Around this time four years ago, I was all about reading blogs. I always loved “meeting people” through their writings and photos. I found the articles more interesting than that of a magazine. At that time I became inspired to start my own. I figured it would be a great way to express my thoughts and feelings on the subject of lifestyle, beauty and all things fashion, and I could do it my way. Fast forward to now and BB is now on its way to being 4 years old this coming New Year’s Day. But don’t let the dreamy story fool you. It took a lot of work to get it together.
I have talked to several people about their endeavors to start a blog in various areas. All conversations are positive, but I try to help them understand the realistic parts about it. Sure you can “throw together” a quick web blog page and have at it, but truth be told you have to give people a reason to want to stay and come back to visit. This task in itself is hard work.
Today I’m going to share with you 4 practical tips I usually advise people on when they say they are truly ready to start blogging.
Identify your Niche
Are you an expert traveler and are able to find deals for the low or are you an undiscovered chef that can make delicious recipes for diabetics? Identify a market that isn’t already saturated and that can make you stand out. No matter what that thing is that makes you tick, make sure this is where your passion is with a twist.
After designing, photo work, and developing an editorial calendar, keeping up a up blog can be pretty tedious. The last thing you want to have to hunt for is inspiration on what to write about. This is why many people stop blogging. It’s very easy to get bored and discouraged to keep it up. Set your stage up to write about things you absolutely love talking about and sharing.
Identify your “Why”
One of the first things I try to find out is why someone wants to start a blog. Identifying what your purpose is key. There are hundreds of thousands of bloggers in the world, but what do you want to say that will make people want to read what you have to say? Are you a tremendous photographer and storyteller? Are you able to lay out your blog in a pretty way that evokes action and emotion? What great content can you share that will make others want to share as well?
Plan. Plan. Plan.
I don’t say this lightly. It took me 3 months to plan Blushing Black and even then, I didn’t feel I was 100% ready. Also, let me be clear: when I say “plan” I mean everything from look of the blog down to the types of content you want to share to who you expect to read this content in the first place. And don’t forget measure to see how well you’re growing, reaching, and making an impact.
Understandably a lot of it is trial and error, so you won’t have every single solitary detail worked out. However, it’s important to have yourself together. You don’t realize you’re building your brand. What do you want people to see, do or click when they visit your site? If you figure this out early, you won’t find yourself keeping your post relevant to your audience.
Execute…& Do it Well
Gaining followers and traffic can be a slow, organic process, but that’s how you build quality. Post often and connect with other bloggers alike. Connect with others on social media. Share your brand with others and invite them to read! Don’t be discouraged. It will take work, but don’t underestimate where all of your hard work can lead if you believe in your brand.
My site is still evolving and I have more goals and things I want to accomplish, but it has flourished into something bigger than I would have ever imagined. Just continue to believe in yourself and make it happen!
Thank you for this insight I have a fear of starting my own blog… its like the 1st day of school… will people like me!? 🙂
@Whitney kidd Absolutely! I had the same fear too. And you know what, a little bit of that fear still shows up from time to time. You just have to let the drive be bigger than the fear.
My biggest thing was “WTH is gonna read this?!” Lol but I didn’t let that stop me. And I find that those that DON’T know you will actually be your biggest supporters. Real talk.
So if you have something to share with the world, jump in and do it! You can do it, sis!
This was excellent counsel! Happy Monday 🙂
@Love CompassionateLee Thanks! 🙂
Hi, I just started my own blog for makeup tutorials. I also post videos to go with them most of the time. Check it out and tell me what you think http://makeuptutorialvideos.net/dark-skin-makeup-tutorials/mistakes-black-women/
Reading through and taking notes…thx again!
Thank you that was very inspiring. I been thinking about starting a fashion blog for very long time now. I been very scared to start it. However, after reading your post I been motivate me to keep trying even I do fail. At least tried. Again, thank you.
I am also wanting to start a blog and just came across your site and this post. Although you posted this almost 3 years ago, it’s still very inspiring and motivating. Thanks and I hope to connect someday :-).
I love this! Thank you so much for sharing. Like other I too have started my own blog and I too wonder should I keep going and who will read or like this can I make a living doing this how will I be successful how do I find other like minded people and so many more questions! I love your site and I am truly happy I found it and will be subscribing. Thank you!
My website is renaycheyenne.com I’d love to hear you feedback.
I wanna start a blog and I have so much to say but can’t make my mind up to what crowd I want and what topic would be interesting daily.
Hi!
I just recently started my blog. I’m still working on a few touches and have not uploaded any posts yet. I loved your color design and enjoyed reading these tips. They made me rethink some of my own content.
Hello!
I started a small blog about a year ago and stopped unexpectedly. Now I wanna start it up again. This post and your blog has really given me a lot of motivation to push through this time and make it bigger than the first one. Thank you!
I want to start my blog and have been searching online websites that provide website/blog templates. There are so many to choose from. I really like the look of your blog. Do you have any site recommendations?
I’m also really interested in starting a blog but you’ve made me realise I need to focus on my why. I’m interested in fashion/ beauty, lifestyle, healthy food and self love/motivational pieces. Although my interests are vast I’m not sure how practical this may be to include all in one blog. I’d really appreciate your advice.
The name is spelt wrong I’m a female?*
I am so glad to have come across your blog.
I have been so interested in blogging for quite some years now and every time I start I never succeed.
I now realize I did not plan as I should and was most afraid of not having anyone interested in my blog.
I want to know what tips would you give to someone that wants their blog to be a bit about everything.
I want a more life-related blog, relating to things that interest me and I enjoy, from hair journey to fashion and beauty, lifestyle, etc.
Very nice blog. Keep it up.
Thanks for sharing your deep and wide knowledge in this article!
Best Belt Review
@Elizabeth Thanks you! <3
I really agree and like your own look about this idea. Thanks for sharing a wonderful article!
All About Gloves
@Gata Awesome! So glad you found it helpful!
Great Post! Thanks for the tips!!!
Great post