I was recently thinking about being a blogger and the things that often come along with it - the thoughts and feelings we have or the actions of others that can leave us feeling a bit 'meh' about the whole thing. I think its really important to remember to always try and remain positive when blogging so I thought I'd offer a few pieces of advice from my own personal experience below. I hope you can relate to some or maybe even all of them on some level ...
You will be judged unfairly. Take it with a pink of salt or as Taylor Swift would say 'Shake It Off!'. Don't feel like you can't be true to yourself just because a few keyboard warriors like to pick on everything and anything you do. Ignore them, move on and keep being you. I've developed a pretty thick skin over the past twelve months and I think this is really important as its impossible to please everyone on the internet. People will dislike you for no reason at all and my advice would be to not let the opinion of those you don't care about affect your day.
You will have moments of doubt. You will have times when you feel like your blog isn't 'up to scratch' and everyone around you is producing better content. I've been there many times, its only natural. However, you have to remember that we're all different and if every blog was the same, blogging wouldn't exist. What makes blogging so amazing is that we're all individuals with our own style and stories. Have confidence in your own work and if you love it, others will too!
Social media isn't real life, don't let it suck you in. That girl who appears to have the perfect life on your Instagram feed has her own problems too. Its SO important to remember that nobody leads the perfect life and as the saying goes 'stop comparing your behind the scenes with everybody else's highlights reel!'. We can all take pretty photos of our 'best bits', stick a filter on them and share them online - it doesn't mean that behind closed doors everything is peachy. Most people just choose not to share the dull, boring and stressful moments with the rest of the world.
Cheating will always end badly. Yep that's right, unfortunately people do this across all platforms and it makes me sad that its almost becoming the norm. Not only because its unfair on those who have worked hard to build a genuine following but its also sad that people feel the need to 'buy' followers in order to gain something like freebies or 'fame'. As soon as you stop concentrating on numbers, you'll enjoy blogging a hell of a lot more. Plus, cheaters always get caught out eventually.
Some people won't get it. If your second cousin or Bill down the road don't understand why you're blogging and aren't willing to listen to you talking about it, that's fine, don't try to justify yourself. If people don't understand that blogging takes a lot of hard work, passion and effort or understand why you'd spend so much time doing it, let it be. As long as you enjoy it, that's all that matters. There will always be ignorant Ian's (no offence to anyone called Ian intended) in the world!
Keep your dignity, always. Blogging is developing quickly and there are more and more opportunities cropping up where brands want to pay bloggers to endorse their products. I think this is great as it allows bloggers to turn their full time hobbies into careers. However, never ever accept an offer just because there's money involved. If you post halfheartedly about things you're not all that interested in, your readers will be able to tell. If you wouldn't spend your own money on it, don't accept it.
Don't take it too seriously. I guess blogging is 'serious' in the respect that it can become a full time career and is developing into a well recognised form of media. That's all well and good. However, when you begin to take it too seriously, you lose the enjoyment. Take blogging for what it really is - an outlet for you to share your passions and something you enjoy doing. Don't let it become a chore. Let go of the stress and expectations and just be yourself, its a lot more enjoyable.
There's no right or wrongs. If you fancy sharing something a bit different to the norm on your blog, then you go Glen Coco! Don't feel like you have to be the same as everyone else to 'fit in', you really don't. I know its hard to be totally unique as a blogger but as long as you're passionate about your content, that's all that really matters.
Its not a race. If you're a new blogger, its important to remember that those established bloggers you look at and think 'I'll never be as successful as them' were in your shoes once. Everyone starts somewhere and blogging is anything but easy - it takes hard work and dedication to gain a loyal following. I'm going to throw another quote out there (nothing like a quote for some inspiration) but its true that you shouldn't 'compare your chapter one to someone else's chapter 20!'. Just work hard, enjoy it and go with the flow!
Do you agree with any of these points? Are there any others you'd add?
SOCIAL MEDIA IS DEFINITELY NOT REAL LIFE!! I loved that point A LOT! xx
ReplyDeletehttp://lilliemysel.blogspot.com
This is such a great post. Covers some really important points. I love Twitter, but have stayed clear of a lot of drama!
ReplyDeletewww.britishbeautyaddict.com
So many good things to keep in mind, and like you said your social media can look perfect but everyone is going through struggles that we don't know about.
