Why You Should Read Personal Finance Blogs
Although still not a mainstream phenomenon, Personal Finance
Blogs are an increasingly popular additional source of investing
and financial planning information. Many people peek in
sporadically to see what's generating buzz this week. As the
arena gets more and more crowded, it begs the question: "What do
the bloggers think of each other?"
Some like the variety. "It's the wide range of perspectives and
the timely information that I enjoy most about all the personal
finance blogs out there," notes Jeffrey Strain of Personal Finance Advice. "If
there is a change in a bank's interest rate or a new financial
tool that can be used, it's the personal finance bloggers that
usually first have the information on how it can be best used to
your advantage."
Others like the inspiration the personal finance blogs provide.
"It is inspiring to me to see the success of personal finance
bloggers. Personal finance blogging has gone from a handful of
blogs to hundreds. Readership has also increased, which is a
good thing.", observes JLP of AllThingsFinancial
"I think most personal finance bloggers have the goal of
educating the general public about personal finance. It's
inspiring to see that come to fruition."
Other bloggers agree it's great, maybe even a little too great.
"I love reading other money-related blogs", says Jonathan of My Money Blog.
"Unfortunately, there are so many now that I can barely keep up.
My favorite thing about reading other people's writing is the
inspiration it gives me to work that much harder towards my
goals. There are bloggers buying rental property, working on
side businesses, or simply being frugal in creative ways."
Some just soak it all in. "I currently read almost 150 financial
blogs and love every minute of it," says FMF of FreeMoneyFinance.
"The bloggers are so open and honest about their financial
trials and tribulations, reading the blogs are like viewing mini
soap operas. The authors become my 'friends' and I find myself
cheering them on, hoping for their success."
If you a bit curious about what others are doing with their
money, or simply want to see a different slant to the usual
fund-your-retirement mantras, go out and find a personal finance
blog that suits your taste. You might just decide to start one
yourself, and become part of the growing community.