“It was just an innocent comment, man, I didn’t mean it.” As I was reading through the comments thread, I wondered to myself “Was it me, or was blogging getting a bit more intense?”
I read the words but they blurred together on the screen.
An ‘innocent’ comment? Is there such a thing?
And what do we really mean when we comment? Why do we jump into a conversation?
What results do we really want?
Let your mind ponder that question while I tell you a story.
***
There’s a late-night security guard in my condo named Abadir. He’s fun, and he and I bond over Drake lyrics and success-talk – we love it.
If it sounds great, that’s ’cause it is, but Abadir has a bit of a problem.
He’s 22 and he’s lived more life than most people imagine. That’s not the problem. He’s been through adventures; he’s got a colorful history. That’s not the problem either.
That was the setup. Keep reading and I’ll explain 
Anyway, remember I told you how Abadir has a problem? Well he describes it in the next sentence.
So, you interested?
Good, I love it when people are ‘hungry’ and psyched up for the awesomeness that’s about to drop.
I’m going to wrap up for now, but stay tuned, ’cause next post I’ll be sharing this exclusive, fantastic, 5-step, commenting-system here at Logallot.
Make room in your schedule, watch your inboxes, and ‘harass’ Sonia into letting you have a sneak peek so you can get to commenting like a superstar
A Slice Of Abadir
Here’s a slice of Abadir’s colorful life, paraphrased from our chats.ON ‘FRIENDS’: “And then my friends broke my f***ing coffee table! They got sh*t-faced and fell on it! Do your friends come into your house and break your stuff? It’s too much hassle man.” <laughs>
ON FIGHTS: “Y’know J, to be honest, if there was 10 fights that summer — 9 of them would NOT have been me starting them. I just wanna kick-back, chillax, you know, I ain’t got no beef with nobody.”
ON DRAMA: “So we’re in Somalia, and my Dad’s brother held a gun to my Dad’s head and told him he had to drop the money and leave. He had the choice to back up my Dad, or bait him out. He totally baited him out. Yeah, my uncle’s kinda the black sheep, naw’mean?”So, as you can imagine, I’m always riveted by our late-night conversations, Abadir’s a masterful story-teller, and while most people are sleeping, I’m being sucked into a fantastic world of sordid Somalian shenanigans. Every word he delivers aims to entertain and ease pain, and he does it naturally. His conversation skills rock, and they don’t teach ‘em in school. I asked him how he does it and he gestured widely saying:
“I like good conversation, you know? I like to get into with someone, not like… mean, but someone who can go shot for shot with me. Someone who knows how to navigate the conversation man. S’why I like talking to you.”If I was the blushing type, I woulda blushed here, but when you can talk about money, fame, and sex over breakfast, blushing’s not really a common thing
Anyway, remember I told you how Abadir has a problem? Well he describes it in the next sentence.
The Problem With Chatting
“Some of the tenants here… well, I try to be friendly, I say hi, and they just grumble or ignore me with their head down. That is NOT shot for shot. That’s not even trying. Others… I tell a great story, and they’re all like ‘thats cool.’ ‘That’s cool?’ I mean, seriously? After one experience like that, I’m off, man. That’s not what I’m about. I value real talk. Whether I’m having a good day or not, I offer decent conversation, or I’m honest about not feeling up to it.”I laughed, because even listening to Abadir talk about ‘talking’ was inspiring to me. And his words got me thinking. A lot. Have you ever had a friend say something that made you take a step back and think about life? Well, Abadir – although he didn’t know it – got me thinking about blog comments. Maybe you’re familiar with blog comments like these:
- “great post”
- “I disagree, you suck”
- longer, rambling versions of the ones above
The Shot-For-Shot Solution
Here’s just a sample of the praise I’ve got for my comments this week.- “Thanks Jay, always enjoy your comments… so much value.”
- “Awesome thread of comments. Funny thing. I almost forgot the content of your post after reading the commentary. Thanks Jason…”
- “Always love your perspectives and how you extend the conversations here.”
- “I’m guessing I could write a few posts just based on the questions you pose.”
- “You’re definitely an MVC! (Most Valuable Commenter)”
So, you interested?
Good, I love it when people are ‘hungry’ and psyched up for the awesomeness that’s about to drop.
I’m going to wrap up for now, but stay tuned, ’cause next post I’ll be sharing this exclusive, fantastic, 5-step, commenting-system here at Logallot.
Make room in your schedule, watch your inboxes, and ‘harass’ Sonia into letting you have a sneak peek so you can get to commenting like a superstar
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Ashvini
Hi Jason,
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It is awesome on the part of Abadir to stay conversant even when he is troubled by life’s circumstances.
It really makes a lot of fun, when people take time to read and comment with their insights. I am sure the series that you are going to put will be a great one . Looking forward to it
Ashvini recently posted..My new ebook is ready for download
Twitter: blogaks
Jason
Thanks so much, Ashvini! I really appreciate it (and so does Abadir!)
He’s an inspiring guy, and his chats can teach the blog world a LOT about commenting.
