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Morgan Manages Mommyhood

making being a mom simple and being a kid memorable

How I Stockpile Blog Posts

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Creating a stockpile of blog posts can relieve some of the stress of blogging. Read on to learn how I stockpile blog posts!

With a baby on the way, I’m making an effort to stockpile blog posts in order to have consistent, quality content going out while we’re getting used to having another baby in the house. I have no idea what my days will look like, how this baby will sleep or how much time I will have to write. In order to keep up with my blogging goals and continue to grow, I’ve taken to stockpiling posts. Today I’m sharing my process with you!

Creating a stockpile of blog posts is extremely useful in cutting down on the stress of blogging and creating an editorial calendar.

How I Stockpile Blog Posts

  • Create a list of post ideas. I have a few pages of notebook paper where I’ve scribbled post ideas. I use my brainstorming prompts to think of post ideas. I have lists on my phone, on random scraps of paper, on backs or receipts. I put them all into one master idea list so that I have a list of ideas to begin with. I like to use pen and paper for this, but you can use an excel sheet if that’s your thing.
  • Begin to flesh out the posts. This can be done with pen and paper or in your drafts on WordPress (or whatever you use.) I do both. To me, “fleshing out” a post mostly means headers, titles, bullet points of things I want to touch upon. Sometimes I write an entire intro, other times I write out sentences that come to me and I want to include. But it’s basically an outline or a rough-rough draft. I do like to do a bit of research here to find the best seo keyword. (I use Google Keyword Planner)
  • Create an editorial calendar. I have one in my blogging binder as well as another different one in Google Sheets. The one in my binder is written in pencil so I can easily replace or move posts and just includes titles. Mostly, it’s to see where I have gaps in content and decide where to place and order posts. The one online is more extensive. I use it to track: title, date, if it’s been scheduled, if it’s outlined, if it’s completely written, if I’ve completed inputting SEO measures, social media, and if the photos are edited. This may seem excessive, but it’s what works for me. If something more simple (or, heck, more intricate!) works for you, go for it.
  • Create a blog post template. This was a life changer for me. When I open a new post, I immediately paste in my blog post template. I created it recently in an effort to remember to place all of the specific aspects of a post I wanted to include by making “placeholders” for each aspect. That way I can plug whatever I need into the right spot without time being wasted.
  • Write entire posts. Find a schedule that works for you. Leave spaces for photos, related posts, prewritten tweets, whatever you normally put into your posts. I really try to write at least 1.5 posts a day, so that the following day’s post is completed and another is at least started. Sometimes I get more, sometimes less, but it’s definitely helping me create a collection of posts. This is definitely the hardest part – I suggest finding a set amount of time where you can have zero interruptions. Since Ryan goes to bed at 7:30 and Alex comes come around 12, I know that I have those hours to finish whatever I need to do and then get to work stockpiling blog posts.
  • Create any photos you need, then insert into post. If you need to take pictures, such as for a DIY, tutorial, or recipe, do so. Edit them and make any images for social media you require. Remember to write in any titles, ALT titles, etc and use your SEO keywords.
  • Complete SEO, categorize, tag, and add in any social media you normally put into your posts before publishing. Pretty self-explanatory. I have plug-ins for adding in pre-written tweets and for helping understand SEO, so using those helps cut down on this task.
  • If you know the date(s) you want to cover, schedule the posts. Refer back to your editorial calendar. If you’re just writing the posts for random days, toss them in your drafts and keep a running list of your stockpiled posts.

Yes, this is kind of a step by step to how to write a single blog post – but the key is to do this with MULTIPLE post ideas at a time – so flesh out 5 posts one day, then create all of the photos another, etc., etc. Soon you’ll have a great little stash of great, thought out, completed content so that you’re not stuck putting together a so-so post the night before you wanted to post it.

To see more of my blogging tips, check out my blogging tips page!

How do you stockpile posts? Have you ever had to take an extended leave from blogging? How did you manage it? Let me know in the comments!

If you liked this post, you may also enjoy these related posts!

Brainstorming Blog Post Ideas

Preparing Your Blog for a Baby.

The Importance of Blogging Authentically

Comments

  1. Heather @ Polyglot Jot says

    Great ideas! I always have an ongoing brainstorm list and I usually work on 1-3 posts during the weekend and keep plugging away at future posts when I have the time so I always have a stockpile of ideas and draft posts ready to go when needed.

    • Morgan says

      I always feel so accomplished when I finish an “extra” post that I don’t even need for the next day, ah!

  2. alexandra @ my urban family says

    You’re so organized and great at posting all the time, even with two little ones – it amazes me! And it’s great inspiration for me to start to get ahead. Though I am going to give myself some slack until AFTER the move ha

    • Morgan says

      It makes me laugh when people say I’m organized -I’m a total ditz and can never find anything. But for some reason, I like to have all of my blog stuff organized – I try not to question it!! I think I just like know that it’s ready to go, so I don’t have to stress over it!

