Two years ago I revealed some blogging truths in something called 10 Real-Talk Blog Tips. There’s a lot we don’t talk about when it comes to the business of blogging because we want to make things look easy… you know, like all of us bloggers wake up with perfect cat-eye makeup and Bundt cakes that slide effortlessly out of the pan every single time. Truth is, it’s messy and haphazard. Some of us have editorial calendars and secret staff photographers. Others of us just fly by the seat of our pants and super stress out when tax time comes around. It’s a mixed bag.
If you’re a new blogger, aspiring blogger, or frustrated blogger, allow me to offer you a different perspective: it’s not all cat-eye, DIY, and stacked cookies (although sometimes it is, and that’s cool too).
(Another) 10 Real-Talk Blog Tips
One: It’s easy, ooooh so easy, to feel like you can’t keep up with the blogging world. Some bloggers offer up new content every few days. Some bloggers post every single day. Some bloggers have three kids, are learning a new language, and post multiple times a day. It’s easy to feel like the Internet is screaming ahead of you. I understand. It’s overwhelming. My advice: go at your own pace! You’re the boss of you. Set a loose posting schedule that works for you, and try hard to reach those goals. Push yourself, but be kind to yourself. Both feel really good.
Two: A new trend in food photography involves downloading loads of super cute fonts and creating awesome text treatments over pretty pictures of stacked pancakes and glazed doughnuts. It’s totally a thing. It’s totally pretty. Here’s the deal: it’s ok if you don’t put text on your pictures.
Someone had to say it.
Just because it’s a trend doesn’t mean it’s right for your blog. Every time I consider a trend, I think back to the time I got a short bobbed haircut because it was all the rage in junior high. The result? Frizzy triangle hair. Trends can be a trap. And yes… I am FOREVER talking about my various hair traumas.
Three: There are all sorts of ways to rank and rate blogs. Ignore Ignore Ignore! Sites like Alexa will rank your blog in terms of traffic, link backs, and God knows what else. Don’t pay any mind to Internet rankings. Do what you do, and keep doing it better and better. Be your own barometer.
Four: In the same way that Internet ranking sites are an easy way to compare blog standings, it’s also really easy to visually compare our blogs. It’s the Everyone Looks So Cute and It’s Totally Annoying Syndrome. I know this well. It’s so easy to get sucked into the gorgeous work of our peers. It’s also easy to let admiration turn into jealous-reading. Comparison is a nasty beast. Its partner Self Loating, is an absolutely useless animal. Beat those back. Remember: No one is better at doing you, than YOU! Sure… tons of people on the Internet are great bakers with rad food photography… but NO ONE can talk about curly bangs with the passion that I can. Truth.
Five: Build communities. It’s like having a clique in high school, except it’s on the Internet and it’s full of nice and supportive girls. I’ve found that reaching out to people on Twitter is actually important to the life of my site. It allows me to connect with people in a faster and more personal way than simply replying to blog comments. I can also tweet people that I admire. I think that might be how I became friends with Emily from Cupcakes and Cashmere… I may or may not have hounded her on Twitter. Note: I’m not suggesting you hound people. I’m just saying…
In that same vein, Pinterest and Instagram are excellent ways to connect and gain inspiration. Make friends with people of like minds and similar taste. Pretty pictures always get the wheels moving.
Six: Collaboration is the future! Seek out people you admire, dream up a way to work together and reach out! Maybe that means adding contributors to your blog. Maybe that means starting a blog with a Twitter friend who is as obsessed with doughnuts as you are. Maybe that means partnering on a seasonal post. Dream it up and make it go!
Seven: The the dialup tone we used to have to endure to log onto America Online? Remember the constant floppy disk downloads and counting Internet minute usage? Don’t even get me started on chatrooms… oh man. The Internet is always changing. We can’t expect it to stay the same, and we can’t expect to stay static on the Internet. Right now Pinterest is on fire, but not so long ago, Twitter was the new hot thing? With everything always changing around us, it’s important to stay current, but also important to make incorporate the newness in a way that feels authentic to our work.
Eight: Let’s make a deal to one another. Let’s always get better. Let’s learn new camera tricks. Let’s try recipes that might sound tricky. Let’s always post content that we’re supremely proud of.
Nine: It can’t all be about cookies and doughnuts. Getting out off the computer and out of the kitchen is essential to creating a full blog. It doesn’t have to be about an extravagant trip, sometimes just bike ride and sunset is all you need to recharge and find inspiration. Live a good life. It makes for a good blog.
Ten: No one wants to be completely alone on their blog. That’s what our diaries are for. Super secrets. Support is a big part of the blogging community. Reading other people’s work. Admiring photography. Repin. Retweet. Like. Comment. High-five. It’s all a part of the support game. So… Let’s support each other.
Here’s a thing we should do. If you’d like, you should leave a comment on this post with a link to your blog (if you’re into that sort of thing) in the body of the comment. Then take a few minutes to click around to other links you find in the comment section. You might find some new favorite blog people. Let’s do!
xo joy
mp3
Thanks for this. I particularly needed to hear the part about reaching out. Not my strong suit.
Thanks for sharing! It is easy to get caught up in the comparison game, but way more fun to pat people on the back for their great work.
Quinoa
Great post thanks for sharing :)
Adina
Written so beautifully! This was such an inspiration, I needed to hear ALL of that today. Some of it sounds like tough love but everything is empowering, like blogging and building a community are possible. I’ve been getting disheartened a little bit, so thank you for that.
Andrea Escobar
Thanks for this. Words of wisdom right here. I think we all get caught up, I know I do.
The Desserted Girl
Joy, I can’t thank you enough for this post! Don’t know why it took me so long to discover this particular one on your blog! I’m at http://www.thedessertedgirl.com and somehow, reading your very honest words about SEO and cute fonts just made my day :)
Natasha of Natashaskitchen.com
I Just LOVED reading this. I was listening to a podcast on Food Blogger Pro and one of the guests mentioned your quote about living a good life. I’m totally quoting you in my newsletter this week and linking back to this article. Thank you for that fresh and wonderful perspective. Oh and my blog: natashaskitchen.com
Quintessential Portugal
This is what I call Real Talk! Thank you for writing and sharing this piece of precious info.
I’ve recently entered into the blogging world and I’m trying my best to juggle everything which is being a challenge, no doubt.
My blog is about the best of Portugal now. From Portugal to the world. It includes Travel, Food & Lifestyle. Here it goes the link: http://www.quintessentialportugal.com
Thanks you!
QP
Spill The Beans
Great advice! Check out my blog spillthebeansfood.com ??
Aimee
This is a super old post but I have just come across it. Number 2 and the junior high bob. Love it! I was right there with ya! Thanks for all the advice here. http://www.charlottejulienne.com
Ashton
Can I Play? http://Www.asweetpeach.com!
Michelle
As a newbie blogger, finding support in the cyber form is just as important as supporting girlfriends in any other part of life! This was an awesome post. Here is where you can learn how I help others lives at the epitome of their happiness: http://www.emailingwithmygirlfriends.com
Anne
Thanks for sharing this! I feel a bit better about my blog now.
http://atablefordeux.blogspot.ca/
The Obnoxious Vegan
Thanks for this informational post. It was self imposed and it really helped to put me into the perspective that I CAN do this. I can relate the envious-jealousy-monster that comes out every now and then and wants to squash my dreams of having my little blog be what it is.. ME. You seem sincere and true and I like that! I shall poke around your site some more as I just discovered it!!! xo – H
Elisabeth
I am about to post the third recipe to my blog, so I think that it is safe to say that I am very much in the baby stage. But hey, every How To list tells me to get out there and promote my blog from the start, so here I am!
I’m still working on my style (it seems that I say “but” and “so” quite a lot… welp…) but it’s getting there, it’s getting there! Come visit me, I would be so thrilled!
http://www.scandiliciouskitchen.wordpress.com
Chrissy
I realize I am a little late to the party here but I love this post!! Such great advice. I have loved every site I have clicked and even reached out to a few! Hope others enjoy mine and reach out :) http://www.EatSomeWearSome.com
Melissa
Joy, very inspiring post! This particularly resonated with me: “Live a good life. It makes for a good blog.”
I am a new blogger, and am already seeing how big the challenges can be. It’s nice to find some encouragement in the thick of it!
Melissa
http://www.frenchpressrunner.com
Courtney @ FitCakes
Hi Joy! I know this post isn’t new, but I’ve been feeling particularly in need of blog advice – these are great tips to help me breath and get perspective. Thanks!
I also appreciate your invitation to share – my blog is
FitCakery.com
Jennifer Bowman (@JHBowman)
I love this! So glad I came across this post. Thanks for making it known that we (I) are/am not alone in so many of these blogging struggles! Working hard to improve my quality of blogging life in 2015. :)
Bet
Well, after reading a bunch of comments, I can see that a lot of us needed your super encouraging post! I started my blog not long ago, and it’s already not all fun and games and cooking. I had no idea how much behind the scenes work it would take, and I know I’m only scratching the surface so far. I’ve been an admirer and eater of your food for awhile now, and I’m going to keep your tips in mind as I try to improve each day and enjoy the process! Thanks!
http://www.betondinner.com
Kimberly/TheLittlePantation
I know I am number 670-something posting a comment but STILL want to say THANK YOU for this lovely and generous post :)
Melissa
I recently found your site and have totally fallen in love! Thank you for all the posts you put up, such as the Baking 101 information, and of course, this post! I feel so much more relaxed thanks to your words of wisdom!
I recently started my site at http://www.freshlybakedsweets.blogspot.com and I hope it continues to thrive!
Long Distance Baking
Way late to the party here, but loved this post! It’s so perfect Joy. And thank you for the idea of sharing each others blogs…it has been fun reading through some new ones!
http://www.longdistancebaking.com
suhasinivira
Absolutely loved this post, really motivated me to keep writing. http://edgeofimpulse.wordpress.com/
Lindsey
I’m new to blogging and love how you wrote, “Push yourself, but be kind to yourself.”
I couldn’t have said it better. Thank you lady.
http://www.hazelhaven.com
Sandra
Thanks for the tips Joy, been on and off blogging for quite some time now. I love the part where in we must promise ourselves to get better! :)
Cecile
I loved this !! Your points all ‘hit home’ – especially the one about taking a bike ride or getting out ’cause all we do & see affects our blog! When I post I often mention that I ‘goofed’ again and other comments in that vein, which I believe helps followers to understand even the best of cooks ‘goof’ – and those ‘goofs’ are often fixable! I also really liked that you mentioned loving our blogs for what they are and not to compare them (at least not too often) to other more popular or better photographed blogs. Here’s the link to my blog!
http://myyellowfarmhouse.com/ LOVE YOUR BLOG !!
Alyssa (@alyssarimmer)
Sometimes you’re feeling lost or deflated and really just need a boost of confidence to get yourself back up and keep plugging away at what you love. Thank you so much for this insightful and inspirational post. It makes me realize that I’m not alone in how I feel and getting discouraged sometimes is normal. It’s just a part of the game! And if we keep going after what we love, it will work out in the end.
If you all are a fan of quinoa, then come check out my site! I’d love to hear what you think :)
http://www.queenofquinoa.me
Joanie
Thank you for the tips. I admit getting sucked into a few of those. I’m working on getting out and away from the computer and kitchen more without feeling guilty. It’s funny, when I do get away, I feel so recharged and wonder why I don’t do it more often.
http://zagleft.com/
Brittany's Pantry
:)
Dwain
It’s going to be finish of mine day, but before end I am reading
this fantastic article to improve my experience.
Ana Rita
I’ve read your 10 tips and agreed with all…. We should enjoy our blog and put in it what we are and what we love… The rest is just trends that will vanish someday…
I love your blog because is very casual, light, with no pretension and also is Joy in all of it!!
Kisses,
Rita
Joan - My Cookie Clinic
Enjoyed your post. It’s easy to get caught up with the crowd and lose one’s own identity. Thanks for reminding us it’s OK to follow our own lead.
Miss Kim @ behgopa
Awesome post! I especially love the tip about getting better. Even though not all of us can become overnight success stories, when we strive to become better each day, we can look back and see what a long way we have come.