Commenting can be such a powerful tool, I’ve been invited to 10 guest posts in 3 months, simply off the strength of my passionate, insightful contributions in comment threads.
You’re gonna *love* the commenting-system and it’s coming soon to a logallot near you
(dofollow)
Jason recently posted..Ryze’s Best Of Success – March 2012
Twitter: ryzeonline
Sonia
Hey Ash! I know what you mean, I can’t for everyone to see where he goes with this. Leaving comments should be about how you can also add to the conversation. When you create posts, Ash, my mind is already thinking about how I felt in a similar situation like it and how I can add to your conversation. It’s great when other readers catch on and before you know it everyone is talking about it. Thanks Ash for coming by and leaving your comment.
Twitter: LogAllot
Jason
Bam!
That’s the attitude!
What’s really interesting is I had one of my off-the-charts comments DELETED today.
First time ever, and it was SUCH an uplifting, insightful comment too.
Can you guess what blog deleted me?
(dofollow)
Jason recently posted..Money Equals Love
Twitter: ryzeonline
Adrienne
What? One of your comments was deleted Jason? I’m floored, shocked and speechless.. I sure hope I don’t visit their blog. Bummer!
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Adrienne recently posted..How I Finally Stopped Failing In Network Marketing
Twitter: adriennesmith40
Jason
Haha… it’s been a great experience, I’m glad it happened, and thankful.
And I’m not jumping to conclusions, it looks ‘bad’ and ‘intentional’ but I’m sure there were good reasons for it, could even have been an accident
Still, I’m famous for my insightful, uplifting comments, and when you read Part 2 and see all the heart & soul I put into my comments — to have one deleted is a really funny thing
(dofollow)
Jason recently posted..Ryze’s Best Of Success – March 2012
Twitter: ryzeonline
Sonia
Jason, thank you so much for this awesome post. I can’t wait for everyone to see the 2nd part of this. You have went above and beyond for a post and I really appreciate your willingness to always go the extra mile. Thank you so much!
Twitter: LogAllot
Jason
My pleasure, Sonia, and for a lil love-fest, thank YOU for the awesome opportunity to share who I am and what I stand for with Logallot’s fantastic community.
I’ve seen tons of articles on how to write a good post, but how about how to write a good comment? (There’s a lot more comments than posts…)
And you’re right – this was just the appetizer, the real goodness is delivered in part 2.
For all you Logallot readers, I’d love to see everyone speaking up about their commenting + conversation experiences — don’t act like you don’t have any — and now you’re being encouraged to share your stories!
Have you ever had an awkward interaction with a clerk or cashier?
Have you ever had an outstanding chat with a perfect stranger?
Rock on and ryze up!
(dofollow)
Jason recently posted..Ryze’s Best Of Success – March 2012
Twitter: ryzeonline
Brandon
Cool post, bro.
….ok, I kid, I kid. But yes, I completely agree with you. The entire point of opening up to comments is to get feedback or initiate a conversation.
The first few months of blogging, I would only get one-liners. This is probably why I started blogging about politics, religion, and other ‘pot-stirrers.’ I wanted to see if anyone was paying attention.
Your Somalian friend sounds like a great conversationalist. If only more bloggers (and commenters) were like him…
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Brandon recently posted..The Day I Woke Up As A T-Rex
Twitter: Ida_Homie
Jason
Brandon! Hahahah… nice man, nice.
And you totally get it, man
I hold some of the freshest, most unique views on subjects out of anyone I know. Stuff like “karma, luxury and fame all go hand in hand” or “God created everything, and everything is beautiful – this includes stuff like… porn.” or “being selfish is a very high-valuable thing.
I don’t mind if my views are ‘wrong’ or ‘disagreeable’, but I have been told they’re ‘solid’ and backed up my ‘obviously deep study’.
So… y;know, what I’m saying is — I get the pot-stirrer types. Good on ya, man.
lol.
It makes for very interesting conversation.
Whatever we choose to share, I recommend at aiming to uplift and collaborate
Thanks again for weighing in.
(dofollow)
Jason recently posted..Ryze’s Best Of Success – March 2012
Twitter: ryzeonline
Sonia
Brandon, I loved that post about that sheriff. Wow you got tons of comments and I was so proud of you B for standing behind your blog. Your blog is so funny and I enjoy that you can see the humor in life when most don’t. That’s why I love B!
Twitter: LogAllot
Adrienne
Great seeing you over here at Sonia’s place Jason.
Huh, do I want to learn how to become a commenting superstar. Oh wait, I already am! lol…
You are right though I believe leaving a genuine comment is so much more appealing and it’s the way to keep the conversations going Kind of like you and Abadir. What an interesting character I must admit.
Love the post and will be sure to spread the word and as always will look forward to your next addition. Glad to see that you’ll be back.
You two have a great week!
~Adrienne
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Adrienne recently posted..How I Finally Stopped Failing In Network Marketing
Twitter: adriennesmith40
Jason
Awesome, Adrienne, I really appreciate it. And you summed it up nicely.
The series is mainly to create MORE people like you
Sound good?
