Hello, friends! Happy Thursday! How is your week going so far? Mine’s been pretty low-key, which is nice.
So let’s talk about today’s Thinking Out Loud post. This is not the post I had planned for today. I actually wrote an entire post, and when I got to the conclusion I realized it wasn’t authentic to my life right now. It was a good topic, rated well in a keyword planner, and was a topic that I’d been contemplating for a while, but since it didn’t fit with me at this exact time, I saved it as a draft to post at some other random date. I felt really icky about posting content that would have been more for numbers than to provide readers with a genuine thought or look into my life.
(Side note: I actually had ANOTHER post that I was going to write just now to replace the first post, but then this topic just started to come from my brain, so it’s what you’re getting. Blogging authentically, people. Just go with it.)
I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately. As I start to really focus on growing my blog, I’m learning a lot about what works, about what makes me happy, and what readers enjoy. I’ve already learned so much since January (when I really started to hustle and set goals for the year) about SEO, social media, layouts, and analytics and I’ve seen so much growth in a short time from all of this. But I have to say, the number one lesson I’ve learned so far is that blogging authentically is worth more in the than all of the expensive how-to books, courses, and videos combined.
When I first started this blog (after I first started it, and then abandoned it) I thought I wanted it to be about living an active lifestyle as a mom. Those are the kind of blogs I read, the ones I’ve always read because they interest me and hold my attention. And while, yes, I do value that and I hope to raise my boys in an active household, I quickly learned that it is not my passion. It’s not authentic to my life. Writing about that felt unnatural, forced, and draining. And then when I got pregnant again and the teeniest bit of physical exertion sent me to the bathroom dry heaving, it was almost a relief.
Eventually, I started writing posts that spoke to me. Some of my favorite posts have been about being a mom and the struggles that come with it. I randomly decided to do a post on a new hobby of mine, and it’s become my most popular post in the month of January and February (and it was written end of January!). Before, I would have hesitated to post it because arts and crafts didn’t go with the brand I wanted to fit into. Neither did cleaning tips, but the one’s I’ve shared recently have gotten a lot of traffic and love.
Weirdly enough, the post that gets the most Google searches is a super random on I posted forever ago about how to take apart and clean the high chair we have. It was one of those random posts I did just because I couldn’t find one online, so I thought it would be helpful to someone else. There was no other motive, I didn’t over think what I thought people would like, or what would do well. I just posted it and genuinely forgot about it. But because I was blogging authentically, I was helping people by finding a solution for them. And since I’ve realized this and started blogging from my heart and about things I enjoy, my blog has flourished.
So I guess what I’m trying to say, is that blogging authentically is so incredibly important. Trying to fit your blog into a hole that it isn’t meant to fit into is a waste of your time and a waste of your readers time. The sooner a blogger learns this lesson, the sooner they will see growth, connections, and conversation on their site.
What are some blogging lessons that took you a while to learn? Any advice to pass on? Leave it in the comments!
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Gretchen | Gretchruns says
I totally agree with this! There are some topics that don’t really fit in with the typical Healthy Living Blog/Running blogger format that I’ve been scared to share, but at the end of the day it’s my blog and I should write about things that make me happy, right? I don’t want to pigeon hole myself into one area or become the same as every blog out there (which is why I started it in the first place!) Great post Morgan!
Ashley says
This is SO true! I spent a lot of time writing for others and it drove me crazy. I ultimately ended up hating what I wrote and loathing what I was doing every day. It’s so much nicer to enjoy what I write because it’s all me now!
Sarah @ BucketListTummy says
When I saw your post title, I was totes interested in reading this. Great words of advice! Why try to fit into a shape/mold we don’t fit? Readers want authenticity.
Amanda @ .running with spoons. says
LOVE! I think it’s -so- important to stay true to yourself and post things that you actually want to write about instead of what you think you SHOULD write about because I feel like readers can really tell when there’s no passion behind your words. It’s funny because my #1 post for over 1.5 years is actually a recipe that I didn’t think was good enough and wasn’t going to post. And then there have been some recipes that I thought would rock when they didn’t. I guess what I’m trying to say is that it’s hard to judge what’s going to do well and what isn’t, so all we can do is write about what we love 😀
Susie @ SuzLyfe says
My life is my life. My blog is my voice. I have to protect them all–the moment I stop being authentic in one, I stop being authentic in all. And that isn’t worth it.
lindsey says
This is a great concept to remember, always! I started my blog just to be more accountable (to myself) for my goals for the year – but with becoming more active, it has evolved into just an everyday active lifestyle, meal prepping, weekend mommy blog 🙂 And I am ALRIGHT with that! There are random subjects that I have pondered writing about, and I will probably get to them, eventually 🙂 Thanks for sharing and making me think a little harder this morning 🙂
alexandra @ my urban family says
I definitely agree 🙂 I’ve had one of those posts I keep writing and going back to but not really being ready to hit publish yet for about a month now. But I think I’m going to just push it live next week and see how it goes. If I can’t write authentically on my own blog, what is the point?