Timeka Chaney
Truly love this post. Simply put do what you love, have fun with it and get better at it each day. Thanks so much for sharing.
Alecia (aka From Foodie with Love)
What a great article about remembering what’s important and NOT important –> those lines get crossed so easily in the blogging world. A good reminder to work to our best abilities regardless of others & to take time to live a “real” life in addition to our online life :)
From Foodie with Love
Nicole Martin
Amen! These are all things that every blogger needs to keep in mind. Thank you for the reality check. :) You can see my blog at http://www.teaformeplease.com.
Sonja
Totally overdue comment, but the first time I read this I did not have a blog. Now I do, and this was very reassuring. After just one week I was feeling completely overwhelmed, especially as I started seeing the food blogs I’ve followed for so long as competition, and felt I could only fail.
This post helps ease that feeling of failure, and for that I want to thank you!
Also, great blogs in the comments!
joythebaker
don’t think of other food blogs as competition, think of us as friendly neighbors!
Elizabeth
I know I’m late to this post, but it was such a helpful read. Thanks so much.
amy
I love what you said: “Just because it’s a trend doesn’t mean it’s right for your blog.” In real life, we all struggle against the inclination to keep up with the Jones’s. It’s a wonderful reminder that we don’t need to do that in our blog lives, too. Keep keepin’ it real :) Love your work!
Jeannette B
I’m about to fill my life with lots of new, delicious blogs.
And begin blogging again. Oh yes, it’s happening.
http://www.thewhimsicalcupcake.wordpress.com
Ingrid
I’ve been trying to get back in the groove of updating my long-neglected food blog, http://healthfulrecipes.org – and I so needed to read this. There are so many great food blogs out there with amazing photography to go with their great recipes so it’s very intimidating for people who aren’t looking so pro. Thanks for the great post and the inspiration!
David
I really liked your honest, from the heart style of writing! I’m new at this, and I’ve read lots of tips on what to do and what not to do. But you sound very down to earth.
David
David
I really liked your honest, from the heart style of writing! I’m new at this, and I’ve read lots of tips on what to do and what not to do. But you sound very grounded, and you seem to truly love connecting with others. I love your pics, even without writing on them! I’m a sucker for warm, cozy photos of baking or any other cooking. It just seems like home. Thanks for the extra inspiration.
David
Brittany
Great tips, Joy. The support and friendship is my favorite part of the blogging community. And the tip about getting out of the kitchen to go adventuring is really something I lose sight of sometimes. You opened my eyes that I should experiment more!
Check out my blog if you like!
bakingwithwhiskey.wordpress.com
Nisha
“Live a good life. It makes for a good blog.”
LOVE IT.
GREAT POST!!!!
Kate
I went back and read the first part of this blog and then read this one, and I’m glad I did :) I’m just getting back into the blogging world after many attempts…So far, So good. I think I have finally broken free of all the blog standards out there and started writing about what I truly love. Thanks for sharing this and inspiring the rest of us to KEEP GOING!
Michelle
Lovely post !! Especially for a newby ! Having no Idea what people will think of my blog, but I am excited about finding out xx Your blog is so gorgeous x
Jodi
I totally missed this post! Joy- thank you for being you. You totally nailed it. I am my own boss!
Jessica Hill
Thanks for making an advice article really fun to read! You’re point about not getting wrapped up in comparisons is good. I started my blog for me, and to share my travels/photography with my family, but then I got addicted to the stats and I just want more, more, more!
Shannon O'Donnell
I’ve had a blog crisis of late — been at it for five years and had some successes, but felt stifled by my own decision to stick to a single style that was no longer inspiring me to post and write about travel.
Anyhow, I found my way here looking for tips and this post was such a wonderful reminder that it’s okay to adapt and evolve, and stay true to creating the best I can, even if that is different than what I have in the past.
In short, thanks! :)
Naureen
great practical tips for the rest of us in the shadows of the blogosphere =)
i’m over a year into my blog and i am just now figuring out how to properly use my dslr. i thought that should be squared away first, but community building definitely goes hand in hand. thanks!!
Tina @ Tina's Chic
Thank you for your inspirational words. I needed them right about now as I’m 1 month newbie blogger. Made my day. :)
Elspeth
love. love. love your blog.
don’t even know how i found it – glad i did
its quirky. its real. it makes me smile.
http://elspethcopeland.ca/index.php/2012/11/27/flirting-with-detoxification/
Laney
Hey there. Good points! I feel like a failure at times when I blog and like i’m just typing to hear my type away on the keys. I want feedback and comments to my post that I’d do anything to get it basically. which may seem wrong.
I follow people, I read the blogs from top to bottom, and i comment. I would think people would return the favor. What’s the point in just reading and not commenting? Someone said well if it’s nothing i can relate to I dont comment.
Heck someone could post about buying a gun or having a gun. I cant relate to it b/c i dont buy guys nor do i own one but still I’d comment rather it was nice post and have a nice day. or something around that.
Now a days please want to make money off their blog and off their bloggers which I think is pure bullshit! excuse my french but it’s the truth and that’s what I do. I speak the truth and speak my mind and that’s another thing why people dont comment. they are scared I may bite their heads off. Hell they may need it. LOL
have a great weekend. Would love to hear from you.
lacey
i may be a month late on this post but i’ve been following your blog for a while now and it’s awesome, you’re awesome – thanks for being so awesome and supportive. i’ve been enjoying your cookbook for a while now too. both (your blog and cookbook) are inspiration. i started an online bakery and blog a couple of months ago and would love for you and anyone to check it out and send me your input. i’ve thought about making the site strictly a blog but the original idea was to use my kitchen as a bakery. with each day that passes, i’ve found i’m just as passionate about food blogging as i am about baking. anyways hope to hear from you guys soon! http://www.littleplumpig.com.
Shannon
This is wonderful! Thank you so much for this very sage advice. I’m still new to the blogging world (not yet at my year anniversary) and I absolutely love doing it. I love writing. I love snapping photos. I love reading comments and making my own. But, I get anxious about it, too. I definitely fall trap to the comparison syndrome. This list helped me take a few deep breaths and relax about it all (at least for the time being!).
Thanks!
– Shannon @ moveeatcreate.wordpress.com
NZT
Thank you so much for helping me for learning blogging.
Lindsay Széchényi
Great post! I haven’t been to your site in a little while and I have to say… your pictures are getting SO AWESOME. High five.
Kate
” Live a good life. It makes for a good blog.”
Best piece of advice I’ve ever read. All of this was good. But that line? It stopped me cold, and I stared at it a long time. Good words. Thank you.
Kavey
Yes! There’s way too much pressure to follow like sheep with the latest blogging trend, and I often see people get depressed (or even angry) when they feel their blog gets less attention that someone else’s.
Well you know what, it’s meant to be for fun, isn’t it? I mean, isn’t that why we do it? If not, then what’s the point?
I am often told I should stick to one thing, as the broad range of my content doesn’t pull as many people in. But I don’t want to only post restaurant reviews or guides on making chutney or even home cooking recipes. I want to do all of them, plus anything else that takes my fancy too!
Anything food-related that interests me! Sometimes I know it’s not going to be a popular post but I love it and want to share it anyway, so I DO!
And so, I still enjoy the whole thing.
Yes, I’m only human, sometimes I covet more comments and attention, but I’m grateful for the visits I do get, the kind people who leave a comment of encouragement of reaction.
It’s ALL GOOD!
:-)
Kaveyeats.com
jehanne@thecookingdoctor
thank u Joy, it is as if u read my mind! How this blogging world can be so infuriatingly competitive at times…!
my blog: http://www.thecookingdoctor.co.uk
I try to take good pictures, post good recipes ( instead of recycling from others) , write for real magazine yet its so difficult to get people to come by..why oh why!!
But ur word of wisdom is inspiring, just as sometimes I feel like quitting this whole ‘gang thing’..
Kim
Hi Joy,
Now this was refreshing! I feel so overwhelmed at times being new to the blogging world and this was nice to hear. Support one another! Yes! Keep rockin!
jordan
i’ve been off for 3 months – felt uninspired, busy, uninterested. there’s always a constant murmur of wanting to blog. its hard when there ARE so many other outlets, instagram, vine, twitter, pinterest, etc. but this is awesome. esp. #10 – support. it warms my heart to read all these comments and see folks really rallying to support each other. thanks for doing as you do, joy. you’re an amazing inspiration! here’s to getting back on the horse…that’s the right analogy i think.
mel@TheDizzyMom
Hi! I am super excited to discover all these awesome blogs. Thanks for creating a space to share.
http://the dizzy mom.blogspot.com
Great tips by the way. It’s all about doing something that makes you feel creative and fullfilled. Doing so will inspire others.
Bex @ Vegan Sparkles
Love it, Joy! Especially the part about not getting overwhelmed by the speed of the internet because it’s so easy to be.
Heading over to read your first post on the subject now and to find some new blog friends in the comments!
Bex @ VeganSparkles.com
Paola Domínguez Luttmann
Thanks for the tips! Your blog’s a huge inspiration for lots of food lovers :) Greetings from Guatemala!
Sushama
I forgot to add my blog link :) Here it is,
http://sushamaskitchen.blogspot.com/
Thanks :)
Kristine Duncan
Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts about the real life behind this crazy blogging thing we do. Posts like these are so terribly comforting for new bloggers like me. You can find me doing what I love – being a vegetarian dietitian and writing about eating – at http://www.veggirlrd.com.
Diana
very nice tips/ advices. I started to blog first for me, and then for others. but is really nice when you see you have one more follower, one new comment.
Annie
Thanks for the little extra encouragement! I have recently started a blog and its something I am pretty proud of, but there is always room for improvement.. But i guess its early days and this is the beauty of something which is constantly a work in progress, right? Annie :)
Sushama
Hi Joy!
First of all, your blog is Awesomely inspiring for new bloggers like me. I started writing blog in 2011 but I don’t post many blogs that often, may be once in a year. HAHAHA!! It means I have only few post and that’s true. I always think that I will write my recipes in blog but something or the other come to my mind and I change my ideas. After looking at other prity blogs I feel like Its very difficult to create such a beautiful blog with prity pics and all in short time. Some times I check my own blog to see if anybody commented on it or not. This is a bitter truth but ya I do it number of times :( !! But you really inspired me on writing often for myself and then for others :) You have also given a good advice about being social and I will definitely implement that soon :)
I am adding a link of my blog, if get a chance take a look at it. If there is anything like suggestions or comments then I would like to know about it :)
Thanks!!
Karen M.
Phew! Over 600 comments? I don’t know if anyone will check my little corner in the internet, but please feel welcome to come by and say hello!
birdandfox.com/blog
I really appreciate this post. I blog mostly for friends and family, but sometimes I want to reach out to more people, you know, like strangers (whoa!). Haha. It can definitely get overwhelming, but in the end. Feel confident about your posts, let them always reflect you, stay positive, and maybe teach someone something new whether is DIY, historical fact, recipes, or a new/old etsy seller that might become your new favorite shop. Thanks for writing about this!
Gena@BakeAllTheThings!
I’m late to the party, but only because I’ve been prepping and baking and obsessively refreshing my order portal for my current treats sale on Fab.com
Now that I’m finally catching up, I wanted to take a moment to let you know that these kinds of ‘behind the scenes’ posts are so often my favorite. It’s refreshing.
I’m at http://www.bakeallthethings.com/for-dessert-blog :)
Lora
After coming back from a short blogging hiatus, this is what I needed to read to feel it again. Thank you, Joy. Thanks for mentioning how important it is to support each other. xo
http://www.cakeduchess.com/
Terri Lea Smith
Thank you for posting this, Joy. I have greatly enjoyed reading your blog and recipes. This is a blog I started and want to keep going.
BiscuitTalk.wordpress.com
It’s about all things biscuits and helps me stay connected to my Southern roots while I live in Arizona. I have neglected it for over a year. But you and my friends are inspiring and encouraging me to get back to it and keep it going.