ReplyDeletexoxo
Brooke|LookBrooke
I think it's so sad that people actually buy followers or feel the need to do so. This post really covers so many important points about blogging, thanks for sharing this!
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Fantastic post! Love the part about family not always getting what you are doing. My grandmother will ask me what I've been up to and when I say blogging she just looks so confused.
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Great realistic comment about social media! Thank you for another fab post.
ReplyDeletealice x | beautybyalicee
This is such a great post, and I agree with not competing with other bloggers - I started my blog back in 2012 and I don't have a crazy amount of followers but I don't care because I started to blog as a hobby, it definitely is not a race.
ReplyDeleteI think some people tend to forget that. :) x
FARFROMPERFECTIONXO
This is an absolutely brilliant post, I love all of your tips!!! X
ReplyDeleteLoved this post - so many things I can relate to and I have saved your post to re-read when I have a moment of doubt! :)
ReplyDeletegillmclaughlin.blogspot.com
You've got it spot on, blogging is supposed to be fun so people shouldn't have to worry about a lot of the things that you've mentioned! This was so helpful x
ReplyDeleteblushhx.blogsopt.co.uk
Great post Kayleigh - some very valid points and I agree that it's best not too take it too seriously, althouhg it can be hard! :)
ReplyDeleteLaura
xxx
What an amazing post, you covered some fab points :)
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Love this post Kayleigh!! xx
ReplyDelete<a href="http://www.pillarbox-post.blogspot.com”>Pillarbox Post</a>
perfect advice, loved reading this!
ReplyDeleteanna at styleskittle.com xx
Such fab tips, I'm loving all the advice that you've given!
ReplyDeleteMaddy, xo // UNSTITCHEDD
Great post!! It's always great to read such a good advice every once in a while. I agree with your point about the race thing... many new bloggers feel like they have to be as successful as established bloggers, but all of them started from the bottom and took them a while to grow big. Thank you for sharing! x
ReplyDeleteFabi | www.agirlandherstripes.com
Such a good post! I love the quote about not comparing your chapter 1 to someone else's chapter 20 - something I always seem to do! xx
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loved this post thank you so much for sharing this advice
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Great post, was very interesting to read and hear your thoughts, definitely agree with many points! :)
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* Electric Sunrise - Fashion and Lifestyle Blog *
x
This is such an amazing post with so much amazing blogging tips. I definately agree with absolutely all of them! Blogging is to be enjoyed.xx
ReplyDeletewww.beyondthevelvet.blogspot.co.uk
I really love this post, I'm glad someone has had the guts to post it! We all have these feelings, I'm specially wary of the negative that comes with a growing blog. We just need to have a thick skin and brush it off.
ReplyDeleteEmma | The Fashion Six
As a new blogger I really found this very helpful and inspiring! Thank you! :)
ReplyDeleteEm x
www.life0fem.wordpress.com
Thank you so much for this, I've just got back into blogging after 4 months off and I cannot agree enough with you. I began to see blogging as a chore and had a strict schedule, not to mention the constant comparisons I made with other blogs and their following, it took the fun out of it. I'm glad I can now come back on and just enjoy it and not worry about the statistics of it.
ReplyDeletePaige xx
http://modebeautex.blogspot.co.uk/
Great post! :)
ReplyDeleteThis was very helpful for me!! Thank you!!
Nikoleta, xoxo.
http://nljuljduraj.blogspot.com/2015/01/january-2015-favourites.html
I just started blogging this month, so blogging related advice posts are always a pleasure to read :) great points! x
ReplyDeletewww.sheintheknow.co.uk
I used to have moments of doubt all the time, then I realized that there are some people who really enjoy my blog. I am so happy that I have an opportunity to be a part of something great ^_^
ReplyDeleteLaila from Townhouse Palette
I loved and so needed this today!!
ReplyDeleteRemembering that it's not a race is so important! Some people blog for years and have a small following while some blog for months and take off. It's just the nature of blogging. x
ReplyDeletenueyork.blogspot.com
I love this!!
ReplyDeleteJennalove3.blogspot.com
I love this post, all of these points are so relateable to so many people. I have stopped comparing my blog to others and am purely doing it for the love of blogging now!
ReplyDeleteAmanda / Amanda's Escape
I love this post, all of these points are so relateable to so many people. I have stopped comparing my blog to others and am purely doing it for the love of blogging now!
