How to Stop Appearing as Anonymous When Leaving Comments on WordPress

How do you stop showing up as ‘Anonymous’ when leaving comments on WordPress?

It can be frustrating not only for those leaving comments on blogs when they appear as ‘Anonymous’, but also for the blog host, who won’t know who left the comment unless there are clues to the person’s identity.

I see many comments from ‘Anonymous’ on other blogs saying they don’t know why they are showing up as ‘Anonymous.’ Many go on to blame WordPress for it.

However, it’s not always WordPress’s fault!

What are the reasons for your comments showing as ‘Anonymous’

The most likely reason is that you are not logged into a WordPress.com account. But there are other reasons.

Here are the main reasons and fixes for appearing as ‘Anonymous’

Missing Gravatar: WordPress uses a service called Gravatar (Globally Recognised Avatar) to display your profile picture and name. If you haven’t set up a Gravatar with your email address, WordPress defaults to ‘Anonymous.’

How to fix it: – Set up a Gravatar account. You can create a free account at gravatar.com and associate your email and name with a profile picture. You must use the same email address for your Gravatar account as you use for your WordPress blog, so it connects to your blog.

Not Logged In: If you are not logged into your WordPress.com or WordPress-connected account, the site treats you as a guest, often defaulting to ‘Anonymous.’

How to fix it: Ensure you are logged into your WordPress account before commenting.

Site Configuration: The blog owner may have set up their site to permit comments without requiring a name or email address. This is because not everyone wishes to disclose their name or identity. I respect my readers’ privacy, so I have configured my blog to allow comments without revealing commenters’ identities.

How to fix it: Ensure you are logged into your WordPress account before commenting.

Browser Issues: Cache/Cookies: Old cache or cookies can prevent your credentials from being recognised.

How to fix it: Clearing your browser’s cache and cookies often solves this problem. I’ve noticed this method works whenever I encounter issues with any website, not just WordPress. I clear the cache and cookies on my desktop computer at least once every few months, but the frequency depends on how often you use a device. If the problem persists, try a different browser or open a new window in your current browser in ‘incognito‘ mode to see if that resolves it.

App Glitches: Like everything else, the WordPress Jetpack app will cause problems if you don’t update it.

How to fix it: Try updating it, logging out and back in, or reinstalling the app. If your device is not set to automatically update apps, consider changing the settings so you don’t have to remember to update them. If you don’t have the latest updates, you’re likely to encounter problems.

Outdated themes: When WordPress retires a theme, it ceases support for it. This means that any bugs, including those affecting how your comments appear, will not be fixed.

How to fix it: Switch to a current WordPress-supported theme.

Privacy Settings: If your browser is blocking third-party cookies, it may prevent your profile from appearing correctly on other people’s blogs.

How to fix it: Change your browser’s settings to enable cookies.

Theme bugs: Some bugs may only affect certain WordPress themes. ‘Anonymous’ comments are one such bug.

How to fix it: If you have tried everything else and your comments are still showing as ‘Anonymous’, report the bug to WordPress, and ensure you inform them of the device you are using and the name of your blog’s theme.

Summary:

• Create a free Gravatar account at gravatar.com and associate your email and name with a profile picture. Ensure you use the same email address so that your Gravatar account connects to your blog.
• Always ensure you are logged into your WordPress account before leaving comments.
• Clear the cache and cookies in the browser on the device you use to browse the internet.
• Try using a different browser or leaving a comment while in ‘incognito’ mode.
• The blog’s host may have set it up to allow comments without requiring a name, email address, or WordPress login. Therefore, ensure you are logged into your WordPress account.
• Ensure the WordPress/Jetpack app is up to date by downloading its latest software.
• Change your blog’s theme if WordPress have retired it.
• Change your browser’s settings to allow third-party cookies.
• Tried everything in the above list, but still encountering the problem. Report the bug to WordPress.

Have you encountered issues with your comments appearing as ‘Anonymous’? What steps did you take to resolve your ‘Anonymous’ comment problems? Did any particular solution work best for you? Have you ever come across a blog that required you to log in to leave a comment? Did this affect your willingness to engage? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

The featured image on this blog post is sourced from Pixabay. AI reviewed spelling and grammar errors.

The image in this post was created using the WordPress image generator.

You can follow me at the following sites.

• WordPress
• Amazon
• Goodreads
• Mastodon
• Link
• Bluesky

Copyright @ 2026 hughsviewsandnews.com – All rights reserved.

Blogrolls: What Happens When Adding One To Your Blog

A blogroll is a curated list of links to other blogs or websites that a blogger recommends, follows, or finds interesting, which they can display on their blog. Usually shown in a blog or website’s sidebar, footer, menu bar, or dedicated page, it helps foster community, share resources, and help readers find related content. Essentially, it is a “roll” of recommended blogs. 

Unfortunately, WordPress deprecated the Links/Blogroll widget several years ago. However, users of the Block Editor can now access the ‘Blogroll’ block to display a list of recommended or followed blogs.