Jodie Billington
LOVING THIS POST HUNI! My blog has recently had its first anniversary and I’ve learnt over time to just do what suits you. So your advice is spot on! Love it!
http://www.youonmycloud.blogspot.com xxx
Kate
What a great post! Thanks so much for this. Note to self: reread when feeling blue
http://www.katesshortandsweets.com/ is my baby. If you’d like to stop by, I’d love to hear what you have to say. It’s mainly a baking blog, with an emphasis on vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, and dairy free recipes.
Paula
You stories, posts, life lessons, photography are always inspiring! Paula http://www.callmepmc.com/
Elizabeth
Joy, thank you for this!
I always so enjoy your wisdom and your wit. I just recently started blogging again, after about 7 months off because of a new (first) house and busy-ness at work/making some art, and I’m so happy to be back at it! (I’m also back to reading/catching up on my favorite blogs… and finding some new favorites.)
I’m at: http://www.cucinagirl.com.
And I totally get it about the curly bangs. Hope about straightening your bangs with a curling iron while the rest of your hair is still super curly? Super cool.
Elizabeth
*How about
(not “hope about”…)
Sarah
I haven’t taken the plunge yet, but I am very close to jumping into the world of blogging. Thanks for the “real-talk.” I’m nervous about finding the time to blog, but your post reinforced the fact that I have to go at my own pace and do this for me! Thanks!
Kay
Hi Sarah,
Don’t be nervous!!! Just say a pray and go for it!!! I just started my blog in Jan 2013 and it’s amazing, to say the least :)
Check out my blog if you would like http://thetreattruck.wordpress.com/
Njoy!
Kay
Tatiyana
I totally started blogging because i had stumbled on your blog and it’s one of the reasons I’ve kept it up. There have been many many many many times I’ve wanted to throw in the towel and say f-it, but I haven’t! Thanks for posting these rules, it makes me feel way better!! My blog is http://www.savorystiletto.com and while it isn’t updated every day (or every week) I’m getting back into it:)
Midwest Magnolia - Melissa Lewis
This has got to be by far the best blogging tips and advice I’ve seen yet! So so true!
~Melissa, Midwest Magnolia
Becky
As a new blogger this was so inspiring, I love your ethos and your food….oh my god! I’m still learning how to photograph food and you have given me so many new ideas – thank you! xx
Mel
Just found your blog through Frannycakes. Such a good read, especially for a newbie blogger.
I’m at: towerofmel.wordpress.com
Hannah Jade
When I’m getting super caught up in how amazing everyone else’s blogs are, I check out their first few posts. It usually reminds me that everyone has to start somewhere.
MELBA @ OUTATHYME
http://outathyme.com
How did I miss this?? Thanks for the real talk and inspiration Joy!
Meli (Blush + Jelly)
Thanks for sharing these great tips! Really makes me feel like it’s ok to live instead of constantly worrying about what I am blogging about next…and to have frizzy hair. :)
andra
thank you for such a great post! my husband sent it to me since i just recently started my own blog… it is very confusing at first because you don’t know what you’re doing (or at least, i don’t) and for now, i’m just trying to do what i like… i don’t know if it will ever get off the ground and actually become something major, but as long as i enjoy doing it, i’ll keep posting. BTW, not to sound like a stalker, but i absolutely love your podcasts with tracy, they are so hilarious and entertaining and i feel like i’m just hanging out with some great girlfriends whenever i listen :) keep the great work coming! xo
Megan
Thank you for finally putting this out there! I stress about my photos, my content, my recipes, everything! Since I just started my blog in September, I’m still learning my way around the blogging world. I look at some of my favorite blogs, like yours, and get so jealous of the photos, equipment, and original recipes. It’s really easy to get discouraged, especially when there’s millions of other baking/cooking blogs out there. It’s wonderfully heartwarming to know that even the best bloggers have to try hard and don’t always get it right. I really appreciate the little pep talk :)
cioccolatoetc.blogspot.ca
sarah the baker yoon
Totally loved this! Thanks Joy!
I feel like the blog world has totally changed since the first day I started blogging in 2007 and I’ve completely lost touch of it all! I left it (to die..) for quite some time and trying to get back into it now is utterly daunting! This is a nice reminder of why I started in the beginning! :)
Way to go with everything you and thanks for still inspiring us!
Nastasja
Aha, and here’s the follow up. Love it! Especially number eight.
The link to my blog is: http://thefoodtrain.blogg.se
I’ve already found so many inspiring people here. Totally having the time of my life here, haha.
Chrys
So inspirational as always. Thanks for the encouragement. It’s a lot harder than some people think to keep up with a blog and to stay inspired and motivated. My issue is, people don’t seem to care until I don’t post in a while but they don’t leave comments to let me know they’re out there.
Amanda Johnson
This was so good to read. I just started a food blog in January and have been overwhelmed by all the amazing blogs, the speed if people’s posts and all the different tools. It’s reassuring to hear these words of advice.
Latestloaf.com
Melissa@EyesBigger
I’m a food blogger and a web designer who works with a lot of blogging clients. There is a mad obsession with internet rankings and stats amongst them. And often at the expense of content. I feel like I’m constantly preaching “focus on your content, write good content, create great content etc etc”. Truth is, if you do that, your rankings will go up and people will find you. If it’s once a day, once a week, once a month, people will find you. Loved this post Joy – I’m just going to direct clients to it from now on – you said everything I tell them every day!
nestandsparkle
Lovely, lovely – thank you!
Dona B
I launched a new blog this year and these tips (and your previous 10 tips) were exactly what I needed to read today. It is so easy to get overwhelmed looking at what everyone else is doing and lose track of why I want to do this and how I want to do it for myself. And your iPhone photos! I’ve been tripping myself up with using the big camera and getting bogged down in downloading/editing/resizing. I’m just going to use my iPhone for a while. Thanks for that tip!
Libby McNamee
Thank you, Joy, for the inspiration! The blogosphere can be such a lonely place! My blog is http://www.libbywithay.blogspot.com
I’m a freelance writer, so there’s humor, travel, parenting, and some of my published pieces. I love reading cooking blogs, so I will check you all out!
Libby
Joy, I keep coming back to this post and the one you wrote two years ago on the same topic. The more I read these, the more I understand that if I’m not having fun and loving it, then I’m wasting my time. And also life isn’t any fun if you’re not loving what you’re doing. So thanks for this.
Priya Pappu
I love this list! It’s so refreshing, especially coming from an awesome blog that has it all together. I needed that reminder, “go at your own pace”. Thanks for sharing!
perfectly priya.
Wita | designisyay.com
Hi, Joy the Baker! I have just discovered your blog through twitter. I love what you’ve posted here. Thanks for sharing. From now on I’ll be a regular reader of your blog :)
Keisha
Thank you so much for this post! I have been in the planning stages of my blog for months but i just get so intimidated..there are so many amazing blogs out there (especially yours)…This was just the advice i needed.Thank you so much.
Tracy
Great post! I really enjoy blogging, even if it is only my parents who are reading it. lol
I’ve been enjoying your blog for sometime. I’ve had my eye on your cookbook too. My 17-year old daughter has recently gone from no interest in being in the kitchen to baking lemon bars and other goodies. I’m like, “Who ARE you?” I’m thinking your book would be perfect for her. :-)
Happy blogging!
Tracy
tracysnotebook.wordpress.com
Abby
Thanks for this post! Great advice!
Check out my blog: hiletseat.wordpress.com
Kristin
Thanks! I love blogging & I love your site. Great inspiration!
Kristin
Thanks! I needed that :)
Lucy
We are brand new and it is easy to see wonderful and great blogs and feel like you will never measure up or you have to do all that they do. Thanks for the tips. http://coffeewithus3.blogspot.com/
Emily
These are such great tips! Thanks for this – it’s so easy to feel overwhelmed or like you are the only blogger feeling frustrated sometimes. I love reading these types of posts because it reminds me that blogging frustrations are completely normal. You have a great point of view!
Isn’t That Charming.
Michele
Thanks for these! So great!
Ashley
What an inspiring post! It’s definitely easy to get discouraged sometimes, and I love all of this advice! Thanks for posting. :]
Renee
Loving this post!
You are sharing from very practical tips, and I like practical people, see where I’m going on with this :-)
Have a wonderful weekend
Love
Renee
Caroline
I don’t know you, but I could kiss you right now after reading this. I just started my blog 4 months ago and have recently been feeling pretty lousy about the whole thing! I love cooking, trying to figure out that darn camera and writing, but promoting the site has been painfully difficult and gaining new followers, even more so. You give great advise and paint a very realistic picture. I needed to read this today…you are awesome!
Lauren @ La Dolce Pita
LOVE this post – such great, sound advice that hasn’t been said a million times before. So easy to try and keep up with the blogging jones’s and lose sight of your own accomplishments.
The Word Magician
Thank you so much for these tips. Your message came to me at a very good time, in a brief moment of doubt. I feel inspired and encouraged by your blogging reminders!
Janna
Joy — these are fantastic! I just launched a blog at the beginning of the year and have been absolutely loving it, but know I still have a long way to go… I’d love if you all would check it out and give me some feedback!
http://www.gourmet-myway.blogspot.com
And I’ll take a look at others as well!
PJ
Thanks for the blogger encouragement. I’ve been blogging for a long time, and most of the time am happy with my audience of ones of people…occasionally tens of people! LOL
I started blogging when I donated my liver to a friend with cancer. http://pjdhuerta.blogspot.com/2006/01/here-are-my-sister-and-i-after-her-all.html
Then I continued through breast cancer, a right radical mastectomy and chemotherapy. http://pjdhuerta.blogspot.com/2006/08/here-i-am-day-after-surgery-with-my.html
Now, it’s pending retirement that’s on my mind: http://pjdhuerta.blogspot.com/2013/02/whos-ready-for-retirement.html
Life does change…. In 8 short years I am amazed when I read the older blogs. Time marches on!
Kiran @ KiranTarun.com
Love your outlook on blogging, Joy! And thanks so much for being the one to say, “its OK to not have fonts on photos”. I always feel the pressure to “keep up” with blogging trends and this is one trend that I’ve told myself I need to stop self-judging and trying to DO IT ALL. Just be myself, and have fun.
Hope I get to hug it out with you, someday.
xoxo
angeles oszurkiewicz
Hi Joy, I´m Angeles from Argentina( im a baker as well, with a degree and all!!). I love how you´re so honest about bloggin,ang how sometimes you talk about money issues cause it always seems like bloggers are to cool to pay the rent!(I also like your pictures and stuff but who doesnt!)
this is my blog, i do it just for fun, but i readed all your tips anyway, <3
http://comidaspreferidas.tumblr.com/
love from the south!
Manisha
Yes, yes, and yes! Love this! I started a collaborative blog a year ago which hasn’t taken off, but I’m going to keep at it. These amazing women are all busy, but I think we can still do something amazing together. I’m still blogging – http://www.midwestlotus.com and I still enjoy it.
I just recently found your blog and love it!
Manisha
Erin
This is a very encouraging post! I know I love getting encouragement and it’s also a reminder that I need to be dishing it out more!
Joshua Cintron
Nice advice. You talk against the grain of most bloggers who say, set goals, blog everyday, be involved, very involved. This is a refreshing view. Thanks!~ Josh
Erin
Oh, this is just a lovely idea. I cook hot dinner at hotdinnerhappyhome.blogspot.com. Pull up a chair, there’s always room at the table…
Megan
Hi! I love your blog. It always makes me smile and your bread recipes are go-to’s for me at home. I blog about knitting, sewing, spinning, cooking, and gardening at http://handsinthedirtheadintheclouds.wordpress.com.
Back For Seconds
I love this post! Stay true to yourself and aspire to always be better. Yes! And if we all followed the current trends we would all be the same…,and boring. I love seeing everyone’s unique style – that’s half the fun! Great post, Joy.
Chantal Carlson
Joy!!Thanks for all of your tips. I am just starting out in blogging on an established website and want to do it right, the first time. I set the bar high but anticipate a few struggles along the way. If you or any fellow bloggers or food lovers have any tips for me come check out Zinter Brown’s amazing Taste Creations and share a few laughs with me as I blog about my crazy life at http://www.zinterbrown.com/blog/ ! Hope to chat with you soon!
