Isn't this the sizzling topic that's been lighting up conversations among my fellow blogger comrades these days – do blogs still hold their charm in the ever-evolving landscape of 2023? Has personal blogging breathed its last? Well, to me, friends, blogging in 2023 is more alive than ever. It's not just alive and kicking – it's undergoing a transformation, a reincarnation if you will!
SUPER FUN FACT: Blogs continue to capture the hearts and minds of readers worldwide. In fact, a staggering 70% of internet users worldwide, like reading them. And not to mention our friends in the good ol' USA alone, invest 3X more of their precious time in blogs than they do in emails! Now, isn't that a revelation?
Blogging Through the Ages
Remember the good old days of blogging? When the internet was a simpler place, and we shared our thoughts and experiences without the weight of SEO or monetization on our shoulders? That's the past life of blogging that I think every blogger can relate to. I can't help but reminisce about how lifestyle blogging, in particular, has transformed over the years. They were like intimate conversations with a close friend, sharing the latest happenings, hobbies, and heartfelt musings.
Today, I think it's more about creating curated experiences. Lifestyle bloggers now serve as curators, offering readers a glimpse into a carefully crafted world filled with fashion, travel, wellness, and more. Authenticity still reigns supreme, but now it's skillfully blended with artistry, and purpose with the demands of the modern world.
A Hobby That Runs in My Veins
Honestly, I can't bear the thought of parting ways with this cherished hobby—it's practically coursing through my veins, woven into the very fabric of my being. My journey began as a 15-year-old blogger, and now, here I am, well into my late 20s, still captivated by it! It's a testament to its profound significance in my life. It transcends mere hobby status; it's a voyage, a testament to my evolution, and an everlasting bond with an audience that matures alongside me.
I'm fully aware that I tend to embrace my inner drama queen. But hey, isn't that what makes blogging so wonderfully unpredictable?
So, it's just a blog, right? No. Not to me.
Have you ever experienced that heartwarming sensation when someone shares how your blog guided them through life's twists and turns? Or when they made a purchase based on your genuine and captivating reviews? And knowing that they genuinely want to see you succeed? Oh, it's truly surreal to be part of these amazing communities!
Although I hold a deep passion for it, I must admit I'm not one to pour substantial financial resources into my blog. Please don't get me wrong; I simply don't perceive blogging as a costly endeavour.
My investment thus far includes RM180 for a 3-year domain name renewal (RM60 annually), a one-time purchase of a clean and beautiful Blogger theme (that honestly makes it look like I'm on WordPress but I'm not) from Etsy for RM118, and that's essentially it. I've chosen to utilize the free Blogger platform rather than opting for a paid one like WordPress. And when it comes to blog photography, I rely solely on my trusty iPhone – no fancy equipment whatsoever.
In essence, my stance remains: blogging need not be an expensive pursuit. However, I respect that everyone has their own perspective, and these are solely MY very, very own personal views.
Earning While Sharing Your Thoughts
While more than 30% of bloggers don't manage to extract any monetary gains from their blogs, I stand firmly apart from that statistic. Just a couple of short years back, I enabled Google AdSense on my blog, but it's not my primary revenue stream by any means. Instead, my blogging journey thrives off of affiliate links, sponsored posts, and guest posts.
So, yes, it's true that I've been fortunate to reap financial rewards from this blog, yet my motivations transcend mere pecuniary gains. My true passion lies in the exchange of ideas and the formation of connections with kindred spirits who share my interests.
Moreover, as time has passed, I've meticulously crafted my writing style, transforming it into an art form. This evolution has unlocked doors I never anticipated, allowing me to offer writing services and create sparkling content for a diverse array of clients—a truly remarkable journey, one that goes beyond mere earnings.
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Blogging in 2023
There's an undeniable joy in connecting with like-minded readers who are just as passionate about your interests, whether it's food, beauty, or the latest tech gadgets. It's the satisfaction of knowing that your words have resonated with someone out there! Blogging is about building meaningful connections, after all.
But beyond that, personal blogging has also become a launchpad for diverse careers, in my opinion. Writers, photographers, and influencers find themselves in high demand for their unique perspectives and skills.
In my humble opinion, the secret sauce to 'successful' modern-day blogging, akin to a seasoned pro, lies in the art of adaptability. You'll need to flex your strategy, tailor it, and roll with the punches to stay relevant. Today's audience is savvy, strapped for time, and choosy – not just in their purchases, but in their reading choices too.
The key is to serve your readers a banquet of genuine value. Craft exquisite, one-of-a-kind content that sparks discussions and leaves a lasting impression. Articles that leave readers hungry for more is one of the secret sauce to reaping the rewards of the blogging journey in 2023.
One more thing to note: People yearn for authentic narratives, heartfelt guidance, and raw, unvarnished experiences. They seek a genuine connection with the soul behind the blog, not just a polished facade. Through my blogging journey, I've learned that authenticity reigns supreme as one of the golden tickets to thrive in the ever-changing digital world. So, take that as you will.
An Outlet for Expression
In a world inundated with information left and right, personal blogs offer a refreshing escape. They provide a glimpse into the lives and passions of people from different corners of the world. They inspire, educate, and entertain, all while fostering a sense of community.
No matter the naysayers, blogging remains an undeniable powerhouse to me. It serves as an exceptional medium for passionate writers to enlighten, guide, divulge personal anecdotes and musings, and amplify their brand or business with unrivalled efficacy.
So... Is Blogging Still a Thing?
If I had a penny for every time people say that 'blogging is dead' or shoot me that incredulous look upon discovering I'm still passionately blogging in this contemporary era, I'd be well on my way to becoming a millionaire lol.
It's true that blogging has evolved and morphed, and I'll be the first to admit that I'm not the quintessential 'success story' in this realm. Nevertheless, I've been diligently reshaping my approach over the past few months, and I'm happy to report that I'm seeing (great) results! The sweat and toil invested are poised to pay off handsomely, and I just wish for others to embrace the 'new era' of blogging too!
I'm glad you think its still relevent! I still blog but definitely dont notice as much engagement etc!
ReplyDeleteDanielle’s Beauty Blog
I think blogging is the most genuine platform where people speak from their heart. I keep blogging because i feel so real to share stories and stuff. People can be 'xxfemes' through social media but not everyone can write a good story. It requires skill and creativity. Big company should pay blogger more than other social media creator coz we are sharing stories that some can use as reference (with more details coz we have no text limit). I feel sick watching people make stupid dance videos / content to earn money.
ReplyDeleteThat's all.. #eh