Why You Should Stop Being Scared to Start a Blog

If you are scared to start a blog, you are in the right place. I know what it’s like to have self-doubt and a lack of confidence starting something new like a blog, but that’s why I’m here for you!

There are so many reasons people who are scared to start a blog. Each week I receive emails from readers telling me how he or she really wants to start a blog, but they are holding back for different reasons.

Some people are worried about what to write about. Others are worried no one will read their blog.

If you are ready to start a blog, this tutorial will walk you through the exact steps on how to start a blog.

You can bookmark the page and come back to it after reading this blog post.

Why are you scared to start a blog?

For whatever reason, many people are just flat out nervous about making that leap into blogging.

Seriously, so many of us are scared to start a blog. I totally get it. I’ve been there.

I know what it’s like to read and admire blog after blog, want to start my own, but then I let fear hold me back.

I know people that have spent months envisioning what they want to want to write about, the perfect blog name, and what the blog design should look like.

This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure for more info.

Many people waste a lot of time standing by the sidelines watching and not doing.

I was nervous too. It took me months to leave my first comment on a blog post lol.

After leaving a comment, I would over-analyze what I wrote.

I worried about the small things

Did my comment make sense? What if I wrote too much? Was it too little?

Clearly, I had issues and lacked confidence I’m shy, so it was a big step for me to leave my first comment on someone’s blog!

Over time, I got a little more confident and started leaving more comments on my favorite blogs and blog posts.

Some of the bloggers even wrote me back in the comments section!

I felt a personal connection, even if it was online, and really felt like I was joining a community where people were really nice, friendly and welcoming.

Soon, I started to recognize other bloggers online and expanded my list of blogs to read.

I gravitated towards a wide range of bloggers and subjects. It was important to not focus on one niche in particular and enjoyed reading about a ton of different things.

I was totally enamored with the blogging life and couldn’t handle how excited I was to read one of my favorite blogger’s new blog posts to see what he or she would write.

Why I changed my mind about blogging

One night, after reading a handful of blog posts, I made the decision to go for it. I was ready to start a blog! I had been teetering back and forth about starting one and the biggest obstacle for myself was if I could commit.

In about 30 seconds, I talked to myself, psyched myself up, and pretty much decided that if I was going to start a blog, I was going to go all in. No more being scared to start a blog!

Well, that decision to start a blog changed my life.

Today, I am a full-time blogger. The journey from there to here wasn’t overly easy or hard, but it was a process that just involved time and commitment.

I’m probably just like you when it comes to starting a blog. I knew very little when I got started. I was on a budget, so I had to figure out a lot of things on my own.

But within my first year of blogging, I was able to walk away from my full-time job and successfully blog and freelance full time.

Everyone’s idea of success is different. My goal was always to leave my day job, have my own schedule, and be my own boss.

This might not be your goal, and that’s totally fine!

Blogging should be fun, not scary!

Maybe your goal is to have a creative outlet where you can write down your thoughts, or share your art or craft and just have fun!

Your goal might include bringing in a part-time blog income in addition to your full-time job. Or maybe you only want to blog part-time and not have a full-time job.

It’s also important to remember the amount of income one person needs to bring in each month might be more or less than what you need to make online each month.

There is no right or wrong way when it comes to blogging!

The bottom line is that until you try and decide to start a blog, you’ll never know the potential that you have.

Here’s a few things that have happened since I decided I would no longer be scared to start a blog

I started blogging in my spare time while working a full-time job.

It took about a month or so for me to realize I needed to treat my blog like a business, not a hobby. This meant creating a blog schedule and a list of things to learn and work on!

My first blog income report was roughly three months after I started blogging and was for a little over $60 – and it was awesome!

I gave my notice to my full-time job within 9 months of starting a blog.

After one year of blogging (and only 9 months of being serious about it) I walked away from my full-time job and moved back across the country to a city I’ve always wanted to live in (what’s up Nashville!).

In my first month of blogging full time, my blog income report was for over $3,600.

I made a little under $14,000 in my spare time from this blog. This was just from blogging for fun and while at my day job!

How I increased my blog income each month

Here’s a recap of my income grew each month with my blog.

Last month I celebrated my ninth month freelancing full time and this was so exciting!

What I’m trying to show you is that with some time, dedication, and work, you can be as successful as you want to be! While I would love to be an overnight success story, there is no such thing as this!

I started with a plan, stuck with it, and am now doing exactly what I want to do. What really makes me excited is that the sky’s the limit! There’s no cap in my salary, I can continue to grow and earn more money.

On the downside, have I made any mistakes? Yup, a ton, ha!

Sometimes I look back at my blog and realize that I missed opportunities to grow faster, monetize faster, etc.

It’s easy to beat myself up about this. But, I realized that I pretty much figured out most of this on my own, didn’t have much help, and just did it my way. I chalk it all up to it being a learning experience.

I’m glad I took the time to figure out a lot of things on my own. I know what works, what doesn’t work, and how to fix things.

5 reasons you’re too scared to start a blog

By now, I hope you are inching closer towards wanting to start a blog.

Below are a few reasons you are this close to get started. I have literally have had all the feels from this list below. Chances are, if I’ve experienced these emotions, then you probably have too.

You need a creative outlet

Blogging can be very therapeutic. It’s your own space where you can write what you want and express your feelings.

Maybe you want to start a blog about something you are passionate about, even if it has nothing to do with your real life.

Go for it! 

Have you ever been scared to start a blog? It's ok, me too! Here are 5 reasons you need to start a blog ASAP. Seriously, don't be scared. It's easy to think you won't be able to do it. I'm sharing 8 common fears and worried people have when it comes to wanting to start a blog. I'm going to tell you why I understand your fears, but also tell you exactly why you need to ignore this. If your goal is to make money from blogging, join an online community of fellow bloggers or share your experience, learn how to determine if you have what it takes!

Or maybe you want to use your experience in real life and become an expert in your subject online. You can do that too!

Maybe you hate writing. You can use your blog to upload photos or make an online scrapbook.

If you are a visual person, you can create pretty graphics, art, or more online.

Your blog gives your the freedom to make it whatever you want it to be!

If you worry about privacy, you can choose to write anonymously.

You can go by your first name or even make up your own name if you choose to.

Fyi, when I first started a blog, I only went by first name.

It took me about over a year before I was ready to use my last name and show a picture of myself!

You want to share your experience

So many people start a blog to share his or her specific journey. This could be related to anything! Here’s a few ideas you could share on your blog:

  • Weight loss journey, healthy living or goal-oriented (ex. running a marathon)
  • Document your travels
  • Mama / lifestyle
  • Wedding planning
  • Newlyweds, new baby family life
  • Reviews
  • Career-oriented
  • Fashion, trends or makeup
  • General lifestyle and day to day living
  • Home decor, DIY, crafts
  • Personal finance (investing, getting out of debt, saving money)
  • Vacation planning
  • and more…. (I could seriously list ideas all day, ha!)

Accountability

When I started blogging, I made sure I was always accountable. I blogged regularly.

Whether you want to blog three times a week or twice a month, just stick to the same schedule.

This will help you develop a routine. Remember, you need to think of your blog as a part-time job and not a hobby if you plan to grow it or monetize it.

One way to stay accountable is to create a Mastermind group of fellow bloggers who are similar to you. Ya’ll don’t have to all blog about the same thing!

But creating a mastermind group can help you reach your goals, work on projects, and stick to a blogging schedule. The easiest way to start a closed group is on Facebook!

Have a sense of community

Online blogging communities are the best! People are super nice, friendly, and welcoming. When I started my blog, there were a few fellow bloggers in my niche that were just launching their blogs as well.

Like high school or college graduation, I consider us to be in the same “class of” blogging newbies that started together.

I reach out to these girls all the time and it’s amazing to see all of our progress. Every single one of us has succeeded! Within a year, it’s amazing to see the progress we have all made!

Try to connect with fellow bloggers in your niche. You can encourage each other and ask each other questions.

When I first started blogging, I would get so excited when a fellow blogger would leave a comment on one of my blog posts.

By far, comments are my favorite part of blogging. It’s the best way to interact with someone else that just gets me.

Make money

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to make money from blogging. You shouldn’t feel guilty about this.

When I started my blog, my goal was to share my story and provide valuable information that could hopefully help other people. Plus I wanted to monetize my blog.

You have every right to earn a living from your website and should not feel guilty about this!

There are so many ways to make money from your blog. Here are a few ways you can make money blogging:

  • Ad income
  • Sponsored posts
  • Brand partnerships
  • Affiliate links
  • Products, courses, books, subscriptions, etc.
  • Podcasts
  • Freelancing (add a ‘hire me’ page to your site)
  • and more!

Not sure what all the above actually means? That’s ok – I didn’t know all these options either when I was just starting out.

Here are eight popular reasons why most people are scared to start a blog

What’s holding you back? Are these the reasons you are scared to start a blog? 

Lack of time

I get it. You’re busy, tired and trying to do a million things at once.

But if you want to be successful, you need to carve some time out of your schedule and fit it in.

In the beginning stages of blogging, I was working a full-time job, felt like I was never home and when I was home, I was busy taking care of everyone and everything BUT me.

When I shared my schedule of what it’s like to be a part-time blogger, my blog post raised a few eyebrows.

I know what it's like to be scared to start a blog! If you want to make extra money, you might want to start a blog. In this epic blog post, I'm sharing 8 common misconceptions about blogging and how fear can prevent you from going for it! Blogging is a great side hustle, and I've turned it from a part time job into a full time job. You will also learn several ways to boost your confidence and totally go for it!

My schedule was crazy, but I knew I had to work hard to make blogging work. I changed around my schedule and figured out a time that works best for me. 

The best thing you can do is look at your schedule and find a time that you can spend solely working on your blog.

Maybe this is early in the morning, on your lunch break at work, or late at night after everyone’s gone to bed.

Next you need to stick to a schedule. Treat this blog like a part time job, not a hobby.

If you want to be successful, you need to put in the work. Try to commit to the same schedule and get into a routine.

If you have to change things up, that’s ok too!

You’re shy and lack confidence

Ok, so this is mostly geared towards me and might not apply to you, ha!

Don’t worry – the online community is really welcoming. Don’t believe me?