Karen
Thanks, Joy. Sometimes I need to be reminded that it’s ok to take a breather, and that it’s ok to post whatever I feel like. It is my site after all. :) Now if I could only remember to have my camera nearby while I’m cooking, I’d have more posts to work with! :)
FunkySteph
I am very late on this one, but I had to write to thank you. I felt very lonely on my blog lately and yes I started to compare and felt lame… I feel a bit better and will try harder this community. Who knows it might pay in the end!
Katie | The Hill Country Cook
Amen sista’ friend. Sang right to my heart. Great reminder :)
LISA C PARSONS
I love blogs and I love reading alot of them! I have been blogging for quite sometime but do not have the readers. I have a couple of faithful followers other than myself. I would love to see more bloggers come and check out my blog. It is not as fun and fancy but I try!!!
Elizabeth @ Coppertop Kitchen
So looking forward to clicking through and (hopefully) meeting some new blog friends! :-)
Kay D'lyma
Hi Elizabeth,
Have been clicking throug and stumbled upon your blog! I realy liked the lovely links post…
Do check out http://thetreattruck.wordpress.com/
Kay
Susan
I’m so glad I’ve stumbled upon your blog. Your top ten tips are invaluable, reassuring and encouraging. It’s heartening to read instead of those harrassing ‘top ten tips on how to monetize your blog!’
Am looking forward to checking out the bloggers who have commented on here and if you like random, aimless blogs come say hi at http://www.theviolentfemme.com x
Carley
This is so lovely. Thank you!
I will add a link to my blog here at the bottom of the pile :) It’s called BEANS.
carleybeans.blogspot.com
Carley
Elizabeth @ Coppertop Kitchen
Carley, I just read through a few of your recent posts, and I tried to make a comment but Blogger is being crazy!! Are you on twitter? I’d love to connect. :-)
Ilen
Loved this! Especially #1. Very helpful. Thanks!
Jacque Stewart
I just started reading your lovely blog. This was an extremely helpful article. I’ve been struggling with writer’s block lately and it inspired me to get back into my own writing.
Kathleen
These are fabulous tips my best friend and I just started a blog East Coast West Coast Style. Where the East Coast and West Coast collide into a blog with fresh new recipes, DIY tutorials, fashion, and more. I feel like all of these tips and the tips from your other post are going to be super helpful.
http://www.eastcoastwestcoaststyle.com
Jess
Thanks for the blog inspiration! Just what I’ve been needing lately :-)
http://www.bellsbowlsbobbins.blogspot.com
-Jess
Meg
Super advice, Joy! Thanks! :)
I started blogging about 6 months ago when my current state of underemployment finally helped me realize that I needed a place to be creative. I blog over at Small World Supper Club – a place where I explore the intersections of vegetarian cooking, building community, and meaningful conversation. Here’s to both being kind to and challenging ourselves!
Zucchero e zenzero
Your post is very intresting, thank you for sharing those tips. Now I visit the other links!
zuccheroezenzero.blogspot.com
^-^
Rama
I love this and love how I just found you through Pinterest. Yeay. I am Rama from Freshly Grown. My story kind of goes like this…I got cancer at 19 and it changed my life and the way I look at food, so much so that now at 31 I have realized that this is what I want to be when I grow up. I launched FG last August and enrolled in Holistic Nutrition school last month in January. I blog about food, nutrition, food industry stuff, sometimes personal posts here and there and I love it. Come find me and welcome ahead of time. Cheers! -Rama
p.s.
I cannot wait to see what you all are up to, so many talented, fabulous people and creative people out there.
http://www.freshly-grown.com
https://www.facebook.com/be.freshlygrown
Andrea Fellman
This was fantastic. So many great reminders, especially ” Live a good life. It makes for a good blog.” Thank you
Kelly @ FrugalFoodieFamily
Oh my goodness I LOVE this! I started blogging 18 months ago and wonder several times a week if I should keep doing it. So thanks for the encouragement!
My husband was the one who talked me into blogging to share how we eat well on a budget. It’s been so fun (well frustrating at times too) but the best part is connecting with people and helping them.
http://www.FrugalFoodieFamily.com
Thanks!
Kelly
Tara
Thanks for this! The community of the blogging world is one of my favorite things about this corner of the internet. Girls supporting girls is a must!
Diana
So refreshing to hear! Thanks Joy!!
Natalie M.
Joy,
You are so rad! Here is the breakdown of why I read your blog:
35% – amazing food
35% – pep talks about accepting and loving yourself
20% – your realness and sense of humor
10% – your kitty
Keep on keepin’ on.
xoxo
Nancy @ gottagetbaked
These tips couldn’t have come at a better time for me. I just started my blog 9 months ago and I’m supremely proud of what I’ve been able to accomplish in that time. I’ve made things that really challenged myself, I’m learning more about my camera and photography every day and most importantly, I’ve met so many incredibly readers and bloggers. Even still, I constantly feel like I’m not keeping up. That everyone’s doing bigger and better things. That I’m barely scratching the surface. Thanks for this list, Joy. I bake ‘n wax lyrical over at http://gottagetbaked.com
delaney @ heartbreakpie
Nice to have a little reminder like this Joy, it can be hard! I am all about the collab though – especially translating that into real life! It’s amazing what you can do. Heartbreak Pie (www.heartbreakpie.com) is my NZ based blog of food, life and general banter. I talk too much about getting drunk and embarrassing myself, and eating kebabs at 3am., but I’m getting better at that! Thanks again.
Mikey Fernández
I keep marveling at how cool and awesome you are!!!!
joelle (on a pink typewriter)
Haha I love your comment about the text on food pictures- agreeeeeed. Everyone has their own voice – you gotta do you.
Laurie
Great advice, and thank you! I love your blog and so many others I see out there. I am just getting started and will be taking a photography class to learn to use my new camera in a month or so. My blog is mostly about healthy baking although I include decadent treats sometimes too. I also include my disasters as well as my successes. Adventures In Baking.
Tori (@eatori)
Oh, Joy. No truer words were spoken; live a good life. It makes for a good blog. Bless you.
If anyone fancies vicarious gadding about the world and recipes inspired by things like a growing baby bump and the Oscars Best Pictures, I’ll see you soon… x
Rachael
Wonderful advice and several things I needed to hear as a new blogger–thank you!
I totally want to discover some cool new blogs here, I hope some new readers can find and enjoy mine: http://www.rachaelmakescakes.com. You’re so right that networking and support internally are key.
Candice @ The Savory and The Beautiful
Wow, you really are so freakin’ nice! Thank you for this post!!!
Hanna
Thank you! I’ve starting a new blog and even though I know this stuff, it’s kind of overwhelming and you forget.
Totally put words on my pictures though, it’s how I roll.
Jennifer Archie
Lovely post! Thank you Thank you!
Best,
Jennifer
blahblahbirds.wordpress.com
jiggyloves.com
Jennifer Archie
Lovely post! Thank you thank you!
Best,
Jennifer
Jaimie
Oh Joy.. I absolutely love this post! Especially the part about trends.. when I first started my blog, I was putting the title of my recipes in different fonts on my photos because I read that people re-pin those photos more on Pinterest, but I just hated it. I think some people can pull it off awesomely, but it just didn’t fit the feel of my site and I let it go hoping that my photography will speak for itself on Pinterest. Awesome real talk. And YES to supporting each other.. I need to do more of that.. I don’t often comment on blogs, but am going to try harder to do it and to let people know when they’ve inspired me. Go you for doing just that! ; )
AmyFW
Nice post Joy! As a new food blogger I found this very inspiring. It made me all the more excited about the future of The Edible Craft!
addie | culicurious
Thanks for posting this, Joy. I really needed to read something like this today. :)
My blog is http://www.culicurious.com. I focus mainly on recipes but do some cocktails, restaurants, gardening and travel as well.
Cheers!!
Nancy P.@thebittersideofsweet
Thanks so much for this post especially for us newbies! It is encouraging!
http:// thebittersideofsweet.com
Mary Beth
Thanks for some inspiration. I have a sleepy. near dormant blog that I am looking to revive. It’s sometimes an overwhelming task to make yourself stand out!
elle squared
Great post! Thanks for pulling back the curtain to expose the “Great Oz”! :) Love your dry wit and less-is-more writing style—always brings a grin. Have made many of your recipes with great success, and the fam has clamoured for more. The book? Awesomeness bound. Just keep coming back for more more more! My blog is more crafty/naturey and brimming with ponderous musings. Still evolving, and very low-key. Just the way I like it…..bettybricolage.blogspot.com. Stop in for a cuppa!
Amelia
Quick question:
Is this a wordpress blog/template?
Bridget @ Champagne Frosting
http://www.champagnefrosting.com
Whenever I feel like I am alone in the frustrations of blogging and wonder what it is all for you always seem to have a way of reminding me what it is for and that I am not alone! Thanks for the inspiration!!
Noelle
I love what you said about Living a good life makes for a good blog. I often feel that way! I get so busy doing fun things that I don’t have enough time to blog them. Sometimes when I’m being boring I have to invent things to blog about. Its way better the first way.
sarah
Joy, this is wonderful! I’ve been blogging for a couple months now about my little adventure through infertility and baby making but also have a recurring post called “what I cooked while trying” where I talk about what I baked and cooked each cycle. It’s one part too-much-information, one part eating-my-feelings (or better yet “the copious consumption of chocolate”). In any case, I’ve found tons of inspiration right here on your blog (my husband asks for your peanut butter chocolate chip cookies on the regular) and I think these tips are helpful no matter what you’re blogging about. So thanks!
Barb | Creative Culinary
Great information Joy; I see too often the hurry scurry effort that so many bloggers feel compelled to do to keep up; to compete. I prefer not to compete at all and my mantra to any success is to do it my way, whatever that is and always remember, ‘Be the tortoise.’ That hare learned the hard way!
I’ve been sharing recipes online for almost 18 years; as long as I keep that desire as my personal focus for the reason for blogging, it’s easy to not get caught up in the ‘business’ of blogging; that would not make it fun for me at all!
Sandee
Mahalo Joy! I started my blog a few months ago when I moved from Honolulu to California as a way to share with family the goings on in my neck of the woods. Loved the tips, I like your style!
sweethomeatascadero.wordpress.com
Jess Versteeg
Seriously loved this post. Keep keeping it real, Joy!
http://jessversteeg.ca
Amanda Martin
I love that there is such a beautiful and supportive community of food bloggers out there. It’s scary sometimes, but it’s just so wonderful when everyone gets to learn from and work with each other. :)
Kim Byer
Sometimes I feel like I’m growing up by blogging and living in this online world. And since I’m going to turn 50 this year, that’s a mouth full of honesty. I agree –blogging can be frustrating and intimidating. I’ve experienced a lot of the self-loathing that you talked about, but ohhhhhh wow, when it’s good it’s very, very good. There’s nothing better than the feeling of baring your soul online and feeling the love of this extended food blogging family. I also love reaching out and being a slice of the giant, comforting community pie. Making others feel good about what they’re posting, baking, crafting and thinking is part of the magic that helps me.
Nicole (MyLoveForCooking)
Joy I always love reading your work as much as I admire your cooking skills. Thank you for this post. You are just amazing. XO Nicole
Jamie
I JUST started blogging last week. I have precisely TWO posts so far. I am flying by the seat of my pants with so much to learn. Last night I could not sleep because the blog brain was RUNNING! Your post is what I just exactly what I needed to hear. Lot to learn, but there is time. It’s not a race. Thank you. And I love Joy the Baker podcast with Tracy! Thanks for that as well.
floramargaret.com
Aimee @ Simple Bites
Thanks, Joy! I totally second guessed myself before posting (today) about my recent Mexico trip. I know my readers love recipes, but hey, that trip rocked my world and I wanted to share that. Thanks for the encouragement of number nine.
In case anyone wants to click around, I’m at http://www.simplebites.net/
Janet
First, thanks to Bridget (Bake at 350) who Tweeted about this post so that I could find it and second, thanks to you for these important reminders!