If, like me, your blog has a widget bar, you can show the blogroll there. If you don’t have a widget bar, you can display a blogroll on a page, post, or in the menubar of your blog.

In this post, I will show you how to create a blogroll in a widget bar and on a blog post or page. I’m using an iMac desktop computer for this.

How to add a blogroll to a widget bar.

• On your blog’s dashboard, navigate to Appearance – Widgets and click the ‘+‘ symbol in the top right corner.

• Find the Blogroll block by typing ‘Blogroll’ in the search bar. Click on the Blogroll block to add it to your widget bar.

For some reason, when you add a Blogroll block, it automatically populates with several blogs, some of which you may not recognise. I found this quite odd, but it’s simple to remove any unwanted ones.

• To delete a blog, select the blog you wish to remove, then click the three vertical dots (kebab menu) and choose Delete.

• To add blogs, click on the ‘+‘ symbol and select from the list that appears or use the search bar to find the blogs you wish to add.

• To change the name of your blogroll, click next to ‘Blogroll‘ and add your own description.

• Click the Update button in the top right corner to publish the Blogroll in the widget bar.

• Check your blog to ensure the Blogroll widget is visible. You can see the blogroll I created towards the bottom of the widget bar on the right side of my blog. It contains the blogs I read the most.

How to add a blog roll to a page or post.

• Add the Blogroll block anywhere on a page or post.

• To add or remove blogs from your blogroll list, follow the instructions above.

Remember that you can change the name of your blogroll. However, be aware that if your blogroll contains many blogs, it will take up a lot of space on the post or page.

You can also convert your blogroll into a reusable block, now called a Pattern, by clicking on the block, then selecting the three dots (kebab menu) and choosing ‘Create Pattern.’

A reusable block on WordPress, now often called a Synced Pattern, is a feature that allows you to save a specific block or group of blocks for use across multiple posts or pages. This is particularly helpful for those selling items on their blog, such as books. For example, if a link to your books needs updating or the price changes, the updates are automatically reflected everywhere the block appears. Clever stuff!

To answer the question I raised in the title of this post, what happens when you add a blog roll to your site? Well, that’s straightforward. It means you promote the blogs you enjoy reading most. In doing so, you help foster a community and bring its members closer together. In turn, you’ll be supporting them in developing their blogs and community. What better way to say ‘thank you’ to those special people?

I’m looking forward to seeing your blogrolls as I’m looking for some new blogs to follow. If you have a blogroll on your blog, let me know.

Have you ever created a blogroll on your own blog? Which blogs or websites did you include? How do you think a blogroll can improve the reader’s experience on a blog? How often do you update your blogroll or the blogs you follow? Have you come across any new blogs from fellow bloggers’ blogrolls? If so, which ones?

The featured image on this blog post is sourced from Pixabay. AI reviewed spelling and grammar errors.

Layout, content, settings, and format might differ on self-hosted blogs.

You can follow me at the following sites.

• WordPress
• Amazon
• Goodreads
• Mastodon
• Link
• Bluesky

Copyright @ 2026 hughsviewsandnews.com – All rights reserved.

Layout, content, settings, and format might differ on self-hosted blogs.

#BlockEditor #Blogging #BloggingAdvice #BloggingHelp #BloggingQuestions #BloggingTools #Blogroll #CommunityBuilding #HowTo #Widgets #WordPress

Reasons to Act Immediately If You Receive This WordPress Email

Back in November 20025, I published a post, ‘The Latest Blogging and Publishing Scams You Need to Be Aware Of Now,‘ which outlined a number of scams aimed at bloggers, writers, and authors.

This week, I received an email that appeared to be from WordPress, but which raised my suspicions.

Firstly, I was fortunate that my email system identified the message as spam and moved it to my spam folder. However, it made me consider other WordPress bloggers who might have received or will receive the email, but whose antivirus or email security software does not recognise it as spam or a scam.

Here are two images of the email’s contents. I’ve highlighted some areas which I encourage you all to check before clicking on any link and risking becoming a victim of a scammer.

The image above may seem fine, but one clue indicates it’s not a genuine WordPress email. What is that clue?

• Not being addressed by name in any company email is a strong clue that the email is not genuine.
• The scammer simply said ‘Hello,’ which is a tactic used because addressing everyone by name is too time-consuming.
• Scammers send these emails to thousands of recipients hoping that some will respond.
• All the scammer needs is for one person to click the link to obtain login and username details.
• Once they have that information, they can lock you out of your blog and wreak havoc.
• Scammers are often more interested in obtaining any credit or debit card details you have on your account. If they obtain those details, they could go on a spending spree.

Here’s the next image.

• The scammer couldn’t even get the correct format for ‘WordPress’.
• The ‘P’ in ‘WordPress’ is always capitalised; the scammer missed this detail.
• The details after the first part of the email don’t match WordPress.
• The email address hidden behind what appears to be a WordPress email does not contain any WordPress information.

