One of the many questions I have receive on an almost daily basis is how to start a successful blog. It seems many want to know the secret on how to create a blog that pleases readers, attracts traffic and brings in the money you need to make it a profitable venture. Today I’m excited to share how I created a successful blog, and build a full-time business.
The World of Blogging
For most of us, the reason we are known online is for our blogging, Instagram or Facebook. When I started my very first website back in 2010 I didn’t have much of a clue what I was doing.
2014 was completely different. After I’ve followed some of my favorite bloggers I decided to get back into blogging myself (I stopped in 2011 after I took on a full-time corporate job) – this time I’ve learned a whole lot, though. I’ve learned how to get my own blog up and running by setting up a domain name and hosting account, and even learned much about designing my very own website via HTML coding.
But let me tell you: Blogging has changed since 2010…We are now constantly looking at picture perfect lives, and I must admit: I often wonder how I can actually compete with all of these beautiful people…And then there are days where I get caught up in this idea of worry. “What if I do not post? My traffic will go down for the day.” Or “My readers are expecting me to have a post ready for them. If I don’t post they will stop reading and never come back.” Do you ever feel this way? I certainly do, like 99% of the time + I’m a perfectionist who keeps editing and editing until I think my posts are “perfect” (is there actually such a thing as a perfect post?). Sometimes I drive myself crazy.
So, why did I decide to come back to blogging?! Did I dream about dream-worthy designer clothing? The answer is “No”. Did I dream about traveling the world? The answer is “No”. I came back because I wanted to be part of the fashion world again. And that’s it. I have a background in Fashion Design but ever since I took on a corporate job, became a mommy to a wonderful son, etc. – well.., fashion slowly disappeared from my life. Getting back into blogging helped me play with fashion again – something I’m very passionate about.
Blogging has also opened the world to me. I’ve been blessed to connect with some of the most amazing people (that’s you!) via blogging and social media from all around the world which I’m really grateful for. I’ve recently given an interview to Nermisa at LettersToLaLaLand, and I thought I’d share some of her questions/answers with you here as well since I’ve talked a whole lot about blogging and my experiences + I’ll answer a few questions I’ve received from you via emails and/or social media.
Thank you for reading, and most importantly for your support! I love you all.
How would best describe your style?
I try to focus on conveying my personality where the truth is elusive, just in the manner of Coco Chanel. My style is feminine, sophisticated and sometimes a bit edgy! I like to experiment with fashion.
Do you stick to conventional fashion or like to try and be original?
I don’t like to stick to conventional fashion at all. I think it’s important, especially as a style blogger, to be original. Don’t just copy looks but create your own.
What advice could you give to someone aspiring to get into blogging and world of fashion?
Be authentic and be patient. Success doesn’t happen overnight. Be dedicated and work hard. Also, don’t compare yourself to other bloggers – it will only discourage you. Always focus on yourself and find ways to stand out!
What advice could you give to someone who wants to feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin?
It all starts with thinking positively. If you want to feel comfortable in your own skin, then you have to start thinking about the best thing that can happen to you instead of always expecting the worst. Any time you catch yourself thinking negatively, fight your negative thoughts with at least two or three positive ones. Make an effort to rationalize your negative thoughts away, and expect good things to happen to you; the more you expect good things to happen, the more they will. Also, make it an effort to develop confidence. Confidence comes from within, and developing your confidence means feeling good about who you are, where you are, and what you have to bring to the table. Developing confidence may take a lifetime but you can start NOW to make a commitment to start changing the way you feel about yourself.
You have a beautiful son, how do you manage blogging, working and motherhood?
Thank you. My son just turned 3 and he’s a lot of fun! My son, Kingston, is usually with me when I have my photo shoots. He always makes me laugh which is why you see me laughing/smiling so much! To manage it all I think it truly depends on a great support system which would be my husband in my case. He’s my biggest help and supporter and I certainly wouldn’t be where I am now if it wasn’t for him. Also, time management is super important. My days are literally structured to every single minute of the day – which helps me and my family tremendously.
How do you relax?
I relax by just being at home (in fact, I’m quite the home buddy). Also, I enjoy drinking tea’s which always helps me to calm down. I’ve recently started drinking Flat Tummy Tea which I really like a lot. It consists of 12 natural ingredients that helps reduce bloating + it speeds up your metabolism at the same time. Sort of genius. It strengthens your immune system (full of antioxidants) and increases your energy levels which I totally need after chasing after a 3 year old all day.
What do you wear at home?
I can usually be found in a t-shirt and some comfortable jeans + on the weekends I wear my glasses instead of my contact lenses. I’ve just gotten a new pair from Firmoo, and I’m very happy with them (check them out here). Firmoo.com offers a variety of prescription eyewear in high quality yet at extremely affordable prices. If you’re wearing glasses like me then you must check them out and get your FREE pair of glasses HERE (coupon code is provided)!
Thanks again for reading & have a wonderful weekend!
SHIRT: T&J Designs c/o | JEANS: Shopbop | MUG: Anthropologie Monogram Mug | EARRINGS: Kate Spade c/o | TEA: Flat Tummy Tea c/o | GLASSES: Firmoo c/o