ReplyDeleteAmanda / Amanda's Escape
This post has been really helpful! As a new blogger I have definitely thought about giving up but this has motivated me to carry on. Thankyou x
ReplyDeletewww.brightonblonde.com
Lovely post! It's really important that you only write about the things that actually excite you. No-one wants to read a half-heartedly written post. :)
ReplyDeleteLove,
Svenja
This is such a good post and very true.
ReplyDeleteBeth xx
http://www.hellobeth.co.uk
Really useful and encouraging tips, these things are so important to remember!
ReplyDeleteHannah x
Hanniemc.co.uk
thank you for this post, true words :)
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little taste of heaven
Amazing tips Kayleigh, I found these so useful :) thanks for sharing!
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xx
I think these are all really valid points! As a new blogger it's so easy to get caught up in the hype! I'm constantly comparing myself to others even though I shouldn't.
ReplyDeletewww.duchessoffashion.co.uk
That is so true about the cheaters!!
ReplyDeletelove your blog always.. x
x hernameistrina.com x
Great post lovely, I think we all need to be more honest with each other with posts like this because getting sucked in by the perfect images is definitely something that can ruin blogging for us.
ReplyDeleteMel x
www.justmelkate.blogspot.com
some really great points. my best friend totally doesnt get it, and its so frustrating sometimes. but i love to blog.
ReplyDeleteSuch great tips! I especially like "it's not a race." We've all gotta start somewhere... :)
ReplyDeletexx
Shree | PorcelainShree | A Charming Beauty & Lifestyle Blog
I definitely agree with you! I've always compared myself to other bloggers, but I'm doing it for fun and just for myself now! :) It's just sad that so man people don't understend it and then makes you feel stupid.. :/
ReplyDeleteFairytale Tea♥
Fantastic posted such valid points. I was so hesitant about blogging as I was always doubting myself that I would not be as good as others, but finally bit the bullet one day and never looked back.
ReplyDeleteKelly
Kelly's Journal
Thanks for following me on BlogLovin' - it meant that I could find this fabulous post. I love your writing...Cue me now going through your back catalogue of posts! Lara xx
Deletewww.adventuresofamum.com
I totally agree with all you've said! I'd add that it takes a lot of hard work and dedication, it won't come easy to some :) x
ReplyDeleteEverything But The Kitchen Sink
Thanks for these tips, I started blogging literally at the start of the month, and will admit that I have let myself feel inferior to the amazing blogs that are out there. This post is really encouraging, I always love it when fantastic bloggers share their tips :)
ReplyDeletehttp://katsbeautytales.blogspot.co.uk/
I need to remember it's not a race. I'm impatient to grow an audience, and gain customers. This year I am taking a deep breath, and learning as much as possible to meet my goals. Thanks for a great post.
ReplyDeletehttp://dedras-crafts-for-a-cure.blogspot.com
This post is amazing and good to read every once in a while. I just started a style/travel blog, soon I'll be completing three months and I really want to make it my career. I've been putting a lot of time and love into it and proud to say that it's my happy place. If you'd like to check it out I'll leave my link below. And congratulations on your blog!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.paulanagy.com/
Such great advice and thoughts, I think that it's so important to stay grounded x
ReplyDeleterosyannajane.blogspot.com // bloglovin.com/annatranter
Thank you for this post! Even when I am happy with a new layout, I always come across a better one! Thankfully, I am blogging for fun as it will help my future career rather than bothering about followers :)
ReplyDeletewww.alicatbeautychat.blogspot.com
xx
This post is so perfect and worded really well! I re-entered the world of blogging at the start of January and I am doing it all for enjoyment this time round.
ReplyDeletejobrlw.blogspot.com
Totally agree with you pretty! Blogging is not really about the number but about enjoying what you're doing. Sometimes I feel like my blog content is not as good as many other girls out there, because I am not a native english speaker but I still want to write my post in english for exemple.
ReplyDeleteAnd I can't even count the number of times my little brother laugh at me about blogging just because he's really not into beauty or internet. But then, many of my university classmates think that it is really cool and always come to me asking me about beauty tips, or which products they should buy with their Sephora discount.
In the end I'm doing it because I love it. I write about things I like and I don't really care if people judge me or anything. Many people don't realise it but having a blog and being passionate about it can be a big plus even for your off line career!