I was worried that somewhere out there, a scammer either has a list of email addresses for WordPress bloggers or has taken a chance, sending emails to addresses on a list, probably from the dark web. This email did not go to my private email address, but to the email address I use for my blog. I hate to think of my email address on a scammers’ list anywhere, but unfortunately, it can happen.

I contacted WordPress regarding the scam email, and they requested me to forward it so they could investigate.

If you receive a suspicious email from WordPress, the best way to report it is to forward it to [email protected] so their security team can investigate and act against the scammers.

As a quick tip:

• Legitimate WordPress.com emails always come from @wordpress.com or @automattic.com addresses. Note that any mention of WordPress before the ‘@’ will be the correct format of WordPress.
• They will never ask for passwords or payment info via email or a text message.

In the unlikely event that you click on any links or enter any information from a scam email that claims to be from WordPress, change your WordPress.com password as a precaution by visiting your ‘Profile‘ settings and selecting the ‘Security‘ tab.

If you are not sure or are suspicious of any email, always contact the company the email claims to be from before clicking any links or providing any information.

Summary:

• Always be aware of suspicious emails, not just from WordPress but from any company, especially if they include links and do not address you by name.
• Look for spelling mistakes, especially in the sender’s email address.
• Send any suspicious emails to the company they claim to come from. All reputable companies will have a dedicated email address for scam emails.
• Companies will never ask you for your passwords or payment information in an email or text message.
• If you click any suspicious links, change your password immediately.

Have you ever received a suspicious email claiming to be from WordPress or another service? What was your initial reaction? What steps do you take to verify the authenticity of an email before clicking on any links? Can you share any personal experiences with online scams you have encountered?

The featured image on this blog post is sourced from Pixabay. AI reviewed spelling and grammar errors.

You can follow me at the following sites.

• WordPress
• Amazon
• Goodreads
• Mastodon
• Link
• Bluesky

Copyright @ 2026 hughsviewsandnews.com – All rights reserved.

#BloggingAdvice #BloggingScams #Cybersecurity #EmailSecurity #OnlineSafety #OnlineSecurity #SafetyTips #Scams #WordPress #WordPressEmails #WordPressSecurity

How To Avoid Soaring Blogging Overload: 4 Helpful Ways

Just a heads-up: This blog post might make you think I’m talking about you.

A couple of years ago, the following post debuted on this blog.

7 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Deciding Whether To Follow A Blog

It got people rethinking why they follow particular blogs. And that was my aim. Job done! Or so I thought.

It won’t come as a surprise that, having already read many posts this year where the writer outlines how they are already feeling overwhelmed and guilty about not being able to keep up with reading, commenting, and writing posts (and we’re only a few days into the 2026), I thought it a good point to say a few things that some bloggers find difficult to talk about.

Is this you?

Not only is following too many blogs something that can have an adverse effect on your mental health, but it can also have a negative effect on your writing and creativity.

Some people act immediately when they start to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or guilty about blogging, but sadly, some leave the world of blogging, sometimes without giving any notice of their intention to do so.

Of course, some people also give up blogging on a positive note.

As I already mentioned, following too many blogs is one of the biggest pitfalls of blogging because many bloggers believe they have to follow every blogger that follows them, read their posts and leave comments on every post. Sure, some of those bloggers only ever leave short, non-engaging comments more as proof they’ve visited, but sadly, some go on to abandon their blogs when it all becomes too much.

Let me be clear. If anyone suggests it’s only polite to follow the blogs of everyone who follows your blog, they are talking nonsense. If I took that advice, I’d be following over 7,000 blogs. Can you imagine how overwhelming that would be and the effect it would have on my mental health, especially if I felt I had to read and comment on every post?

Thankfully, I only read and comment on posts that interest me.

Before following any blog, ask yourself these questions.

1. How often are new posts published?

The frequency at which posts are published is important. Some bloggers publish a new post once a month; others publish weekly; some publish daily; and then there are those who publish more than one post a day.

I once followed a blog where the host was publishing up to five new posts daily.

I could have ignored how often she published new posts, but because I found some of her posts interesting and she was following my blog, I felt obliged not only to follow her blog but also to read and comment on all her posts. Yes, those comments were short and non-engaging because I was not able to keep up.

This led to guilt when I missed any of her posts, left comments only to prove I visited and to feeling overwhelmed by it all.

Check how often posts are published before pressing the ‘subscribe’ button. If posts are published daily, and that’s too much for you, consider not following or do not feel obliged to read all the posts.

If you receive email notifications for new posts, consider getting one email a week with the posts they publish. Yes, there’s an option for that. You can then choose which of those posts you want to read.

How To Change How often You receive New Post Notifications

On the ‘Manage Subscriptions‘ page of your blog (under the ‘Reader‘ button), click on the three dots (Kebab menu) next to any of the WordPress.com blogs you follow and choose how frequently you get email notifications of new posts.

The choices are Instantly, Daily or Weekly.

Consider getting new post notifications via web and mobile notifications if getting email notifications become too overwhelming.