When you decide to start your blog, send me an email and I will make sure to say hi. To date, hundreds of people have emailed me with their new website name and I love it!

No one is going to leave mean comments on one of your blog posts. Everyone pretty much helps each other out and is very friendly. It’s ok to be shy.

Just be nice and people will be nice back 🙂

You’re not sure what you want to write about

Don’t stress this. The good thing is you can write about anything you want. You get to be the boss and CEO!

Chances are when you start your blog, you are going to think you want to write about something in particular.

You might get tired of writing about the same subject, so you can change it up! Pick a few things to blog about until you get a feel for what you like and don’t like to write about.

You’re still in the “research” stage

Stop researching and just start a blog. I know you are scared to start a blog, but you have to stop this stage. You could seriously do research forever.

I know, trust me. I’m all about the prep work. I probably over-prepare. At some point, you just have to stop talking about it and just go for it.

Your topic has already been written about

This is such a common fear and myth when it comes to wanting to start a blog.

Yes, there is a really good chance someone in the blogging world has written about the exact same things you want to blog about. There are probably a lot of bloggers who’ve written about your subject.

Who cares! The biggest thing to remember is that no one has told your story. You make the story personal in your own unique voice. Readers will want to get to know you and your point of view.

You’re doing a lot of work to get ready for your “launch” date

I think it’s great to have a launch date and a date you want your blog to go live.

With this being said, you don’t need to go overboard. There’s a really good chance that very few people will read your brand new blog right away.

There’s nothing wrong with writing a couple blog posts and just hitting publish. You don’t need to have a ton of blog posts written to launch. Just enjoy the excitement of publishing posts!

Forget being scared to start a blog; you have a fear of failing in general

There is a pretty slim chance you are going to nail the blogging thing right away. But that doesn’t mean you are failing.

In my first six months of blogging, I changed my theme twice, changed up what I wanted to write about, and re-did my sidebar a million times.

I didn’t know anything about how to monetize my blog except to use Google AdSense (today I’m with AdThrive). I also had to go back and update all my images to be vertical as opposed to horizontal as that became a trend on Pinterest.

But I don’t really consider this failing and you shouldn’t either. It’s all a learning process. We all start at the same place – as newbies who are experiencing a lot of hands-on training.

You’re worried no one will read your blog

Ha, no one read my blog in the beginning! I was ok with that.

This is literally one of the silliest fears to have if you’re scared to start a blog.

I was trying to find my writing style, had horrible images, and hated my sidebar. I was all over the place with my blog posts. It’s probably better that no one read my blog in the beginning, ha!

Don’t be too scared about the numbers in the beginning. Seriously, if you are scared to start a blog because of low traffic in the beginning, just eliminate this fear.

Focus on creating amazing content that other people will want to read. When it’s time to focus on gaining traffic and growing your blog, there are several different blog strategies you can implement.

How to gain that extra boost of confidence and stop being scared to start a blog

Are you getting totally pumped to start a blog or what?! Blogging has changed my life.

I’m not kidding when I say that every morning when I wake up, I get super excited to start my day.

There’s a million things I want to accomplish, blogging friends to chat with and I don’t even feel like what I’m doing is even working.

I am super happy with this blogging life and really want other people to experience what I experience every day!

Here’s a few things I feel and experience on a daily basis that you might too:

Relax – you totally got this

You’re smart. You’re excited. You’ve done your research. You know what you want to write about.

Readers want to know you story. Stop sweating the small stuff, don’t let fear take over and think positive. You can totally start a blog and do this!

Start with low expectations and enjoy the highs

Anything can happen when it comes to blogging. If you put in the time, it won’t even feel like work.

While it’s important to have goals and dreams, take it one day at a time in the beginning. Create rough goals and an outline of where you envision yourself.

Make an editorial calendar and decide what you want to write about each month, what you want to accomplish in three months, six months, etc.

It’s ok not to be perfect

Ugh, who wants to be perfect? Embrace your flaws and go with it.

If you get my weekly newsletter, you guys know that I have no problem telling you what my weaknesses are and what I’m struggling with at the moment.

I like to keep it real and appreciate it when you email me back to tell me you are going through the same thing.

It’s your blog – you can do anything you want with it

Yup. You blog is your own personal space – you can make it anything you want it to be.

Don’t be worried about trying to be like someone else.

You have your own unique style and your own thoughts – so just own it.

Your audience is there and waiting for you to tell your story

There’s an audience for every blog out there. There are people out there who are too shy to start a blog.

They are searching for a blog to read that they can relate to and fit in with. And that is you!

People want to hear your story and get your take on things. There’s an entire community online that is going to be able to relate to what you are writing.

How to start a blog

If you are ready to start a blog, this tutorial will walk you through the exact steps on how to start a blog.

I used Bluehost for my blog and it’s pretty cheap, which is good if you are just getting started.

You also get a FREE domain name, which is awesome when you are just starting out and are trying to save money.

In the blogging tutorial, I guide you step-by-step on how to select your free domain name, pick your hosting site and how to install WordPress. You should be able to do everything pretty quickly, in roughly 10-15 minutes tops.

After you install your blog, make sure you read all the way to the bottom of the tutorial. I share what to do next, including:

  • How to pick a theme
  • How to start a newsletter
  • How to monetize your website so you can make money
  • Resource page full of tons of free resources I use for my blog

Along with getting hosting for your blog, you’ll also need a theme. While you can get them for free through WordPress, I prefer these:

Take the next step

Start a blog today! Don’t wait a day longer – I KNOW you have the confidence to do this!

I’m really excited for you!

Blogging has opened up so many opportunities for me.

Every day is a great day when I know I can control my own schedule.

I get excited to check my emails from readers, I love to read fellow blog posts from my favorite bloggers and am enjoying this fun and crazy journey. Good luck, you got this!

Related reading:

Are you scared to start a blog?

Similar Posts

293 Comments

  1. Hey! 🌟 Your article on overcoming blogging fears is a game-changer! Embracing imperfections and treating the blog journey as a learning experience resonated deeply. Your analogy of a wobbly first step being progress is gold. Finding our unique voice amidst the noise is crucial, and your friendly, anecdotal style made it feel like a chat over coffee. Thanks for the confidence boost – ready to take that plunge now!

    1. Hi Kristin,

      So I’m mostly in the “extremely annoyed and psyching myself out phase”. There are a handful of blog niches I could pursue with a whole plan in my head, but I always think that I don’t have anything to contribute that other huge blogs don’t already have covered.

      Case in point: I would love to start a travel blog. Traveling the world would be a huge dream. The problem? My wife and I don’t have the money to take trips worldwide or blog as we travel most of the year.

      We’ve been to the Dominican Republic for our honeymoon and we had a 10-day trip in Spain about 6 years ago. It’s better than nothing but it’s still not a ton of experience. This leads me to ask, “Who would waste their time coming to read a travel blog from a guy who can’t do much traveling?”

      Who is going to read blog posts about the amazing sights in this city or that hidden area off of the beaten path? I don’t have the pictures or videos to show I’ve been there. It just seems like I’ll be seen as some kind of fraud for recommending pretty much anything, whether it’s places to go to, travel and tech gear to take with you, and so many other things.

      It’s not just the travel blog idea. I have several others but they all fall into that same category. I know a little bit but not enough that it feels like anyone would take my advice or recommendations seriously. If I was an accountant and wanted to do a budget and savings blog, that makes sense. People would take what I have to say seriously, but if I just read a few hundred blog posts and decided I could give financial advice, that probably wouldn’t feel like I’m contributing much.

      I don’t know. Sorry, this is a far too long response to an excellent blog post trying to you over your fears. I just fear that even if I say so, so much in hundreds of blog posts, the end result will be a “meh” and an eyeroll. The guy’s never even been anywhere. Who cares what he recommends.

  2. Thank you for this article. It gave me a few good things to think about.

  3. Thank you for this amazing blog i felt motivated and encouraged to start blogging!! This felt blog felt personal and valued. I do the research stage of blogging but when it comes to writing my own stuff I’m stuck or have fear but I can over come it.

  4. Thank you for sharing! I’m definitely stuck in the research phase and have been for awhile. I definitely needed this read!

  5. Well…….here I am…stuck in the research phase…you nailed me on that one!!!! Pardon me while I read every “blogging for beginners” or “10 things I’d do differently when starting my blog” posts….. I already have a business, I’m on all social medias, I have started a website to host my blog and I’ve started writing but the thought of publishing is EEEEEEEK!!!!! I’m the least shy person on the planet so I’m not sure why it freaks me out!!! I think I jus want to do ALL THE THINGS right before publishing!! Anywho, thanks for the words of encouragement!! I’d love to have you as a blogging mentor of sorts if you do that sort of thing!! 🥰

  6. Thank you for sharing onn”how to start a blog”! I think you just gave me the the motivation…. to finally start, even though I haven’t thought of a name…but I think I have one (just for starters).

  7. Hi!
    I’m so nervous to start! I genuinely love to write, and would love to generate a side income. I’m a second year teacher, not planning on overtaking my full time job, but would love to develop income for when I decide to have kids so I can stay home with them, but I genuinely love to write. But I’ve wanted to do this for some time now. I actually invested in a site, host, etc, and then I got scared when I was staring a blank screen! I get writer’s block and worry I will lose things to write about! I know I need to find my “niche” but I genuinely want to write about a ton of things: trauma, budgeting/financing, dating advice, etc. I would love the idea of having a “Ask Amy” blog. Where I could interact with my readers, and post content they want to hear about. I just don’t know how to start that! Any advice would be welcome!

  8. Hey! This gave me a lot of direction or a path to walk on ! I am finally launching my blog this week. Thank you for this amazing post

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      YAY, congrats starting a blog!

  9. Hi Kristin,
    I just wanted to thank you for sharing your story and your transparency here. It is incredibly inspiring and made me feel much more hopeful and excited about my own journey.
    This post is clear and detailed and so so helpful!
    I’m so happy for you and all of your success <3

  10. This is exactly the confidence booster I needed! I started my blog (literally today) and have been nervous to publish it. I definitely have my fears, but what’s life if everything comes east?! Thank you for this kick in the booty that I so desperately needed.

