My Journey so far blogging
One year already? Where did the time go?
During 2020’s Valentine weekend, I spent some time deliberating on how I wanted to learn more and express my love for styling. I had just accepted the reality that I was in love with styling and I knew I had to do something about it. So, blogging came to mind.
Before then, I’d never really considered myself a writer. But when I decided to get to work and start sharing ideas, tips, and trends in and about the world of fashion and styling, I realized I wasn’t all that bad at writing after all. I spent a month brainstorming ideas, writing and working on my website and mailing list. And on March 17, 2020, I launched my blog — along with the storiesbyroyals newsletter.
I remember my phone buzzing up with notifications the entire day. I was literally shaking because I wasn’t sure I could keep up with people’s responses and reactions to the pictures, article or newsletter I had just published. But deep down, I knew that there was no going back. I had started something and I had to keep working to build it up and make it better.
One year later, I’m grateful and glad that I stayed with it.
Blogging has been an amazing journey for me. It’s revealed parts of myself that I didn’t know existed. I didn’t know I could share my thoughts and ideas in a coherent way through articles like this one. I didn’t know I would enjoy learning so much about the psychology of fashion and how our fashion choices influence our lives. Even more, I didn’t know I could be as active as I’ve been in the past year on social media. These are all new things about myself that I’ve learned since I started blogging.
But of course, I’m not the most tech-savvy so I’ve needed help with my website. I’ve needed my husband to edit and proofread my writing time and time again. I’ve had to learn to engage, selectively, on social media. I’ve also had to learn how to use Adobe Photoshop and take great pictures with an iPhone. Most importantly, I’ve learned to be more confident in myself and my gifts.
At several points in the past year, blogging wasn’t about meeting a deadline or amassing likes, shares or comments on Instagram. It was about growing, evolving, learning and being better every day. And I’m incredibly grateful for you, the reader, for sticking around as I figure it out. Thank you for reading, sharing and commenting.
A reader once asked me to share tips on how to start blogging. So, to celebrate one year of doing this, here are a few tips I’ve learnt about starting a blog:
Just Start
Like most ideas, it’s almost impossible to fully flesh out your blogging idea before you start. The vision won’t always be complete but you can start with what you know. I started by sharing and creating a monthly collection of feel-good stories but as time went by, I realized I should be spending more time learning and sharing about fashion and styling. So, I switched it up. Who knows, this might change tomorrow. But at least, I started and as a result, I know my niche. That’s what matters.
2. Don’t Wait to Have it All
It’s always good to be prepared. But preparation doesn’t equal perfection. The truth is you don’t need to have it all figured out before you get going. Instead, start with what you have. When I started all I had was my iPhone. No camera, tripod, laptop, photography software or even an in-depth understanding of blogging. Of course, I had sat in some workshops and learnt from experienced fashion bloggers. But even with that, I didn’t have it all. In fact, on some days, I would walk 40 minutes to a library to use the computers there to work on my blog. As I started, things began to fall into place. I got more equipment. I was able to figure out what I could do with what I had and also, get rid of things I didn’t really need.
3. No One Thinks Like You
You are unique. Look around you, there are multiple brands selling the same product but they all have different values and voices. Similarly, your idea, voice and way of expression will distinguish you from others. In the beginning, it might not seem like that. You might even think you’re a copycat but believe me, as you go, you will figure out your unique value. And when you do, lean into it and build on it.
4.Do the Work
The best advice I can give you is this: WORK. Don’t shy away from putting in the time to build your blog. Things don’t happen by chance, the work has to be done. People tend to share their wins publicly, but behind all of that are hours of hard work, dedication and resilience. As the bible says, if you are faithful with your little, more will be given to you.
5. Be Careful with Expectations
Do not expect everyone you know to support you. In fact, chances are people really close to you may not believe that you’re ever going to be good at blogging. That doesn’t make them bad people in any way, it only means they are not your audience at the moment. So, focus on providing value to your audience. Don’t limit yourself to your circle instead spread your net and let your audience find you.
6. Seek Accountability
A couple of my friends, Mwila and Tosin, have been amazing accountability partners for me. They push me to do what I am supposed to do and not just talk about it. So, if possible, find someone who can keep you on your toes and call you out when you’re slacking. It also helps to bounce ideas or share your concerns with your accountability partner. So, I would suggest that you pick someone who is in the same field of work as you or understand the kind of work you do.
7. Enjoy the Process
Don’t forget to have fun with it. Make mistakes, try new things and just enjoy the process. Don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Stay on your lane and focus on developing yourself. Good luck!
I would love to know what tip stands out for you.