If you are happy with the frequency of new posts, by all means, subscribe and enjoy.

2. Is the content interesting enough?

Time is something many of us cannot manage when reading blogs, usually because we feel we do not have time to read everything, yet we feel obliged to and often leave a comment as proof. It’s a surefire way to get yourself on a slippery slope toward blogging burnout.

If none of the content interests you, don’t feel obliged to follow or read.

Don’t become a ‘ghost’ follower by subscribing to blogs you know you’ll never visit. After all, would you read a book on a subject that did not interest you? Be honest and ask yourself, ‘will I actually read this blog, or will it just add guilt to my unread list?‘

Time is precious, and wasting it on reading content you have no interest in is one of the main blogging mistakes you can make.

Spend time on reading content that interests you and which may inspire you to leave genuine, thoughtful comments.

Leaving a thoughtful, genuine comment occasionally far outweighs the impact of posting brief, unengaging comments on every post simply to show you were there. Make your comments count, ensuring that “thank you” isn’t the only response that resonates.

Thoughtful comments show you are interested and want to engage. Short, non-engaging comments simply prove you visited. They do not prove you read the post.

And remember that if a blog you follow publishes posts on various subjects, you are under no obligation to read everything they publish. Read only what interests you.

3. Does the host look after their blog?

• Would you shop on a website with lots of broken links, a poor layout, or where you have difficulty finding what you are looking for?
• Would you follow a blog that is broken because the host keeps blaming WordPress or anybody else but themselves for the faults?
• Would you follow a poorly designed blog or one full of errors, broken links, and no sense of organisation?
• Would you follow a blog that no longer has security updates because of it’s outdated theme or has a comments section full of spam and unverified links?

I hope you answered ‘No’ to all of those questions.

Just as taking care of your home creates a warm, inviting, friendly, comfortable, and safe place for family and friends to visit, maintaining your blog is equally important. Bloggers who prioritise maintaining their blogs demonstrate their commitment to making a positive impression on visitors, showing that they truly care about their audience.

Unmaintained blogs present a significant security threat to visitors. Bloggers utilising unsupported WordPress themes are not receiving crucial security updates, jeopardising the safety of their audience, particularly when clicking links.

Consider carefully before following or engaging with any blog that presents itself as outdated, disorganised, unsafe, or uninviting due to its poor layout. This caution extends to blogs that permit hostile or inappropriate comments in the comment section.

4. What do you know about the hosts(s)?

• Who is the individual behind this blog?
• What is their name, and what is their geographical location?
• What topics do they cover in their writing?

These are critical questions to consider before deciding to follow any blog. Reflect thoroughly on the implications of following a blog that fails to provide sufficient information about its author(s). While their posts may appear engaging, the absence of identifiable information raises concerns regarding the safety and credibility of your decision to follow.

I have misjudged by following various blogs based on the appeal of their content, only to discover particulars of the hosts that were quite disconcerting. A more sensible approach would have been to inquire about the blog’s authorship and to consider why I should place my trust in them.

More often than not, some bloggers adopt a seemingly friendly manner to attract visitors, only to later reveal their true intentions, often by posting derogatory comments directed at you or fellow bloggers.

I’ve discovered that with time, I can quickly judge what people are like from their blog posts before deciding to follow their blogs. However, if I can’t find any information about who they are and what they blog about, I won’t follow.

A simple rule of thumb

If, after reading 3–5 posts, you’d be disappointed not to see the next post, it’s probably worth subscribing.

What has been your experience with following too many blogs? Have you felt overwhelmed? Do you prefer quantity or quality in blog subscriptions? How do you choose which blogs are worth your time? How important is it to know about the host behind a blog before following? What tips do you have for bloggers feeling overwhelmed by subscriptions? How do you balance reading, commenting, and writing?

You can follow me at the following sites.

• WordPress
• Amazon
• Goodreads
• Mastodon
• Link
• Bluesky

The featured image on this blog post is sourced from Pixabay. AI reviewed spelling and grammar errors.

Copyright @ 2026 hughsviewsandnews.com – All rights reserved.

#BlogManagement #BlogSubscriptions #BloggingAdvice #BloggingBurnout #BloggingHelp #BloggingStress #BloggingTips #HowTo #MentalHealth #ReaderEngagement #WritingCommunity

Celebrating 2025: 12 Most Inspiring Posts That Defined the Year!

If you happen to be reading this in January, then it’s officially ‘Happy New Year!’ If it’s any other month, well, ‘Happy New Year’ anyway—because let’s face it, every day is just a chance to start fresh, much like your New Year’s resolution to stop binge-watching shows… which you’ve probably already forgotten by now!

I’m diving headfirst into 2026 with a parade of my 12 most beloved posts from 2025, all crafted by yours truly. Maybe they slipped under your radar, or perhaps you’re just itching to relive them—feel free to leave a fresh comment, even if you’ve already showered them with praise before. Because, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a little comment déjà vu?

Click the links to view the posts.