  3. Gretchen | Gretchruns says

    Such great ideas! I’ve been trying to get better about posting (so I’m not looking at my computer at 8PM trying to figure out what to post tomorrow). Thanks for sharing!

    • Morgan says

      Ugh, there is NOTHING worse than it being the night before and having nothing to post – that’s why I started doing this! Half the time I’d just say screw it and either post a not great post or skip it all together.

    • Morgan says

      Oh my goodness, your flattery is just out of control, Kristy! Hahha thank yu so much, though!!

    • Morgan says

      I definitely feel you, Jerusha! I wrote a post about a month ago about brainstorming ideas for blog posts – you may want to check it out!!

  6. Jessie @ The Acquired Sass says

    I’m trying really hard to get better about this. I have probably 3-4 posts already scheduled right now & another 15 or so in various stages of completion. I’m sure you’ve felt this, but sometimes the words flow & I have millions of things to write about & I take advantage of that…and other times, nothing. It’s like a blank wall. I’m getting ready to head on vacation & want there to be posts ready to go live while I’m gone. I thought about not posting at all, since I don’t have TONS of viewers, but I saw a big drop when I tried that last time. So, I figure I can publish posts & always go back & do more promoting of the ones I like best later.

    • Morgan says

      Yes! Sometimes I’m in.the.zone and other days I’m like, “Oooh, Instagram!” And I feel you – the few times I’ve not posted be it for morning sickness (oops) or unexpected plans I’ve always seen a big drop in views, which can be so disheartening!

  7. Martie says

    This is a wonderful checklist for getting ahead of the game! I need to spend some time doing this, especially since I try to blog before 8 a.m. (my internet provider gives me “extra” data at this time). I’m tired of getting up at 5:00 to get it done! lol! Thanks for sharing! 🙂

    • Morgan says

      Oof, I’m sure! And I’m sure forcing yourself to get up that early to blog takes some of the fun out of it as well!

  8. Lindsey says

    I definitely need to get in the habit of doing this. Like, yesterday. LOL. I constantly find myself just barely finishing before the post goes live. Agh! This is very helpful. Pinning and tweeting. Happy Wednesday!

  9. Lynn Spencer says

    Oh Morgan, you must be reading my mind! I am bound and determined to get that stockpile going, but still going one day at a time…and its ‘ugh’. Your discipline is key to getting this stockpile, so clearly that’s what I need to get my hands around.
    Thanks for the guideline, and the motivation! I think I can…I think I can.
    Wishing you a lovely Wednesday.

    Hugs, Lynn

    • Morgan says

      You go, Lynn! You can do it! I definitely suggest trying writing 1.5 posts each day – or whenever you write your posts. You’re already in the mindset of writing, so it’s easy to keep up the momentum!

  10. Brianna says

    I have a stockpile of written posts but photos ugh! I am always behind. I work all day and by the time I get the kids in bed the light is gone… I need a stockpile of photos 🙂

  11. Laura Hicks says

    Great ideas. I keep brainstorming ideas on my notes app on my phone. I need to start utilizing an editorial calendar too. Thanks for sharing!

    • Morgan says

      I love the notes app on my phone for jotting down post ideas when I don’t have access to paper!

  12. Ana (@ANAWINSblog) says

    Having an editorial calendar is key! It keeps you on track and then you can use your brain power for brainstorming other posts. I love that it takes the guesswork out of what to post.

    • Morgan says

      Making an editoral calendar was a COMPLETE game changer – I feel like once I implimented one I went from doing this as a hobby to taking it seriously!

  13. Linda at Mixed Kreations says

    Great tips! I don’t have a baby on the way but I do have a full time day job that keeps me away long hours so I have been trying to get ahead on my blog post. So I can use some tips on how to stockpile some post, to relieve the stress of trying to stay ahead.

  15. Debbie W. says

    I keep a stockpile as I think of something to write about I go ahead if I’m on the computer and start a draft with just the subject. If I have ideas I go ahead and type a few sentences or bullets.

    • Morgan says

      Yes, I do a similar thing when brainstorming. I like having the ideas ready for me!

  16. Wendy says

    Ah, a stockpile of posts ready to go — my dream! 🙂 I do have an ongoing list of post ideas, it’s the actual writing of said posts that gets in my way, haha! I am curious about your blog template. What do you include in that template? I would love to know more about how you do that! 🙂

    • Morgan says

      An ongoing list of post ideas is definitely OS useful. I have a post about how I brainstorm months of posts in one sitting – it’s my favorite way to get all of my ideas together!
      So many people have asked about my blog template, so I’ll have a post about that coming next week!