I blog for myself and for my family… However, I am grateful for the friendships and learning, not to mention the prizes I’ve gained along the way. Blogging is like anything else invited into my life – It must be fun, offer some sort of return on my effort, (even if it’s only to lift my own spirits by reminding me of awaits me at home while I’m at work) and above all, it must be on my own terms. So far, nearly six years in, my blog continues to feed me more than I feed it. It excites me and inspires me in no way any other hobby has; therefore, I keep on!
xo
Sally - My Custard Pie
Point number nine. It’s SO true.
http://www.mycustardpie.com
Your posts leave me with a smile on my face and a little bit wiser every time.
bridget {bake at 350}
Yes, yes, and yes! :)
Deepa@onesmallpot
Brilliant post Joy! My blog is still in nappies but I am already intimidated by all those incredible blogs out there (yours included!). Thanks for the reminder that its not a race :)
toytulip
Well I am happy I discovered you! :)
And thank you for this post! It was very nicely put together! :)
Jamie
amen. I used to have a food blog and I tried WAY too hard to be cute and trendy and keep up with everyone else, and ended up kindof hating it. I live in Taiwan now, have a new blog: ink + adventure and try my best to be authentic in what I post. I definitely had a bigger following with cake pops and cookies, but I’d rather have people read my blog for ME.
keep doing what you do. can’t wait to check out some of these other blogs.
xo
Stacey
Please make sure you keep making cookies! And thanks for the pro-tips :D
teapotsandtrinkets.blogspot.com
Kris
Thanks for this, Ms. Joy. As many others have already said, this is really refreshing to hear. And I can’t even begin to tell you how impeccable your timing is! I am going to spend the next couple of weeks poking around your site looking for new inspiration.
In the meantime, here is my site if anybody wants to drop by: at http://www.80twenty.ca.
cora
always inspiring, motivating and making me smile.
thanks joy.
it’s not a blog blog, it’s a tumblr, but it’s mine and I’m proud of it….
http://www.coracakes.tumblr.com
Kim @ design + life + kids
You’ve said what we’re all thinking, but sometimes it hits home more when it’s coming from someone else… and then agreed upon by hundreds of others!
Amanda
Great advise! It’s so easy to compare yourself!
amandakristeen.blogspot.com
about fun, life, being a mama, and livin’ in up in San Francisco ;)
Michelle S.
This is an amazing post. You are so positive and inspiring!
Tenille B
Not only is your advice awesome (thanks, lady!), but the crazy abundance of blogs created and tended by your readers is astounding and humbling.
Beautiful stuff. (And yes, I have one too: thepretzelproject.wordpress.com)
merry jennifer
These are excellent tips, Joy. Even though I’ve been blogging for a while, it’s still refreshing to take a step back, read your how-to tips, and remember what I’m doing this for. I never started my blog for rankings or popularity, but it’s too easy to get caught up in the numbers. And all the pretty out there? Goodness. Sure is easy to get dragged down into the comparison pit of hell.
So, thanks, Joy. Great post.
Oh – and my blog is http://www.merrygourmet.com.
Sandra
I love this! Thanks for inspiring me again. Last post was a month ago. Now maybe having a goal of once a week will get me started and I will go from there. I felt overwhelmed having to post as often as other blogs and not being able to keep up.
I am so down to check out all these new blogs and hope some stop by mine.
It’s about cupcakes, photos, my daily life. Mostly lots of pictures though. High res, low res, instagram all the way!
http://chalkboardtherapy.wordpress.com
Cheers
Sandra
PS: Totally checking out that cocktail blog right now!
Nathalie
I love this Joy! And look at all the comments. I am slowly starting to blog (hopefully) more consistently here: http://natchb.blogspot.com/ but it’s all about thoughts and stuff. I love cooking/baking and I love fashion and crafting (and once had a craft blog… and then once had a fashion blog…) but I don’t think that is the kind of blog that is right for me anymore, though I have a feeling I might post about these things sometimes. I just want to write and hopefully add some pretty pictures that I take along with more of the little doodles/computer graphics I started to make.
Anyway, off to do some blog exploring from the comments! :)
Lindsey Silverman
this post was super helpful. the 10 tips, much like your recipes and style, are laid-back and doable. many times i wake up in a panic thinking about a post i am working on and what kind of shots i want to take that day. i hope tomorrow i wake up with a calmer head and remember to, like you said, ‘go at my own pace.’ thank you, joy!
dollyandoatmeal.com
Vicky
Wow!! You’re so genuine. I love your blog and posts like this one inspire me to create my own. High five girl!!
Simply Life
I love this post! Thanks for the great words of wisdom!
Toni
Great advice!! I’m taking note and adding my blogs:
http://Www.blahblahbirds.wordpress.com
http://Www.mymommiescloset.blogspot.com
Hope you check them out and maybe we can collaborate!!! Would Love that!!! Take care!
Olga
What a great post! I can certainly relate and there was a time when I stopped blogging because it was starting to feel like a chore but then started up again but at my own pace and it was so much more fun!
I make cards and other papercrafty things, but love food blogs. My Blog is http://www.theweekendscrapper.blogspot.com.
Ellie
I totally understand this. It’s so easy to get caught up in the “I wish my blog looked like this…I wish I did that…”. Thanks for the “check yo’self” moment.
Btw…my blog is http://thebitchinkitchin.blogspot.com/…I’m off to check out everyone else’s fantabulous blogs on the comment spool!
Jonena
Oh, Joy! You’re blog tips the first time motivated me to start a blog. Thank you. Truly.
(sweetgreyhappenings.wordpress.com)
Linda Summers
Such an awesome post! You inspired me to startmy Lvov http://www.summerstimeandthelivinseasy.webs.com and keep trying new recipes! Thank you!
Yelle
I can completely agree with many of your points – I definitely think collaboration is the future and it’s really important to remember that. Not only in the blogging sense but for careers too!
Austin
Here it goes!: http://www.foodtrash.wordpress.com
Good post! I like what you have to say!
Yoko
What perfect timing. After some encouragement from friends, I decided to try my hand (again) at my long-abandoned blog (2 years, 2 first entry attempts, 0 continuity).
This post is encouraging and you’re always an inspiration! Love your recipes, your down-to-earth style of writing and overall fabulousness.
Thank you :)
yokiedokie.wordpress.com
Raging Cravings
Thanks for posting this, Joy. It’s definitely easy to get sucked into comparing yourself and your blog with others, so thanks for putting it out there that it isn’t easy all the time. No one sees the hard work people put into their blog.
My blog is http://www.ragingcravings.com
Hope you like it!!
Shanna@ pineapple and coconut
Joy, you are a rockstar. I love these tips and I loved them the last time you did them. I have been a fan of your blog for-ev-ver and you’re one of the reasons I started blogging in the first place. And THANK YOU for being the one to say these things, many of which a lot of us think, but don’t say
my blog is http://www.pineappleandcoconut.com
Mostly recipes, healthy and not so healthy, our major kitchen remodel we are in the middle of and some other random stuff!
Jessi
Loved the call out for text over food photos – I find myself up really late and in a time-crunch already and can’t imagine setting the precedent of adding text… yet. This post and your first one you linked to reminded me that I originally started just to keep friends and family up to speed on my life – I’ve been blessed by gaining a following and meeting some kick-butt ladies along the way!
<3 JE
joanna
this is so wonderful. thank you SO much for sharing!
Julie
Joy, you rock my socks.
Marion
As always, thanks for writing!
I write my blog just for myself, I think it might come off as incredibly boring to anyone else. ;) I do it for me, I figured a little corner of the cyber space world where I can rant and document my life couldn’t hurt. But seriously, I write a lot about juicing/smoothies and what’s been going on lately. It’s a lot of word vomit.
themusingsofmarion.blogspot.com–read it, don’t read it, doesn’t matter. It’s there.
thanks again!
–Marion
Charlotte
I’m late to the party, but I love the themes of support you promote in this post. To me, blogging is all about the community, not the promotion. I look forward to clicking on some new blogs!
And here is my blog:
http://www.thedailysnapshot.org
Sarah
I’ll play!
missdottidee.blogspot.com
Thank you for this post Joy! So much simple truth!
x Sarah
Megan Ranegar
Joy!
You and Tracy inspired me to learn WordPress and launch my new blog. Thanks for keeping the energy alive with every single one of your posts, but especially this one. You guys are maj.
Megan
Meggie Wallace
http://meggieshome.blogspot.com/
It’s just a place I created to let loose and keep up with myself! Nothing crazy fancy or anything, or not yet at least…. 3 kids makes that a little too difficult for me, personally. I’m trying, because it is good for me to have a focus and whatnot!
Linn
I sincerely like these tips, simply because they are focusing on ME, on YOU, on the BLOGGER and what we need to do to feel good about ourselves and our blogs. Not ‘how to reach x number of readers’. Not ‘how to be the most popular blog around’.
The truth is that most of us are doing this (blogging) on our free time, and we don’t get paid to do it so: let’s enjoy it, and let’s not stress out about it.
Allison @ thebakingyear
Hi Joy! I’ve been following your blog for about a year and just recently decided to start my own blog. Thank you so much for posting these tips. It’s so comforting knowing that everyone goes through the same troubles at the beginning. Thanks for always sharing the most wonderful recipes!!
-Allison, thebakingyear.wordpress.com
Abby
I love these tips, Joy!
Love, love, love them.
Thanks for the inspiration!
-Abby
Christy
This was a great post. I started a blog last July (www.adashofcinnamon.com) and Joy, you were one of my many inspirations for starting a food blog.
DJ McCoy
http://www.bakingperfection.com/
Awesome post!!! So many great blog links in all of these comments!!
Christine
Joy! Thank you so much! You always find the right words. Your tips make me feel so much better.
Glad that you are a such a kind and sweet person. Not everyone would do it like you do it all the time. It’s AWESOME!
Thanks
Christine
Megs Beh
This isn’t just blogging advice- this is life advice:) Thanks joy!
Inga
You are such an inspiration Joy! Your way of living and looking at life really inspires me. And I loved the idea with posting websites in the comments, I visited looked at a of them and found many very interesting!
Whitney @ The Newlywed Chefs
LOVE these suggestions. Taking them to heart!
axelle the french cook
Thank you, thank you, thank you ! To be so honest, to say all those simple and true words ! I can’t find anything else than thank you. Truly.
Nidhi
Thanks for all the tips Joy! As a new blogger, these tips are really helpful in keeping me motivated and improving my site. My blog “Skin Deep” is not one about food, but it talks about looking past the surface of those with disabilities and getting to know them for who they truly are on the inside. Check out my site: http://nidhivchandra.tumblr.com/ and “like” my Facebook page if you enjoy reading my blog: https://www.facebook.com/skindeeppage
Reem
Thank you for reminding all of us once again that blogging should be about happiness and not madness…
Thanks you for inspiring all of us, Thank you for inspiring me!
Thank You!
Reem from http://www.simplyreem.com
Sarah
Joy –
I love your blog and I read it all the time! Come read mine if what I do tickles your fancy. http://www.feastsforallseasons.com
Thanks for the straight goods on blogging – you’re do right and I’m glad to have read this post.
Have a great weekend!
S.
Kiki
I completely agree with everything you just said and love how passionate you are about being yourself while blogging–couldn’t have said it better! And I especially loved the comparison part. Comparison is definitely a nasty beast.
shannon
Okay, okay…maybe it’s just time to Tweet already!
I get on the blog horse, fall off, and get back on again…right now, I’m back on, but am overwhelmed by the idea of actually promoting my blog. It has evolved from being fiber-specific (like, forever ago) to being a safe and comfy place to share about all sorts of things, including baking and homeschooling and poetry about my favorite hammock…and now, as I begin the journey into Freelance Writing and Photography Land, I want people to actually find it. Twitter, huh? I may try it, and probably sort of stalk you a little. :)
Heidi at It's a Wicked Good Life
Thank you for your inspired thoughts Joy!
I started blogging for some pretty weird reasons. For instance, I’m a pastor’s wife so I usually hosting or bringing some kind of food to some shindig or another. People would ask for recipes and I would forget to give them out and I figured if they were in one place that would make it easier. Then I had 2 kids in 17 months, lost my job due to budget cuts and was kinda going nutso! My hubby suggested that I cook/bake/blog for cathartic reasons and as a way to feel like I’m still have adult conversation. Not sure about the “adult” part, but I have enjoyed blogging. However, finding time, not comparing etc. is always an issue.