January

Navigating the Social Media Landscape: My Journey with Five Platforms

I kicked the year off talking ‘Social Media,’ a subject that became a hot topic during 2025, sometimes for the wrong reasons.

Not only can social media be a ravenous beast in eating up a lot of your time, but it’s also a fantastic way to promote your blog posts, the posts of other bloggers (a great way to support other bloggers), and, best of all, it’s free to use unless you decide to pay for a subscription.

I not only shouted out the three social media platforms I’m still romancing, but I also gave a little eulogy for the ones I’ve ghosted. After all, as someone hilariously pointed out, ‘spreading yourself too thinly on social media is like trying to butter a piece of toast with a frozen brick of butter—good luck with that!’

February

Why Every Blogger Needs an Engaging ‘About’ Page: Key Elements and Tips

Do you know who you are? I hope most of you chimed in with a confident ‘Yes!’ But how well do you know the owners of the blogs you follow? I mean, do you really know them, or are they just mysterious internet wizards pulling strings from their lairs?

I’m still somewhat bemused by the number of bloggers who have an ‘About’ page that says, ‘This is the template for telling your audience a little about yourself and what you blog about,’ – well, something along those lines.

It’s truly wonderful to share a bit about yourself on your blog! You don’t need to provide a lot of information—a first name and a little insight into your location can go a long way. Plus, letting visitors know what your blog is about will help create a friendly connection and encourage them to explore your unique perspective!

As you’ll see in the comments section of the post, many bloggers won’t engage, let alone follow a blog that has no information about its host(s).

March

The Ultimate Guide to Engaging on Bluesky: Tips, Features, and Strategies for Success

Although published 10 months ago, this post from March 2025 is still attracting attention, making it my top pick of the month! If you’re a BlueSky user, this post is an absolute gem, offering you the fantastic opportunity to not just get your blog posts read but also to inspire meaningful engagement from your readers.

Even if you don’t have a Bluesky account yet, it’s worth a read, as the information contained within the post can apply to other social media platforms.

April

Astonishing! Some Bloggers Kill Off Comments On Their Blogs. Why?

Talking of engagement, imagine my shock when, in April, there was a lot of talk amongst bloggers about killing off commenting on their blogs.

Most of the talk was on social media, but I also noticed that some bloggers had decided to disable commenting on their posts, citing the amount of time it took to respond.

But isn’t that what blogging is all about? Being able to engage, discuss and ask questions? Check the comments for the answers.

May

The Best Ultimate Guide To Why Alt-Text Is Important

It’s a sad fact that not everyone who visits your blog can see images or photos. Fortunately, WordPress allows users to add Alt-Text to all images in blog posts. This helps visitors who use screen readers and other software that describe images to know what’s in them. Sadly, many bloggers don’t help these visitors by not adding Alt-Text to their pictures.

Don’t know what Alt-Text is? Check out the post for details. And once you read it, make it a mission to welcome everyone to your blog.

June

This Is The One Thing You Can Do To Help Bloggers

What’s the one thing you could do to help other bloggers?

I’m sure there are many different answers to that question, but the answer I give in my post is one that I’m positive the majority of bloggers want! Yes, there will be exceptions, and I’m sure one or two will tell me, but if you’re somebody who gives excuse after excuse as to why you can’t do this, then you’ve allowed the problem to beat you.

July

Flash Fiction – Crossroads Of Desire

I didn’t write as much flash fiction during 2025 as I had intended, but this piece of flash fiction was my favourite of the year. It involves two people you’d probably pass in the street most days. Meet Bill and his wife, both in the autumn years of their lives. Are they a normal couple you wouldn’t give a second look at, or are they two people who each come with a dark secret? Only you can decide, but only if you read the piece of flash fiction that gives you a glimpse into their lives.

This 4-minute read packs a punch.

I’ll be making amends and writing more flash fiction during 2026, so you better watch out!

August

5 Reasons Why Every Blogger Should Have a Contact Page and How to Build One

August was the flattest month for me, blogging-wise, in 2025. It felt like I was on a plateau with no way up or down. There was little to choose from in terms of blog posts because I didn’t publish much, but thankfully, this post got a lot of engagement, proving it wasn’t as quiet out there as I thought.

Ask yourself these questions. Why would anybody want to contact you? But more importantly, how easy is it to contact you via your blog other than by leaving you a comment? Remember that leaving a comment isn’t always the right way to contact someone. After all, anyone visiting your blog can read comments. Are you missing out on any golden opportunities? Check the post for full details. You may be surprised.

September

This New WordPress Feature Helps Promote The Blogs You Love

I had to take an unexpected blogging break in September, but thankfully, this post had already been published before I departed. And I wasn’t disappointed with the reaction in the comments section to something the majority of WordPress users had no idea existed.

Short but sweet, this blog post from September 2025 packed as much of a punch as Bill and his wife did in July.

October

Where To Legally Source Amazing Images For Your Blog Posts

The latter quarter of 2025 saw me focusing very much on copyright issues, with many bloggers believing that their blogs are so small and private, nobody will care if they use images, photographs, or any material, including song lyrics, that are copyrighted. How wrong they are.

