(This post was originally scheduled for last Friday, but was postponed until today due to my participation in the “Bloggers Day of Silence” for Japan)
This week’s topic for Fashion Beauty Friend Friday asks: So far, what has been the 5 hardest blogging lessons you’ve learned during this process and what has helped make you a better blogger as a result? These aren’t really hard lessons, but moreso things I’ve discovered during my blogging journey that definitely have made me a better blogger. If you’re a blogger, what lessons have you learned?
1. Be Not Afraid – I was a bit apprehensive about putting my outfit pictures out there for the world to see because I wasn’t sure how I felt about possible criticism. But I love to play dress up, so part of the reason I started this blog was because I get asked quite a bit “where did you get those shoes?” or “where do you get your clothes?” This seemed like an easy venue to showcase my style and give up the goods on where I shop. Everyone has their own taste and style, so criticism will come with the territory if someone doesn’t quite like what they see. But I have been so fortunate to see and experience that the blogging community is so very kind and everyone is extremely supportive. It has been fun so far!
2. Community – Getting to know other bloggers and spotlighting others is something else that I’ve discovered is very important. We all share the same internet space, so why not make the most of it and get to know your neighbors?
3. Finding Your Voice – With so many fashion bloggers out there, it seems like it’s easy to get lost. But I remember reading a post on The Citizen Rosebud when Bella interviewed Collette of “Statements in Fashion” (see post here). She mentioned that “finding your voice” is something that is very important, and that really hit home. I’m a 40-year-old woman who still loves to stay stylish, even with being married with a child and busy career. Why “phone it in” only to be something that you’re not? Be yourself, and your voice will be loud and clear.
4. Planning Ahead – One of the most valuable things I have learned about blogging is the need to plan ahead. Even if something “breaking” happens that should be posted right away, the majority of what I post is something that occurred a few days ago. This allows me to really plan what gets posted, and allows for creativity.
5. Get Creative – Whether through clothes, DIY or a recipe, I found it important to get creative with posts. I do it to stay inspired. I haven’t posted about it as much lately, but I do have a couple of DIY projects that I need to complete. They’re fun and they show my crafty side.
Fashion Beauty Friend Friday is a Google group for bloggers to converse on a given topic each week. Katy from ModlyChic sends the questions, bloggers post their responses and then add their post to the list of people sharing their thoughts on the subject matter. To get started, check out this great tutorial on Grit & Glamour here.
(Image courtesy of Allroundart.net)