Why I Blog (+ Why You Should Too!)

   

In the modern world of blogging, vlogging, tweeting, snapping, and everything else, I think that it's very easy to get lost in the virtual world of social media. Many people are against it, many are okay with it, and many embrace it and fully immerse themselves in it. For me, I definitely put myself on the immersion part of the spectrum; as someone who has always loved social media and trying new things, I think it was only natural for me to start blogging.

Let's backtrack a little bit and talk about writing and what it means to me. I love writing and it's something that has always come somewhat natural to me. In college, I was the oddball that enjoyed writing papers and essays. Before that, I had strongly considered a degree in journalism. However, I changed my degree, but that lingering desire to be a writer never fully went away. The idea of blogging came to me about three years ago during the e-boom of bloggers and the demand for them. The hype for me slowly fizzled out, and this was a cycle that I would repeat over and over. 

So, what was it that made Meanwhile With different? 

The truth is, I don't know, but there just was. Despite the fact that my blog is still relatively new, I'm having fun with it, and that's really what it's all about for me. I love being able to write while having a career, the whole process of planning posts, sharing them on social media, and even seeing what my friends think. For me, blogging is my niche away from reality and what I actually do, to share what I enjoy doing with other people. Not to mention it's fun! There's something about doing research on how to edit photos, how to take photos, how to lay out subjects, how to write posts, and how to share them across the internet that weirdly appeals to me, and it's the sort of knowledge that I can't stop getting. It's practically another world!

So, why should you start a blog?

//You enjoy writing. Doy, number one reason. While I consider myself to be a beauty/lifestyle blogger, if it's not your thing, worry not. It doesn't have to be. You can write about literally anything you want and there will be someone to read it.

//You have a hobby that you enjoy talking about. Spread the word about the things you love! Write about them, because there's someone out there who would love what you have to say.

//You enjoy networking. This isn't something that very many people may think of when they consider starting a blog, but think about all the people that you could connect with! I always love finding new blogs to read and keep up with.

//You love learning. There's a lot of work that goes into launching a blog. For me, I knew a little about a lot of the components that went into putting together Meanwhile With like photo editing, writing, taking photos, and the tech side like HTML and creating my own domain name. Even then, I'm always learning about what works for different bloggers. There's lots to learn!

//You like to inspire others. This is huge for me, personally. I can't tell you how many bloggers I followed and how long I followed them before I made a blog of my own. Have I inspired anyone? No, not yet, but I like the idea of doing that one day!

//You're self motivated and like opportunity. The potential for a blog to grow into something huge is totally possible, but you have to start somewhere. Blog for yourself and not with the intention of quitting your day job. Do it because you enjoy it, not because you're looking to impress other people. However, if an opportunity arises? Take it! 

//It's free - or at least very affordable. Willing to take the plunge and start a blog? Luckily it costs very little to start - either totally free or about $15 if you're serious about it. There's no reason to go out and get the latest expensive theme or a pricey camera set up. Start off small and use what you have because it's all you need to have a great blog!

What are other reasons you think others should start a blog? If you don't have a blog, why not? I'd love to hear both sides!

xx Mary