With the rise of digital media and the internet, there has never been a better time to start a thriving blog that makes money and enriches and grows you. So, this blog is a detailed breakdown of how to start a thriving blog that makes you money using my example.
How I Started Blogging
I remember the time I posted my first blog back in 2010. At the time, I had no money in mind except an itch to satisfy my desire to write and share my thoughts with the world.
Fast forward to 2023, and I'm discovering more exciting rewards from owning a blog. With the rise of digital media and the internet, there has never been a better time to start a blog to share your thoughts and ideas and run your business empire.
So, How Do You Start A Thriving Blog That Actually Makes Money?
Below are my suggestions:
1. Decide On Your Niche.
For me, this is the most crucial stage. What you decide here will determine your success.
Avoid picking a niche because other people are doing it. Pick a niche depending on your passions and interests. Choosing a topic you are passionate about and knowledgeable about is important as you are less likely to get bored or lose interest somewhere further down the line.
In my case, I focus on personal development and specifically using adversity to thrive. I zero in on this theme because I have dealt with adversity, so my platform encourages those dealing with challenges who may feel hopeless and helpless. Hearing testimony from someone who has dealt with challenges is encouraging and inspiring.
So, decide what to focus on and do your best to stay consistent. Of course, I show other sides of me on my blog because I am multifaceted, and sharing some precious moments with my readers is nice. For example, travel blogs here and there.
2. Choose A Platform.
There are many blogging platforms available, such as WordPress, Blogger, and Wix. Choose one that suits your needs and preferences. When I started blogging in 2010, my platform was Blogspot. At that time, it was suitable for my needs and goals.
Right now, I use Wix. I chose it because it is easy to use, reasonably priced, and meets all my needs as it has all the features I want. For example, I can set up my e-commerce store, send newsletters, create digital products, and more. So look around and choose the right platform for you. The prices vary depending on which one you choose.
3. Create Your Blog
After choosing a platform, it's time to create your blog. Choose a domain name that reflects your blog's niche and register it. Then, choose a theme and layout that fits your style and preferences.
4. Create Content
Once your blog is up and running, it's time to start creating content. Write high-quality, engaging posts that appeal to your target audience. Be consistent with your posting schedule and interact with your readers by responding to comments and feedback.
5. Decide What To Write
If you need help deciding which topics to write, check out the blogs in your niche and get ideas. Do not copy but get inspiration and make your original content. When you copy other people's work, not only are you letting yourself down, but your content will not be personalised, which means it won't be unique, relatable, engaging, and inspiring. So, you will need more than just copying someone else's blog or using AI to write. You don't want to sound robotic.
6. Be Yourself
As you create content, be sure to bring your personality into the content. Do not try to imitate someone else, as this will backfire. Being yourself is crucial because no one in the world is like you. So, by being yourself, you will attract readers who like you for you and who will support you because they genuinely like your personality. The readers, once they fall in love with your unique qualities will stay because there is no one out there who is like you.
7. Learn SEO
This is search engine optimisation which helps your blog get discovered by readers on Google. So, as you create your content, it's important to be intentional about the keywords you use. Your keywords should be searchable and something that people are searching for. For example, I bet someone somewhere is searching for 'How to start a blog'. That is a searchable and evergreen title.
On my Wix website, I have an app that helps me optimise my blogs after choosing my topic and writing the blog. So, learn about optimising content, especially if you're starting without a large following. The aim is to be as discoverable as possible.
Another way is to link most, if not all, of your other content to your blog. For example, I link my blog to my YouTube channel and other social media platforms I use. For instance, if I write a blog about resilience and make a video on my channel, I will link my blog to that video. If I post a reel or short video on Facebook about resilience, I also link those tho my blog.
8. Promote Your Blog
Share your posts on social media and engage with other bloggers in your niche. Doing this will help you gain exposure and attract more readers to your blog.
Meanwhile, create a mailing list for your blog. Keep in touch with your contacts or subscribers via newsletters, where you update them on the developments on your blog and so on.
9. Create A Mailing List
Creating a mailing list is wise since you can only partially rely on social media to advertise your blog, as algorithms can easily switch up on you. A blog is something you own, and so is your email list. Also, through newsletters, you build stronger connections with your readers.
10. Work At Your Own Pace
Lastly, work at your own pace. Start small and build over time. Remember, starting a blog can be a fun and rewarding experience. You will not see results immediately, but with time, you will start seeing results. So, be patient with the process and resist the temptation to compare yourself to other people.
Follow these steps, and you'll be well on your way to creating a successful blog in 2023.
Check out my book below: My personal story.
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