Photo: (me) @ The Shoppe in Providence RI
2017 is coming to an end and its cliche to say but where did it go?!! This year was a busy year for me and its my sixth year blogging. Working a full time job and trying to grow a side hustle/passion demands a lot of time and consistency that requires discipline and developing a mindset shift. Blog lessons will be unique to everyone however I want to share mine to help you guys in your blogging journey.
This year was challenging and really revealed to me weaknesses with my administrative and business skills. With our wedding in April it was challenging to dedicate my time to the blog while planning our destination wedding. I really learned this year the importance of organization and planning. When Antero and I first moved to Rhode Island about 6 years ago I started a youtube channel and later my blog because I wanted to do something constructive and I loved that I found a space to share fashion and beauty. I didn't understand how to use neither one and it wasn't until 3-4 years ago that I toke it more seriously and invested money and time to making it a full time job. However it is not easy and I plan on dedicating a whole post about this topic.
This year through trial and error and mistakes I learned some valuable blog lessons that I am implementing into 2018. This blogging space has no instruction manual and everyone is learning from each other and in my opinion this space grows when we share with each other.
My 5 BLOG LESSONS LEARNED IN 2017
1. Content Calendar is 🔑
In order for me to stay consistent and not hurt my engagement numbers etc planning content is extremely important! It is also important since I work full time I have to maintain a schedule for my blog shoots, writing, content posting dates, emails and etc. There is a lot of administrative works that goes into maintaining a blog and social media channels and you have to to treat it like a job and organize your time and work. Most of all this step will help you balance your personal and work life and lower the chances of stress and anxiety.
2. Consistency is important
This step has become even more important due to constant Instagram algorithms changes and the more this industry is growing. To be honest the newest algorithm installation has really hurt my engagement and to maintain my followers and page consistency is really important. It is also important for the blog and youtube channel. Readers need to see that you are invested and appreciate a schedule. For 2018 I plan on sticking to blog schedule and my plan is to maintain this schedule for the whole year and at the end of the year analyze the data.
3. Quality over Quantity
When I first started blogging I would just throw looks together and throw up a blog post because I thought that I needed to post 3-4 times a week. But there has to be meaningful intention behind your post and your readers will appreciate the value that you are bringing. You have to either educate or entertain them with purpose. This year I learned that clear tactical pictures are shared at a higher rate on IG and readers appreciate writing that is thoughtful and engaging. I want to bring 1-2 posts a week with thoughtfulness, beautiful images and clear intentions.
4. Stay in your lane
I have caught myself over the years comparing myself to other bloggers and trying to do what they do and find myself frustrated and feeling lost. As I grow older and mature I am learning that this industry is individualized and everyone is unique in their own way. I only want to attract readers that want to drink my "kool-aid" and repel those that don't and Im okay with that. Not everyone is going to like my style or writing or me and that is okay and I respect that. My brand will grow when I focus on me and staying authentic. Even if my growth is slow I am okay with that because my followers and readers are who I am invested in and they are my tribe.
5. Success doesn't happen overnight
Okay patience is not my strong suit when it comes to business and success! LOL! I am a little impatient but when I stopped comparing myself to others I learned to sit back and enjoy my own accomplishments. When I write down all my brand collaborations and PR companies that reached out to me I smile and I am proud of myself. Success takes work and grind and for some it happens quickly and for others we have to grind it out. Be proud of every small and big milestone and this will motivate you to continue working hard for your passion and building your brand/company.
I hope these lessons that I learned help you all in your blogging journey. I truly want to see you all WIN! Keeping a positive mindset and staying focus are key for me to keep moving forward and crossing my fingers that 2018 will be a successful year for all of us. I look forward to evolving the blog and offering more to you guys.
I wish you all a happy New Year and cheers to 2018!
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