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Jason recently posted..Ryze’s Best Of Success – March 2012
Twitter: ryzeonline
Sonia
I agree Adrienne and YOU DO IT WELL! I learned the art of commenting from Ingrid Abroud from the Nitty Griddy blog. Now she could comment and when she did she gave you her all. I don’t know where she has been in the last 8 months, but her blog left a mark on me and what she stood for. She really left her mark when she commented and she always left a long on at that.
Twitter: LogAllot
Q
This is an amazing blog post. Not just because your friend is so interesting, but because you took an everyday occurrence, put it into perspective and created what could be the most awesome blog post I’ve ever read. I think that all commenters should read this! I’d love to use this as a guest post with your permission.
Twitter: Talk2Q
Jason
Oops! My reply is below, Q! Rock on and ryze up!
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Jason recently posted..Money Equals Love
Twitter: ryzeonline
Sonia
Hey Q, I know what you mean. Jason is awesome….next to you my friend! I am glad you got a kick out of his post and that’s just the beginning. Wait till you see part 2 next week. He thought he would leave you all in suspense!
Twitter: LogAllot
Jason
Wonderful! Thank you so much Q
Nice to meet you!
It really reflects well on you that you noticed what I did. I aimed to be subtle *and* deep, smooth *and* impactful.
I’m honored you consider airing this on your site, but I’d really like to leave it up to Sonia.
I feel very confident (borderline cocky) about my views, writing, and expression, and I know it’s valuable — if she wants to keep it exclusive and direct people here to see it, I totally understand.
If she thinks this particular post should hit as many audiences as possible, no matter where it sits, I understand that too.
I’m good with both and very happy I wrote it.
And I can’t say it enough — part 2 is GOLD. Stay tuned
(dofollow)
Jason recently posted..Ryze’s Best Of Success – March 2012
Twitter: ryzeonline
Michael
Read this vis Twitter and it truly is a great post. I’m anxiously awaiting Part 2.
I’m fortunate that most of my commentors don’t give me one liners. Being relatively new to blogginf (under a year) I’ve read posts and tiops/tricks to gain more followers and one thing that truly stuck with me was to visit and always leave a “real” comment, not a one liner.
Twitter: Just_Zoshin
Jason
That’s what I love to hear, Michael! Sounds like you really understand what it’s all about — hopefully part two will deepen that
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Jason recently posted..Money Equals Love
Twitter: ryzeonline
Sonia
Welcome Michael…commenting is like leaving your mark on the last place you visited and when it lacks some luster in it, there is no impact with your message. Thank you for stopping by and supporting Jason!
Twitter: LogAllot
Susan Silver
I have been pondering this one myself for a long time Sonia. I have a friend, Bruce Sallan, who is the comment king. I don’t know how he does it, but he always brings something insightful in a one or two sentence comment.
I have created some incentives for commenters, but I am still not seeing the results I would like. Could be me, maybe I am not very thought-provoking *lol*
Interested in hearing the news
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Susan Silver recently posted..7 Tips for Productivity with Renee Gaylor
Twitter: susan_silver
Jason
Hi Susan! Thanks for adding your voice and honesty.
Bruce sounds like my style, I wonder what he’d think of this article?
You. Are. Thought-Provoking.
I know it.
I believe every person is thought-provoking, but the provocative blog-posting only comes when they deeply “Know Who They Are” and deeply know “What They Stand For”, which is exactly what my latest product helps with.
Keep an eye out for Ryze’s How To ‘Be Real’ Blueprint.
(dofollow)
Jason recently posted..Money Equals Love
Twitter: ryzeonline
Sonia
One thing I learned was to really leave a good message. Most times we get busy and can’t always leave a long winded message, but even the short one can still pack a punch to spark even more conversations. Plus it gives the instant feedback the author was looking for to measure if what they wrote has some merit. Jason did a fabulous job and you have to come back for part 2 next week! Thank you Susan for stopping by and leaving a comment for Jason.
Twitter: LogAllot
Jason
Thanks again, everyone — I’m touched you all connected
Thanks for helping the discussion… ryze 
Twitter: ryzeonline
Hajra
Hey Jason,
I had so much fun reading the post that I forgot what the content is all about..signing off!
I so want to see the way you all will cringe after reading that! But I wanted to do it! The fact is that we have glorified numbers for some reason; so we “like” the comment count more than the comment itself. The moment we start treating comments as conversations and not just a number frenzy, things might start to change. Or at least I am hoping.
And coming to think about it, people always keep complaining that “no one listens to me” and then they go ahead and write the tiniest comments; what is that all about? Pour our heart all out – not your deep dark secrets but your thoughts on the post. What do you think, you like it, you don’t like it, you agree, you disagree, you think this is the most awesome post I have ever read or not so much; debate, discuss and be respectful. But for the love of it, comment like the comment box is your playground… as long as you don’t spit on it!
Looking forward to the next of the series!
(dofollow)
Hajra recently posted..Better with the lights switched off!
