Scaring Away Blogging Fears
Blogging isn't that tough. In fact, it's way easier than I thought it'd be. Sage advice: don't let the fear of starting a blog keep you from doing it. This applies to vlogs as well. Now then, let's take those questions and dissect them one at a time...
How can you write a blog entry every day?
A blog entry doesn't have to be a dissertation. In fact, it's better if it's not. Who has time to read a 10,000 word essay, let alone write one? My point is, keep your entries short and focused, and you won't have any problem writing an entry a day.
Doesn't it take a lot of time?
Blogging can be a great time drainer--but it doesn't have to be. It's a choice. Your choice. Honestly, I spend about 15-20 minutes per weekday to write an entry, 30 minutes if I'm really struggling for words. Think it, write it, hit publish, and move on with your day. Don't overthink your entry.
Where do you get your ideas?
Before you start a blog, deciding on a topic is key. Choose one that gives you some leeway. Example: I chose the broad topic of writing, which gives me about a gazillion different directions to go. I keep a page of ideas that I jot down when they enter my pretty little head, and when I get stuck on any given morning, I flip over to that page, pick one, and run with it. Places that give me fresh ideas are:
- quote pages
- statistic sites
- writing craft books
- daily conversations
- other blogs
And if you're really stuck, here are some fantastic links to jumpstart your brain:
I Help You Blog
Chris Brogan
Skelliwag
Marluck Marketing
The thing is, once you start coming up with ideas, your brain kind of kicks in even when you're not intently thinking up blog starters. You'll find them in movies, at the grocery store, when you're arguing with your teenager, yada, yada.
Parting wisdom: whatever you do, be consistent. You don't have to write every weekday like I do. You can do just 1 day if you like and still have followers. The trick is to be consistent. Readers like to know when they can visit your site to get a blog fix from you. Don't let them down.