  17. Gina says

    This is such useful information for me! I’ve been struggling with stockpiling posts, but it’s something that I really need to do. I usually have a flexible schedule with time to blog. However, lately I’ve had a lot of family visiting and all these out of town dates looming ahead of me. I know that I need to stockpile posts so that I’m not on the computer the entire time they’re here. This is so helpful to get started! I think this weekend will be that no interruption time for me! I was wondering, what is Google Sheets? I’ve never heard of it before and was wondering how exactly you use it to manage your blog?

    • Morgan says

      Oh, I’m so glad that it’s of help to you! Google Sheets is basically a free version of Excel that is hosted by Google. They have Sheets and Docs which is basically Word and Excel. As for sheets, I use it to create spreadsheets of all of my posts, like a master list of what content is on my blog, as well as another one with all of my “in progress” posts and what additional work they need. Hope that helps! If you have any other questions, feel free to shoot me an email!

  18. Erin @ Stay At Home Yogi says

    You are so impressive!! 🙂 I wish I was as organized and streamlined as you. My mistake was starting the blog after the babies came – and they hate sleep! 😉 I need to get myself a blog post template, that sounds really handy!

    • Morgan says

      Thanks, Erin! I’m definitely not as organized in other aspects of my life, but I have a mild obsession with getting the blog and content organized! I feel you on the babies and no sleep, though! Check back next week – a lot of people asked about the template, so I’ll be doing a post about it!

  19. Emily says

    As I was reading your steps for creating a stockpile, I related to it all until you said to just sit down and write for a long period of time! I have had a hard time committing to extended periods of time for writing, but I know that it needs to become a priority. This is such a great step by step explanation! It is always good to hear how other bloggers develop posts.

  20. Michelle says

    Wow. You are on top of things lady! I’m impressed. I know we all have our way of pulling it all together. This certainly takes discipline. Thanks for sharing your tips at my party. I’ve learned a thing or two here today.

  21. Felicia says

    Great ideas. I really need to get more organized when it comes to my blogging. I’m usually scrambling out the last minute to put together a post before the end of the week. I have lots of ideas but all in my head, not on paper. Going to put to use some of these tips!

  22. Maria says

    This is perfect, Morgan. I tend to be at least a week ahead of my posts, so your process looks very similar for mine. It’s so important to have a list of post ideas. I have a notebook and a file on my phone, so I can keep track of all the ideas that come to me. The editorial calendar is a great way to get organized as well. Good luck with baby #2! Being this thoughtful and productive, I have no doubts your blog will thrive even with 2 kids in tow. Thanks for sharing such a useful post with us on #shinebloghop!

  24. Jess @ Room Service Required says

    Love this idea, and I’m intrigued by the idea of a blog post template. I’d love to see what that looks like.

  25. Mum in Brum says

    This is such a great idea with a baby on the way – I remember having very little time with a newborn to do anything. I like the idea of writing 1.5 posts as I always find that I’m in the ‘zone’ after writing one, yet it takes me a while to get started to this would definitely help. Love how organised you are 🙂

  27. Meg says

    This a great guide. I’m working on creating a stockpile right now, just so that I don’t feel stressed writing last minute. I’d love to hear more about your blog template. What types of things do you include and where do you keep it saved?

  28. Tammi says

    Love your tips. Especially the blog template. That is a great idea! I usually get bogged down finding the “perfect” images, editing, resizing, etc. And, of course, I always delay writing until the last minute. Should work on that! Thanks for your step by step ideas. Stopping by from SITS xoxox.

  29. Karen A Del Tatto says

    Thank you so much for sharing so many wonderful suggestions!!

    I really appreciate it!!

    As Meg commented, I too am curious about what your Blog template entails. 🙂

  30. Vineta @ The Handyman's Daughter says

    I need to do this! My blog posts are mostly based on projects I do, and if one takes longer than planned, my whole posting schedule goes out the window! I need to come up with 5-10 posts that won’t require a finished project and keep them handy for when plans go out the window.

  31. Janine Huldie says

    What great advice and I definitely do try to stockpile so that I have enough in advance if I need to for any reason with my own blog, too.

  32. Nicole @ The Professional Mom Project says

    Great ideas! I have an ongoing list running on Evernote of topics I eventually plan to write about. I find it a bit more difficult to find the time to write everything out but it eventually gets done. Found your post at #BFF Weekend Linkup

  34. Alyssa @ Renaissancerunnergirl says

    Really good ideas, perfect for if there’s any big event coming in your life or if you’re just BUSY. I know that I’ll be shuttling around the tristate area every weekend from May to September practically, and since weekends are when I do a lot of my blogging, I’ll have to do this…

  37. lorraine williamson says

    I need to be more organized love the ideas need to keep a running list always have ideas in my head but have not taken to writing them down will start doing this need to get ahead of the game thanks for sharing

  38. Hollie says

    I think keeping a running list and brainstorming ideas that you can use is great. I sometimes find that I have a ton of drafts and then use them later on. This is a great post!