Twitter: hajraks
Jason
Hajra! That’s high-praise, and interestingly,
I’ve had a similar compliment on Craig McBreen’s blog, Ralph said:
“…almost forgot the content of [Craig's] post after reading the commentary. Thanks Jason…”
I love what you said about comment count vs. comment quality (personally I desire both), and it reminds me of this powerful post by Eugene:
http://www.contentstrategyhub.com/more-blog-comments-business-results
Your encouraging rampage about passionate comments helps us all. I could’ve included it in the post
Maybe for part 2, eh?
Thanks again!
(dofollow)
Jason recently posted..Ryze’s Best Of Success – March 2012
Twitter: ryzeonline
Lisa
HI Jason, great piece. It reminds me of a co-worker when I ask how are you he is always terrific. Some day I want the REAL story. I don’t believe anyone can be terrific EVERY day. Or at least they could come up with a different answer. I like keeping it real and it sounds like Abadir sure keeps it REAL. Looking forward to more on this hot topic.
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Lisa recently posted..What Do Blogs and Housework Have In Common?
Twitter: lisapatb
Jason
Wow, Lisa, that’s a really great and relevant tale.
It’s relevant because I am absolutely, off-the-charts, beyond-famous for my positivity.
I’ve been through homelessness (twice!), arrest/jail (bulls***), lost all my possessions, deeply betrayed, disowned by family, etc. — all with a smile. (well, maybe a couple dark nights of the soul
) — but yeah, if anyone asked me, I’d respond positively, and mean it!
The trick is if after a person says “terrific” and then they can’t help but gush a small story about their day or week or whatever.
When I say “I’m awesome, man” — I’m always ready to follow it up with: “my blog’s doing well, I’m about to launch my new product, I’m about go to Mexico, etc.”
If a person says ‘terrific’ but isn’t brimming with that kind of story on their tongue, they’re probably just sugar-coating things, lol.
P.S. I think I mentioned this elsewhere in the community, but you mentioned being real, and interestingly…
Ryze’s Flagship Exclusive Mentoring Program… The How To ‘Be Real’ Blueprint is launching April 1st, 12pm EST.
I teach people how to be real. Period.
Thanks for rockin’ out
(dofollow)
Jason recently posted..Ryze’s Best Of Success – March 2012
Twitter: ryzeonline
Melanie Kissell
BANTER in the box is where it’s at!
Nice post. (yanking your chain) LOL
What’s super cool and delightfully outrageous is when I get into conversations with my readers that have nothing to do with the post … and it happens often.
So let’s just deem some of my posts, “Ice Breakers”.
We’ll start out having a conversation about the blog post topic and then venture off on some intriguing tangent. I don’t mind. Those comments/conversations add some depth, character, and other new elements to the post. And more often than not, they give me a much deeper insight into the commenter.
Thanks for sending me a Twitter DM to entice me to head over here to Sonia’s blog to catch your guest post.
I’m going to make a calculated guess that (1) of the five steps in your commenting system is sending Twitter followers DM’s (I’m intuitive)
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Melanie Kissell recently posted..Toilet Paper and Toothpicks
Twitter: melaniekissell
Jason
Ah, Mel, I’m so glad we’ve connected – I really love your enthusiasm and the delightfully outrageous words you bring to the screen
LOVE the concept of IceBreakers, and honestly, I’m so cool with the fun side-tangents of life, I’d never considered anybody would be “against” that.
As for the 5 steps, it’ll have to remain a mystery as to how spot on you are with your intuition… at least until Monday the 2nd
(dofollow)
Jason recently posted..Ryze’s Best Of Success – March 2012
Twitter: ryzeonline
Jason
Wow, let me just say to you all, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Thank you, thank you.
I deeply love my self-expression, ideas, and general bad@$$ness, but to have such a response from my debut at Sonia’s is so uplifting.
We’re all a team, and you guys just gave me the fuel to write more.
And speaking of writing more, I actually had TWO guest posts go live today, this one, and one over at Laura Roeder’s place (I think you guys are familiar with her?)
Anyway, I’d love it if you check it out, it even includes a video I made myself…
http://www.lauraroeder.com/2012/03/is-kim-kardashian-better-than-you
Rock on and #ryzeUP !
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Jason recently posted..Ryze’s Best Of Success – March 2012
Twitter: ryzeonline
Melanie Kissell
I’m jazzed we connected, too, Jason.
I’ll be sitting on pins till April 2nd. Thank goodness that’s only seven days from now because those pins can start to pinch!
P.S. Jackie Purnell says you take no prisoners. Is that true? LOL
(dofollow)
Melanie Kissell recently posted..Toilet Paper and Toothpicks
Twitter: melaniekissell
Jason
Hahaha… awesome, Mel, awesome
Anticipation is a delicious part of … life
Oh I take prisoners, but only the one’s who enjoy intense restraint and control
Twitter: ryzeonline
Jackie
I must be suffering from domestic blindness, took me a minute to find the reply button on the comments. (no smart ass comments please)
Jason I almost feel afraid to use the words great post, but it was. sorry no other way of putting it.
