1. Define your niche

This is the most common piece of advice before starting any creative journey, and one of the hardest ones for me. I struggle narrowing down my interests and want to learn as much as I can about everything.

I decided to start with my end goal in mind. I enjoy the creativity that my Etsy shop brings me and the monetary possibility of it. I have two children under the age of three, and man they are expensive. I am also a school counselor and passionate about gratitude, mindfulness and mental health.

2. Pick a name

Sounds simple, right? This one was difficult for me. I wanted a name that was simply yet witty and represented myself and the brand I was trying to create. I had several different ideas and tested a few of them out before eventually deciding on this one.

Make sure when you are thinking of your blog name, it is named using the correct spelling, if possible. If your readers type out your name in their browser, they may get directed to another website because of the spelling. I also recommend when you register your domain name using .com instead of .org or .net.

Can’t decided just yet? That’s okay! I used this mind map layout below to help. I jotted down my ideas and thought about ways they could branch out, or how they defined what I was trying to accomplish. Once I decided on a name, I also used it to think of different content areas that I could write and post about.

3. Choose a blogging platform

This is the part I was the least clueless in, and honestly, still am! I just googled “best blogging platform” read reviews and compared prices and plans. Wix, Squarespace, and Bluehost, seemed to be the major players in the game, and I eventually decided on Bluehost. It seemed the most economical for me and my needs and WordPress was integrated within it. Whatever hosting site you decide on that fits your needs, just make sure it is a secure and reputable site.

4. Choose a theme

This applies to my hosting site, Bluehost, with WordPress since that is the one I have experience with. Once I had gotten signed up, paid the hosting fee, and registered my domain name the real fun started to begin. WordPress had so many themes, so I decided to go with one of the most popular ones, “Edge” at first. Once I was familiar-ish with ways to edit and change the appearance, I decided to switch to “Savona.” What I love most so far is how easily and quickly it is to change up the entire appearance of your blog. You truly have creative ownership over your site.

5. Start creating content

You can start writing your posts and developing your content prior to publishing your blog, or afterwards. Don’t be intimated thinking you have to have several blog posts ready, DIY videos, and an substantial Instagram following. Sure those things are great, but also don’t be afraid to let your blog grow with you. Introduce yourself and be genuine and then plan your posts out regularly and consistently. I found this great blog post planner to keep accountability. I also like this one for the gratitude component, but it is more of streamlined planner intended to be used for work or school.