  11. This was such a good read! I have started several blogs that were almost immediately killed off at the root due to my believe of not being good enough or that I was a nobody to talk about certain topics. However, the idea of having a blog has never left me. Now I’m starting a new one. This would just be used as a creative outlet. Thanks for the informative post 😀

  12. Hey!
    I loved your post but I think my biggest fear is getting sued. I keep hearing about having a good enough disclaimer, privacy policy etc. But when I look up everything, I’m always taken through the route of spend so much $$$$$$. I’m already tight on money and just want to start my blog. I’ve started but it’s not launched because of this ONE reason.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      I have never heard of anyone getting sued from their blog. Don’t let this type of fear hold you back. You can always get a small insurance policy if you think you need one, but that is rare.

  13. Hi!

    I was just wondering if you had any post or guidance on creating an email list or a subscribe option for blogs. I have played around with a few options, but I am not even sure if I’m doing them correctly. Thanks so much!

    Lenzi

  14. Great post, very encouraging! I stayed in the research phase for a long time and this I got started. But now I’m in the phase of working on my website and trying to write posts for pulling the trigger to launch! But this is definitely a little boost of confidence!

  15. Hi Ktistin,

    Thank you for sharing such an inspiring post. Well, this is my first comment ever in any blog and it’s been 2 mnths i have been searching like lunatic. One thing was holding me back to start my blog was choose a particular niche. Mostly bloggers says that choose a niche but my niche would be life style.
    At the moment I’m full time worker and a mum too, also i have a chronic illness, that’s why i want to start a blog and monitise it . So by the time my dr goes to school i will be able to go part time or quite my job and become a full time blogger.
    I will email you my website soon.
    Loads of love xx

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      You can def start with general lifestyle and narrow it down when you are ready!

      1. do you have to narrow it down? I’ve read a lot of lifestyle blogs and that it’s okay to have a few topics, between 2-4. I currently have a recipe blog, but I will be transitioning to a lifestyle blog with recipes, slow living lifestyle and maybe wellness. would it be okay to slowly incorporate more topic as you create more posts?

  16. Hi Kristin!
    This post was helpful and inspirational. I’ve had a hobby blog on and off since I was a young teen, but now as a young momma, I’m really interested in making it an income source. I just got my own site this year, and I’ve started working on adding content and building an email list. I’d love to connect with you!

  17. Hello,

    This post was very inspiring. I love blogging as a hobby and figuring things out as I go along but I am so overwhelmed with finding an audience. Total newbie here! I hope to grow it one day into something tangible (aspiring future boss here), however, I am still in college! Lots to learn. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and enthusiasm!!

  18. Hi Kristin,

    This was such a helpful post. Thanks for sharing! Blogging really requires some confidence. But the good thing is that once you publish a few posts, you start feeling more comfortable. And you only need to keep pushing!

  19. Hi Kristin,
    What an encourging and uplifting post! So glad I found you. Just like many other readers, it feels like you wrote this for me. I am starting my blogging journey today after reading your post. No more stuck in researching phase 😀. BTW, this is my first comment to any blogger. Lots of love and best wishes. You’re the best!!!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      YAY, it’s good to get past the research phase and just start!

  20. Hi Kristin! I am very inspired by your well presented information on blogging. I have never done Facebook or instagram and I’m wondering if this may hinder my success as a blogger. I’m so proud of you for your hard work and determination!

  21. I am the person you wrote this blog about. LOL I want to start a blog and monetize it, but can’t decide what topic I want to write about. Would it be terrible to write about several topics in the same blog? I don’t think I could keep up with multiple blogs and do my full time job which I absolutely cannot quit. Any advice would be appreciated.

  22. Nicole Mullicane says:

    This post is like you are in my head right now. I have an idea of what I want to say, who my audience is and what I would like for it to look like and I keep researching like you said. I really think I’m ready to do this now. Thank you so much.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      It’s easy to get caught up in the research phase – just get started and work as you go!

      1. How do I sign up for your news letter? I’m pretty darn excited to get this going. Thx for the awsome content!

        1. Kristin Larsen says:

          Usually at bottom of blog posts there is a way to opt-in 🙂

  23. Hi Kristin, Thank you so much for your encouraging words.
    This is my first time commenting on a post.

    I quit my job and was searching opportunities in the digital world. I was confused about blogging before reading your post. It is very helpful. I decided to start a blog and share my thoughts with the world.

  24. Hi Kristin.
    The words which are here are very inspiring to me. And it give me the new spirit to develop my blog. Before reading your post i was sad with my blog post because it was not visited by a single member till today.And after reading this i ended to know it’s not easy but it is simple. And today i knew that by leaving fear and being with commitment it is also possible for me. Thank you Kristin for your support to new bloggers like me.

  25. I’m so happy I found this! Im in the *very* early days of blogging!! goodmombadwords.com

  26. Hi Kristin,
    This is unimaginably rousing, congrats on your prosperity. There is an abundance of data here and subsequent to seeing your diagram/timetable report of how you exponentially developed your income with your blog, I am SO supported. I just began my journey on blogging. Your content and journey causes me to feel like with responsibility and diligence, I also can encounter wealth in being consistent with my genuine self. Much obliged to you!

  27. This was the post I needed to find! After months of fretting and wondering if blogging was the most ridiculous idea I have ever had, I finally pressed “launch” but am still very reluctant/anxious to share with others. Here’s to hoping the confidence sets in soon!

  28. This post was very motivating to me. I read this in December of 2019 and the tab has been open on my cell phone ever since. I was nervous for several of the reasons you mentioned. After I read it, I just decided to do it. I’m glad that I did.

    1. I’ve really been considering a blog. Currently I’m working on writing a few posts in word just to see if I can get behind writing all the time (I’m a math person). I have my topic ideas picked out. I’m just not sure I write well or will come off credible.
      I love seeing your income reports. Over $700k a year is absolutely amazing to see in 5 years. I will definitely be emailing you when I start my blog. Ha!

      1. Kristin Larsen says:

        I wasn’t a writer when I got started and I’m still not – I like to think I’m just writing to friends! Don’t let that hold you back!

  29. Kristin thanks for this detailed guide. At least I can say I’ve had a bit of a boost of confidence now. Thanks a lot

  30. Hi Kristin! This article alone has been one of my driving forces for starting a blog. I actually found this article because I searched “scared to start a blog”! Ha! There’s so much information out there and it’s very easy to get discouraged starting a blog because there are so many factors that go into starting a blog. I’ve followed your blog for a few months and subscribed and also get your weekly emails! I love them and you offer so much insight! Thank you for motivating me to start my own personal finance blog pennystasher.com. You truly are an inspiration!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yay, glad to help!

  31. Kristin! This is incredibly inspirational, congratulations on your success. There is a wealth of information here and after seeing your outline/timeline report of how you exponentially grew your income with your blog, I am SO encouraged. I just started manifestingmine.com. Your content and journey makes me feel as though with commitment and perseverance, I too can experience abundance in being true to my authentic self. Thank you!

  32. Hi Kristin:
    Thanks for all the good advice. I’m a new blogger of six months and am trying to get ready to monetize–this is where I’m floundering. How do I know when I have enough readers to take this step and if I don’t, what do I need to change to get to that step?
    Cher

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Hey Cher! One thing you can do is check your Google Analytics so you can see what kind of traffic you are getting to your website. But really – don’t worry about just numbers. Focus on writing great content, growing your email list, etc. 🙂

  33. Hi Kristin, I have 2 main issues. The first one is money I’m on a fixed income so I’m really interested in how much the startup would run. I want to start just afraid I won’t have the necessary budget needed.

  34. Hi, my name is Glenna. I’ve been wanting to start a blog for some time now. Almost everything you said, was totally true, to me. Yes, I’m very scared. Don’t know exactly how to start, and mostly, I’m afraid of failure. Thank you, for your blog. It gave me a big push in the right direction..

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      It’s ok to feel like this – failure is a big fear for many of us!

  35. After reading this I have no reason to hold myself back anymore! I’ve been dreaming of becoming a Blogger for years! So, cheers to now! 🥂 Thank you for the blogger support!! 💕

  36. Wow Kristin, I can’t tell you how much I needed to hear these words! That’s it I’m doing it in taking the nubie blogging plunge. I have talk about it and stressed about it wayyyy to long! Thank you for giving me the courage to get out of my own head and just get started. You are my blogging spirit animal.

  37. Just starting my journey and super excited!! Thank you for your help!

  38. This is exactly what I’m looking for!!! I need this help and encouragement! I’ve been sitting on this idea for a while but really don’t know where to start, so thank you! I will be a new blogger soon! I appreciate all the help and support I can get!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Oh YAY, so excited for you!

  39. Hi! Your post just inspired me SO much! I am just starting out with this whole blogging process, i’ve got a handful of posts published and would love to connect with other bloggers! My niche is mainly DIY/lifestyle. Do you have any advice on the best places to find other bloggers in my niche? Thanks so much!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Congrats Chelsea! Social media is a great place to start to meet others 🙂

  40. Hey, Kristin! I recently launched my own blog and this post was such an encouragement to me!! I let “its been done a million times. What makes me any different?” hold me back for a year and a half!! Finally one day when I was 3 weeks postpartum and riding the crazy roller coaster of hormones, I took the leap while breastfeeding at my dining room table lol! That was 6 months ago and I only recently announced to my friends and family. I’m still brand new and finding my way but posts like this make it a little easier! Thank you for being that encouragement for me today. 😊 Tinyjoyfultreasures.com is my happy place! I hope you’ll come visit me one day! Hugs!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Good for you!

  41. I loved this post so much!

  42. this post helped me so much! i’m in the process of starting a blog & i have already written three blog posts to publish when i launch. i still feel SO clueless about all of it even though i’ve done a ton of research. i needed to hear this!

  43. Just read your post. I am a new mom and I have tried to start a blog in the past but never stuck to it. Now I wish I had. I am craving the ability to make my own hours and be my own boss, while being home with my baby. It’s scary wondering if anyone will care about what I have to say. I have a strong urge to take the leap now, but still scared. Thanks for this article. It really is encouraging.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Everyone has a voice and a unique story to tell. You got this!

  44. I really enjoyed reading this post! I’ve been considering blogging myself for a few years & never began. I’m a newly single mom & wish I started. Definitely feeling energized to start one now, and looking forward to the possibilities. Thank you

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yay, good luck!

