As a reflection of 2014, the year that has seen my blog prosper & grow rapidly, I thought it would be great to share with you; my beloved readers, just exactly what I have learned along the way this year.
- Having a blog break is just fine. After taking an unexpected break these last few weeks to give myself time to enjoy spending time with my husband, family & friends it has made me realise that you don’t have to post everyday! I went through a stage where I was just banging out post after post just for the sake of it, sometimes putting together an outfit or two that really didn’t look right at all. I’d rather get my content perfect (or as near as damn to it!) or not post at all. What on earth is the point of forcing it, it not only reads terribly badly but it also would have an impact on any future collaborations with brands.
- I’m never going to be the next Zoella. So I should never try to be her. It’s easy to look at blogs and hope & wish that the next morning you will wake up & have the nicest, most read, photo pretty blog known to man (I’m looking at you Megan – why does your blog have to be so darned perfect!) Your blog takes time & boy, mine has taken some time but I sure as hell am so glad that it’s my little baby and it’s great to watch it grow. Even if they are slow & steady steps.
- I do not have a work space. I write whenever I feel something natural coming to me. I think if I sat down in front of a computer or Mac I would freeze. Being a ”creative” comes naturally and should never be forced (see point 1). You’ll find me slobbed out on the sofa, not in the most dashing PJ attire with a cup of tea blogging. That’s just the way I like it.
- Make friends. At 25, married & in a steady job I was never really going to meet new people, (however depressing that might sound let’s face it – it’s true!) but after submerging myself in to the blogging world this year and attending my first event, Blog Yorkshire, I have met some fabulous people (in real life I’ll have you know!) who I know if I need a lending ear/advice/general chit chat that I now have a select few people that I can turn to. It’s been super!
- Suddenly brands start contacting you. Panic sets in, they want you to write about their product for money or a product. How can this be? LAP IT UP. You earned it. They value what you say and think your blog will showcase it well enough! That is an awesome feeling. If you feel the brand isn’t right for your blog but do remember, you can say no – however, I’ve seen a lot of people saying ”SAY YES TO MORE IN 2015!” so you might start seeing all sorts on blogs now from battery operated kangaroo’s to chocolate fireguards!
- Have fun with it. Whether it’s your full time job or not, a blog is somewhere where people go to have a nice read of something. They want to feel happy & elated when reading your post, they want to get to know the editor/author/blogger/CEO (or whatever you want to call yourself!) behind the writing. Sometimes I find that if you aren’t seen to be enjoying it, your blog is pretty stale too. (Oops sorry!)
In 2015 I know this is where I can start to concentrate a little harder on my blog. This year has been one of those roller coaster rides with plenty of ups (but with any roller coaster you do have to come down!) I’m going to possibly invest in a new blog template and just go from there. I have no plan with my blog other than to keep enjoying it.
I hope 2014 has been kind to you all & I do hope that 2015 is even better! If you have any resolutions on your blogging journey I’d love to hear from you!
Take care & I hope you all have a wonderful New Year!
Rebecca xxx
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