Emily says
Blogging from the heart TRULY attracts readers. I can say that that’s what I love about the way you share your life, the ups, the downs, the victories, the struggles. It reminds me that everyday struggles are normal and that I more than a conqueror through Him that loved me. <3 Thank you for reminding me to do this.
Hollie says
This is such a great post. I have been blogging for nearly 6 years now and have seen the shift in blogging for “you” versus blogging for readers and sponsorships. I would rather read blogs that are authentic and true to the heart versus you know are being paid and the blogger doesn’t care about.
Rachel says
I totally agree. Being authentic is critical to a blog’s success. Kudos to you for figuring it out quickly! xo
Miss Polkadot says
Since you commented on my post today already you know my opinion but: a resounding YES to all you said here! Especially this: “I didn’t overthink what I thought people would like”. It was noticing this very thing that truly got me started blogging authentically. To this day, my most popular posts are those I was afraid to publish/not going to publish at all. Because they came from deep within, not meticulous planning or endless research.
Rashel says
I love this post and as I’m starting a brand new blog, I really appreciate it. Authenticity is what my blog is about and it’s important that I remember it every time I write a post.
Thanks so much!
AmberLynn Pappas says
I think any blog should avoid pigeon holing them self into anyone category . It limits what you can write about and you’re right, leaves you forcing a post instead of being authentic.
Heather @ Polyglot Jot says
Love this and all of the other comments. As a newer blogger I feel like I’m finding what I love while I write on a range of things. Im trying to allow my blog to grow and change with me rather than trying to box myself in to one little “type”. Thanks for sharing!
Jenny @ Unremarkable Files says
So important for bloggers! Aren’t analytics weird? Sometimes you write a post and it is super popular, and weeks or months later you’re still scratching your head trying to figure out why…
#SHINEbloghop
Michelle says
Hello from Party at My Place linkup. So glad you joined me this week and offered up these wise words. I do agree with everything you said. You have to be true to yourself. If others read it, wonderful, if they don’t, move on. It has been a time robber for sure trying to get a blog up and running and to gather readers. Yet, like anything worth pursuing, it takes time. What I’ve learned this past year since I began blogging, community. It is all about community. AND, good content. Sometimes, I just don’t want to look at one more picture of someone’s child, home or makeup tips. Not saying they are not things to read or look at, but give me something I can take away and help myself or others with, then you have a reader.
Julie S says
Completely agree. Writing about what moves us is the best way to show our honesty and connect with others. That’s what caused me to do a rebrand of my blog, I found what I really wanted to write about.
Emily says
I’ve always believed that finding your niche and content are the keys to success. I have a pen-name so I am able to write about pretty much anything in my family’s life. Strangely to me is that my top post is “Why I Hate Fall”. I wrote about it about four years ago and still get comments to this day! Stopping by from the Sharefest.
Debrashoppeno5 says
You are so right. I kind of look at reading blogs as checking in with my friends. I mainly write on how I refurbished my furniture finds or craft projects. On occassion I have felt the need to express other things. It may not always be a widely read post but it’s out there . People can see through you if you are just doing it for SEO etc. Besides every day we learn and grow and our blog is an expression of that.
Rhi says
I hear a lot about blogs needing a niche, but I would rather write about whatever I want than pigeon hole myself into a few topics.
Edye says
I am just starting up my blog, so I don’t have any tips to give. But, I do strive to be an authentic blogger and create content others will hopefully enjoy. Have a great week <3
Blessings,
Edye // Gracefulcoffee
Jed says
Hey Morgan,
I agree. Authenticity is key. These are always my favorite posts to read too. Thank you for the honest post, and the reminder to keep things real in my own writing. Wishing you a blessed week!
FABBY says
Very interesting post, authentic too, just as you say.
When I started blogging four years ago all blogs were mostly about ‘Tablescaping’ and home decorating as I am a grandma and have no children at home anymore.
So yes, it’s wonderful when you have discovered your blog theme, or the purpose of learning from fellow bloggers about what you like or your interests and also do it honestly , specially about what you love the most. It couldn’t be any other way, you really cannot be a fake in what you blog about.
When you blog authentically, as you so very well explain, you will automatically attract people with the same interests, let this be cooking and baking as well.
I love to blog and it relaxes me and love to visit and know new people and yes, learn so much.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Have a nice week.
FABBY
Tiffany @ A Touch of Grace says
Yes! I feel like you can tell when a blogger isn’t being authentic. I always wanted to be a home blogger, and post more about fashion. But that’s just not who I am, and I can’t make myself be it. We all need to play to our strengths and be authentic.
Thanks for sharing on the Shine Blog Hop!
Mother of 3 says
So true; I find that while I can never guess what will be the most popular post or why. But when I blog from the heart and don’t worry so much about that I find that I am happier as a blog and my posts are more real; which the readers really like!
Lindsey says
A post about a high chair….love it!