I know I’ve been guilty of dropping those two words on peoples work I admire, not because I’m looking for a link back, but because sometimes I just want to acknowledge the post, but don’t feel I have anything to contribute to the conversation, especially if 50 people ahead of me have said the same thing.
It’s great when you get real input, and reactions from people and like Mel says icebreakers are cool and can take the discussion to a whole other level.
…and that’s where the fun happens.
Thanks for the heads up on the post, seems like I have another blog to add to my reader
(dofollow)
Jackie recently posted..There Are Things You Don’t Know About Me
Twitter: jackiepurnell
Jason
Nah, you’re golden , Jackie. I find Logallot’s reply button to be a bit awkward m’self
But we’re all capable of adjustment, aren’t we? 
I’m never “against” anything, 2 word answers can be electrifyingly powerful.
I remember once commenting:
“Be impactful.”
It… made an impact
I, for one, am very glad you’re here, and the comment you left speaks volumes
(dofollow)
Jason recently posted..Money Equals Love
Twitter: ryzeonline
Kenneth Ashley
Awesome Post Jason!
Thanks for the comment on my blog as well. it led me to this great information!
Kenneth Ashley
Jason
Thanks so much, Kenneth, great timing!
I always feel good about what I share, and feel it’s valuable where I share it — if not, I won’t promote it.
That’s another aspect of great commenting
Now, since you find it great, I encourage you to tweet it and facebook it and share it with others as much as possible — The Blog World Needs This.
Twitter: ryzeonline
Eddie Gear
Awesome article Jason. Love your writing style and thanks for sharing such valuable information. Its been a while since I’ve been commenting on blog. And as I start sharing my views by commenting, I think this post deserves it. Good Work Jason.
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Eddie Gear recently posted..Guest Blogging Contest Is Now Live, Start Submitting Your Articles Now
Jason
Thanks Eddie! It’s a pleasure to meet you and read your comment
I definitely appreciate it.
Glad I could inspire, and I’m psyched to see what else you have to say
(dofollow)
Jason recently posted..Money Equals Love
Twitter: ryzeonline
Melody
Hey Jason,
Thanks for the heads up. I really enjoyed this post. I’ve been pretty fortunate to attract awesome commenters on my own blog. I tried my best to focus on quality of comments over quantity right from the start, but did struggle with that for a while. I totally agree with Harja. It’s so easy to get caught up in the numbers game…
I don’t comment on other people’s blogs unless I have something to say. I love the idea that commenting is like having a conversation. Some people are really good at it and move the conversation into new and interesting territory and others, well, not so much. But just like when you’re at a party and you get this killer discussion going, it tends to discourage those who don’t really have any value to add from jumping in, I think the same thing happens on blogs. When you get really interesting and insightful comments, I think it discourages the whole “Great post!” comments. Quality begets quality and I think, after a while, the community sort of monitors itself.
I’m looking forward to the next installment!
Huge Hugs!
(dofollow)
Melody
Melody recently posted..Questions From A Law Of Attraction Skeptic Part 2
Twitter: deliberateblog
Jason
Ah, thanks so much, Melody. I had a feeling you’d say something like that, awesome group over at your place
I like how you deepened the parallels to conversation.
“Blogs are a party, and we’re the conversation.” – Melody Fletcher (J-Ryze Remix).
Jason recently posted..Money Equals Love
Twitter: ryzeonline
Lauryn Doll
Hello Jason!
This is an awesome post.
Abadir seems like my kind of guy.
Most people, whether they realize it or not, are too lazy to write or type out substantial words to communicate what they’re truly thinking online. Call it laziness, or call it… well, them honestly not really thinking at all. Lazy link building for traffic. Kind of crazy and annoying like those superfluous spam posts that go:
“Oh yes your work is most wondrously good. I come here all the time to read what you have to say, have you considered making another website about this?” – cheap Viagra pills
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Lauryn Doll recently posted..Kim Kardashian’s Celebrity Branding Secrets
Twitter: DulcedeLauryn
Jason
Haha, you hit on something key there –
“not thinking at all”
Our thoughts are our most powerful tools to navigate + rock life — how many of us are using them masterfully?
Twitter: ryzeonline
Lauryn Doll
Honestly, not enough of us are. Why? well… we’re not taught to think as much as we should. From the time we’re in school we’re taught that the thinking is done for us and we’re graded on our ability to conform those thoughts to our memory.
We’re in such interesting times. People are either splitting from the normal vein of thought, or conforming even more. Right now, it’s people like us who voice our thoughts and have gone through the craziest ish… and even tried to make one thing happen differently…. those of us who just have GONE through it and lived to tell the tale…. we’re the ones realizing there’s truth in the conversation. We’re the ones who may not read every comment everyone else makes, but when we do respond, if it touches us…we’re long winded because we have to say what we’re thinking and connect ourselves to that other person on the other end – and show we’re listening.
Everyone wants to be heard,but not everyone wants to listen.
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Lauryn Doll recently posted..How Sexy is Your Elevator Pitch?
Twitter: dulcedelauryn
Jason "J-Ryze" Fonceca
Sounds about right — we’re not taught to.