  39. Liz says

    Great ideas! I like to stay 6-8 weeks ahead of myself on my posts. It takes a
    Lot of the pressure off because I never have to scramble to get one done for the next day anymore. But if something more timely comes up, I give myself the freedom to rearrange and post it ASAP. Happy to be your neighbor at the Monday Musings link up today! Blessings in that new baby!

  40. Mother of 3 says

    I often stockpile posts and try to write up three or four on Saturday when I have the morning to myself.

  41. Nikki Frank-Hamilton says

    Morgan, this is a really smart way to go about things. And I commend you on your organizational talents. And the way that you think about blogging, write things down, figure it out, and make it work for you. I need to do a lot better in this area. My schedule changed drastically recently and it seems like just getting everything else done is taking up most of my time. I used to like to write at least two posts a week, one of them being 2,000+ words about blogging topics that I need to do research for. And either a food post or something else related to our lives. Then I also have the two linkups a week. So things are getting away from me just a bit right now, but I am going to pin your post so I can come back to it again when things settle to try and make sense of my schedule. Thanks.

  43. Daria says

    Love your blog template idea! I do have a list of brainstorming ideas and an editorial calendar-but I desperately need to stockpile. I’ve thought about having my own little blog retreat where I go away for the weekend and write, write, write!

  44. Sandra Garth says

    Oh my goodness you are super organized! I have several pages of post ideas and tend to get distracted from them. I will refer back to this post to keep me on track. Thank you for sharing your links with us at Celebrate Your Story. Have an awesome week!

  46. Leigh Powell Hines says

    I hit soon too soon. Sorry. Congrats on the next baby. You are really getting a head start because having the baby is easy on blogging, it is the toddler or preschooler that makes it hard. Thanks for linking up this week with Small Victories Linkup

  47. Kali says

    I love the idea of having a blog post template that you paste in. This is an idea I think would greatly help me in my post writing. Thanks for sharing it!

  48. Tanya @ Mom's Small Victories says

    I love these ideas and always like to get a little stockpile going. Problem is I do not get ahead very often. I find writing a post down in my blog notebook helps me get it out of my head quicker. The pressure of writing directly into wordpress makes it tougher for me. Thanks for sharing with Small Victories Sunday Linkup. Pinned to our linkup board.

  49. Karyl Henry says

    I really like these ideas! I write a food blog, so whenever I go to a restaurant I take notes using the WordPress app while I’m there…mainly so I don’t forget things (like I did when I started the blog), but also because it’s easier to write the complete post later. Same with recipes. I only started pushing social media about a year ago, but have had the blog for 3 1/2 years…so I can republish older posts and it’s almost like they’re new again

  50. Marva | sunSPARKLEshine says

    Morgan, these are some great tips. I like the idea of 1.5 posts per day, although it sounds very ambitious for me. It helps to see how you’ve been making it work and I’m excited that you’ll have this taken of when the baby arrives. Kudos to you!

  51. Theresa says

    Great ideas & tips. This is great for anyone who blogs. Thanks for sharing at the #InspirationSpotlight party. Pinned & shared.

  52. Sharon Rowe says

    Thank you for sharing on Monday Madness link party! I love this post it has great advice even if you are not planning a baby! An editorial calendar is a must for anyone who is looking at their blog professionally and it does help to keep ahead of the game when writing blog posts, there is so much to do and being ahead gives you that time to create great content every time! Thanks again for sharing hope to see you next week! 🙂

  53. wildheartsea says

    Awesome! This is exactly what I need to prepare for my wedding in a month! I will definitely have to use this to prepare.

  55. Lucy says

    I’m the same way. I feel much more accomplished when I stockpile blog posts. The way I have it set up on my laptop is with a folder labeled “my blog.” In it, is a list of all my titled word documents, all either started, in process, or completed, ready to be posted. I too write on anything and everything, paper, my planner, receipts, my phone. Everywhere I go, even while running errands, my mind is always coming up with new blog posts and ideas. That’s the life of a blogging mom! 🙂

  56. Ginger Wroot says

    This is a great post because I think that a blogger can never really stockpile enough posts. And yes, stock-piled posts really takes the pressure off of you when babies are born, a crisis happens, you get sick, etc. Good quality posts take lots of our valuable time, and those that are stashed away are like money in the bank for busy bloggers.
    –G
    http://gingerwroot.com

  59. Janet Vinyard says

    Hi Morgan, Great tips! I feel more relaxed when I have several posts written ahead of when I will need to publish them. I’m always writing post ideas on bits of paper and finding them everywhere around the house. Thanks for the ideas! Blessings, Janet

  61. Dara says

    I would really like more information on creating the blog template. That seems like a great time saver!

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