When I first started blogging, my reason was to fill a gap I felt existed. My husband has bipolar disorder and a few years back when he had a particularly bad setback, I turned to the Internet for support.
I found many, many resources for the sufferer but very few for me, the spouse and caregiver. Once he was stable, I decided to reach out and share my experiences with others just like me.
I started by making videos on You Tube. Then, through Twitter I met a wonderful woman blogging about her disorder. She graciously invited me to blog about my experiences on her site. And that was how I safely jumped into the world of blogging. All I had to do was write.
I found out that I really enjoyed blogging, sharing information and meeting new people. But I felt like I had more to say. I didn’t want to be known as just a wife of a bipolar sufferer. There is more to me than that. So I started this blog.
Blogging has a huge learning curve, but it’s not like flying a plane. You can jump right in and fly by the seat of your pants having absolutely no previous skill or knowledge. All you need is a name and a niche. The rest you just learn as you go. I think that’s the fun part for me. I love research and information.
I am now at the point where I know that this is what I want to do and would like to take my blog to the next level. I read, a lot, and have compiled a list of what I have seen the successful bloggers doing. I am sure the list will grow but here it is:
13 Things Successful Bloggers Do
1. Write a mission statement or reason for blogging. On paper, not just in your head.
2. Choose a niche then narrow it down.
3. Have a mentor or follow blogs that inspire and motivate you.
4. Occasionally re-evaluate your mission statement and make adjustments.
5. Read and be up to date in your chosen niche as well as the blogging community.
6. Engage with other bloggers.
7. Do not be afraid to start again if your current blog isn’t working for you.
8. Use analytics to make your blog content better.
9. Do guest posts and invite others to your blog.
10. Share personal observations and experiences in your posts.
11. Adopt not mimic what works for others but in your own unique voice.
12. Make a commitment to post regularly and stick to it.
13. Most importantly, above anything else, WRITE GOOD CONTENT.
27 comments
I am definitely looking forward to reading more about #8 – seems to be a such a huge task to take on 🙂
#8 is basically using your stats to understand what your most popular posts and internet searches are and doing more content in those areas. Call it giving your audience what they want!
Great list. I’ve tried to do all of these, and through trial and error learned more about what my niche should be. Bingo. But I want to stretch further, and further and further. That’s what midlife is for, right? Wonderful (again) post, Elena.
Unfortunately I am stretching in the wrong direction in my midlife. lol
Great list, and I’m living proof of “starting over.” 🙂 Thanks for this and I’m looking forward to the following posts.
Thank you Sherrey!
I’d agrree with all of this..a good post!
Thank you Carol!
This is fabulous. I cannot merely read this stuff, I shall have to study it, and act upon some of it. Rats!! Kudos
Knowledge is power! Thank you for reading! Let me know what you do and how it works out for you.
I love these tips, and I can second number 7: I used to have an art blog till my kids stopped liking art!
Thank you! I hope you are feeling passionate about your new niche!
Such great reminders. I think we all need to take time to reevaluate what and how we are doing. I’m certainly sharing this post.
Thank you so much!
Such great advice. I am currently rebranding and working on all of the stuff you mentioned. I loved hearing the story behind how your blog began too.
Thank you Natalie! Let me know how you get on with the remodel!
It is good to read about niches. It can feel that broader is better but I know that I naturally have a niche and it is what I enjoy writing about too, so the writing will be better.
If it’s what you enjoy, you will never run out of ideas. Thanks for reading!
I think I have found my niche however, nearly a year later, I’m still struggling with blogging or at least getting followers. I am pretty sure I have “adopted” my own voice but it feels like its not working. Of course mimicking other is something I will not do. I like the idea of writing a mission statement and its never too late to do one. Thank you so much for this idea. Not sure I have a mentor in blogging however I have found and follow blogs that inspire me. Yours being one.
Thank you so much Gertie! In the beginning, you have to be twice as aggressive sharing your posts and getting your name out there. Are you struggling to write as well or just getting followers? Have you tried joining any linkys or how about some blogging groups that specifically trade followers?
Great advice. Must share!
I think the point of view of those caring for a loved one eith Bipolar Disorder are desperately unrepresented.
Thank you Henrietta! I felt very alone at that time. I hope at least one person out there does not because of something I shared!
I can imagine. I hope that feeling has lessened. I am sure you have helped others Elena
One year stable and tapping my head.
It can be lived with
I think you’re right – those bloggers who’ve found their niche are more successful. I unfortunately cannot find my niche! I’m like the Mad Hatter of blogging!
Now that’s a good name! Lol maybe one day a specific niche will reveal itself to you but for now just keep writing!