Keep up the wicked writing and recipes.
http://itsawickedgoodlife.tumblr.com
Heidi
Michelle
Fun idea and great tips :)
I have a blog : http://eatandsipinthecity.com/ where I post about Boston food, booze, and do reviews , round ups, and more :)
lee
So this is a totally random comment, but I promise, blog-related. I was flipping through my mail earlier this week, and as I was looking at the Kroger mailing I received, lo and behold – there’s one of my favorite food bloggers (okay, life bloggers) featured there with a delicious-sounding recipe for chocolate beet cake. It was a fun, “wait a second” kind of moment!
Anyways – thanks for always inspiring me to try new things in my cooking! =)
sweet-lab
High five!
Thanks Joy and thanks to all the inspiring bloggers out there.
My humble little site is http://sweet-lab.com/ and your visit would put a big, fat, sloppy, smile on my face.
Jessie S
Come visit me at http://www.iloveyoudisgusting.org
I love reading other blogs and enjoying the whimsy writings of others! Yes!
Amy
What timing you have Joy! My blog under construction. Stay tuned….
Thank you!
Aly ~ Cooking In Stilettos
Joy – this post really is the perfect way to kick off the weekend. Some seriously great food for thought – fabulous blogs to discover and a way to take us back to why we started blogging in the first place! Thank you!
Josie Ryder
Joy, this is such an awesome post! I seriously love when you do posts with tips or general life advice. You’re the best real talker! I love that you did this too, so much lovely blog sharing going on, and cool new blogs to discover!
My blog is at http://www.francesbaker.com.au
It is definitely in need of some love, I have bloggers block!!
Katie @ Blonde Ambition
brilliant! your post from two years ago too is totally spot on. love it.
Marleena @ The Flex Foodie
Awesome tips! Authenticity is where it’s at, and I think people forget about that when comparing their blog to others. Love your advice on, “No one is better at doing you, than YOU!” Simple but, it’s important to remember. :D
Stephanie
so, so true. and such timely advice for me, as i’ve been quiet on my blog lately. it’s one of my favorite things to keep up. thank you!!
Packing Rainbows
This is why I love Joy the Baker!!
Carrie @ Kiss My Whisk
Love this advice, thanks for your words of wisdom. You can find me over at Kiss My Whisk (http://www.kissmywhisk.com/).
Jamie
Love these tips, Joy. I’m a sporadic blogger, more so since having a baby, but check me out over at curlygirlpress.wordpress.com – I started this blog-baby to put myself out there and make some more friends, come on over and say Hi. = )
Lorri
Thanks so much for this! I am just thinking about growing my blog and am in love with the online community. So many great blogs out there! I could sit down with a cup of coffee and read for hours! Thank you for being such a blog inspiration! (I blog about married life, my dog, being an RN, my new house, and the occasional recipe at Life, Baker Style http://lorribaker.blogspot.com)
Kathleen
These are amazing tips – very inspirational for new bloggers like me (www.theculinarycapers.com), and a great reminder to put some perspective on what we do.
EBK Riley
Hi Joy!
First, can I just blather like everyone else and say that you are an inspiration? The cookies, the cute curly bob-, the wry sense of humor– It’s all fabulous. Your cream cheese poundcake is now my most requested baked item. I just started my blog after years of thinking I couldn’t do it. I am at http://ordinarygoodfortune.blogspot.com/ . Your encouraging tips are an example of what I love about the internet world right now: a lot of helpful support and not so much of the ugly high school girls competetive spirit that can really wreck a nerdy girl’s day. Thanks for doing what you do– and for the poundcake!
Hilary
Thanks for the tips! :)
dawdlingdarlings.wordpress.com
Charlotte
Silly iPad, don’t think my reply sent :( my friend and I love you Joy, and will probably get off our bums and write a joint blogpost like we’ve been threatening to for so long!
My friend writes about being an eccentric English woman at:
http://www.eccentricenglishwoman.blogspot.co.uk/
And I write about things that bemuse and amuse me, with the sarcasm and cynicism that only us bitter British can muster:
http://www.captainfuntimes.blogspot.co.uk/
And its sister-blog
http://www.captainfuntimesontheroad.blogspot.co.uk/
Thanks for the inspiration, Four for you JoytheBaker, you go JoytheBaker
Kayla @ Sealed With a Kay
These are all great tips! :D
Have a great weekend!
xo
Mag
Perfect! This really hit home. #9, especially.
Keep on keepin on, Joy. You rule!
natalie@thesweetslife
Joy–you are fab, as is this list!!! can’t wait to find some new blogs!
http://www.thesweetslife.com
Doug
Joy,
Thank you for your meta-blogging blog post. I started blogging bout my cooking over a year ago and I am surprised that I am still at it. I don’t have a clear idea of what I want the blog to be or who my audience is. But I keep at it because of the satisfaction it brings me and because I think it improves my cooking. My blog is at http://sundaydinnerfortwo.blogspot.com
Doug
joythebaker
totally meta! thanks for sharing, Doug!
Kay D'lyma
Hi Doug,
I’m a fledging blogger and I feel the same way about my blog. Check out http://thetreattruck.wordpress.com/
God Bless
Kay
Holly
Thank you Joy for always keepin’ it real. I love that we can always count on that from you.
My blog is http://www.happyfoodhealthylife.com – it’s somewhere between a food/self-improvement/healthy-living/disordered-eating recovery blog… Thanks for giving us this opportunity. I’m looking forward to finding other new blogs to read!
Katie K
And here I was just thinking I needed more blogs to follow! Find me at cakeandbourbon.blogspot.com
Sharmila
Joy, this post is a stellar example of why I return to your blag again and again. I love reading what you write and each time you post you make me smile. I love to smile, and laugh, ergo…(yay, I got to use ‘ergo’ today). Thanks for all the joy you spread. Your parents really knew what’s what when they named you.
I write at http://www.cheekychilli.com. Your post got me to stop some of my stressing out over not being able to post often enough.
Jordan
I SO appreciate these tips and real-talk! I have been blogging for about 6 months now and sometimes feel so lost in the maze of what to do and what not to do. I’ve been following your blog for a little while now and I LOVE it! I always look forward to reading it. Thanks for sharing!
My website is http://recipeornot.wordpress.com.
Suzanne
Hi Joy,
I totally agree with everything you said. Well written with good emotion. I really think collaboration is the key. Thats why I built Salty Fig to collaborate and help people who are not bloggers find out about all the fabulous food bloggers. I invite you to check it out http://www.saltyfig.com.
Cheers,
Suzanne
Mariel
This is probably the best set of tips I have read anywhere about blogging, ever. Ever. These tips are the reason why I find your blog so great to read. I have read articles and blog posts about “10 top blogging mistakes” or “how you are killing your blog” (which end up making me feel like yuck) and the most beneficial, hands down best advice I have ever seen is, “Live a good life” because your joie de vivre will come out no matter what and will make that lemon cake or whatever so much more interesting to write about and read about, because you love it. Excellent post. Thanks!
Alex @ Delicious Knowledge
Love these truths. I’ve recently started putting text on my photos and…I hate it. It’s a trend I need to pass on, thanks for the reminder that its OK! Love your blog Joy!
Elizabeth @ The Collegiate Baker
I really love reading posts like this. I love hearing about how bloggers started out and learned or stumbled upon tips, tricks, and advice. And it’s always nice to be reminded that all the successful blogs were small once and had to start somewhere. Sometimes I forget that and posts like this always make me feel better. :)
Kristina
Swoon! The best words a girl could ever hear! This comments section is like going to summer camp!
Pragmaticpinup.wordpress.com :)
April
Hi Joy and everyone else,
What a great idea, to check out eachothers’ work!
My blog/website serves mostly as an online portfolio for my artwork, but here it is: http://aprilcosta.wordpress.com
There are links to my friends’ pages as well- more art and farm blogs.
Thanks so much,
April
Kasia
This is beautiful. Beautiful words of wisdom, beautiful inspiration, beautiful direction! I can’t tell you how many times your blog has inspired me to blog more or try brave scary recipes or post something that’s not actually about food. I can’t wait to add all of these blogs to my google reader! I seriously love the blogging community so much. I tell my non-blogger friends about it all the time, and take about you guys like I know you. Pretty sure they think I’m a little crazy, but it’s such a supportive, creative group of people, bloggers!
Mine is http://www.kasiaskitchen.com/. It’s mostly food, a lot of baking, a little real life, a good bit of healthy, some weight loss journey.
I just love the thought of all of us being us! Blogging what we want to blog and being true to ourselves. And we like it! I like all of you for being you and know my readers like me for being me. Beautiful!
Laura
This is SO AWESOME. From the pro-tip aspect obviously, but also from the fact that I can emphatically relate to triangle bobs and curly bangs. Almost to the point where my curly bang passion could POSSIBLY rival yours, Joy. Almost. Thanks for adding this goodness to my day :)
Lisa
Thanks for these great tips and words of encouragement. I know I have a hard time keeping up with my tiny blog every week, and its nice to have someone like yourself (with experience, knowledge and success) to help root for the little guy out there! Here’s my quirky, little blog:
http://thepeckish-penguin.blogspot.com/
Renee — RambleCrunch
Great post, thank you. It’s easy to lose perspective on what’s important. This is a good reminder to by yourself and keep it fun.
Since you’ve invited us to list our blogs, here goes! http://RambleCrunch.com is my blog about travel, food, & raising a kid while traveling the world full-time.
Can’t wait to discover some new favorite blogs here in the comments.
Cheers!
Renee
Marissa
Still trying to find my voice in a blog, but having fun trying! Im super low traffic, but get psyched every time someone new likes something. Its nice to be reminded that the point of my blog is for me to communicate and share, not necessarily have tons of readers.
cardioforcakes.wordpress.com
claudia
this was perfectly timed for me! many thanks!
(the hair trauma references crack me up!)
Anna @ hiddenponies
“live a good life, it makes for a good blog” – my favourite blog advice ever.
Jamie
I have a blog! I post about my life and the stuff I do/cook. I’m also a teacher (dance and 7th grade English), so I have lots of funny teacher stories.
http://www.thebarefootballerina.blogspot.com
Great post, Joy!
Denise | TLT
I don’t know if you’ll read this comment in the hundreds you’ve already had on this post, but I just pretend you will:)
Thank you. Thank you so much for this post, it came at exactly the right moment. I’ve been blogging for about 1,5 years now and although I truly love it (meeting new people, the creativity, working and creating…it really changed my life), I sometimes doubt if it’s all worth it. If I’ve been working for hours on a post, picture and editing and I get zero comments, that’s hard. I also believe that it’s more difficult to truly get involved in this community for me as a non-US resident, living in that “far away” Europe. Although I remind myself I’m not positing for the likes from others, but from my own passion. And I know silent readers do appreciate it as well. But there is nothing like an e-mail from Australia from someone who tells me her whole family now often makes one of my recipes. It’s those messages that reassure me to keep going with doing what I love.
And it’s this post that I needed as a reminder. Thank you, Joy! I’m gonna follow you on Twitter NOW!
Lauren
Thanks for the inspiration Joy! Somehow from across the country you can know exactly what a girl needs to read to start off her work day Friday right. Thanks for blogging and thanks for the advice!
Chef Sarah
Great tutorial! What i’m dying to know is who has staff photographers on their site?
If anyone cares to check out http://www.beanilla.com/blog I am taking up your offer on sharing our site.
A bit of advice to all the bloggers out there, do what you love and do it well, promote your self and take risks. You never know when your dream opportunity may come along!
Meredith
So inspiring Joy! Thanks so much!
Sophia
As a relative newbie to the blogging world I love reading all these tips, which are really a way of saying ‘breathe, it will all be ok’ which I think we all need to hear on a regular basis.
Sophia – http://realsimplefood.wordpress.com
Samantha
=) Way to practice what you preach, Joy. High five-ing by asking us to share our blogs. NICE!
biobabbler.blogspot.com is me–I’m a major nature fan, former Park Ranger, currently a conservation biologist/writer & editor, so my photo-heavy blog is pretty much a peek into that whole biology thing, with a bias toward wildlife and rockin’ clouds. But I also like teeny, tiny bugs, wacky mushrooms I can’t quite ID, wind storms, anything that reminds me of how amazing this planet truly is.
