“I don’t know where to start.”
“I don’t know what to say.”
“I don’t have time.”
Sound familiar? These are common responses from people who’d like to launch a blog, write a book, open a Facebook page, or… (Fill in the blank).
Is this you?
They seem to sense what most blogging veterans and seasoned writers already know: writing and blogging is hard work. It takes time. Dedication. Discipline.
Like I’ve said before, I’ve never really gotten the hang of the daily post thing. And I don’t worry about. Like most, I post when I can, when I have something to say. People get that.
Sure, there are times when blogging can feel like you’re parked at the base of Mount Everest looking up. In the dead of winter. Solo.
Not everyone is up for it.
That’s okay.
Flip Side:
Blogging isn’t easy. But it can be tons of fun. Rewarding. Fulfilling. Challenging. Inspiring. An opportunity to stretch. Hone your writing skills. Grow. Learn. Connect. Share. Tackle the summit. And meet some really cool people along the way.
As I’ve said before, “writer” isn’t something you do so much as it is who you are. If you’re a writer, you know what I mean. The best writers I know write not for a paycheck or a publishing contract or fame and fortune (although there’s nothing wrong with any of that. :)) They write for one simple reason: They can’t not write.
Same with blogging.
No More Excuses
Like every kind of writing, blogging takes guts. But the rewards are worth it. So don’t let fear stop you.
Start today. Take the plunge. No more excuses. Find a way to get your words out there. Because we need to hear from you. You have something to say. No one else can say what you can the way you can.
Think of how boring Baskin Robbins would be if the only flavor available is plain vanilla. That’s why we need you. The words, ideas, creativity and perspective that only you can offer. The “flavor” that’s distinctly and uniquely yours.
Do It
Don’t forget to let your friends, colleagues and contacts know about your blog. They’re more likely to keep an eye out for it, plug in and help spread the word if they know it’s in the pipeline. For the truly intrepid, you might even mention a “launch date.” Why? Because if you let people know you’re launching a blog, it makes you that much more accountable. It”ll help you follow-through and actually DO IT.
Some free resources to help you get started:
How to Set Up A Blog, Using WordPress
How to Start a Blog Today: A Free Step by Step Guide for Beginners
Do you have a blog or an author’s Facebook page? I’d love to hear about it. Talk to us in the comments section. (Authors: here’s your chance to help another author and cross-promote.)
Pages & Paws 
June 28, 2013 at 7:40 pm
Hi I am so glad I found your blog page, I really found you by error, while I was looking on Aol for something else, Anyhow I am here now
and would just like to say many thanks for a remarkable post and a
all round enjoyable blog (I also love the theme/design), I don’t have time to read through it all at the moment but I have bookmarked it and also included your RSS feeds, so when I have time I will be back to read a lot more, Please do keep up the awesome work.
November 3, 2015 at 6:43 pm
Glad you enjoyed it. Best!
November 3, 2015 at 5:16 pm
I love blogging, it becomes such an addiction and a full time job at times. The blogging community is awesome, and I love finding new bloggers and offering insights for questions they may have. Reminds me of that same guy last July who didn’t have a clue what he was doing just rambling on about learning about getting a divorce.
November 3, 2015 at 6:43 pm
Thanks for weighing in.