So, you’ve been thinking about starting a blog.
You’ve got ideas, maybe even a name, but something keeps getting in the way: doubt, perfectionism, tech overwhelm, or perhaps just life.
I get it. Starting anything new can feel like jumping into the unknown. But here’s the truth: blogging isn’t as scary or complicated as it seems. And if you feel like you have something to say, then you already have what it takes.
Let’s break it down, step by step.
1. Start With Your “Why”
Before you open a laptop or pick a blog name, ask yourself:
Why do I want to blog?
- Do you want to share personal stories and connect with others?
- Do you want to teach or document what you’re learning?
- Are you building a brand or business?
- Or is it simply a creative outlet?
Your “why” becomes your compass. On the days when motivation dips or you feel unsure, remembering your “why” brings clarity.
“The clearer the reason, the louder the voice.”
2. Choose a Niche (Or Let It Evolve)
People say, “Pick a niche!” and that’s good advice for clarity and audience growth. But when you’re just starting, give yourself room to explore.
You might begin with lifestyle content and slowly discover you’re passionate about faith, or food, or productivity hacks.
Let your blog be a sandbox at first. Your niche will find you if you keep showing up.
Tip: Think of 3–5 broad topics you’d enjoy writing about for months. That’s your starting point.
3. Pick a Name + Blogging Platform
Your blog name doesn’t have to be perfect; it just needs to feel like you.
You can go with:
- Your real name (eg, Njideka Writes)
- A theme-based name (eg, Soft Living Journal)
- Something quirky and memorable (eg, The Messy Middle)
Then choose a platform:
- Medium – Easiest way to start writing right now. No tech headaches.
- Substack – Great for writing and building an email list.
- WordPress – More flexible, but you’ll need to set it up.
- Blogger – Simple and free for beginners.
- Your own site – A great long-term option if you’re building a brand.
4. Create a Simple Content Plan
Now, let’s make things practical.
Start by planning your first 4–6 blog posts. They don’t need to be perfect — just real. Mix and match:
- Personal story (eg, “What Losing My Job Taught Me About Identity”)
- How-to post (eg, “How I Organise My Day Without Burnout”)
- List post (eg, “5 Lessons I Learned From Reading One Book a Month”)
- Reflection post (eg, “What July Taught Me About Grace”)
Bonus Tip: Keep a running list of ideas in your Notes app or Google Keep. Inspiration hits randomly, not just when you’re sitting at your desk.
5. Write The Way You Talk
This is your blog, not a formal essay. Write like you would speak to a friend over a cup of tea.
Keep paragraphs short.
Use subheadings and bullet points.
Don’t chase big words; chase real ones.
“People don’t remember perfect writing. They remember honest voices.”
6. Use Images That Add Life
You don’t need to be a photographer. You just need good visuals.
Try:
- Unsplash
- Pixabay
- Pexels
- Or even your own smartphone photos!
Use images that reflect your tone—warm, clean, and personal.
7. Share It Like You Mean It
You wrote the blog—now tell people about it. And not just once.
Share on:
- WhatsApp status
- Threads
You never know who’s waiting for your words. Don’t assume people saw it the first time.
8. Be Consistent, Not Perfect
This is the hardest but most important part.
You will doubt your writing.
You will worry no one is reading.
You will wonder if it’s even worth it.
Still—keep going.
Blogging isn’t about going viral. It’s about building something meaningful, post by post, word by word.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve read this far, chances are, you’ve been sitting on the idea of blogging for a while.
This is your sign: Just start.
You don’t need all the answers.
You don’t need a huge audience.
You just need a heart that wants to share and a willingness to keep showing up.
So, here’s your next step:
Write that first post. Hit publish. Share it proudly.
And if you already have a blog or you’ve just started one, drop the link in the comments—I’d love to read it.
Need more help starting your blog?
Reply or message me and I’ll send you a free checklist to help you get going.