You’ve made me think; sometimes I make a blog editorial calendar but I stray from it because it’s not what I’m feeling at the time.
Authentic blogging, indeed.
Found you at Turn It Up. Happy Blogging!
Renee says
Very good points! I’ve struggled with finding who I want my blog to reach….Moms, Dads, Christians, Non-Christians….. The only thing that my husband and I are certain of is that God wanted us to start it and we did. I’ve been told to narrow my niche, but that doesn’t seem to work well for me. I like blogging about what is happening in our lives and I like have a wide range of topics to blog about. I really appreciate your thoughts on blogging authentically.
DazzleWhileFrazzled says
Great advice! I’d like to think I’m blogging authentically since I’m not normally a “fake” person but I’ve also had moments, especially as a new blogger, when it’s hard not to compare your little blog to the beautiful, magazine-like blogs out there doing the same thing as you. But hopefully who I am will come through at the end of the day. Visiting from Wow Me Wednesdays party.
Valerie says
I appreciate your post! It’s easy to get caught up in the how-tos and following all the rules and lose the freedom of just writing from the heart. I needed this reminder today! Visiting from Women With Intention,
Frances @ Faith in Plants says
This is a great post! I completely agree with you about staying authentic and keeping your message true. It is so interesting to hear your blogging store and to see how you’ve grown to be successful. Keep it up!!
Crystal says
Yes, blogging is definitely writing about what you are passionate about and staying true to who you are. I still find that I am learning everyday about blogging and finding my voice. It has definitely changed a lot over the last 1 1/2 years. Thanks for sharing the great advice!
Emily says
I love that one of your most popular posts is about cleaning a high chair. One of my most popular posts is also a random cleaning post! I don’t even blog about cleaning often, but apparently it was a common cleaning problem and it was helpful to others!
Keri says
I agree so much. I started blogging all about teaching your toddlers and it was great but my heart wasn’t in it. It’s so much easier when I just write from my heart.
Monica says
How very relevant to my own blogging experience! I actually turned down my first “sponsored” post opportunity because it was for a product that I wouldn’t use and didn’t feel was appropriate for me or my audience. I’ve come to the conclusion that I’d rather keep blogging as a hobby and write about things that really matter to me than blog for and about stuff I don’t necessarily believe in.
Erin @ Nourishing My Scholar says
Great post! Thank you for the reminder to stay authentic. I always appreciate an authentic post. #FridayFlashBlog
Kimi says
Great post Morgan! I think this can be tricky though, at least for me. Being authentic is definitely a must, but sometimes trying to find things that you want to write about that are actually what your readers are looking for and want to read is where the challenge comes in. Ah, the struggles of a blogger. 🙂
Jenn Schleich says
Blogging authentically definitely produces charismatic writing. Its funny to think that words can be charismatic but I think they can when they come from the heart, as you say. I think you’ve found what you need.
Lorna Croswell says
Absolutely! I so struggled with finding my authentic voice when I started out. I’ve done a lit of trial and error too and you’re right…you get that “icky” feeling when you write about something that just may not be what you’re going for. Finding my voice has taken time but its getting there and writing about what I want to make me happy 🙂
Shellie says
Hi Morgan, I appreciate the message of this post. My greatest aim in blogging is encourage women to live authentically. I have chosen this as one of my Featured Favs from last week’s Thursday Favorite Things Blog Hop. I will be featuring it on my Thursday post!
Shellie
http://www.thefabjourney.com
Felicia says
Agreed! I started my blog less than a year ago and abandoned it and recently came back to it. I have mostly posts about recipes and projects but I feel that is not what I really want to be sharing. So I’m in the process of revamping and being more authentic on my blog! Just like you mentioned, I have a post that I wrote and saved as a draft. However, I haven’t published not because I don’t think it’s authentic but because I think it’s very authentic and I’m a tad bit nervous about putting myself out there!
Melissa @ Freeing Imperfections says
I agree that all my posts that I get really “real” on are the most popular. People want to be able to connect with a blogger on a real, unadulterated (and in my case, imperfect) level. It’s not been easy for me to reveal the less-than-appealing side of motherhood lately, but any time I do, I get so much support.
I just found your blog via Julie’s blog link up. I love it and your theme!
Farrah says
I can’t agree with you more! I like a billion different things, so my blog definitely does not fit into the stereotypical “healthy living” niche (even if I stick the word “lifestyle” into there, haha). Some of the posts I spend forever on that I really love don’t get very many views, but I enjoy getting to write about it and I’d rather write about the things I really care about and get to know the readers that stick around! :]!
Julie @ Running in a Skirt says
What good advice! Your site truly is from the heart. Thanks for linking up to #BestofBlogs! Tweeted for you!
Alissa says
I found your blog through Pinterest and LOVE it! I recently (as in this month recently) started my own mommy blog and am sort of floundering through. I have read quite a few of your posts tonight and love how clearly you lay things out and explain how to blog. Thank you for your advice and giving me the motivation to keep going!