Great post by the way <3 Love your blog!
http://fashionfixeshearts.blogspot.com
Love this post Kayleigh, haters always gonna hate, and I think those who cheat will always be found out in the end.
ReplyDeleteThere are so many keyboard warriors out there nowadays, I personally think they are very sad and I bet that bitch wouldn't say it to my face...
L x
I really loved this post Kayleigh, especially being a new blogger, it gave me some inspiration, hope and a realistic outlook on things to consider when blogging :)
ReplyDeleteChristine xx astepintomusicalbubble.blogspot.com
Fab post! I've recently had a few moments when I've thought should I blog this or not? just because I didn't know if anyone would be interested. I had to remind myself that I can blog whatever I like and that I don't have to stick to a certain type of post. xx
ReplyDeletelillybet90.blogspot.co.uk
Thank you so much for this post. I'm a new blogger and I have been feeling a bit doubtful with some of my posts, but I am going to make sure I stay positive! Love this post.
ReplyDeletehttp://themulberrylane.blogspot.com/
xo, Sam
This is truly a beautiful peice you have written .. Very I inspiring and uplifting. I began blogging a few months ago to genuinely share my thoughts on products. It's hard to find honest reviews and I can relate to a girl whose hesitating on wether or no to splurge on a new beauty product. I feel that some people sugar coat the quality of products and that's not right. It's okay to have different opinions and not to agree with everyone else. I love blogging because I can genuinely share my thoughts and give an honest review. It's not about how many companies sponsor you, it's about how many people you have that count on you for honest reviews. You make excellent points on this article, you have just gained a loyal follower.
ReplyDeletesuch a good post! so many valid points x
ReplyDeletewww.trudyjohanna.co.uk
Great post! I especially love the quote about the different chapters <3 xx
ReplyDeleteRamblings of a Beauty Bird | Beauty Blog
I have been going through a lot of these phrases in my blogging path right now. And so thank you a ton for doing this post as it has helped me a lot more! Love you, Kayleigh!
ReplyDeletexx
stayinoui.blogspot.in
This was nice :) thank you for the advice
ReplyDeletewww.bubbasdoll.blogspot.co.uk
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great thing to read! I love when you give advice/help with blogging. You've done such a great job for yourself and it's a huge inspiration for someone like me starting out. You're the best Kayleigh!!
ReplyDeletewww.itstheoutsidein.blogspot.com
This is lovely, simple but very inspirational. Just started my own blog and of course its hard to get followers but hopefully that will come with time. I'm just enjoying writing about things I love to talk/write about, whether no one reads it or 100 people read it. I love it.
ReplyDeleteYou go Glen Coco! Loved this post! Agree 100% xx
ReplyDeleteI found this post really useful! thankyou x
ReplyDeletehttp://oliviaandlife.blogspot.co.uk/
Really enjoyed this post. Definitely some great advice. You're totally right, one of the most amazing things about blogging is that you'll absolutely never see two blogs that are exactly the same. And the beauty of blogs is that bloggers tend to speak their actual minds, as opposed to the watered down drivel we're sometimes forced to read in some bigger online magazine style publications. Always love your posts and the photography really is incredible in them x
ReplyDeleteThis is such good advice. Many other bloggers try and give tips on how to get better but its also good to know things to remember as such. If new bloggers take it too seriously or become worried that their blog isn't good enough then it'll stress them into leaving blogging for good. The failure will get to them. But guys remember there is no success without failure. if you do fail, use them to your advantage, improve. Some will move on faster and some will go at a slower pace. like you said, it's not a race. just enjoy the ride! :)
ReplyDeletehttp://www.bloglovin.com/people/manishaanwari2-11510825
Great advice :) http://idontknxw.blogspot.co.uk Emily
ReplyDeleteI can totally relate to this, great advice which i can take away from this:) xx
ReplyDeletethebeautyspot-5.blogspot.co.uk
Love this post! I'm just starting out at blogging, seeing this has made me realise I need to not care about the amount of followers i'm gaining on social platforms - as long as I know my content it good. People will see it eventually!
ReplyDeletex
http://www.rebeccakdunne.com/
This has helped so much...not to mention given me the confidence to finally have launched my blog! Any other tips or feedback from anyone would be welcome...still new to this!
ReplyDeletewww.afigurativeculture.blogspot.co.uk
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