23 pm

Writing is indeed a passion. But the content of the stories of each writer differs. There are stories more about lifestyle and the arts because these two are the writer’s love. There are stories that support and flight fora cause. I find this post as categoriZed as such. Thank you for the share.
vivalaViv
12th Sep 2016 - 1:24 pm

“…the GOAL is to be a better person through blogging…” I love that! Yes we (bloggers) can make a difference! Let’s bring something positive and helpful one post at a time!
BTW, I adore your ensemble; you have such a toned body for the crop top.., meanwhile; I’m all about the comeback of the ’90s lately:
https://vivalaviv.com/2016/08/18/throwback-the-90s-braids-door-knocker-earrings-parting-your-hair-down-the-middle/

Vivienne X
Darlene
12th Sep 2016 - 2:54 pm

Hi Shai

I love your blog and the stories you feature! keep on doing it, you’re amazing
Thenewgirl.me
Carlos Panganiban
12th Sep 2016 - 3:16 pm

I’m starting to have that habit of calling everyone Bes…Anyway, Bes! I totes agree with you so much. It’s really easy to put up a blog and write things about things, but truly it is a challenge to make an impact. Gosh! this post of yours defines who you are and what you really want to be and the passion you have is just flowing through every word in this post:) just a-ma-zing!
shai habon
12th Sep 2016 - 3:25 pm

Thank you! 🙂
Celerhina Aubrey
12th Sep 2016 - 3:25 pm

Been blogging for 10years. And while my blog is kinda gaining readers and having spopnsored posts, there came a time when I got kinda scared that I’ll be too “commercial” so I always check my self from time to time. I agree, we are not just bloggers, we should be story tellers. I miss blogging world 10years ago that’s full of personal stories.
shai habon
12th Sep 2016 - 3:26 pm

I know. Bes is just a heartwarming term. Thank you so much for this wonderful comment 🙂
Tamara
12th Sep 2016 - 4:52 pm

As bloggers we have a big influence on people and are able to reach a wide range of people. You’re very inspirational! I just wish “bigger” bloggers would use their voices more to help and give back!

XoXo,

Tamara – LoveofMode.com
Sharon Wu
12th Sep 2016 - 5:05 pm

Interesting post! Thanks for sharing. It’s great that you are able to convey stories through your posts. xo, sharon

http://www.stylelullaby.com/personal/15-ways-to-beat-the-monday-blues/
Chloe of beyond blessed
12th Sep 2016 - 5:39 pm

Oh I absolutely adore this!! Such a fantastic idea!! While living in Thailand, all proceeds went straight to the kiddos I was working with, but now that I am back in NYC I’ve been wanting to make blogging my full time job. Might need to start adding something like this back into my blog! Thank you!

http://beyondblessedblog.com/
Ram Kuizon
13th Sep 2016 - 12:35 am

These line really hit me , ” My goal is to write stories that matter – stories that people can relate with, articles that others would enjoy and things that a lot can feel happy about.” as a blogger myself too. It really matters what we love to do and being appreciated for what we have do and what will be doing.

This is a first step mate, I hope to see more stuff like this soon.

cheers! http://www.masterryo.com
Teresa
13th Sep 2016 - 12:44 am

This is wonderful. 🙂 I’m sure that you will be able to help a lot of people through these new categories in your blog. I am also confident that as you interview these people and the leaders of organizations, you will learn a lot and grow because of what you will learn. Like you, I consider myself a storyteller. 🙂
Konstancja
13th Sep 2016 - 1:40 am

Obsessed with that pleated midi skirt! XO

https://vogue-ish.com/
shai habon
13th Sep 2016 - 1:44 am

Thank you Mommy Berlin 🙂
shai habon
13th Sep 2016 - 1:44 am

Yes! Thank you so much! Will check that out 🙂
shai habon
13th Sep 2016 - 1:46 am

Yes, we can however make that change by inserting inspiring posts from time to time 🙂
shai habon
13th Sep 2016 - 1:46 am

Yes! That’s the spirit! Thanks Tamara 🙂
shai habon
13th Sep 2016 - 1:47 am

Thanks Sharon 🙂
shai habon
13th Sep 2016 - 1:49 am

Thank you Chloe! Yes, it’s always good to give back 🙂
shai habon
13th Sep 2016 - 1:50 am

I agree! Thank you so much for the support 🙂
shai habon
13th Sep 2016 - 1:51 am

Thank you! Yass! We should be storytellers 🙂
Joanna
13th Sep 2016 - 11:01 am

I believe in passionate blogging for a cause, and you can only do that by storytelling. I try to do the same with my blog. I believe in the power of words and that they can change minds.
Jean Dalida
13th Sep 2016 - 11:11 am

