It was on the heels of whim: one day after studying about blogging for the OMCP certification, I decided to start one.
While I sat watching the snowfall behind me out of the reflection of my computer, I had a little time to think about writing and blogging. I look back at what I’ve learned so far, essentially, 9 months. Throughout these nine months, my posting consistency definitely has not been as active as I would like; that’s a large lesson I’ve learned.
Lessons I’ve Learned About Blogging
1. It’s Quite Time Consuming
Some people think that blogging is not a job that can take up to 40 hours of work per week. But when your posting 5 – 7 times a week, networking and advertising, it can add up to more time than that.
Networking, following other blogs, interacting with other blogger’s postings, advertising, and posting/writing new content is time-consuming. I personally know that I do not devote as much time to it as I need. But after work and homework each day, the hour that I devote to myself (normally dinner time) is the time I want to use to relax. But after school is over, I plan to get writing and working on this blog, fully!
2. It Can Be Hard to Create Shareable Content
“Better content doesn’t always mean a better blog.” I remember this daily while I read, write and interact with other blogs. Although content is a MAIN aspect of blogging, having better content does not always mean your blog is “better.”
But getting to that point can be difficult. Finding a niche content market or blog realm can be tasking. For people like me, who love a lot of things, it can be hard to settle down and figure out the main shareable content on your blog. Once that is actually accomplished, it can be even harder to create that content. I don’t cook well and I don’t read many books (outside of school textbooks). I can write and write and write, but I also get to a point where I feel nervous that my content isn’t great, then delete.
3. Writing Isn’t as “Easy” as School Essays Make it Seem
I can write and research for days on end when it comes to specific graduate research project topics (provided by a teacher.) But when it comes to writing about topics I really love, there are times I can hit a (large) brick wall. Although I do love to research and write papers (I know, I know. What a weirdo.), I would love to be able to write about what I love easily. I want to do what I love justice and writing about it can, sometimes, not be easy.
Not to mention, creative writing is very different than research writing. I love research writing. I love writing in general. I just HATE those brick walls.
4. Online Networking is the Best Thing a Blogger Can Do
Social media, blogging forums, groups, etc., are essential. The blogging community is fantastic. There are many individuals out there who are WILLING to help you with your blog! If you’re in NC, check out the NC Blogger Network. Such a WONDERFUL blogging community of local bloggers willing to help and collaborate with you (with wonderful content at that!) Establish a community and use that community! They are a great resource. Most bloggers are willing to help and are very pleasant individuals.
5. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Isn’t as Easy as the Books Make It Look
Books can tell you all you want to know about Search Engine Optimization, but it cannot show you how to do it (some books try, really hard.) It’s a very difficult process. But when it works, it works. It is a true learning experience, with a lot of intricate topics, twists, and turns (but if you know me, you know I do love to learn.) It all roles back to great content and social interactions. Link sharing can be difficult, but great content can help that.
When all is said and done, blogging has been and will continue to be a wonderful experience. I’ve gotten way more views than I could have possibly imagined (even if many of them are from family and friends.) I’ve even made a little bit of money. Blogging has been a learning lesson and I’m glad I’ve ventured down this road! One day I will transfer to WordPress, but that will be after schooling is over.
About Shanna
Shanna is a simple vegetarian girl in an unrelenting world. Blogging about all the things I find interesting or important at Fixations.
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