  45. Hi Kristen,
    This post was great! I’ve been thinking about jumping in to the blogging life for a couple of months now. This post was so helpful. Thank you!
    LaTaya

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yay, glad to help!

  46. I really needed to read this today (just pinned it!). I’m going right along with my blog but struggling with fear and with being patient. Things are growing slowly. I research and work on it everyday and you inspired me not to give up! Thank you for your uplifting voice and congratulations on your successes!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      YAY, keep up the good work! Just think of blogging as a long term (maybe even a lifetime!) goal!

  47. Started mine, though I don’t know anything about blogging, I confidently started without fears huh? Really, just wanted to write anything, like sharing my thoughts. Not thinking of monetizing it yet. I know I still can’t. Thank you for sharing some tips, a great help for newbies like me.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      You are welcome!

  48. Christine says:

    Hi, I loved your post!
    I’m thinking of starting a blog about social work, and lifestyle topics. I am very nervous to start since I think people won’t read it. I just want to share my experience and interests. This article helped ease my worries a bit.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      It’s ok to be nervous – that sounds like a GREAT topic!

    2. Kristin Larsen says:

      In the beginning I didn’t have any traffic and that’s normal, so don’t stress it!

  49. Erica Rickman says:

    This is great information and so encouraging. Thank you so much. Signing up now and keep the great info coming!! Congrats on your success.

  50. I loved reading this! You are so encouraging! I just started my own blog & im having trouble figuring out how to start making money from it. This helped a lot, thank you so much!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      YAY, congrats on starting a blog!

  51. I just started my blog and I’ve been scouring ways to improve it. You’re such an inspiration that I can do it! Thank you

  52. This is a great post! I am about to start my blog and this is such an amazing encouragement. Thank you! I will surely let you know once my blog is up and running! ?

    1. Same here! I am going through a blogging course right now and will be launching within a month. What is your blog topic on? My is going to be a bit of a mix – toxin-free living (natural products), minimalism, homeschooling and frugal living! 🙂

  53. I’m really interested in the Pinterest affiliate info you have, is there a place to find it? I’m really nervous, but I’m jumping in with both feet!!!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Hi Sarah, you can learn more about Pinterest Presence here. In order to be an affiliate, you must go through the course first!

  54. I think it’s helpful to have some way of letting commenters know you’ve responded to their comment via email, so they don’t have to subscribe to the entire comment stream or keep returning to the post to check, in order to see responses to their own comments. I used to use the ReplyMe plugin for this, but now have the CommentLuv plugin, which incorporates this function. I will no longer subscribe to comment streams for individual posts – it generates too many emails – and I don’t have time to keep checking back on posts I’ve commented on, so unless a blog has this kind of system, I never see the replies to my comments, which is a shame.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Unfortunately I don’t have enough time in the day to send an email to the reader after I leave a comment. Considering I take the time to personally respond to everyone who leaves a comment (many bloggers do not do this), I’m ok with that!

  55. Hi,
    My name is Hailey. I’ve been looking into starting a blog and am nervous about it, but I plan to go start one after reading this article. Thanks for your wonderful article. Your voice really shines through in your writing!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Welcome Hailey – you got this!

  56. Hi Kristin,
    I started my blog about 6 months ago after putting it off for weeks because of all kinds of insecurities, doubts, and fears.
    I am not yet where I want to be when it comes to my blogging goals. But I am so happy that I finally started something that I had dreamed of for years.
    I am writing this comment now because actually, this post of yours was the final push I needed to get started with my blog. So today, after all of these months, I wanted to come here and say thank you!
    Regards,
    Evelin

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Oh that’s so great Evelin! GOOD LUCK!

  57. I love how encouraging this post is! I’ve been blogging since 2010 but haven’t shared it much because of some of the fears you mentioned above. I’m shy too, but I LOVE the creative outlet/therapy that blogging provides. Thanks for sharing your experience!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yay, glad this post could help. Good luck!

  58. Thanks for this post. I’m definitely in the lack of confidence and perceived lack of time categories. I started my blog in the fall, made one post and it’s been sitting since 🙁 Expecting my first little one in July and I really want to build something for myself and my family, so thank you for the inspiration!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yay, glad you liked the post!

  59. HI Kristin,
    Thank you for sharing you experiences in blogging. I am 57 and have decided to dive into this following my passion for golf. I am just a few days away from finalizing my website and having the fears that you mentioned above. I am glad I am not the only one with these apprehensions. I am also thrilled with the possibilities turning my passion into a new career.
    Thanks Again.
    Rob

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Hey Rob! Glad you read this post and can relate. Congrats on starting your blog – it’s pretty exciting!

  60. Stephanie says:

    Wow. This is a great read. All of the hesitations you shared are exactly why I haven’t made my move. I feel like there are so many blogs out there that no one will be interested in what I have say. Mine would be all over the place, not one subject.

    What are your thoughts on it being a random jump from one topic to another topic type blog? Do you think that starting there will actually get off the ground?

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Hi! I need to add this blog post for continued reading because it is exactly what you need to read now on what to write about! It will help answer all your questions 🙂

  61. Yup – fear of failure and no one reading my blog are definitely two of my top concerns! Also because I’m on a super strict budget the initial investment is a little scary, but we love farming/homesteading and I want to share those values and insights, as well as possibly make it pay for itself, so I dove in! Thanks for the vote of confidence!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Glad this post helped. It is an investment, but I really believe that investing in yourself is one of the best things you can do. I think I spent around $100 to start my blog for the first year, and then around $50-$100 for Genesis and a child theme in my first year, so that’s maybe $200. I ended up making $13,000 in my first year, so it paid off. Aside from the income portion – blogging really helped me in so many ways. I gained confidence, learned how to write better, found online friends – basically all the things! Good luck!

  62. Hi,
    I just read your post and is super excited. I was thinking of starting my own website instead of using other tools. What would you recommend ? Will I be able to do all the things that can be done through Bluehost support? Tia

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Bluehost is great! They have recently updated their site to include even more free help after you sign up with your domain name and hosting. The process is easy and it only takes 15 minutes to sign up and get your blog started.

  63. Michelle Marra says:

    Hi, I really enjoyed reading this post. I’m inspired to start a blog and I’m feeling all the jitters you listed.
    I have couple questions I hope you can answer:
    -what is the best font to use
    – do the ads and affiliate links have to correlate to my topic or brand of my blog
    – is there a template letter to apply for affiliate programs

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Hey Michelle! There isn’t a preferred font – but when you pick your theme, it will come with a font or you can change it. Ads are really based on everyone individually (they aren’t always the same for everyone looking at your blog). You can def reach out to affiliate programs on a 1:1 basis and just politely ask if they have an affiliate program. 🙂

  64. Hi Kristin, Thank you so much for commenting on my site. It means so much to me. I can only imagine how busy you are and for you to do that is so generous.
    Have a blessed day:)
    Nicole

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      You are SOOOO welcome!!

  65. Hi Kristin!

    I have been considering creating a blog for a long time (shyness, doing lots of research and fear has been in the way) and I have found so comforting your article. It spoke to me to a great level and I thank you for that, I believe it has been a lack of courage what I have been experiencing but you help me a lot!

    Love you writing style, is kind and calm and beautiful (that is what I felt while reading).

    I hope I do well with my blog, it both for creative content and also and I hope be able to monetize it.

    Thanks a lot and I will definitively continue reading you.

    Best regards from Costa Rica!
    Fer.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Oh yay, glad to help Fer! I totally know how you feel – blogging can be so scary, but it can also be super rewarding. Have fun and good luck!

  66. One of the most popular reasons I have heard about people avoiding blogging because of over-saturation of certain niches. The thing about over-saturated niches is that that is where the money can be. For instance, I first thought about writing about venison recipes, but then I decided to write about personal finance (I read many blogs and watch multiple vlogs).
    Also, usually in blogging, you will not see a dime in the first few months.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      I don’t worry about things being over saturated. Everyone is unique and I always like finding new blogs to read! It took me 4 months to make my first $60 – I like to think of those first few months as hustle-equity! 🙂

  67. Hi Kristin! This post encouraged me to go ahead and start a blog. I am also very shy like you and was really scared. After reading this I decided to go for it. I used your link for Bluehost:) It’s been about 2 months now and I have to say I love every minute of blogging. I have soooo much to learn though! I’m so thankful for you and for all you do. I would love it if you could be my first person to comment(no pressure of course)!
    Thanks again for everything,
    Nicole
    http://www.lilliesandlashes.com

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Hi Nicole – CONGRATS for starting a blog, yippee! And just left you a comment on your site – it looks GREAT!

  68. Thank you for this post. I am in the very early stages of launching my blog. I have the site structure and topics selected, but am struggling with the idea of it being so “public”. Hearing about your struggles helps and I like the idea of beginning with a first name only.

    Thank you for sharing all the great information and your personal struggles along the way!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Thanks so much for reading this post and glad it could help! Good luck on your journey! 🙂

  69. Thank you for this post! I am in the beginning stages of a blog, just have a few post up. I am stuck on things like social buttons and switching over email hosting and it seems like I’ll never figure everything out! This post gives me hope when I’m on the verge of quitting. Thanks again!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      It’s ok – there’s so many things to learn as you go, but the best thing to do is just get started and publish new posts!

  70. Hey. Thi post really helped. I’m in the “research phase” I mean I have been researching and reading just about everything. I started my blog in 2017 but continued a year later then completely stopped. So I deleted all my posts and want to begin again and actually make a habit of writing more. I do agree tht having other bloggers to talk to helps alot.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Glad you are starting to write again! It’s super helpful to set a regular schedule to write – it will help you stick with it 🙂 Good luck!

  71. Thanks for this post! I am in the very early stages of starting a blog and relate to everything you mentioned in this post. Your encouragement is just what I needed to hear today!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yay, glad you can relate! Good luck with your blog!

  72. Hey Kristin!

    This post so was unbelievably helpful!
    Like you, I’m extremely shy and I’m very introverted (psst, that’s gonna be part of my blogging thing 😉 haha)

    So, seeing a majority of my fears listed out in front of me in black and white has helped immensely!

    I’m getting toward the end stages of setting up my foodie blog and I’m getting super nervous as launch approaches, but this post has really helped calm me down.

    Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

    Hopefully next time you hear from me, I’ll have my blog launched. Haha fingers crossed!

    Can’t wait to read anything else you put out there! 🙂

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yippee! I totally get the introvert thing, ha! You can totally do this – just hit publish on that blog and go for it!

  73. Thank you for the words of encouragement! This definitely gives me the confidence to keep going!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Thanks!! You got this!

  74. Yes, I was wondering if you could please help me get started on creating my blog

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Definitely do a search on my site – if you type in blogging you should see different blog posts that will help you 🙂

  75. I’ve been reading your blogs for a while now and they still motivate me. I started blogging in 2016 but then i stopped because I didn’t know what blogging was. Now that i know what it is, I’m gaining the confidence is writing and making my own blog posts. Thanks to you I have fully built up the courage to write what I love though I don’t have a website I do use wordpress to blog and with the tips I’m certain I won’t stop anytime soon?

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Thanks! Congrats on starting up again! It can be a little overwhelming but also super fun and is such a great outlet to get out your thoughts or monetize. Don’t worry, I’m always learning new things too 🙂

  76. Im so glad I found this! I have started a blog! I have been blogging for almost a year. I feel that last year when i started my blog it was really just a learning year. Im hoping to reach more people and become a bigger blogger. Im so happy I came across this! This really makes me feel better and makes me have hope! Thanks so much for this!!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      You are so welcome! Good luck!

  77. Hello Kristin,

    Thank you so much for this blog post. I actually transferred it to my best friend who gave me all and more of those “excuses” for not starting yet her own blog.

    On the other hand I’ve been blogging since 2011 and I really enjoyed it too.

    Good read!

    Anick

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yay, thanks for sharing it with your friend!

  78. Heather Lisk says:

    I am so thankful i came across your blog post tonight! I am a nurse who is totally burnt out on nursing. I have always known even in nursing school i wanted to be my own boss but i went ahead with nursing because everyone told me it was a secure career, which is partly true. However, blogging about fashion, interior design, and lifestyle is where my heart gets fire from. I have made it my New years resolution to start my very own blog! I cannot express how thankful i am to have came across this post!!!

    Much Love,
    Heather
    xoxo

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Oh YAY, glad to help! You can get started here to get your blog name for free and there’s tons of tips and steps to help you 🙂

  79. Hello! I’m new to blogging and I eventually want to turn it into a full time job! Your post gave me confidence to really go through with it! This is my first time leaving a comment on a post!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Woohoo, love it!

  80. Thank you so much for your post! I’ve been on the fence about starting s blog for a while. I think reading your post just shoved me over that fence! Thanks! -Holly

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      You got this and can totally do it!!

  81. Hello and thank you so much! This has been super beneficial for me! I have had my blog for almost a year now, and I am ready to monetize it. Because I am a full-time student as well as collegiate athlete, it seems to be an overwhelming task to monetize it and to reach my goal of being able to make 6 figures by the time I graduate. Do you have any tips and guidance on how you did it in 3 years?
    Thanks,
    Hannah

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      I wrote this post that might help – it’s how I went month to month in my 16 months or so of blogging. I spent my first year blogging in my spare time while working a full time job and side hustling, so I had very little free time. I definitely had late nights and super early mornings trying to learn as much as I can too. Good luck!!

  82. Love it girl !!! I started my blog in August of this year and I’m slowly learning how to make an income from blogging !

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Congrats, that’s SUPER exciting!

  83. I just set up my first blog, Topical Musings, yesterday and made my first blog post today! The blog is about my journey to becoming a dermatologist and all the tips and tricks I’ve learned to surviving medical school and residency. I have like 2 subscribers and I’m so excited haha! This post really inspired me even though I’m still nervous it’ll be a flop. Thank you so much!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      YAY, great job starting your blog!

  84. WOW!!! What a blessing your post was to my heart! I’m in the “research” and have been for months! But while reading you’re post, I could almost “hear” the excitement and encouragement in your writing. Thanks again for sharing!

    P.S. This is my first comment on a post EVER!!!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      YAY, glad you left a comment! It wasn’t that hard, right?! Good luck starting your blog!

  85. Awesome post! I finally started my blog last week – I felt like the time was finally right to fulfill this dream of mine that I’ve had for years. I’m still working my way through everything but Goal 1 was finally achieved today – claiming my website on Pinterest.

    Your advice is great here. I think my biggest fear was running out of things to blog about. Since this is my dream, I’ve decided to ignore that and just move forward.

    Thanks for the encouraging advice 🙂

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      It’s totally ok if you think you might run out of ideas! You never know when readers will ask you questions and it will give you new ideas on what to write about 🙂

  86. Thank you so much for writing this post. I’ve had all these fears about starting a blog for a while now and after reading this post I think I am finally ready to take the plunge and start writing again. Thank you again 🙂

  87. Oh, Kristin, I found this post at exactly the right time! I had gotten stuck in the research phase and was getting slightly overwhelmed by all the different opinions on what you should before you start a blog.

    I came across your post and it was the calming motivation I needed to JUST START ALREADY. I started my blog and couldn’t be happier now that it’s up and running!

    Thank you so much, you have great content and a wonderful outlook:)

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yippee!! Good luck!

  88. Hi Kristen, this post gives me hope and I’m glad I found it.

    I have been blogging for a short while and it hasn’t been so easy getting traffic.

    I hops things pick up soon.

  89. I’m trying to launch my blog this week and am struggling so much with the fear! Everything seems so overwhelming!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Don’t worry, it gets easier 🙂 Just be patient and show yourself grace 🙂

  90. This post will turn out to be the reason I have finally kick-started working on my blog. Thanks babe. Thank you so much. ❤️

  91. Hi Kristin, this post is everything that has been going through my mind while contemplating starting a blog. It’s exactly what I’ve needed to read to just make the leap. I’ve Had tons of ideas that I’ve been compiling together and the blog name par is hanging me up. I know I need to just pick something and get started. I do have a question, where does the majority of your revenue come from? I’m not necessarily interested in creating or selling my own products at this time, what realistically can a beginner expect to make with ads or affiliate marketing? I know that answer probably depends on so many factors…I have a 6 month old and 4 year old and also work so I would probably start this as a part time venture….would love some insights, even if you can direct me to any of your posts that address my questions. Thanks! Btw, my name is Kristen too, with an E! Tha

  92. Frederica Shih says:

    Congratulations on your growth! I’m in a similar boat where I work full time and want to get into blogging. I have a plan to set everything up, but never seem to have time to execute those steps. So I really connected with your sections talking about time management

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Time management can be so tricky – it’s something I’m always working on 🙂

  93. I am so happy i found tbis post! I have been blogging for about 8 months and going to bw honest it hasn’t been the best. I think the hardest part foe me is trying to find readers. Im a craft and mommy blogger but this blog post really make me happy!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yay, glad you found my post!

  94. Finally, A blog that completely understand the trials and fears I feel. You hit all the points that I’m going through. I’ve been researching starting a blog for months and still have not pushed the button but I feel very inspired after your post. Thank you so very much.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yay, glad I could help. Good luck!!

  95. This is great info! I have taken the plunge and started my lifestyle, up cycled furniture how to blog at davisroad.com. It is a really rough blog, but I have learned a few things but have a long way to go – and have not made any money yet….but I know the day is coming. I keep plugging away learning new things. Thanks for sharing!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Congrats on starting your blog. We all start off as beginners and there’s so much to learn – good luck!

  96. Thank you, Kristin for all of the details you put in to this post. I’ve read so many articles and posts today that they were starting to all mix together but this post is just what I needed! I started my blog several days ago but you have given me more confidence to push forward! Congratulations on all of your success so far!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yay, congrats on starting your blog!!

  97. I loved this post kristin, It’s motivate me to become full time blogger. Now I am trying to make a blogging business with amazon affiliate. Have you experience with that? The problem that I am so scared was SEO and traffic. I don’t master about SEO, how do you handle this problem? could you share with us?

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Hi! I’m an Amazon affiliate and do earn a small amount each month, but it is not one of my top affiliate sources. If you want to focus on affiliate income, I would check out this course on affiliate marketing. In regards to SEO, that definitely takes time to learn and master. I use the Yoast SEO plugin (it’s free) on my site to make sure my posts rank well on Google!

  98. Thank you for your post! Everything you described fits me to a T. I even hesitated making this comment! I just started my blog this week and am figuring it out as I go (meganstroud.com). I’m slightly confused as to how much content I will need to have published before being accepted by Google AdSense. Do you have any guidelines for that?

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Thanks!! Don’t be scared to comment, and I think this blog post has helped a lot of people make their first comment, so you’re not alone 🙂 I think I was accepted into Google AdSense after I had around 15-20 blog posts. I got accepted the first time I applied. If you apply and don’t get accepted, it could be because you don’t have enough blog content. Just reapply again after you write a few more blog posts and should be fine. It’s not a big deal if you don’t get in the first time!

  99. Clarrisa Lee says:

    Hi! I know this post is from a while ago, but thank you so much! I’m very inspired by your honesty and positivity! Plus you seem down to earth and not all salesy. Love your style!! I’m about to start my blog- maybe even tonight! I’ll let you know when I do, and thanks for the confidence boost. I’m doing all of those things that are holding me back- and now- I think I’m ready to get going!!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yay!! I did recently update this post, but the message can be for anyone at anytime 🙂 Good luck!!

  100. Awesome post! It took me a while to learn that it’s not about getting your blog “perfect” the first time, but about actually taking action and learning along the way. I just launched my blog 3 months ago Andy it’s a struggle, but I learned so much in those 3 months that I would never have learned simply doing “research”.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      It’s so true! Sometimes you just have to dive in and get started 🙂

  101. “Stop researching and just start a blog. You could seriously do research forever.” Yep … that’s me! After YEARS of thinking about it, I just launched my blog yesterday. 🙂

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Woohoo, way to go!

  102. Wow! Kristin you are an inspiration! I am so nervous about starting a blog because I’m afraid of failing, but your encouraging words are getting me pumped! Thanks so much.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Thanks Callie! I know it can be totally scary, but you can do this!

  103. Really great post. It answers the majority of my questions. When I started reading this, I actually opened up a word document and started taking notes. 🙂

  104. Hi Kristin,
    I actually have some fans on a Facebook page related to this stuff. I´ll share your post with them and see what they have to say. I´m sure they´ll love it though.