Nice one Shai. You’re so passionate about what you’re doing. Keep it up and I’ll see you around. :*
Sam Coronado (@followyouroad)
13th Sep 2016 - 11:32 am

Hi Shaira! I love your current mission. I’m also passionate about volunteering and helping out NGOs. Primarily, that’s the reason why I’m taking further studies. It’s the arena I wanna help out. I hope to do the same as you are! Let me know how I can help 🙂
Dems
13th Sep 2016 - 11:55 am

I remember a blogger friend telling me something along the lines of “I love that you are still passionate about this (blogging) and not in it just to earn.”

When I first saw your blog post title, I was reminded of my IG/Twitter bio. I never used the word blogger. Instead I was using “storyteller”. And lately I haven’t been in touch with that part of me. While the perks and the attention are very much welcome, at the end of the day you gotta remind yourself why you’re doing this in the first place. For me it is a medium for expression and a platform for inspiration/motivation.

I’m happy that you’re making a step back into your core. Keep it up! 🙂
Johna
13th Sep 2016 - 12:25 pm

Wow! I loved this post! So beautifully written. When i first started blogging it was really just a place for me to write about random things now i too and trying to make an impact. Can’t wait to read more from your advocacies category!
Bernice
13th Sep 2016 - 12:35 pm

Great new inclusions! We all can be so quick to overlook these areas when blogging as it is not part of our niche, but to discuss the at such an extent will be so beneficial to others!

http://www.bunnybernice.com
Abie Dizon
13th Sep 2016 - 1:06 pm

I am so touched by your post. You can check out Bahay Sibol https://www.facebook.com/BahaySibol/
Arrianne Guzman
13th Sep 2016 - 3:33 pm

Wow, this is a great inspiration for both new and veteran bloggers. I love how you put it- to be a storyteller and not just a “blogger”. May you keep inspiring people! 🙂
Didi
13th Sep 2016 - 3:40 pm

You are something Shai! I admire people who still keep thing true to themselves. Hands down for you girl! Will support this new category!
Me-An Clemente
13th Sep 2016 - 3:40 pm

I commend you for including people and advocacies are part of your category as you know well that your influence can be a positive change to the society. Love also what you said. Indeed, we should aim to become better people through blogging. Passion for a cause 🙂
Chardy Baldyosa
13th Sep 2016 - 3:51 pm

Shaira! You are such an inspiration! I’m so glad to discover bloggers like you who not only showcase whats beautiful but also those who needs more attention. Your advocacy is beautiful and someone like you will be blessed with so much love and appreciation. More power! ❤️
Erin Joan Yang
13th Sep 2016 - 4:17 pm

Those are great categories and I am sure that you will be able to tell touching stories here! I would love to read on those stories.

Oh and btw, that is why you looked familiar! 😀 I saw you in the Dearberry PH Launch hehe. Nice blog! 😀
Mommy Queenelizabeth
13th Sep 2016 - 10:03 pm

I can feel your passion about writing while reading your blog. And i admire you for it. Glad that there are writers that really put their heart into the contents of their blog.. Inspiring! Keep it up! 🙂
Rowena C
14th Sep 2016 - 3:00 am

I love reading blogs that has purpose in disseminating information about their advocate or passion and not just to gain money. Will wait for more of your articles
shai habon
14th Sep 2016 - 4:39 am

Yes, words are powerful and we can be instruments of change through our writings 🙂
shai habon
14th Sep 2016 - 4:40 am

Thanks Jean! See you soon! 🙂
shai habon
14th Sep 2016 - 4:40 am

Hi Sam! Sure! Will message you for future collabs 🙂
shai habon
14th Sep 2016 - 4:40 am

Thank you Dems for all the support!
shai habon
14th Sep 2016 - 4:41 am

Thank you Johna. Hoping I’ll be able to fulfil this mission 🙂
shai habon
14th Sep 2016 - 4:41 am