Which is why I do what I do, helping people create a badass foundation of thoughts, feelings and focus that helps them shine.
I like what you said about how everyone wants to be heard, but no one wants to listen —
Not only that but everyone wants it to be reciprocal listening & hearing, eh
Thanks so much for connecting, real-talk
(dofollow)
Jason “J-Ryze” Fonceca recently posted..I Just Wanna Be F-ckin’ Happy
Twitter: ryzeonline
Sylviane Nuccio
What a most interesting post, Jason. It seems that you are the king of blog commenting.
(dofollow)
Reading your post today made me think about Harleena’s blog yesterday, where a whole conversation and some deep personal revelations were going on in the comment area.
Her blog post was about family relationships and I happened to leave a rather personal comment relating some issues that I have with my brother. This comment of mine got a reply from another reader and from Harleena, the owner of the blog as well.
Then, of course, I had to reply to the reader who said some nice things to me. Then, scrolling down I find Adrienne’s comment who related something that I could relate to, and I had to reply to her comment.
I was thinking, wow, this thread is so great. It really took a life of its own. I love when that happened. Blog threads can definitely become more valuable than the post itself in many cases.
Thanks for your great post, Jason, and have a fantastic day!
Sylviane Nuccio recently posted..What are The Two Main Writing Motivators Of The Online Marketer
Twitter: sylviane101
Jason
Sylviane! I really appreciate this.
I love being King, but someone said this guy Bruce is
I whole-hardheartedly agree, deep, personal LIVING threads are awesome and can definitely outshine a post — but no one ever forgets what sparked the chat
It’s good for rep to inspire conversation
Always a pleasure to have you around, gettin’ personal
(feel free to share that thread here)
Twitter: ryzeonline
TerriAnn
What a tease! One way to get comments is to present a fantastically wonderful and riveting post and then add a ‘…to be continued.’
I love how you really carry the reader along in your thought process and pause, as you would IRL, to make sure they are still following. I’m greatly anticipating your next installment – just don’t keep us hanging too long!
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TerriAnn recently posted..[iPhone/IPad App] Whole Wide World
Twitter: cookiesANDclogs
Jason
Thanks so much, TerriAnn
Hah, you’re right! That *IS* a great way to get comments. “Anticipation,” which I talk about on one of Sonia’s favorite Ryze blog post, is a huge power-emotion.
I’ve learned from experience that everyone loves a tease (if they do it right
) – so now I live and breathe it as much as possible 
Y’know, I’m greatly anticipating the next installment too! I would’ve launched it on Friday but Sonia had something scheduled, so Monday, April 2nd it is.
The timing works out great, because Ryze’s flagship offering (http://how-to-be-real.com) is going live the day before, woo!
I love helping people nail down exactly how to “be themselves” , in comments or in IRL
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Jason recently posted..Ryze’s Best Of Success – March 2012
Twitter: ryzeonline
Julie
I totally agree, and Abadir was totally right, there are some type of comments which are useless and are written just for getting some backlinks. If a comment isn’t relevant to the actual post, I used to erase it.
Jason
Thanks Julie, seems we have a lot of like minds here
“Used to” erase it? Care to elaborate… ?
Glad you’re here contributing. Smile on
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Jason recently posted..Money Equals Love
Twitter: ryzeonline
Kate
I do get your point right there. Sometimes, people make comments just because they want to not realizing the essence of each comments and how it actually reflects their personality at times. Good thing you have Abadi right there. Hope to converse with a guy like him. He does make sense.
Jason
Thanks Kate! And you will converse with people like Abadir — in fact, I’m very similar to him, and you’re conversing with me
Twitter: ryzeonline
Alden
Great post Jason.
And that’s all I got to say. Lol just kidding.
To go beyond “commenting in relevant blogs and adding value”, I say go all the way in, be a friend and spark a conversation.
It may be, “just comments”, but we are all human here talking, making friends and vibing no?
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Alden recently posted..THIS BLOG HAS REACHED A MILESTONE: A letter to me and how it can help you
Jason
Rock on, Alden — you said it. That’s the main point of this article, comments are conversation, people are friends
Keep doin’ you, man
Twitter: ryzeonline
Becca
Jason,
If your friend is a blogger many readers will surely enjoy his post because the way he talk and communicate.
Can’t wait for the part2. I enjoy reading!
Jason
Thanks so much, Becca! He’ll really appreciate that.
For now he’s a security guard, but he’s only 22 and he’s also improving and moving on up
I’ve encouraged him to be a story-teller/blogger 
Good call!
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Jason recently posted..Money Equals Love
Twitter: ryzeonline
Kesha Brown
Great post…*waves goodbye* LOL
Just kidding!
Um, so you’re making me wait eh Jason? Oh I see, you’re helping me work on that virtue people call patience. Ok, I’ll play
Abadir sounds like a guy I’d like to shoot the breeze with (both of you actually).
You mentioned the word job…so like an employee in any job, some are mediocre, some are stellar, some need to be fired (the “great posts” commenters). So I don’t expect stellar comments every single time and know full well that people’s time may be limited. But I do expect more than just “great post.”
