Starting a blog felt like jumping into an adventure without a map. It was exciting but full of unknowns. Along the way, I picked up some nuggets of wisdom that would have made the journey smoother from the start. Here’s a guide I wish I had when I began.
THINGS I LEARNED THE HARD WAY ABOUT BLOGGING
Starting a blog is like beginning a new adventure. These tips, learned through trial and error, can help make your blogging journey a bit smoother.
1. BLOGGING CAN BECOME YOUR NEW FAVORITE HOBBY
Once you start blogging, it's hard to stop. It's like finding a hobby you never knew you'd love so much. You'll find yourself thinking about your next post all the time because sharing your thoughts and ideas feels great.
Example: I found myself always planning what I’d write next, even after spending the whole day on a post. It was like discovering a new favorite pastime that I couldn’t get enough of.
2. KEEP IT REAL
Your blog should be like a chat with friends. If you don’t like something, say so. People appreciate honesty, and it’s better to be upfront than fake enthusiasm.
Example: I once turned down an offer to promote something I wasn’t keen on. It felt good to stay true to myself, and my readers respected that honesty.
3. PATIENCE IS KEY
Don't expect to become a blogging sensation overnight. It takes time to grow your blog. Celebrate the small wins and keep at it, even when it feels like nobody’s listening.
Example: In the early days, only my family and a few friends read my blog. It was a bit disheartening, but each new reader felt like a victory. Learning to be patient was crucial.
4. FIND YOUR OWN STYLE
Your blog should sound like you. It might take some time, but finding your own way of expressing yourself will make your blog stand out.
Example: It took a while to stop mimicking others and start being myself. When I did, my blog began to attract people who liked my unique take on things.
5. QUALITY OVER QUANTITY
It’s better to post less often but with great content than to post all the time with nothing much to say. Take your time to make something you’re proud of.
Example: Focusing on making each post the best it could be made my blog a place people wanted to return to. They could tell I cared about what I was sharing.
6. BE FRIENDLY WITH OTHER BLOGGERS
Blogging isn’t a solo journey. Making friends with other bloggers can help you learn and grow. Plus, it’s more fun when you’re part of a community.
Example: Working on a project with another blogger not only gave me new ideas but also helped me make a new friend. It showed me how supportive the blogging world can be.
7. SHARE YOURSELF
Don’t be shy about sharing your blog with the world. Use social media to connect with your audience and let them know the person behind the posts.
Example: When I started sharing more about my blogging on social media, I was amazed by how much support I got. It made blogging even more rewarding.
8. PROTECT YOUR WORK
If you take your own photos, make sure to mark them as yours. It stops people from using them without your permission.
Example: After seeing my photos used elsewhere without credit, I started adding a small watermark. It was a simple step to keep my work safe.
9. YOUR BLOG IS WORTH SOMETHING
Remember, your time and effort have value. It’s okay to ask for compensation when you work with brands or promote products.
Example: It felt weird to ask for payment at first, but I learned that my work was worth it. It led to more respectful collaborations.
10. IT’S OKAY TO TAKE A BREAK
Blogging non-stop can wear you out. It’s fine to take a break now and then. You’ll come back feeling refreshed and full of new ideas.
Example: Taking a week off when I felt overwhelmed was the best decision. I returned to blogging with new energy and ideas, ready to go again.
Remember, it’s all about enjoying the process and learning as you go. Happy blogging!