Thank you Bernice 🙂
shai habon
14th Sep 2016 - 4:42 am

Thank you! Will definitely check it out 🙂
shai habon
14th Sep 2016 - 4:42 am

Thank you Arrianne 🙂
shai habon
14th Sep 2016 - 4:43 am

Thank you Didi for the support 🙂
shai habon
14th Sep 2016 - 4:43 am

Indeed! 🙂
shai habon
14th Sep 2016 - 4:44 am

Thank you for the love and support Chardy! 🙂
shai habon
14th Sep 2016 - 4:44 am

Yes! I’ll see you again soon Erin 🙂
shai habon
14th Sep 2016 - 4:44 am

Thank you Mommy! 🙂
shai habon
14th Sep 2016 - 4:45 am

Thank you so much Ms. Rowena 🙂
Airina Desuyo
14th Sep 2016 - 5:23 am

This is a great idea Shai! I look forward to reading who will be featured here. Great job!

airinaapril.blogspot.com
Chessica Mirasol
14th Sep 2016 - 7:55 am

Shai, I have to say you’re doing such a good job with blogging!! From your writing, to branding and marketing yourself and your blog, and not to mention, the projects you decided to do and work on. 🙂 I so relieved to see new bloggers who are as passionate and as real as you. Always checking out your stuff!! Got you, fam!! 🙂
Kasumi
14th Sep 2016 - 7:57 am

This is very inspiring. I can’t wait to read more of your article. I admire you.
Mhaan A
14th Sep 2016 - 8:54 am

Same as you, I started my blog not just sharing some beauty tips but also to spread awareness to my readers. Keep up the good work dear. 🙂

Mhaan | http://www.mommyrockininstyle.com
Freelancer Philippines
14th Sep 2016 - 12:55 pm

story telling do sell… it is more effective than just writing information like a robot or like an advertisement… people love stories.. and great bloggers are great storytellers.. by the way, I love how your story telling goes.. I’ve learned a lot!
Jeszelle Suetos
15th Sep 2016 - 10:18 am

This is so inspiring. I also love doing NGOs and volunteering activities. But, I’m not that updated tho unless it is school/office related. Can you update me if you have activities in the future? hello@jeszellesuetos.com Thank you and keep on inspiring others.
Dorothy Mae C. Torretijo
15th Sep 2016 - 12:30 pm

This is such a beautiful post Ms. Shai!! Keep motivated on doing things like blogging passionately. Stay gorgg!!
Kati Allan-Balayan
16th Sep 2016 - 7:48 pm

I agree that once you start receiving PRs and sponsored posts, blogging for things you are passionate about may really take a back seat. Kudos to you Shai for realizing this early on. 🙂
Gellie N.
17th Sep 2016 - 11:55 am

Awww Ms Shai ? After reading this post, i must say that you are not just any typical blogger. You are an angel. Mas tumaas tingin ko sayo Ms Shai. Im so happy about this new chapter. I also love doing volunteer works, i personally was one of the member of our school’s volunteer team who does charitable works like going to orphanage to give gifts and entertain those kids, activities like that. Kaya after reading, super naexcite ako sa mga magiging post mo about this. Im sure madaming readers ang matutuwa din about this and magiging eye opener to to everyone. You Really have beauty, brain and heart! God bless you Miss Shaiii! ?
shai habon
17th Sep 2016 - 4:03 pm

Thank you Airina!:)
shai habon
17th Sep 2016 - 4:03 pm

Thanks Ches! I’ll see you real soon! :*
shai habon
17th Sep 2016 - 4:04 pm

Thank you Kasumi! 🙂
shai habon
17th Sep 2016 - 4:04 pm

Thank you Mommy Mhaan! 🙂
shai habon
17th Sep 2016 - 4:04 pm

Indeed! Thank you sir!
shai habon
17th Sep 2016 - 4:05 pm

Hi Jeazelle, will send you updates! Thanks for the interest and the love! XX
shai habon
17th Sep 2016 - 4:05 pm

Thank you Dorothy! 🙂
shai habon
17th Sep 2016 - 4:06 pm

Thank you Kati! 🙂
shai habon
17th Sep 2016 - 4:07 pm

Hi Gellie! Thank you for the love and support! Will surely post updates about my upcoming projects! God bless you! XX
Renissa Dawn Flores
26th Oct 2016 - 6:50 am

This is so touching, I appreciate your advocacies a lot. This is why I have been stressing out on my blog lately, cause I feel like it has no purpose at all. But I’m trying to break that barrier, this post has inspired me in every way. I applaud you for your passion or might I say compassion.
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Ana
16th Dec 2016 - 6:22 am

People blog for many things. I do understand what you feel. I am new in blogging and the reasons that I put up a blog is: First, I just want an outlet for those things that I feel. Secondly, I wanted to immortalize all the wonderful experiencesI had in my journey. I want to contribute to positivity and somehow, I hope that I can give an inspiration to my readers as well.