  105. Thank you so much for your encouraging post! I had been thinking about starting a blog for a long time and your post inspired me to just go for it and do it!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      YESSSSS!!! That’s so fantastic!

  106. You’ve just nailed it Kristin! This post motivated me. Like I have been wanting to do this a long time but till now I haven’t…with so many reasons. Just what you have stated and all. Esp. shyness and that someone already been doing it. I have read a lot of Blogs and I haven’t commented on any. This is the first time. And I just have to commend you on that. wish me luck on starting my blog.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      GOOD LUCK starting your blog! It’s ok to be nervous – it just means that you really, really care about what you are doing and it has meaning. You got this!!

  107. I started my own blog a week ago and this post has give me more confidence and hope! I was really worried no one would read it too lol There I look forward to reading more from your blog, there are so many useful tips. Do you have any suggestions on where to “meet” other bloggers who are just starting out?

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      WOOHOOO! Congrats! I would look into other blogs that you read – if they seem similar in experience to you, that can be a great way to reach out and say ‘hi!’ Everyone is pretty friendly, so don’t be shy 🙂

  108. Okay. OKAY, you’ve talked me into it! I’m going to do this. I’ll square my shoulders, take a deep breath, furrow my brow in a very Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson-esque fashion and START A DANG BLOG.

    Whew! Okay, I said (typed) it, so now I really have to.. *I’m not panicking, who said anything about panicking, is it getting hot in here or what..*

    Thanks for being so supportive in making it possible for someone like myself to step out of my comfort zone and follow a wayward dream. I only hope that I can be as confident and organized as you in my own endeavors.

    Cheers!

    Kiah Rae

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      You can totally do this Kiah!! It is scary in the beginning, but you are going to feel so good about yourself for taking the leap. Good luck!!

  109. Kristin,
    I think I dreamed this post into being haha…this is just what I needed to read right now. I’m gearing up to starting my blog and worrying about everything other than just actually doing it. Will it be good? Will people read it? Can I make money from it? The list goes on…thanks so much for your post and I look forward to reading more from you!

  110. I was searching about this kind of article lately and looking for some inspirations to make me more motivated to do my blog. As a newbie blogger I have tons of fears. Thanks for sharing this beautiful information Kristin! You made me more motivated to push and try more in my new blog.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      You’re so nice, thanks!!

  111. Oh wow Kristin! You hit all my feelings. I have a blog domain and hosting and have been working the past week on writing some articles but nothing published yet. I have had this feeling that I need a bunch of articles written before I can publish and launch. I also have felt so inadequate with knowing nothing about seo, affiliates and such. My dream is to be a full time blogger and work from home! Summers suck as a single working mom. I can’t wait to realize my dream! I am going to get my articles up and my blog ready to publish!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yes, do it! Just hit publish and keep going!

  112. This is probably one of the top posts I’ve read about starting a blog. You are very insightful and encouraging. I still haven’t officially launched my blog. I’m still trying to figure out all the technical stuff (plugins, etc.) Your dream is the same as mine. I want to make enough money to quit my day job. I also have a dream of moving to my families country house so I really need my first dream to become a reality. Thank you so much for your post. My reading all the comments, you really inspired a lot of people, including me. I would like to ask you who some of your favorite bloggers are. If you don’t want to post their names, I completely understand. Anyway, thanks again for the post. Take care.

  113. You are so nice, encouraging, motivating and helpful! I feel really much closer to starting my own blog after I have read your post!

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Oh yay! Good luck!

  114. Thank you for this post! I’ve been thinking about blogging for YEARS! I love to write and be creative, but I have just been too afraid to commit. Reading posts like this are really what encouraged me to finally take the plunge. I launched my very first blog yesterday and I couldn’t be more excited!

  115. I would love to get out of this pinball game I’m in. I’ve been retired from public school teaching for 2 years now and still haven’t had any consistency. Right now the distraction is the unwed teen daughter with son living with us. It’s great and he’s adorable….major distraction.
    Please any comments for a target are welcomed.

  116. Natasha R. says:

    OMG! As I read through your blog posts, especially this one, I see myself so much!!! Especially, when you mentioned that your goal was always to leave the day job and work for yourself! This is what I’ve ALWAYS wanted! Thank you for this post and your awesome blog!! This is the inspiration/ motivation I needed to snap out of it and GO GO GO! I wish you the BEST of luck and look forward to continuing reading your blog! 🙂 <3

  117. Great post, Kristin!

    I am starting a blog myself and this helped me to simply go for it! I think that the fear of starting is very present in any individuals, but blogging has so many benefits, that it’s a shame, that many people don’t try it because of their fears. This is what I will try to communicate on my blog aswell and I thank you for writing about this topic, because not many people are!

    All the best,
    Damjan

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Yippee, so glad you decided to go for it!! Congrats!

  118. Thank you for this post. I love your positive, honest and humble voice on starting a blog. I’ve been doing all of the “prep work” you mention; planning posts, researching, making lists, etc., but just haven’t taken the plunge. I’m super excited, but after reading your post, I realize that I’m scared to get started. Thank you for offering the courage and enthusiasm to jump in!

  119. Wow. A million thank you’s for writing taking the time to write this post. I’m so scared to fail and look like a failure in front of everyone. I’m a stay at home mom and I just want to make a side income. I have a few ideas of what to write about, but not sure how much I can get out of those few ideas. I just know I want to try, and your post pushed me forward. So, thank you. 🙂

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Thanks Amy! Don’t worry – you can start your blog using a fake name or being an anonymous blogger if that makes you more comfortable. You also don’t have to tell anyone either – it’s your thing and you can keep it private if it makes you not stress!

  120. Great article. I started my blog in January 2017 with some of the fears you speak of. Question… when and how did you start earning at the beginning? The research I have done requires you to have a solid following before being able to do affiliate sales. How did you get your readership to increase?

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      You can read all my income reports here. I documented each month and you’ll be able to see how much I made, my strategies, etc.!

  121. Thank you for this post! This describes my feelings to a T. I think the biggest thing holding me back is knowing what to write in the first few posts. I would really like to start a blog but every time I sit down to start, I get writer’s block. How did you decide what to write about first?

  122. Thank you! You pretty much addressed every thought in my head about starting my blog, as my JOB! I’m leaving my teaching job at the end of this school year and decided a few months ago I wanted to become a full-time blogger, but have been dragging my feet on starting because of the “research” I’m putting in, and the fear that I don’t have a new or fresh idea. This post is definitely a confidence builder!

  123. This was a great read! It’s nice to know I’m not alone when it comes to having reservations about starting a blog. I just recently started mine even though I had been considering it for while. I’m also very introverted, so the thought of opening myself up in my blog was scary.

    But I’m glad that I was finally able to push myself to jump into blogging. I’m learning new things about it everyday and I love it!

  124. Genevieve says:

    Hi Susan, this is the very first time I have ever responded to a blog post but I was on Pinterest ( I totally live on it) and saw this post. Everything you have said I am going through it’s amazing. I have started a blog but have not “gone live” as it were. I’m just too nervous for all the reasons you and many of your other respondents have mentioned. All I do is research and read about starting a blog. Lol. But I’m going to take my five posts and just publish like you have suggested. Thank you for the push I so needed.

  125. Kristin, I just decided to look into blogging this week. All the emotions and fears are there. Finding your article and seeing all these wonderful women going through the same doubts, helps me to think I could do this too! As soon as I have a name I can get going! (Hah!) Thanks for the encouragement.

    1. Kristin Larsen says:

      Hi Sue, I’m so glad you found this post. It’s crazy we are all so worried about the same things! Hopefully this post helped you realize you are not alone! Good luck with starting your blog and picking out a name 🙂

  126. Thanks for sharing this. I just started with my blog, still not consistent enough with my time, which I have to start doing. I’m still shy and dont want to share my post on facebook because I’m shy if my friends read it. I’m more comfortable if people who dont know me read it. Weird right? lol.
    This encourages me to be more serious with my blog.. Thank you so much!

  127. Your enthusiasm is contagious! Thank you for this amazing post. I feel more inspired than ever to finally make the first step in starting my blog… and less intimidated too!

  128. Hi Kristin….I’m in that process and teetering on whether or not I really want to start a blog. I do have a full time job and have worked multiple jobs before and I’m done with that. But like most people I could use a side hustle and I’m not implying that what you do is just a side hustle, just using the most current term. Anyway what I’d like to know is where do I join these blogging communities. I’d like to hear more so point me in the right direction. And thanks for your post, does make me think more.

  129. Thanks for the post! I’m contemplating/planning to start a blog soon, so this is very encouraging to read. My main concern is what I want to blog about–I’m leaning strongly towards cute animals, maybe with a focus on rescues/welfare, because lets face it: you can never have too many cute animals.

    The only things I’m waiting for right now are: checking on Bluehost’s pricing plans (if they charge monthly or I have to buy several months at a time), and getting a planner for my posts (yes, I could do it on my computer, but in my experience I’ll have more luck with a physical planner).

    1. Hi! I started with the 1 year plan for Bluehost, and then upgraded to the 3 year plan once I decided I was really serious about blogging. I think your niche topic is GREAT! You can definitely write about a few different things!

  130. This’s crazy! I have been searching for months about blogging, about a name for my blog, what to talk about, how the picture should look like, what language I should write as I can speak Portuguese and English and lots of things and this post was the best for sure.
    I was very afraid of creating a blog that no ones wants to read, but you made me realize that this doesn’t matter. We just have to start and as you say “It is a learning process”. By the way, this is the first time I leave a comment, I’m too shy. I’ll get used to it. Thanks a lot for your post. I’m sure it encouraged many people, like me, to go for it.

    1. I’m shy too! It’s definitely tricky to make that leap between the ‘research phase’ and actually putting things into motion. It’s just baby steps. We all start off not knowing how to do anything 🙂 Trust me, once you start working on your first blog post and hit publish, you are going to feel AMAZING!