Happily, I live in the boonies (near Yosemite), so I get to see lots of cool stuff on my property (bobcat yesterday, & last summer chased a mountain lion away from my chickens while wielding a swiffer), + share whatever I ogle when I travel or do fieldwork. I also occasionally blog about my veggie garden, if the ground squirrels haven’t eaten it. =)
Kay
Silly me I forgot to leave the link to my food blog when I sent my comment earlier. Check out http://thetreattruck.wordpress.com/
Njoy! and Thanks again Joy! :)
Bee
Wonderful words of Wisdom.
Jo
Live a good life. It makes for a good blog. Brilliant!
Leah
You are a true inspiration as a blogger Joy! Your willingness to be open about your life gave me enough strength to do the same at my blog.
http://friendsofamos.blogspot.com
Where I write about my life adventures, especially about overcoming bullying and coming to love oneself with all our flaws. Also about the awesomeness of getting to work at a zoo.
Sonali
GREAT advice. Especially for a person new to blogging, like me.
Donna DIegel
Thanks for the post and the suggestions. Now I need to renergize my 5-year-old blog into something spectacular!
http://spatulascorkscrews.typepad.com/my_weblog/
Anne
I love this idea, even though I’m sure it’s going to RUIN my productivity for today… too many amazing blogs and not enough time!
I totally agree that life is about more than cookies, which is one of the reasons I have yet to find a good posting schedule. Between work, planning a wedding from 5000 miles away, and promoting my first book, my poor baking blog (http://linzersinlondon.blogspot.com) has been neglected far too often. But you’ve inspired me to bump it back up the priorities list, so thank you for that!
Maybe I’ll even go write a post right now… after I check out at least 15 new blogs from your comments section, that is.
xoxo
Ruthyfeedz
http://ruth-feedthesoul.blogspot.com/ Thanks for sharing Joy, I am definitely a newbie and am still figuring out where I’m going with this. By the way made your avocado pound cake last night for V-day it was absolutely delicious I of course cheated and topped it with a chocolate bourbon whipped topping.
Anne-Marie Field
Thank you for telling me I don’t have to put hand-writing over my photos. Or obsess about analytics. Or post every day (which makes me not post at all.) THANK. YOU! It’s so easy to get distracted by what others are doing. Thanks for the simple reminders of how to stay on my own bloggy path.
Karen Zaun Kennedy
I am so glad my dear friend shared your blog with me. I do appreciate your advice so much. It has confirmed a lot for me and also given me new things to think about!
Caroline @ chocolate & carrots
Beautifully said Joy! Thank you for all of the wonderful reminders. :-)
Ffion
you are pure magic :) i’ve been struggling to feel like i’m up to scratch lately and this post was precisely what i needed to read. i blog at
http://www.ffionmckeown.blogspot
it’s full of food, photos and illustrations and i’ve only recently found my blogging stride again. never change joy! x
Tin
You were right when you advised to go at our own pace. Sometimes I panicked at the thought of not being able to post for over a week or a month.
I also tend to focus on page ranks and ended up being jealous on other blogs that instantly became a hit.
I have two blogs. They’re about two of my favorite things to do. One is traveling and baking.
http://straypusiket.com – my travels
http://pusiketstray.blogspot.com – all about baking
sweetmaddy
sweetmaddy.wordpress.com
I’m always excited to find new blogs, and hope people will be excited to check mine out! I live in Paris so I write about that, some sweet and savory recipes, and just general life talk. :)
Edith
These tips are gold!! So much truth in your words Joy, thank you! http://perksofbeingafoodie.com
T
Never stop being awesome Joy!
Aisha
I usually visit your blog but nerver left a comment. I loved the post!! very encouraging!!
I have a blog. I just started it, and it’s in spanish. I know I have tons of things to learn. But I love learning and I really enjoy what I do :)
Here is the link http://cocinadeaisha.blogspot.nl/
I will give a look to the blog links posted… but you have 337 comments!! so it will take a while :)
Have a nice day!
Olga
Hi!
I don’t know if my comment registered as I can’t find it in the sea, but I just had to make sure to tell you thank you for encouraging me! I do tend to be a little too terrified of strangers- I just don’t see why they would want to talk to little old me. But I will be making an effort from now on:
http://happykitchentreats.blogspot.com
Thank you!!
Kay D'lyma
Hi joy! I really enjoyed reading this post! and how generous of you to ask people to leave their site on your blog…
Hope someday you have the time to take a look at my food blog. I would love to know what you think.
Writing to you all the way from India.
God Bless
Kay
(fledgling blogger taking flight)
Rose
I <3 this. Thanks for putting all these lovely reminders in one happy place.
http://www.ourladyofsecondhelpings.com
The Vanilla Bean
Joy, you’re my superhero! When you posted the first real-talk blog tips I read it again & again. I love that you said that we should use whatever camera we are comfortable with. Ever since then, my pictures have gotten better!
Anyway, I’m usually the silent admirer but I was compelled to say thank you. Keep inspiring!
xo,
The vanilla bean
Candace
Love these tips! I just started a food blog last month: candacecooks.wordpress.com
Blondie Bakes
Joy, your blog inspired me to create my own, once I got over my fear!
Still such a newbie….but loving it! Any other Canadian blotters out there?
http://blondielikestobake.blogspot.ca/
Sandy
Joy – you are the very very very very best.
Amen.
anna
love this, joy! my favorite part is live a good life, it makes a good blog. so true. when i admire blogs, what i’m really admiring is my perception of that person’s life. so really, the only thing to do is to live a good life! and everything else follows.
my blog is http://www.icyviolets.com :)
Dee
Thank you for the invitation Joy (:
Thank you for your sincerity.
Thank you for your encouragement.
Thank you for sharing so much of your sweets.
Thank you for your awesome cookbook.
Thank you for teaching me basic baking skills.
And most of all thank you for your kind soul.
Johannah
Great post and I love finding new blogs!
Hipsteaders.com
Catherine
Thanks for the advice, Joy! Sage and sassy as always.
Check out commonscentsbaking.com! I love baking and finding ways to spruce up dining hall food :)
Casey
Oh Joy this is just what everybody needs most especially those who are just starting out. I love your blog and your recipes :). Keep it up and if you have the time try checking out my blog http://www.bakemymeal.com Feel free to drop me a hello. One of the few things I love about blog is that it brings together people from different parts of the world and you just narrowed down the distance with just this post:)
Cheers!
Nanna
Thank you for this! I’ve been both anxious and a bit down this week from comparing myself and my blog to others. I’ve read this post (and the first part) several times today and it has really grounded me.
I’m doing what I love. So I made Tracy’s espresso glazed donuts, ate one and now I intend to carry on.
You are an inspiration. xx
Elizabeth
Love your ideas and encouragement…
Lady ID
Thanks for the tips :)
My friend and I just started our blog and we spent a bit of time coming up with a schedule, seeing what we like, etc to make sure that it remained fun for us and that we are able to be kind to ourselves and enjoy the process. It’s only two weeks old but so far so good. I used to avoid Twitter but now I am tweeting and you know what, I sort of like it:)
http://www.PeppermintandPaisley.com
PS: Your blog is adorable
Jaime
Thank you for the advice! I’m a new blogger and kinda scared to tell people I have a blog! Silly I know!
Sounds like being your self and not comparing is key!
Aggie
This post makes me feel more normal. I have always strived to walk to the beat if my own drum, but sometimes the blogging world gets the best of me. Especially the feeling of keeping up.
Live a good life. It makes for a good blog. — best quote ever.
GnottingGecko
Thanks so much, Joy! I just started blogging for myself (I’ve written nature/wildlife blogs for a couple of businesses), and I’m still trying to figure things out. PS- I registered for your cookbook for my wedding. One of my bridesmaids tried to steal it. :)
M
such a good blog post. Thank you for sharing cuz I surely needed that. Love your blog, have your book :-). Your writing style makes me feel like you could totally be my friend! I will keep these in mind when writing next time. Thanks!
~M http://sewplaysew.wordpress.com/
hairandotherstuff.blogspot.com
robyn
? i love this post – much needed advice for this new wanna-be food blogger. :) you’re the best joy! and i will most definitely be checking out some new blogs today from these comments! ?
nicole
Joy, you’re great (I love no. 8 especially). Thanks so much for posting this.
Seanna Lea
These work for me. I need to make my schedule more regular. It has gotten a bit sad.
If you want to read about knitting, sewing, and cooking, then my blog is http://anotherpurl.typepad.com. Heck I even blogged twice this week!
Kelly @ Hidden Fruits and Veggies
I just started my blog literally a few weeks ago. This was really great to read, especially because I don’t have a personal facebook or twitter in an attempt to simplify my life. I’m also really not that cutesy– it’s nice to feel like I can use social media tools to reach out to people, but I should do what’s right for me and my blog :)
Mel
I love this. I love the positivity it oozes, but mostly for the forgiveness. I love your blog because of your humanity, for the way you rant on about things that have nothing to do with the particular recipe you’re posting and wax poetic about donuts or red velvet ______.
sally @ sallys baking addiction
So many well spoken tips and real (blog) life tips Joy. :) The text on pictures – I can’t bring myself to do it. The constant pressure to ALWAYS be on my blog and ALWAYS blogging. That’s hard to do with a full time job. My blog is my second full time job and it consumes me! But I love every second of it. I wish there was more time in the day and that I didn’t put so much pressure on myself. And thank you for reminding me to live a good (real) life, which will enhance my blog life for sure. :)
Sally @ http://www.sallysbakingaddiction.com
Jackie
Thanks so much for this. I often have to remind myself not to compare myself to other bloggers and just use my own voice. I started off blogging by trying to be so picture perfect before realizing that my life isn’t perfect. I have a lot of struggles and was trying so hard to hide them when I decided to just let go and post about them. It was both liberating and scary but has been a real blessing that I decided to open up. Turns out lots of people have similar struggles and has actually helped me develop my own voice!
Emily @ She Makes and Bakes
Love these tips! http://www.shemakesandbakes.com!
Eileen
OK, when people see my blog they’re gonna say, “What is a girl on an autoimmune healing diet doing on Joy the Baker’s sugar-loving website?” Well, I became a fan of Joy back when I still ate sugar, and I can count on Joy to rotate in healthy meals I can still eat (like the amazing broccoli salad featured recently.) I also just love visiting with my favorite blogger personalities, and Joy is one of them. So here’s my link, and if you know anyone with an autoimmune disease, tell them to check it out. Food doesn’t just nourish, it can also heal: http://www.phoenixhelix.com/
PS. Thanks for the blogging tips Joy. You’re always spot-on!
Christina @ My Homespun Home
Ah, I love this post! I am late to the blogging bandwagon, but if I have no other readers/commenters but my family, the fact that they love what I write and how I tell my family’s stories through food makes me happy (see my punchki/paczki post for evidence–and Joy, you need to look into making these if for no other reason than I think you would love the word!).
A question for fellow food bloggers–how on earth do you deal with taking pictures in anything resembling decent light when you work a day job? This time of year, that only leaves me the weekends to do any cooking projects–and when I have a burger recipe or a bread with three rises that I can’t start before noon–how do you do it??
My Homespun Home is my blog and I’m excited to find other food bloggers from around Chicago!
Lucy
I love the love/support fest that’s happening in the comments here. I’m going to visit SO MANY new blogs :) You can find me at lucyshow.wordpress.com
Jenice
Amen, amen, amen.
erin
you are totally awesome joy. for reals.
http://cutthecookie.wordpress.com
life, love, laughter and food – and some really random posting, too. thank you, joy!
Cookie and Kate
Thanks for these tips, Joy. I needed to hear them!
Lauren Burkitt
Wonderful idea. Thanks for spreading the love by giving us a place to share.
thefigsheart.com
for the curious & the creative
Jessie S
I love this. I have been off and on blogging while juggling motherhood, college, a part-time job and doing the running man. Yes, I love to write and be in blog-o-blogger world. Here’s my gig http://iloveyoudisgusting.wordpress.com/who-is-that-girl/
but it always gets challenging when things get major chaotic. BUT… we have to just keep on keepin’ on. Like this video says… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28KobNbbI2s. Thanks for being a Rockstar and inspiration, Joy.