If you can not guarantee that the material or images you are using in your blog posts are free to use, then are you breaking the law? And, even worse, could you be fined?

November

The Latest Blogging and Publishing Scams You Need to Be Aware Of Now

How many of you believe that you’d never get scammed online?

With the advent of AI, the perpetration of scams has become significantly more sophisticated, leading to an alarming increase in the number of individuals who are susceptible to such deceit.

Different scams are emerging continuously, yet it appears increasingly challenging to identify them. Are you equipped to recognize a scam?

December

5 ‘Questionable’ Photos That Give You The Chance To Say Who You Are

In November, I shared my exciting decision to dive back into my passion for photography blogging, but this time with a fresh perspective. Although I had paused my photography posts in the past due to engagement challenges, I’m now thrilled to explore new ways to connect and inspire my audience.

This post not only showcased more of my own photography but also offered readers a wonderful opportunity to share a bit about themselves. Success! Engagement flourished, and I ended the year just as I hoped, fostering genuine connections rather than mere visits masked by guilt.

Finally, a glimpse into the inside of 2025 for my blog.

• 43 posts published
• 32,600 words written
• 2,700 clicked the ‘like’ button on my posts
• 2,100 comments left

A busy blogging year full of creativity and engagement.

What was your favourite blog post of 2025 on your blog? Why did it resonate with you? What’s the most significant lesson you learned about blogging and engaging with your audience in 2025?

You can follow me at the following sites.

• WordPress
• Amazon
• Goodreads
• Mastodon
• Link
• Bluesky

The featured image on this blog post is sourced from Pixabay. AI reviewed spelling and grammar errors.

Copyright @ 2026 hughsviewsandnews.com – All rights reserved.

#BestPosts #Blogging #BloggingAdvice #BloggingHelp #BloggingQuestions #BloggingTools #Engagement #photography #SocialMedia #WordPress #WordPressHelp

How Do You Measure The Success Of Your Blog Posts?

How do you measure the success of a blog post?

As we drift into the last few weeks of the year, I find the world of blogging gradually becomes a quieter place. Like thousands of others, I’ll be taking a seasonal blogging break as we head deeper into December. 

However, one of the most popular posts I see appearing every December and early January is the traditional ‘My Top 10 Blog Posts Of The Year’ post. It won’t be long before these annual posts drop into your email inbox and WordPress Reader. 

But how do bloggers measure the success of those top 10 posts? What is it that helps make those posts appear in their ‘top 10’ lists?  

The more hits, the more successful? 

Most bloggers who will publish their ‘Top 10 Blog Posts of 2021’ blog post will base their list on the number of hits each blog post achieved. But that always has me questioning if that is the right way to compile a top 10 list. 

A blog post may have thousands of hits, but how many actually read the content? Does not reading a post make it successful? Should the number of hits count towards success when we’ve no idea how many times the post was read?

Does landing on a blog post by mistake make a post more successful when some of those who land there don’t stay and read the content?

Search engines are essential for finding something in particular on the web. However, how often have I clicked a link, then moved on quickly after realising the page I landed on isn’t what I was looking for? I’ll be honest and say that I’ve lost count!  

It’s made me question whether that click I made should count towards making the post more successful when I haven’t read the content. 

Volume V’s Sales

Let’s have a look at it another way. Take these two identical shops: 

Shop ‘A’ gets hundreds of customers a day because of its location or large advertising budget. However, it gets few sales a day. 

Shop ‘B” gets a much smaller number of customers because of its location or smaller advertising budget but gets a high sales volume. 

Which of the shops is the most successful? A or B?

When should comments count towards success?

If I compiled my ‘Top 10 Posts of 2021’ post based on the number of comments every post got, my top 10 list would look very different from the list I compiled for the number of hits or ‘likes’ a post got.

For example, one of my posts that received the most hits did not get any new comments or ‘likes’ left in the last 12 months. Yet the post that was number 21 on my most hits list got three new comments and six further ‘likes.’ Which one should be considered to have been the most successful in the last 12 months?

Then there are some bloggers (like me) who may not count specific comments. Comments that add value or prove the post was read count. Whereas lazy comments such as ‘Great Post’ or comments that only include a line of emojis may not count. 

When measuring success, should we include all comments or only those that add value or prove the post was read? 

When is a ‘like’ not a ‘like’?

I’ve never been a fan of the ‘like’ button on blogs since I discovered that some bloggers and readers misuse it. However, I see many bloggers basing the success of posts on the number of clicks on the ‘like’ button. 

Should clicking ‘like’ without reading a post count towards making a post successful? How many times have you had the same person press the ‘like’ button on lots of your blog posts within seconds of each other?

How many times has somebody clicked the ‘like’ button within seconds of you publishing a post?

Surely Sandra read my 900-word post if she clicked ‘like’ within ten seconds of me publishing it, didn’t she? Otherwise, why would she have clicked the ‘like’ button?