  131. I just launched today! Omg it was such a great feeling. I spent this whole day, literally, trying to find the perfect layout, header image, and color complimentary. After I got the finished look, I text my mom and told her, “My blog is perfect! Can you go look and tell me what you think?” She’s so proud of me. So is my boyfriend. He says because I’ve been researching for the past couple of weeks and all day today, he feels my blog may be a great success. I really hope so. I was so scared to start my blog because of the exact reasons you listed above. One night, I said it’s now or never. I spent my last $60 and bought my domain, free name and started from there. My heart still has flutters. I can’t wait to come home from work tomorrow just to post a new blog. I’ve never been so excited (other than the birth of my daughter). You have a new subscriber and I can’t wait to follow along with your journey!!

    1. Thanks so much Tia! The cost to start a blog is soooo cheap compared to starting any other business, especially when you focus on making your blog a business, not just a hobby. I am SO excited for you – it’s really the best thing ever to be able to write what you want and have your own online space! GOOD LUCK – you can totally do this!

  132. This post crossed my feed at the perfect time! You pretty much nailed everything I’ve been feeling. I launched my blog a few days ago, scared out of my mind! My friends have been very supportive so I plan to keep posting and give this blogging a good effort. Thanks for the encouraging words!
    — Kimberly

    1. You got this! It is a little scary in the beginning, but it gets better! You more you spend on it, the more fun it becomes!

    2. Right?! Why do we all get like this?! We are way too harsh on ourselves. I am SO GLAD you decided to go for it!

  133. Great advice Kristen!
    I’ve been blogging for a while now… I’m finally starting to see increase in traffic. I look forward to the day I can do it full time!
    Thanks again!

  134. Absolutely loved reading this! Felt like you were in my head haha I bounced the idea of starting a blog for a yr or so now. I’m so glad I finally jumped in and just did it! Next, the fear of people I know finding out about it… it wasn’t until one of my best friend’s shared it on my Facebook page that I couldn’t keep it a secret lol and she overcame the hurdle for me. (I needed that). I’m still not at the point of making money yet, but I haven’t put much time into monetizing yet. I am definitely going to dig a lot more into your blog for help with that 😀 Thanks for the great post!!!

  135. Stephanie says:

    I am doing it!!! You have gave me the push I needed.Its like you are talking about me, all the fears and lack of confidence, the questions and really not knowing anything about blogging is all feelings and thoughts Iv’e had myself . I now feel like I can do it and should just do it .What have I got to lose and after reading your blog I dont want to look back few years from now and say I wish I would have tried , I woukd much rather say I tried blogging and it wasn’t for me then say that I didnt try at all .I hope I am saying so glad I did this I am a sucess and I am encouraging people like you are now. thankyou, thankyou thankyou so much you have given me the confidence I needed to just quit researching it to death and go for it .

  136. I totally agree with everything you’ve written in this post! Of course agreeing is one thing… overcoming doubts can be so hard. I’m a perfectionist and it’s a great obstacle when I want to achieve something in the field I am passionate about but not an expert yet. I am an English teacher in Poland and my two passions are teaching and sewing, diy projects,etc. As online courses are not popular in my country I would like to start a blog on sewing and have it available in two languages, Polish and English. I am not sure if it’s a good idea but after reading your post I know that at least I will be happy combining my two passions and if I find anyone who is interested in the same thing that will only motivate me more to continue writing! Thank you so much, you inspired me to overcome doubts!

    1. Hi Eunika! I read a lot of blogs that are in a different language and I just hit the translate button (?) when asked – I think your blog idea sounds great 🙂 I LOVE creative blogs especially sewing and I think there are so many other people interested in reading sewing blogs as well. You never know, as your blog grows maybe a course or product would be something you decide to create in the future 🙂 . GOOD LUCK!

  137. Great post! I originally started my blogging journey as we were dealing with infertility, once we became the parents of twins it transformed to a mommy blog/life blog. Still working on my niche but this post was insightful and encouraged me to go for it. Thanks!

  138. Anna-Marie says:

    Hi Kristin! It feels like you wrote this post about me or specifically for me! I’ve got the doubts, the insecurities, the shyness too. But I’ve also got the desire, the need, and vision. I’m on the verge of starting the blog I have been dreaming about for three years now. Unfortunately life gets in the way sometimes and dumps a whole lot of junk on your plate. I am now feeling ready although on the outside I am far from it. I just keep thinking, “Just do it already!”. Thanks for the nudging 😀

  139. This definitely has to be the most encouraging blog post I have read, regarding getting over the fear of starting my own blog. THANKYOU. Seriously, incredibly effective. This kind of hardcore positivity is what I was looking for! Lol.

    Regards,
    Lauren

  140. Hi Kristin!
    Well, I think I’m going to do it! I’m just doing it! I’ve thought & thought about starting my own blog. I’ve researched the…stuffing ? out of it! And quite honestly, I still don’t get it! Lol! I’m more of a hands on learner. Am I nervous? If I told you that I might need a bucket next to me when I’m ready to press PUBLISH, would that answer the question? Haa! But as a hands on learner, I’ve just got to jump into it!
    I initially found & read your post on Pinterest about 6-7 months ago. I loved it! I saved it. I saved others as well. But it was yours that kept coming back to me. I read it again tonite. You TOTALLY INSPIRE me! Just as you did 6 months ago. I love your “Go for it”, “Don’t feel like you have to over think it”, and “Don’t be scared” advice!! You seem to be so down to earth, honest, and positive. These qualities make it easy for me to feel confident in finally taking the plunge! And I Thank You for it! Wish me luck! 🙂
    Sincerely,
    Debbie

    1. Hi Debbie! You can totally start a blog! You just have to get out of the research phase and dive in. When you’re first starting out, it will be a lot of learning. I’m still working on ways to make my blog better, so it’s an ongoing process 🙂 Don’t stress it – I started this blog with 1 published post and learned as I went. No one will judge you and the online community is the best! Good luck, you got this!!

  141. Thank you for this post! I know I’m a little late in reading it but it came to me at the exact time I needed to read it! I have some of the same emotions you described but am in a different situation….I’m in my early 50s!!!! I am currently an elementary teacher…. I love the actual art and creativity of teaching. I think that’s why I gravitated to it sooooo many years ago. Unfortunately, most of the creativity has been ripped away from teaching due to State laws, District directives, etc. I am a creative person….I need it in my life like I need air to breath. I’ve been researching and reading blogs for quite a while now and have seriously considered starting one. Writing has always been a creative outlet for me and I enjoy the flow of words that create a beautiful story. My hang up?? Does anyone really want to read what a fifty something has to say?? But after reading your post, I’m beginning to think none of that matters. I’m beginning to think that even if no big life changes come from me writing, ( like leaving my job to write full time!!!!) maybe the changes will all be within me!! And maybe that’s just enough to get me to take that first big leap…so thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

    1. I would not worry about your age and blogging at all. I get that question a lot and it really doesn’t matter. No one has to know your age or really anything about you! When I first started this blog, I did not have any pictures of myself or use my last name. You can give out as much or as little info as you want 🙂

    2. Hi Andrea – I just read this in 2018 and I am a teacher in my 60s and planning a blog. Did you start one yet? If so, let me know and I will certainly read it! I, too, have seen the changes in teaching change my day from fun and creative to routine and boring. Hope you are blogging!

  142. Wow, this is a fantastic post. Thank you for sharing. It’s so genuine and hit all points that I have been feeling. I have wanted to start a blog for a while and haven’t done anything but read how to start a blog posts. 🙂 Thank you. I think I will take the dive and get started.

    1. Awesome! I get where you are coming from – it’s hard to take that first step!

  143. It had taken me forever to launch my blog due to exactly what you’re talking about. I felt like I was exposing my private life, but I still had so much to say!
    Currently I have a free wordpress blog but really want to get own domain via bluehost. Is it possible to still use the discount and keep my blog?

  144. oh my gosh, I’m so happy I found this post! I’ve tried to do blogs in the past, but just kept “nit picking” to make it perfect. Finally, I am just writing about what I’m passionate about, and letting my audience come to me! I just uploaded my first posts today, and surprisingly have gotten great feedback from all of my friends and family! I’m so excited to continue doing this, thank you for the pep talk!!

  145. Thank you for an incredible blog post.

    I’m in the process or trying to start my own blog. I know many things but when I am going plan out to start a blog I start to get scared that people will laugh at me because I might say the wrong thing or that might writing is not good enough. 🙁

    I have all these thoughts in my head but when it come to action they all stay reserved.

    1. No one will laugh at you! If you are worried about not having support, try to reach out to fellow bloggers that you like – the blogging community is really friendly 🙂

  146. Kristen,

    This post is really inspiring. It pretty much hit all of my fears of starting a blog. I am still in the research stage but I’m pretty sure I’m just procrastinating 🙂 I will definitely start soon.
    Thank you for this post.

    1. Ha! It’s hard to know when to stop researching – I felt like I was in research mode forever before just diving in and doing it!

  147. Thank you…. thank you…. thank you! I have been stalling for the past year in creating my own blog. Yes, I have had a few in the past but they just didn’t feel right. I felt like I was missing something big in them and I was… the thing missing was me! My voice, my own personal creative juices… instead I was writing in a style that was like nearly everyone else and I felt terrible! Yet, this year I have been wanting to let myself be heard, tell my story, help others and, hopefully, make a living in the process. I have been fearful of showing up as my authentic self and failing miserably in the process… you see, I’m not exactly a young spring chicken, so I tend to look at that as a set back already in an online community of so much young talent! But you are right in so much of what you have said and for that I am thankful I came across your post at this point in time.

  148. I absolutely loved this post! I recently started a blog this month and have been wanting to for awhile. I am still trying to find my voice and exactly what topics i want to stick with. I aspire to be like you, and be able to quite my job within the next year. I love to write and share my stories with the world. I also just signed up for Google Adsense (haven’t heard back yet) and Amazon Affiliates.

    Thank you for sharing your success story! i plan to follow your blog now because of how honest you are 🙂

  149. Hi, Kristen=) Yes,you are right. I crossed all this stages=) My BIGGEST problem is that I’m not native English speaker. I mean i can speak , but it difficult to write for me in English…this is my biggest trouble-i have a lot information to share,but i just don’t manage to express in in foreign language…and this is really one of the troubles =)
    My journey from the idea to the result took me 2 years….dozen of books, blogs, analytics, experiences in between….

