Have you ever started gung-ho on a new venture and then pushed it to the back burner when another more pressing thing came along? Many people tell me this is what happens when they start blogging.
They post here or there, but when faced with the decision to keep up with the blogging or toss it aside, the poor blog got the toss.
Here are 12 ways to keep blogging on the front burner often enough to see some results.
1. Start with a plan
Create a blogging plan so you know exactly what you’re trying to achieve and how.
2. Draft a content calendar
Come up with topics, titles, and ideally outlines for each blog post you plan to write over the next month, quarter or even year.
3. Read other blogs that inspire you
Look for people that seem to have fun with their blog, and are blogging at least once a month. These blogs may or may not be related to your business; sometimes the best inspiration comes from an outside perspective.
4. Convene with other bloggers
Join a Twitter chat, online forum, or social network group for bloggers with similar interests, e.g., business owners, foodies, crafters, dog lovers, or another community. Review some of the recent discussions, respond where you can, and post your own questions.
5. Buddy up
Find someone to set accountability goals with (a coach is a great tool for this!) and keep in touch regularly about how you’re doing.
6. Keep blogging in your sights
Set up visual blogging cues around your workspace, like a printout of your content calendar or to do list. Then set appointments to work on your blog, with reminder timers that will get your attention.
7. Take care of your physical needs
You’ll have better access to your creativity and brainpower if you’re rested, hydrated and well-fed.
8. Give blogging the best part of your day
Maybe not every day, but set regular stints in your calendar where you use your peak creative and focused times for blogging.
9. Divide up your blogging tasks
Don’t try to start, finish, post and promote a blog post in one sitting, because that just sets you up to fail. Schedule separate blocks for each part of the process and then feel great about getting that done.
10. Close unnecessary windows
If this is the time you dedicated to brainstorming, drafting or outlining your post, you really don’t need the Internet. Just add a note in your document that there is a link or reference you want to add, and fill it in later. Make it easier on yourself to stay focused.
11. Scrap a lifeless post
If the energy isn’t flowing with a particular post or topic, move on. If blogging feels like slogging, it will be even more tempting to push to the side. Find another topic from your blogging plan that lights you up right now.
12. Just do it
Like other tasks that are good for you, you may not always feel like blogging, or want to give it any of your precious time. Do it anyway and reap the satisfaction of following through, and the rewards of adding to your growing library of valuable content.