How do we know if somebody who clicks ‘like’ actually read the post?

Unfortunately, unless somebody clicks ‘like’ a reasonable time after publication, and leaves a genuine comment that proves they’ve read the post, we don’t know.  

Misuse of the ‘like’ button seems widespread in the blogging world, with some readers even pressing it to ease the guilt of not having time to read and comment on a post. Some click ‘like’ as a sign of support but may not read the post. Should those ‘likes’ count towards the success of a post?

Some see the ‘like’ button as nothing more than a free promotional tool for their blog, without even reading a post. Leave a ‘like’ and, fingers crossed, it will bring in some new visitors. 

The only success we should be discussing for these types of ‘likes’ is that the person clicking the ‘like’ button feels the post and blog are successful. All they’re doing is jumping on the success bandwagon of somebody else’s hard work.

If you’re wondering why I still have the ‘like’ button at the bottom of all my posts, allow me to enlighten you. I discovered (and WordPress told me) that it is connected to the ‘reblog’ button. Remove it, and the ‘reblog’ button also disappears from your blog posts.

That’s something I was not willing to allow. 

And removing the ‘like’ button from your blog doesn’t mean it will be removed from posts when they appear on the WordPress Reader. If you’ve removed the ‘like’ button from your blog, are you aware that people can still click on a ‘like’ button when reading your posts on the WP Reader?

How do I measure the success of a blog post?

Simple. If I were motivated or inspired to write and publish a post, then it would be a success. Therefore, you won’t find a ‘Top 10 Blog Posts Of 2021’ post on my blog.  

Winding-up

At the end of the day, I guess it’s entirely up to the blogger concerned about how they measure the success of their blog posts. What I do question, though, is whether bloggers should be publishing results that are not necessarily accurate.

Allow me to run a final thought past you 

Suppose a blog post gets only a few hundred hits but receives over 50 genuine comments and likes. Does it make it more successful than a post with thousands of hits yet very few comments and likes?

What do you think? How would you measure the success of a blog post?

Copyright © 2021 hughsviewsandnews.com – All rights reserved.

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How to Enable or Disable the Falling Snow Effect on Your WordPress Blog

Have you noticed that snow is falling on some WordPress blogs? As you read the post, small flakes of snow gently drift down. Meanwhile, on other blogs, like mine, there’s no snow.

WordPress introduced the festive snowfall feature a few years ago. It only works when reading a post via the WordPress website. You won’t see it if you’re reading a post in the WordPress Reader or the Jetpack App unless you click through to the website. This time, it runs until 4th January 2026. But how do you turn the feature on or off? Easy – follow my instructions.

• Go to your blog’s dashboard and click Settings – General.

• Scroll down the page until you come to ‘Snow.’

• You’ll see a box with the words ‘Show falling snow on my site until January 4th.’

• If you want snow to fall on your blog, tick the box. If you don’t want snow falling on your blog, untick the box.

• Click the ‘Save Changes‘ box at the bottom of the page.

• Ensure the changes are effective by opening one of your posts on the WordPress website.

I’m not a lover of anything moving onscreen while I’m reading, as I find it distracting. However, I know that many bloggers love the idea of gently drifting snowflakes while they read blog posts during the festive season.

The choice is yours. And now you know how to switch on or turn off snow falling on your blog.

For the above instructions, I’m using a desktop computer. The falling snow effect is only controlled through your WordPress.com dashboard, not the Jetpack mobile app.

Is it snowing on your blog? If not, do you want it to snow? Let me know why you like or dislike the idea of snowflakes drifting on WordPress blogs.

The featured image on this blog post is sourced from Pixabay. AI reviewed spelling and grammar errors.

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Essential December Blog Housekeeping to Keep Your Site Safe and Functional!

Over the past few years, I’ve published a post around this time of year outlining some jobs all bloggers can do to ensure their blog not only looks good but also functions correctly.

If you’re interested in what some of those crucial jobs are, my post from this time last year, ‘7 Essential, Easy Ways to Help You Blog Through December‘ gives full details.

One thing bloggers who never do any blog housekeeping refuse to believe is that many problems on their blogs originate from a lack of maintenance. They’ll blame WordPress, instead of themselves. Continuing to use an outdated theme can also cause issues and create a security risk.

One job all bloggers are recommended to do

One important task I am currently working on in the housekeeping aspect of my blog is reviewing posts and removing any images that I cannot be certain are entirely free to use. But why am I doing this?

If you have read my recent posts, ‘Where To Legally Source Amazing Images For Your Blog Posts‘ and ‘The Latest Blogging and Publishing Scams You Need to Be Aware Of Now‘, you’ll understand why.

The comments sections of both posts offer interesting reading, so I recommend taking a look.

I’m a personal blogger, so this won’t affect me!

Wrong! Just because you are a personal blogger, don’t think you are exempt from being fined for copyright infringement. Downloading and using copyrighted images, photos, song lyrics, and some GIFs in your blog posts is illegal; therefore, nobody should encourage bloggers to download or publish any copyrighted material.