  150. This post is so incredibly inspiring! I have been wanting to start a blog for over a year now but I just haven’t gotten up the courage to do it! You honestly touched on every hang up I’ve had about becoming a blogger. I’ve been dreaming about being a full time blogger but have been so intimidated by how much I have to learn. I think I’m going to finally get started now! But thank you so much for your post and being so open about your story. It’s all truly an inspiration!

    1. Thanks Lacey! Starting can be so hard – but once you get going, everything falls into place and it gets a lot easier!

  151. Thanks so much for this post! I have been teetering on the edge of starting a blog of my own and keep talking myself out of it. You addressed every fear and excuse I have. Maybe I’ll get a one going after all 🙂

    1. The hardest part for me was starting! You can totally do it!!

  152. LOVE this post Kristin!! Thanks you for sharing your process and more importantly your heart. I can’t wait to finally finish my website!!

    1. Thanks Janene! You are going to do GREAT with your site – make sure you come back and share the name of it 🙂

  153. Thanks so much for the information!! I have been looking for something to bring in a little extra and would love to share the information I do have about what my kids are into. I am excited to read all your posts!!

  154. Kristin,
    I want to start by saying, you know how to speak to my soul through your writing. Not too long ago, I received an email from you, encouraging those of us who are still testing the waters to dive in. You were right!!!! (In more ways than one!)
    So I bit the bullet and dove head first. While I’m still nervous and intimidated, once a week you light a fire under my seat by reminding me of my potential and offering encouragement toward progress.
    I can’t say thank you enough. Truly. THANK YOU!!!
    You are a gem and I am grateful for stumbling upon your blog in January.
    Your effort is appreciated!!!

    1. Oh my gosh, let’s be best friends!! I had the exact same feels you had about whether or not to start a blog. I was terrified to hit publish and thought I would be judged or something, when in reality like no one read my blog for the first month, ha! Truth is, everyone is super nice and helpful in the blogging community – it’s like the least judging place ever. CONGRATS for starting a blog and going for it!!

  155. WOW! You have hit all of my hang-ups, fears, and nail biting in one post! I’ve been writing “post” in my personal online journal in preparation to begin blogging but have neglected to start for all the reasons you mentioned.

    I finally started playing around with the WIX website builder in an effort to get started but with very little technological know how I’ve stalled and talked myself in and out of it several times. Just getting the website built feels so overwhelming and even the process of monetizing/social media sounds scary.

    But its good to know I’m not alone in my struggles. Thanks for the encouragement!

    1. It’s always hard in the beginning. Very few people have any idea what they are doing 🙂 Just give yourself time and don’t be too hard on yourself. You can totally do this!

  156. OMG AWSOME POST!! I began to think I was the only one that was feeling some of these things. I put so much time in setting up my blog and must of changed the design a 100 times. Like you I don’t have much money to put into someone helping me with the design so I did it myself.
    I just launched about a month ago and am still working on my Pinterest pages and haven’t even started my Facebook page (glad to know I am not the only one to set it up right away.) I read a email you sent out telling us to just launch your blog already. That was the push I needed, thanks!
    Your post was just what I needed to not get discouraged and keep plugging away.
    I wanted to say of all the Blogs I follow you always respond quickly, that goes a long way in my book!
    Congratulations on all of your success!
    Sorry for such a long comment 🙂

    1. Awesome! Ha, it took me like a year to get my Facebook page going 🙂 My twitter is automated, which saves me a ton of time! It’s tough trying to figure it all out, especially when you are new and just starting out. I still struggle with trying to get it all done!

  157. Kristin,
    Thank you! Super encouraging post that sheds light on the blog road ahead. I’m a couple months into blogging but seeing little traffic, still working out the social media links and will probably go through a metamorphosis not in Theme but in branding / font style. Right now it’s just the content/pictures. And I’ll take your good advice about treating the blog like a job – to schedule in the time for working on building it up with all the bells and whistles and what-nots. That’s what is missing most at the moment for me- a consistent schedule (summer vacation and back-to-school remix aside). Look forward to reading more from you and going through your Pinterest Presence course 🙂

  158. Thank you!

    I thought I was the only one going through the emotional journey and process of blogging. I’ve gone up and down JUST like you described and your post has definitely given me confidence. This post should be a downloadable pdf or something. I’m printing this out right now to keep in my blogging binder! If you can’t tell, I’m super pumped and ready to grow out of my comfort zone. I’m tempted to type in ALL CAPS and exclamation points but I don’t want to come off crazy!

    lol

    1. Ha, I use a lot of exclamation points in my emails and texts!! Blogging is challenging, but I don’t know any better payoff doing something else. It’s crazy to me how much a blogger can make when it comes to income if they just stick with it!

  159. Oh my goodness, thanks so much for sharing. I posted my second blog post last night. I’m still trying to figure out how to embed pins, relearn a little bit of coding, etc, not to mention find my “signature” in design, all that good stuff. But it’s more important for me to share my story, the little details will fall into place. How long did you spend on your blog at first? I’m working full time, and single mom of three, but I’m trying to make time for at least 2 hours a night.

    Thanks again! I’m excited!!!

    1. Hey Liz! Ok, when I started out I pretty much spent all my free time working on my blog. This was usually super early in the AM or late at night due to having a FT job and commuting. It was hard, lol. It’s hard to give an average amount of hours, but easily 2-3 hours a DAY for the first several months 🙂 But I was also slow, figured everything out on my own (because I couldn’t afford to outsource) and wasted a lot of time doing things that really didn’t matter. To put it in perspective, I probably averaged 4 hours a WEEK all summer working on my blog 😉 My site pretty much went into autopilot and handled itself, which is crazy. So the hard work in the beginning totally pays off down the road!

  160. Kristen, thank you for sharing this. I’m going to pin/share it! As you know, I remember your very first income reports and reached out to you and asked HOW you did it. I’ve been watching your journey and plugging away at mine too. You’ve been a huge help to me and I know this post will help others!

    Great info!

    1. Thanks girl 🙂 Can you believe we’ve been chugging along with this blogging thing?! Time is going so fast!

  161. This was such a good post! I started my blog about 5 months ago, and haven’t seen very much traffic yet. Some days I feel discouraged and frustrated. But reading this post gave me the encouragement I needed! Thank you!

    1. Hey Cherryl! As long as you have a good amount of content, then focus on social media to drive traffic. When I started out, most of my traffic came from Twitter. Once I discovered Pinterest, that changed everything. If you have time, I wrote this post about how I get a lot of traffic from Pinterest without very many followers!

  162. Whew! You write so “real” and it was a relief to hear you had very few people reading at the start. Thanks for sharing and for the tips.

    1. Thanks! Oh yeah, the page views were low for a few months, which was fine. I was still figuring it all out, so it’s probably best not that many people saw my first few posts 🙂

      1. Hey Kristin

        Your blog was very inspiring. I a new blogger myself and going through it all… Please take a look at my blog http://www.lensofmysoul.com and let me know what you think. Any help would be much appreciated.

  163. Wow….. I share SO much in common with you….. So, I have a blog. It’s not launched yet, I keep nit picking at it, I don’t have any posts yet. I have a list of 15 posts I want to write up but haven’t because I’ve been researching like a mad woman. I just made a Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook….. And, I’m so scared to finally dive head first because I’m afraid nobody will be interested in what I have to say.

    This beauty of a post has really inspired me to get a move on and just do it. I can’t express how much appreciation I have for you and this post, LOL! THANK YOU!

    1. It’s pretty impossible to nail everything at the start. I didn’t even start a FB page until a few months ago because it wasn’t a priority for me (it still isn’t, ha!) I would definitely focus on content first and then worry about social media later. You want to make sure you have enough content to keep your readers sticking around. I literally had 1 post when I published my blog lol!

      1. Hi Kristin! Love your energy and your story… This is such a special community of individuals, and I am only a few days into it! I am looking forward to much, much more!

      2. Wow. Just wow. This is me to a ‘T’. The blog is up and running with about 7 posts, as is Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest (I’m holding off on instagram and a few of the others until I get things going). It’s been about a month and a half now, but for the past two weeks or so I’ve been doing “research” and pinning. I haven’t been posting. I’ve done some half-assed brain-storming, but nothing worth putting on the blog…yet.

        This was a great kick in the butt! I’ve found a few bloggers that have given good advice, but this is by far the BEST! Thank you for giving me just what I needed to get moving again.

        Being a SAHM of 5 by myself during the week doesn’t leave for a lot of time. You made me realize I need to not only plan the days, but the hours too. Something I have never been too good at, but maybe this is how I can make that happen.

        Thank you so much!

      3. That’s what I did, then thought who is going to read this. Not to mention true my didn’t know I was doing technical ly. I still not sure. Thanks for the boost I needed.

      4. I’ve been going crazy all over Pinterest and a lot of other sites researching on starting a blog. You literally said everything I’m going through now. The thing is that I’m from Trinidad and blogging is something that is not really common. I feel as though I wouldn’t be successful and also I feel as if I wouldn’t be able to write about stuff that people will want to read. But… after reading this it made me feel so hopeful. Thanks again

        1. Hi Susan! Don’t worry too much about what others might want. I would start writing about what you are interested in and the followers will find come!

        2. Cheryl Dutchak says:

          i believe we all have something to contribute to society not matter where you live or how inadequate you feel. You are unique as is your lifes story and your individual set of interests. Go for it, someone may need your voice to brighten their day..

    2. I think you and I are on the same boat! Maybe a few differences. But it’s nice to know someone out there feels a similar rush of emotions and pre-aunching jitters.
      I have content but can’t get up enough nerve to hit publish. I think I have a fear of ridicule that has been intimidating me and I just need to leap from the nest so I can fly or fall already. Thank you for “keeping it real.”

    3. Mackenzie, it’s like you were sitting inside my head when you wrote your comment! I have my blog all ready to go but haven’t launched it yet either for all the same reasons!

      Kristin, thank you so much for such an awesome post! I’m ready, I’m jumping around all excited and I’m just gonna do it! Thanks for all the information and most of all the encouragement and motivation!

    4. Well, I just can’t seem to get out of the pinball game I’m trapped in. I am retired from public school 2 years now still haven’t had any consistency with my blog. It doesn’t help that my unmarried teenage daughter blessed us with a healthy grandson. They live with us. Distraction city. Any feedback is welcomed. Thanks

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *