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So, you’ve decided to start a blog.
Maybe it’s because you’ve got a lot to say, or maybe it’s because you’re tired of hearing about how easy it is to make millions from home in your pajamas (spoiler: it’s not). Either way, I’m here to walk you through it without all the fluff.
Let’s be real: blogging is awesome, but it’s also work. So, if you’re ready to jump into the deep end, here’s how to do it with your eyes wide open.
Step 1. What are you even doing this for? (aka Define your purpose and niche)
First things first—why the heck are you starting a blog? Are you looking to share your quirky takes on life, or are you trying to cash in on your encyclopedic knowledge of gluten-free bread recipes? Maybe you just want a place to rant.
Whatever it is, get clear on your purpose before you start hammering out those blog posts.
For example, this blog you’re reading is all about “Entrepreneurship” and “Online Business.” Why? Because I’ve seen one too many people trying to make a buck online without a clue about what they’re doing, and I’m here to help—or at least laugh with you as we stumble through it together.
If health is your thing, write about staying fit without losing your mind.
Got a camera and an eye for good lighting? Start a photography blog.
Love cooking but hate how every recipe blog has 20 paragraphs about someone’s childhood? Cut to the chase and make it all about the food.
Keep it simple, keep it real.
Step 2. Pick your poison: Choosing a blogging platform
Alright, you’ve got your purpose. Now you need a place to put all those words.
There are plenty of platforms out there, but for beginners, WordPress is the go-to. Why? Because it’s like a blank canvas—you can make it as basic or as fancy as you want.
Blogger and Medium are cool too, but they’re more like renting an apartment than owning a house. You can move the furniture around, but you’re stuck with the ugly wallpaper.
Step 3. Name it like you mean it: Your domain name:
Next up, your blog’s name.
This is the part where people freak out, but don’t overthink it.
Your domain name is just your blog’s address on the internet, so make it something that fits your vibe.
If you’re starting a cooking blog, go for something like “GuacAndRoll.com” or keep it straightforward with “MariasRecipes.com.” If you want to be fancy, use your own name—“FirstnameSurname.com” works just fine.
Step 4. Hosting: The landlord of your blog
Here’s the not-so-glamorous part: hosting.
If you want people to actually see your blog, you need a hosting provider.
This is where Bluehost, SiteGround, and HostGator come into play. They’re reliable, and they won’t break the bank.
Most bloggers start with Bluehost because it’s dirt cheap— starting at $1.99 a month—and it covers all the basics.
Just think of it as paying rent for your little piece of the internet.
Step 5. Dress it up: Installing and customizing your blog
You’ve got the keys to your new blog. Now it’s time to make it look like something people actually want to visit.
Install WordPress (or whatever platform you chose), pick a theme that doesn’t make your eyes bleed, and make sure it’s easy for people to find stuff.
Think of it as decorating your new place—just don’t go overboard with the throw pillows.
Step 6. Write like you mean it: Creating quality content
Here’s where the magic happens: content.
If your blog was a house, your content would be the furniture. It’s what people are really there for.
Don’t stress too much about being perfect—just start writing. Share your thoughts, give advice, tell stories.
Make sure your posts are engaging, informative, and worth reading. Remember, people don’t come back to blogs that bore them to tears.
Step 7. Getting noticed: SEO for humans
SEO (Search Engine Optimization) might sound like something only tech geeks care about, but if you want people to find your blog without you having to beg them, you need to pay attention.
Research keywords that relate to your niche and sprinkle them naturally into your content.
Don’t overdo it, though—Google knows when you’re trying too hard, and it’s not impressed.
Step 8. Talk to your people: Engage with your audience
Don’t be that blogger who drops a post and disappears.
If someone leaves a comment, reply.
Ask your readers what they think, what they want to see more of, or just say thanks for stopping by.
Build a little community—it’s what will keep people coming back.
Step 9. Shameless self-promotion: Promote your blog
If you write a blog post and no one reads it, did it even happen?
Get your content out there. Share it on social media, do some guest posting, network with other bloggers.
The more places your blog shows up, the better.
Step 10. Show me the money: Monetizing your blog
Finally, the part everyone’s curious about—making money.
There are a ton of ways to monetize your blog: affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, selling your own products, and more.
Just don’t expect to get rich overnight. Blogging for money is a marathon, not a sprint.
If you’re in it just for the cash, you’re in for a rude awakening.
Check out this article I wrote on How to monetize your blog.
Final thoughts on how to start a blog:
Blogging is awesome.
It’s a way to share what you know, connect with people, and maybe even make some money.
But it’s not a free ride. It takes work, commitment, and a willingness to learn as you go.
If you’re ready for that, welcome to the club. If not, well, there are easier ways to waste your time online.
