As much fun as blogging can be, it can also be so intimidating. First of all, you have to put yourself out there and be willing to face criticism. And then there’s the fact that while some of us are just starting out, others are literal millionaires. No big deal.
When I was in college, I had all of these blogging goals and business dreams. I would take e-courses, write down each and everyone one of my ideas, and talk to like-minded friends about everything. The problem is, I didn’t pursue any of those ideas for a ridiculously long time because I never felt ready. I didn’t feel confident enough to share any creative ideas in the blogosphere, so I kept them to myself.
The trick to diving into the the blog world is just that – diving in. At some point, we all just have embrace whatever our dream job or hobby is and that takes confidence. Here’s how I was able to find confidence in the ever-growing land of blogging.
1. Start seeing others as inspiration rather than competition
I used to have a hard time reading certain blogs because, even though I truly admired the bloggers behind them, they just made me feel so inadequate. As a newbie, it was overwhelming to think about how far behind I was in terms of blog success. Eventually, I learned how to be inspired by my favorite successful bloggers rather than jealous. I realized they had worked really hard to get where they are and that I could do the same if I wanted to.
Side note – if a blog or IG account really bums you out, don’t be afraid to click that unfollow button. :)
2. Join welcoming blogging communities
We believe that blogging is all about community. Whether you want to create community on your blog or engage in it through Facebook groups or meetups, there is always an opportunity to connect with bloggers who have similar interests as you. Angela and I love finding FB groups in which people share their successes as well as their failures. It’s comforting to see that we’re all kind of in the same boat.
3. Eliminate negative self talk on your blog and IRL
Positivity is something I’ve always been passionate about, but every now and then I find myself talking negatively about myself. I’ll make an offhanded joke about how much I suck at something, and before I know it, I’ll start actually believing that. I used to be the queen of qualifying my statements. Like, “this isn’t my best idea, but…” or “I know this has been done a hundred times before, but…” Not only does that kind of language negatively affect how you see yourself, but it also influences how other people feel when they read your blog. Try to keep it positive online and also when you talk about your blog in real life.
4. Don’t take yourself too seriously
Embrace your imperfections! Honestly, reading authentic, unfiltered blog posts is my favorite thing. Keep in mind that none of us are perfect and that’s the whole point of being a human. Have fun with your blog and know that people love it when you keep it real. :)
Do you ever struggle to feel confident as a blogger? It took me a really long time to find my voice but I still find it hard to open up sometimes. Whether you’re just getting started blogging or you’ve been doing this for a while, we would love to hear what motivates your blogging ventures the most.
Nastasia says
As a new blogger I totally struggle with comparing myself and my blog to other blogs (also Instagram and Facebook etc). It is so easy to feel like what you are doing isn’t good enough. Like you have mentioned above, I just try and take inspiration from other and also take in to consideration that I am just starting out, just finding my voice and am still growing as a blogger. I try and just stay true to myself. Yes, there are some beautiful blogs out their but I need to stop trying to be more like them and be a little more like me. :)
Grace says
Loved this post. This is something that I’m totally currently facing with right now and I’m trying to stay positive. Will keep in mind some of your tips :) thanks!
Alexandra says
You nailed it – as a new blogger myself, I often feel inadequate compared to others. But like the girl above me mentioned, I use it as motivation to do better with mine and appreciate theirs!
Great post, thanks for sharing!
Dan B. Sifuentes says
Some of this can be applied to the rest of your life. Thanks for sharing.
Joy says
Thank you for writing this post. I recently started blogging, and often feel like a dinosaur compared to all the young bloggers out there. (The blogosphere didn’t exist when I was in college!) I try to learn from younger bloggers, and remind myself that I have a different perspective to offer. I want to be living proof that it’s never too late to start something new!
Fehintola says
I love this post. I sometimes struggle with confidence esp when people don’t say nice things. One of my friends told once I get married and start having kids I won’t be so jobless to be posting videos and articles online. I was so angry but I smiled and didn’t say a word to her (she’s married with 3 kids).
But I have also have wonderful people who support what I do, who help me with words of encouragement or actions (holding the camera, taking pictures, etc). Their words and actions always give me a boost. It is important as creatives to surround ourselves with people who support and help us.
I have promised myself to keep writing and posting videos, I believe I get better with every post and video. I don’t want to regret not doing this 10 or 20 years from now and if I fail, at least I can tell myself that I tried.
Thanks guys and great job!
http://www.fehintolaogunye.com
Elena says
Thank you. Such a timely article for a new blogger like me.
I find that motivation for being a blogger makes a huge difference. I got encouraged to start blogging through many different online courses that taught how to start earning money through blogging. I soon realised that it can’t be my only motivation (for me personally it somehow felt too inauthentic). So my main motivation right now is to join online communities of like-minded people (to connect, share, get inspired) and to become a better writer. I’m still feeling terrified, but I love it anyway!
Nadia says
Such a good post for me who are always having a low confidence about being a blogger . I always comparing myself with other good and famous blogger as well .
But, end up . I can make them as inspiration to move foward in blogging world right ? And keep on saying to myself , be positive . =)
Now, I usually just stop comparing all the time and just write what I want to share with people . =)