Table of Contents
Introduction
When running a blog, the dilemma of “Should I split my content by topic?” versus “Should I present everything as my whole self?” is a common struggle. People with many interests often face the paradox: splitting means diluted energy, merging means chaos.
I love clean, organized WordPress themes, yet I want to express everything in one place. The digital garden concept offers a way to reconcile this contradiction.
What Is a Digital Garden?
A digital garden isn’t a traditional blog with chronological, finished posts. Instead, it’s a web of interconnected notes and articles, always evolving. Posts don’t have to be complete; ideas can grow, branch, and connect freely.
Why Digital Gardens Ease the “Split or Merge” Dilemma
- Self at the Center
No need to divide yourself by genre or persona. Everything grows in one “garden,” reflecting your authentic self. Multiple interests and activities coexist naturally. - Balance Between Chaos and Order
Internal links and flexible tags create structure, even when topics mix. Over-segmentation isn’t necessary; the “mess” is part of the design. - Embracing Incompleteness and Diversity
Digital gardens welcome unfinished notes. You can publish drafts and update them over time. The pressure for perfect organization or equal visibility fades.
Practical Tips
- Create Nodes (Posts) Rooted in Your Values and Experiences
For example: “Thoughts on AI,” “Music Production Insights,” “Daily Observations.” Let your unique mix of topics grow freely. - Use Categories and Tags for Connection, Not Just Organization
Broad tags like “AI,” “Music,” or “Blogging” help link posts across topics. Avoid excessive granularity. - Highlight Current Focus or Featured Posts with Links and Lists
Show “currently growing notes” or “recently updated nodes” on your homepage or sidebar. No need to keep everything equally visible. - Digital Gardens Work on WordPress
Custom menus, tags, and widgets for random or featured posts allow for a digital garden structure, even on WordPress.
Conclusion
When torn between splitting and merging, chaos and order, the digital garden mindset offers relief. Treat your ideas and interests as a “garden” to nurture and connect. This approach lets you balance authenticity and manageability.
Enjoy clean design and categories, but allow a bit of chaos and incompleteness. That’s how blogging stays fun and sustainable for the long run.
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