Most of the images I deleted are from flash fiction challenges I used to participate in. However, I have also found some images in other posts where I either failed to give proper attribution to the source or used images from the host blogger that I could not guarantee were free to use when taking part in their link-up.

And don’t forget to delete those images and photos from your media library, too. Not only are they proof that you downloaded them illegally, but deleting them will free up valuable storage space.

Unless you are completely certain that images, photos, song lyrics and GIFs are not copyrighted and free to use, avoid using them. Sure, you might get away with it, but why risk a hefty fine?

Back to why December is the ideal time for some blog housekeeping

I’ve already had the pleasure of seeing bloggers bid farewell to their blogs and followers for the festive season, joyfully extending warm wishes to their readers for a Merry Christmas while eagerly expressing their intention to return promptly in the New Year.

Some have published their final posts of 2025, while others have happily shared their anticipated dates for a well-earned blogging break.

And who can blame them? Blogging is enjoyable, but all bloggers need a break from the blogging world. I’m taking a blogging break during the last few weeks of December.

For those who do not celebrate Christmas, December still provides a valuable opportunity to focus on blog maintenance and security. This can include reviewing and updating posts, auditing existing content for accuracy and relevance, fixing broken links, and improving website speed and SEO.

Furthermore, it’s an excellent time to review your blog’s design and user experience, making necessary adjustments to improve accessibility and engagement. By investing time in these areas, bloggers can keep a polished, secure platform ready to impress their audience in the upcoming year.

As December rolls in and its days dwindle, you’ll probably witness how much of the blogging world falls into a hush. So why let your blog languish in neglect? This is your golden opportunity to roll up your sleeves and give it the fierce love and attention it deserves, ensuring it runs flawlessly for another year.

Let’s wrap it up!

• At least once a year, focus on housekeeping tasks to enhance your blog’s appearance and functionality.
• Many blog issues stem from a lack of maintenance; outdated themes can pose security risks.
• One essential task is reviewing and removing any images from posts and your blog’s media library that may not be free to use to avoid copyright infringement.
• Personal bloggers are not exempt from potential copyright-related legal issues when downloading or using copyrighted materials.
• December is an ideal time for blog maintenance as many bloggers take breaks. It’s an opportunity for bloggers to give their blogs the attention they deserve before the New Year.

Are you excited about some upcoming blog housekeeping or maintenance? If so, what fantastic plans do you have in store? Perhaps you’ve already tackled some blog maintenance—if that’s the case, I’d love to hear about the wonderful jobs you accomplished!

The featured image in this post was created using the WordPress AI Image Generator block. AI was also used for checking spelling and grammar mistakes.

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November 2025 – This is a first! But I Have Good Reasons

The past three months have been busy outside the world of blogging, so much so that I didn’t get the chance to write and publish monthly round-up posts for September or October.

Did I feel bad? Did I apologise? No. Sometimes life gets in the way of schedules, and my blogging routine was thrown off course, but it happens to everyone, and nobody needs to apologise. From what I saw, my posts from September, October and November continued to receive engagement, and for me, it’s all about interacting with other bloggers, writers, and readers.

Better late than never. Without further ado, here is the monthly round-up for the past three months on Hugh’s Views and News.

• WordPress has introduced a new blog recommendation feature that displays recommended blogs on your Gravatar profile, improving visibility. My post details how to add the blogs you love the most.

This New WordPress Feature Helps Promote The Blogs You Love

• Here’s a fresh writing challenge that everyone is encouraged to try. Can you write a story using only 101 words (no more, no less) based on a featured image?

Bloggers/Authors: Are You Ready For A Writing Challenge?

• Where do the images and photos in your blog posts originate? Are you certain you’re not infringing the law by using copyrighted images?

Where To Legally Source Amazing Images For Your Blog Posts

• How easy do you make it for visitors to share your blog posts and boost the visibility of your blog? Take action: These nine options are easy to find and activate.

9 Important Options on Your WordPress Blog to Check Now!

• This is why you should never forget to put the clocks back before going to bed.

When The Clocks Go Back

• Springtime in Paris! Sounds romantic, doesn’t it? Think again!

Experience the Magic of Spring in Paris! But not as you know it!

• Are photography blog posts worth commenting on? Why I Decided to Stop Publishing My Photography.

4 Never Before Seen Photos And Why You Need To See Them

• This post outlines various scams affecting bloggers, including voicemail scams and email phishing claims that appear to come from WordPress. Don’t become a victim of a scam or fined for downloading copyrighted material.

The Latest Blogging and Publishing Scams You Need to Be Aware Of Now

The featured image on this blog post is sourced from Pixabay. AI reviewed spelling and grammar errors.

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Felipe’s Friday Forage: What Is E-E-A-T (And Why You’re Already Closer Than You Think)

https://dreamspacestudio.net/felipes-friday-forage-what-is-e-e-a-t-and-why-youre-already-closer-than-you-think/