8 Important Lessons I’ve Learned From Blogging So Far

When I started blogging, despite my previous experience as a writer, I didn’t have a clue as to what I was doing. A large part of those first few months were spent researching, trying to write good content, and changing themes. (That last one happened a lot.)

Throughout this last year I’ve learned a lot about blogging, myself and what it means to be a business woman. These are just a few things I’ve learned.

1. Starting A Blog Takes Time

When I first started this blog, I didn’t have a clue what I was doing. Previously, I had read several blog posts and articles on blogging, but with so much information and so many opinions, I got overwhelmed.

It took two months for me to launch this blog and another seven or eight to make it look beautiful and functional.

2. Your Style Will Probably Change

If you’ve been following my blog from the beginning, you probably know how much it’s changed in the past year.

Cassandrastinger.com started out solely as a lifestyle blog. But after a few months I decided I wanted to focus on all things books and faith. This change has helped me so much because those two topics are things that I am absolutely passionate about.

Another big change was my theme. In the past year I have had almost dozen website themes, trying to find something that would fit. Finally, a few months back I found my current theme and I love it.

3. It’s Not Easy

I’ve lost count of how many other blogs I read in the process of starting my own. Some had really good advice that I was able to use, others didn’t.

One common thread throughout these posts is that starting a blog is easy, keeping it up is not. I’ve a brush with this particular reality a few times. I have burnt out, wanted to quit, but I learned not to give up.

4. You Have To Wear Lots of Hats

On similar topic to the one above, being a blogger is a lot more than typing out posts. You also have to be the social media manager, PR consultant, IT department, brand manager, accountant, etc.

Even if eventually you do outsource those jobs, (sometimes you really should), when you first start out it’s important to learn at least a little bit about all of those things. That way you know how to connect with the people you hire and can get exactly what you need.

5. Everyone’s Blogging Journey Is Different

Something that every successful blogger knows is that growth happens differently for everyone.

99.99999999 percent of the time, blogs don’t explode with traffic or followers over night. It’s actually a gradual process that may take months or years.

I am just now getting consistent traffic. It’s not a lot, but it’s growing.

6. It’s Okay Not Be Trendy All The Time

As a blogger knowing the trends and even posting about them can be super helpful, but it’s hard to keep up with every trend in your niche.

Oftentimes, it easier to only capitalize on the trends that you actually like. Then, fill in the rest with posts that are unique to you and showcase you and your expertise

7. Blogging Groups Are Great Resources

A few months into my blogging journey, I discovered several blogging groups on Facebook. Through these groups I have been able to connect with all kinds of bloggers around the world.

So many members of these groups have wisdom on all kinds of blogging related topics.

Most groups also have specific days for you to share your work and connect with others blog, which great when you’re just starting out.

8. Have Fun With It

While blogging is ultimately a job, it’s important to still have fun.

I love that my job consists of reading books and writing about them, sharing my faith, and connecting with others.

Final Thoughts

Blogging is both challenging and rewarding. If you’ve thinking of starting your own blog, go for it. You never know what will happen until you try something new.