Why You Should Write a Blog: A Beginner’s Outlook
Let’s start at the very beginning!
In 1991, the very first web page was created and several years later, in the late 90s, the first few blog posts, or “weblogs” as they were once called, were made. A lot has changed since then, especially with the creation of Blogger in 1999 and then WordPress in 2003. The number of websites online is exponentially increasing, now with almost 2 billion websites! Of these, it is estimated that a few hundred million are active – a huge chunk of which are blogs.
Why you should start a blog
So why is blogging so great? Why are millions of people doing it? And why should you do it too?
Blogging is a great form of expression
Blogging is a fantastic way to speak your thoughts and share them with other people all across the globe, in any way you want. As I mentioned in my first post, one of the key reasons for my blog is as a creative outlet – I can alter my site and its content in any way to project myself onto the internet.
The blogging world also gives me the freedom to read and write about any topic I want (great, right?). This means that, even if you don’t end up publishing your work, you will still find yourself pondering thoughts and concepts over in your head and expressing yourself internally.
Blogging allows you to learn and self-improve
Firstly, blogging itself is a new skill you can learn (and boy is there a lot to learn)! There is an array of different strands that you can focus on. If aesthetics is your main priority, you will end up teaching yourself web design skills. Should you want to understand all about Search Engine Optimisation (SEOs), you can spend days doing that too. Blogging is one of those things that you can take as far as you desire. If you want to learn loads, the power is in your hands!
In addition to learning about blogging, you will inevitably learn more and develop a deeper understanding of the topics you are writing about. This can help you become a more rounded and interesting individual as you will have a greater depth of knowledge in various fields. You may even reach the point where you are well-respected and seen as an expert in certain areas.
Blogging also helps you learn how to communicate more effectively. In the short time I have been using WordPress, I have already noticed that my vocabulary has gradually broadened – either that or I now have the opportunity to use words that I wouldn’t in day-to-day life. Either way, this may also enable you to perform better in interviews, dates, or any other social interactions in the future.
Through blogging, you will also find yourself reading a lot more. I have never been much of a reader at any point in my life, but I’m finally taking some enjoyment out of it and have learned to appreciate it.
Blogging can be healthy
I have already mentioned the learning aspect of blogging. However, it also keeps your brain active in other ways such as through the reading, writing, and processing of new material. Personally, I have found that keeping my brain active has helped both my sleeping pattern as well as with my mental health. It is also linked with reducing the risk of dementia in later life.
Blogging allows you to connect with new people
No, not everyone on the internet is weird. And yes, there is in fact a sense of community within the blogging world. People from the blogging world reach out to each other directly following blog posts all the time. These people often have similar views which can spark interesting conversations leading to the formation of friendships, mentor partnerships, travel buddies, useful contacts, and many other relationships.
Blogging can help others
You may be the world expert in particle physics or you may know everything there is to know about the history of Arsenal Football Club. Either way, there is likely someone out there that wants to know what you do, or wants your opinion (whether or not they know they want it is a different matter!). You can be the one to deliver this! Spreading information and knowledge can be really helpful, and your advice or guidance could be essential to someone else.
It can also be extremely gratifying to know that you have helped someone.
Blogging can be a career
Many use blogging as a way to make money. This can be small amounts to supplement an income or enough to make a living. Once your blog is receiving enough views (I can dream, one day…), it can be monetised (yes I use an “s”, I’m English). This obviously doesn’t happen overnight, and it takes a lot of hard work and dedication. So if you are considering starting a blog, I would strongly suggest doing it for pleasure rather than the money – and if you do happen to be successful, remember that you read these tips!
Blogging can help you find a job
Believe it or not, many companies now look for employees that have a blog. Several years ago my father applied for a job, and during the interview, they asked if he had ever written a blog – the answer was no, and he didn’t get the job. A few months later, my father ended up working at that same company and later found out that blogging was something they looked for. This is probably because blogging stands you out from the crowd as well as demonstrating independence and willingness to learn new things beyond what is expected of you.
Blogging can become a hobby
If you feel as though you are bored and need something new to do, a blog is a good way to keep busy. Once you get into it, you may even feel as though there aren’t enough hours in the day!
Blogging doesn’t need its nappy changing
A blog can be like your baby; it’s something that you can grow and nurture all the way from its inception. You will learn to care for it, you will see it progress and yes it can be a challenge, but, just like a baby, it is worth it!
All of this, and you can start it for free! Honestly, WordPress, hire me now, put me on your marketing team…
So, the real question is: why wouldn’t you start a blog when all of this is on offer? I hope this has inspired you to go forth and write, someone in the world will appreciate it!
– Matt
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