I will tell you though that the type of comments I get have me thinking about how well I’ve actually written the post. Did I do a good enough job that people found it not only interesting but have something to add.
Most of my posts are meant to incite some form of discussion. Therefore, when I respond to comments, sometimes I’ll ask a follow up question to incite further convo or expound on a topic the commenter started.
And I am loving how you even ask further questions after that back to the creator of the post. Continued discussions in the comments can get very interesting. Just like this post for instance, I spent time reading every single response because I get value from comments just as much as the post itself a lot of times and want that for my blog as well!
I’ve even added some of my commenters’ advice/tips/info into the blog post after the fact because it was that value-added.
Glad you nudged me over here but I’m gonna need you to nudge me again so I don’t miss part 2!!!
So can’t wait for 4/2. You do an awesome job of creating anticipation
~Kesha
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Kesha Brown recently posted..Why Sitting is Killing You! [Infographic]
Twitter: uncommonchick
Jason
Haha! Awesome Kesha, and we’re glad to have you.
I agree, the comments on this Comment Post have been great – lol.
As for patience…well…
I haven’t met a chick who doesn’t enjoy it when I make them wait oh-so-artfully
I come from a family of social, laughing, uplifting conversationalists, so gotta give props to the fam
I’m glad you focused on the word job, cuz it begs the question – can you have a team/company of all-stars?
The flipside is a good point: “does this post inspire good comments” — at the same time, I take full responsibility, and feel I can comment artfully *anywhere*.
Find me the s***tiest post in the world, and I bet I can add some serious value
I’ve done the same, adding after-the-fact comments, and we’ve had a chat on your blog as well
As for reminding you… I have a feeling part 2 will be the first thing on your list Monday morning — everything I do is passionate and goes the extra mile — even my commenting system.
Stay tuned
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Jason recently posted..Ryze’s Best Of Success – March 2012
Twitter: ryzeonline
Kesha Brown
My my my Jason, you doin’ it like that (“I haven’t met a chick who doesn’t enjoy it when I make them wait oh-so-artfully”)?! Love it
“Find me the s***tiest post in the world, and I bet I can add some serious value” >> I bet you could Jason and I wouldn’t dare challenge you on it! Money down the drain!
Re: reminder – You already know it! I have a task item on my calendar (I’m gonna be stalking the blog until it’s up on Monday but I didn’t want your head to get too too big which is why I didn’t tell you that initially LOL!!
Talk to ya soon!
~Kesha
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Kesha Brown recently posted..Why Sitting is Killing You! [Infographic]
Twitter: uncommonchick
Jason
What can I say, Kesha, I’m gonna let my hometown homie Drake handle this one:
“But I’m the truth — that’s right, I f***ing said it / The living proof that you ain’t gotta die to get to heaven”
Thanks so much for the vote of confidence, I really appreciate it
As for gettin’ a big head, the way I look at is, the world’s a big place and it just keeps growin’ — so… I’ve got no limits on my confidence levels
Besides, my confidence comes from inside and is driven by something beyond criticism or praise
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Jason recently posted..Ryze’s Best Of Success – March 2012
Twitter: ryzeonline
Carol Lynn
lol, now I’m afraid to comment… is it going to be good enough?? too short?? too lame?? too much of a long and rambling version of the above???
Sonia, I told you I was stealing this guy before and I’ll just remind you of that. Also, no fair with the teaser! I want the rest of the story. After Jason tells us how to comment, he should teach us how to end our posts with a hook like that instead of the usual trailing… “and so that’s it… bye…….”
As I read Abadir’s problem I got a little uncomfortable because I recognize the person with their head down saying “that’s cool” – because basically that’s me. It’s unfortunate, but it’s true – we are so busy, so intent on “the next thing” that it’s sort of an inconvenience to stop and chat. I have neighbors who do that and when I see them I sort of roll my eyes because I know it’s going to take a half hour before I can escape.
Of course, Abadir has the answer built right in – be honest when you’re not up to chatting. I’m going to practice that instead
Chat, or don’t chat – but don’t ignore! Thanks for this really unique spin, I enjoyed the story!
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Carol Lynn recently posted..Stop Listening To Chris Brogan, Get Off Twitter, Play Dumb, And Other Smart Marketing Advice
Twitter: carollynnrivera
Jason
Ah, Carol Lynn – awesome
Note: I’m too busy sharing wisdom on how to improve comments, to hang around judging them
As for the cliffhanger… actually, I’ve taught a few people the magic of Attraction-Tension-Satisfaction (the basic structure not just for my posts, but for nearly everything truly remarkable in life.) – it’s super easy.
As for ‘stealin’ me… now chicas – do I really seem ownable? Borrow perhaps?
I’d like to congratulate you on YOUR story. It’s cool that you resonated with that part of Abadir’s tale, and even cooler that you’re amped to try a new way
I’d love to hear your results!
And also thanks for such a personality-filled, fun comment, I really enjoyed this.
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Jason recently posted..Ryze’s Best Of Success – March 2012
Twitter: ryzeonline
Sonia
Hey Carol, no problem, Jason’s work should be everywhere, his mind is amazing and his creativity is worth a read anywhere. But I will need him back! Ha Ha!
Twitter: LogAllot
Jason
That’s what *I’ve* been saying
[grin], it’s good to be loved.
The community here has helped me feel so welcome, so appreciated, and so valued, and it really inspires me to deliver on part 2. Off to put the finishing touches on it!
Thanks team logallot
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Jason recently posted..Money Equals Love
Twitter: ryzeonline
Kory Grim
Very wise, LOL. I love how you incorporated Abadir’s story to blog commenting. He looks like a very good conversationalist. Thanks for sharing!
Jason
Ahhh… thanks so much Kory, rockstar urban shaman at your service. I deal in wisdom
Abadir is a riveting talker, and I think he should be on stage or something
Or dictating blog comments
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Jason recently posted..Unleash Your Knowing
Twitter: ryzeonline
Sonia
Thanks Kory, I liked it too. Make sure you check out part 2 that was posted yesterday!
Twitter: LogAllot
Jason
I meant to add a link to part 2 in the article, but my account access doesn’t let me add images or edit “live” posts, it seems. Maybe I need to try a different browser or something…
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Jason recently posted..Unleash Your Knowing
Twitter: ryzeonline
Donna Merrill
Hi Jason, You are so on point when you say that blog comments are important. That is one of my pet peeves. I do not accept an automated comment (they are usually easy to pin out) I also don’t accept the “great blog” comments. I started thinking I was some kind of snob, but I didn’t want that sort of thing on my comments.
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I like my comments to be something that I can understand the person has read and gave feedback. Good or bad, it doesn’t matter to me. I love opinions.
Thanks for bringing this to people’s attention. I tried it, but didn’t write it as well as you did. Your post was engaging, using Abadir as a great analogy.
It is real life out here just as it is with Abadir!
Thanks again,
Donna Merrill
Donna Merrill recently posted..9 Rules Of Syndication
Jason
Thanks, Donna, and it sounds like you really get these points too.
There’s nothing wrong with desiring great comments on your site, and there’s lots of ways to get them. Do your thing, miss
Real life is everywhere, so be real!
Thanks again!
Twitter: ryzeonline
Steven Papas
You have caught me now I am going to have to go read part 2. I never continue blog series unless I am pretty interested. This is a good topic that the blogging world needs to be aware of.
Jason "J-Ryze" Fonceca
Thanks so much, Steven!
I aim to interest and take people on an emotional (and intellectual) journey. Glad you’re feelin’ it.
The blog world needs it, so I know I can count on you to spread it, share it, and tweet it!
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Jason “J-Ryze” Fonceca recently posted..Elevate Your Celebration – Step Up Your Life
Twitter: ryzeonline
Ana
Reading this post made me feel a bit embarrassed, Jason.
I love meaningful comments.
Both on my blog and others.
However, leaving a comment that matters takes time; the kind of time we don’t always have.
So would I rather give someone a quick and sincere “pat on the back” or leave without commenting simply because I don’t have enough time to come up with something deeper?
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Ana recently posted..Market Samurai
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Sonia
Hey Ana, I know what your talking about. I think if I know the blogger well enough it doesn’t bother me, but if it’s someone out of the blue, I hope they would be kind enough to leave an impression and something of value. But for you girl…don’t trip, you always get a pass. You always have something of value to say. No worries. Thanks for the comment.
Twitter: LogAllot
Jason "J-Ryze" Fonceca
Hahah… Ana!
I love it!
Three things, ready?
1. This post is aimed to make it quick and easy to leave a comment that matters
2. #5 makes it clear there are no rules, and even short off-the-cuff comments can be meaningful.
3. I don’t judge or compare comments, I just share my experience and the things that work for me
You run a fantastic blog with a fantastic, engaged community, and every comment you’ve responded to me felt great, so I’d say you’re on the right track.
If I gave you a fresh look at commenting… at all… I’m thrilled
(And I still think more people should read this
)
Twitter: ryzeonline
rh ramsey
Wow — awesome post — I’m trying to not comment with generic robot responses right… I feel pressured, lol!
But seriously, this is another reeeeallly unique post! I like the way you took life, the world around you, your dialogue with a friend and turned it into stimulating conversation! That’s the type of post I. Like. To. Read.
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rh ramsey recently posted..“To see myself now and to see myself then haunts me…”
Twitter: rhramseydreamer
Jason "J-Ryze" Fonceca
You know, it’s really funny to me, how after a giant post, aimed at HELPING PEOPLE have an easier, funner, better time commenting…
… their first thought is “oh noes! will my comment be good enough?”
I’m not out there *judging* people’s comments, sheesh lol.
Step 5, there are no rules, express yourself however feels right, and dont care what others think.
Especially me.
For example…
I *love* your comment. You noticed the unique parts of my post and gave feedback.
If you like this post, I highly recommend you check out the rest of my blog: http://ryzeonline.com/blog
You’ll get lots more of what you like
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