Jessie S
I meant Joy (like a person) not, “joy” like a feelin’… although I’m “feelin'” real goober-town right now.
krista
i am super bad at commenting on others’ blogs (granted, i’m super bad at keeping up with my own) and i’ve missed the connection. i’ve missed the interaction with people i admire/am inspired by. so thank you for the reminder to be a bit more active in the community aspect.
keep your game tight, sister.
Deirdre
Thanks Joy! I put loads of effort into my blog and sometimes feel I don’t get much out of it.
If you like my blog please do follow!
Deirdre @ thekitschcook.blogspot.com
Aoife @ The Daily Spud
After 4+ years of blogging (at http://www.thedailyspud.com ) with its ups, downs and more than occasional zig-zags, it’s lovely to hear someone tell it like it really is. ‘Be your own barometer’ is probably one of the best pieces of blogging advice you can give (even if I did initially read it as ‘be your own bartender’ – which might also be good advice, at least at the start of the evening anyway!).
Paola@love+cupcakes
Joy,
This was excellent. Thank you! xoxo!
Jo @ Jo In the Kitchen
Joy, thanks so much for this!
jointhekitchen.com
Edlyn
My blog is egeedee.wordpress.com
Twitter: @jackspratfat
Sarah
I love these tips! I think it is so important for us all to support each other. Not saying, I don’t look at others’ blogs and say, “I wish I could do that,” or, “I wish I had that,” but I try to do that less often and be grateful for my own little successes each day!
http://www.callmefudge.com
xoxo
Sarah
Miranda @ Mangoes and Chutney
Thanks for this, always a good reminder to chill and be chill! My blog: http://mangoesandchutney.com
I change, it changes, but I am still me.
Tiffany aka Streusel
Amen bloggin’ sista!
Amanda
I have fallen prey to many of these. The biggest one I struggle with is why keep blogging when there are so many similar sites out there that seem way better than mine? A nasty mindset, I know. Thank you for this, you rock. :)
Ping
Wowser post!! Thanks as this is what I needed to read today. You are such a Joy!
Yolene
Joy, this is the best blog post I have read in ages. I feel like what I read is exactly what I keep telling myself every day, it is truly inspiring, merci beaucoup!!
My blog is http://www.cremedecitron.com , I’m a little Frenchie in Ireland mainly photographing (as a job) and blogging for my love of food.
melissa
I appreciate this, and you, Joy! Blogging, for me, is more of a way to process my thoughts and reflect on stuff (hilarious, crazy, awesome, difficult) that happens in my life — while sharing it with friends and whoever wants to join in. And it’s okay! I can do/write/post what I want and if I’m happy, then perfect.
Taylor
Joy The Baker, you are so cool. I’m inspired by you daily through all your portals and by feeling like your and Tracy’s bff through the podcast. Thanks for being so real and easing the pressure of life. I find my blog to be a stress-reliever and somewhere I can host my creative energy and reflect back on how things grow and change. http://www.toallmyfans.com // keep on keeping on, everyone! XO.
Becca - Cookie Jar Treats
Joy, I love you. I just simply love you, and I’m not really sure what else to say to that except Thank you.
And I would give a link to my blog, but for some reason I am not able to type any sort of link and have my post show… so yeah :P
Happy Valentine’s Day! <3
Kristen
Yes… just yes! “Live a good life. It makes for a good blog.”
Thanks for your wisdom, Joy!
Sarah
I started reading this blog for the recipes and stayed cause, Joy, you are so likeable.
I just started my blog, which currently only has posts about a recent trip to Africa, but hope to chronicle life a little better in the future. Thanks for the encouragement about trying not to compare!
Cassie | Bake Your Day
You are a true gem. I really love this, Joy!
Dana @ Conscious Kitchen Blog
Wonderful tips! I’ve been blogging for just under a year and I could really use some of these tips as I try to figure out what to do next with the blog. I’ll have to agree that the support and community of the blog world is one of the best things about it. I love hearing from my blog friends and reading their thoughts as well.
If you like homemade cooking, yoga and living a overall happy life, feel free to visit me at http://www.consciouskitchenblog.com. Can’t wait to meet some of you!
Danielle
Thanks for sharing. Great advice for all bloggers (new and old).
Leigh
I love number eight! These are all great tips.
http://bromeleighad.blogspot.com
Kristen O
You’re just a big sweetheart. every time I read your blog I like you more and more. What great advice!! All we can do is be ourselves, anything beside that takes way too much work! :) Have a great day!
Lori
Your photos inspire me to get in the kitchen and try something new! Thanks for all the new and delicious recipes in my repertoire.
Tori @gather_living
you are seriously an inspriation. I actually just posted about my experience making your vegan chocolate chocolate chip cookies. I know you’re not vegan but I’m debating making a go of it and these cookies make me belive it’s possible :)
love the idea of community building, can’t wait to check out the blogs of ofther joy the baker people!
gatherliving.wordpress.com
Laura
Thanks for being our big sister in blogging and frizz control Joy!
http://thegoldenbaker.com/
Can’t wait to find some new favourites in this list
amelia
thank you for always being so unpretentious, joy! it makes your posts even more of a delight to read than the delicious recipes, fun ideas and beautiful photographs already do.
http://www.innocenceabroad.com
Annie @ Annie's City Kitchen
Joy, it’s almost like this post brought tears to my eyes because it was exactly what I needed to hear. Not only in blogging but in life, I tend to feel inadequate compared to some people who appear to have everything I think I want. So thank you for the dose of reality. And in the spirit of your post, here’s my blog:
http://anniescitykitchen.blogspot.com
Someone be my friend!
Jen @ Savory Simple
Beautifully stated.
Amanda
Such an honest and thoughtful post! I hope you dont mind me quoting you for an upcoming post I have…. will include links and high-fives of course. :)
Audra@The-Baker-Chick
Thanks for such a great post Joy! The blog community is really lucky to have you!
My blog is The-Baker-Chick.com.
xoxo
David
This is so true and so well-worded…thanks, Joy!!
David from spicedblog.com
Misses Bee
Awesome! I love your positivity and your blog :)
Edlyn
I love you Joy. You have the most beautiful eyes.
I’m sorry for being creepy, I just sometimes feel you’re my writing soulmate.
Ashleigh
I only just started and it’s really hard to avoid comparing my own newbie stuff to all the awesome blogs in these comments. Comparing myself to others is my biggest problem in life – for example, I quit gymnastics when I was nine because a) I wasn’t as good as the pros after like three or four whole YEARS of training! and b) they told me I was getting too tall for the uneven parallel bars.
Lost in the Dessert is on tumblr because I was already familiar with the site, there’s a way for people to submit recipes and comments for publication, and because so many of my friends had tumblr accounts, so it was easy for them to follow it.
Emma
Joy – your blog is an inspiration! It is the first place I look when I’m in need of some foodieness (is that not a word?!)
My blog, Sustainable Food Revolution is about eating local, seasonal food, a few pictures, and general foodie action. Please check it out.
http://www.sustainablefoodrevolution.com
Thanks guys :)
Brittani
Oh, Joy. JOY! You make me feel so normal for not being so normal, and I totally appreciate it! Thanks for sharing your wisdom. “Let’s all support each other.” TRUTH.
Enjoy your day!
Kayle (The Cooking Actress)
I loved these tips and I totally agree with all of them! I have made so many amazing friends in the blogging community and I love them all <3
http://cookingactress.blogspot.com
Sarah
This. I love absolutely everything about this. As a self-taught (or mom-taught) baker I love inspiring people to make things I make. As a recent transplant to Washington, DC with few friends and serious homesickness for my old living space in New York City, starting a blog has filled a void and I love posting new recipes, life musings, and basically rambling about my life. I always look forward to your real-life writing style. Oh. And the pies. I love the pies.
Abby
Oh, such a breath of fresh air! Every now and then I get into a blog-comparison rut, when it really should just be about enjoying myself.
I blog about living with history, cooking from historical recipes, and Downton Abbey: http://keepthehearthfiresburning.blogspot.com.
Alison
Thanks for the constant inspiration! I blogged about trying your cranberry brie grilled cheese back in December- loved it and love your blog :)
http://www.veggiehikertravel.blogspot.com
Katie
I only blog when I travel, but I love being able to send a link to my stories and photos that I can’t share directly with my friends around the world!
Carla
Great words of wisdom. I also have a blog that suffers from infrequent updates and desire of greatness. The truth is I just don’t put the time in it to make it a great blog. At the end of the day I rather play with my little son or go out.
Even so I can’t let it go so it is still there and I make plans for it. Maybe I should write some goals and keep trying.
My blog is http://www.quintaurbana.wordpress.com – It is in PORTUGUESE!
Colette
This post was so inspiring and eye-opener! Thank you for speaking outloud the simple truths to overcome our blogging barriers & fears! Very well said! Every single word!
Candy
Great post. I don’t write about food (unless you consider me writing about eating too much chocolate a food blog), but the same concept applies, I thinking, to all bloggers and their work.
I’m finally starting to work on cultivating a community and not only has it increased readership, it has made blogging WAY more fun and meaningful.
Liz & Amanda
Joy- thanks so much for this post. We recently started a blog about cooking and dining out in the District of Columbia. We love doing it- but definitely have had to work on that work-life balance.
Here is a link to our site: http://foodcraveblog.blogspot.com
Would love feedback from anyone in the DC area or elsewhere!
Happy Blogging!
Mobley Photography
I’m definitely struggling with the comparison… thanks for your tips and check out my blog!
mobleyphotographytx.blogspot.com
Stephanie (Velez Delights)
Thanks for posting! It was a really helpful post! :)
Steph @ stephsapartmentkitchen
I so appreciate your words of wisdom, coming from an pro like you! Your honesty is so refreshing and I love the combination of instagram/dslr photography you feature. I often look at other people’s “styled” food shots and wonder how I’ll ever keep up with them! Thank you thank you for keeping it real, as always.
Steph
The Old Fashioned Girl
Hi!
I love the recipes on this blog. Um, chocolate chip cookie dough balls? I’m pretty sure I and my friends have gained a composite of about 38 pounds purely from that recipe. Thank you!
I’m not nearly as prolific/impressive/lovely pictured as many other blogs, but I can be found at anoldfashionedgirlinanewfangledworld.blogspot.com
mary @ B&G JOURNALS
you are literally just one of the most sincere and awesome people on the interwebs, joy. i always love your recipes, but even moreso (if possible), you writing always leaves me feeling better about myself and my day in general. thank you for all of this—so wonderful.
i blog @ http://bgjournals.com/
looking forward to browsing others’ on here :)
Cara
You’re such an inspiration! Thank you for the tips. My blogging journey has only been 4 months, but I’m looking forward to many more.
http://www.caramelizedtouch.blogspot.com
Shelly
I love this idea.I am always looking for a new blog to get hooked on, in particular I would like to find one about cheese, so if any one has any suggestions let me know!
Here is my fledgling site.
http://ohshellsbells.blogspot.com/2013/02/questionable-purchase-of-week.html
Anne
Shelly, here is a well written cheese blog I have been following for a while:
http://madamefromageblog.com/
Laura
I really like your blog! You write so well that I was facinated by some random town in Virginia and a taco bell band aid incident :)
Polly
A posting schedule – how has that never occurred to me? Great tips – again!
I submit my blog with the understanding that things tend to get a bit sluggish during the winter months… Until I set up my posting schedule. Obvs.
http://bakingandalchemy.wordpress.com/
Thanks for the real-talk, Joy! x
Marie
Hehe nice, I’ve already notice you don’t use text on your pictures. :D
So afraid to post my blog url, I tried some of your recipes but I’m way behind you :p : http://fromthesunwithlove.blogspot.ca/2012/08/peaches-plums-and-lavender-tarttarte.html
Christine @ 24 Carrot Kitchen
What a great post. I love that you talk in your authentic voice.
My blog is http://www.24carrotkitchen.com
My recent post is about my darling basset hound Dino and dog biscuits.
I will be checking out the other posts looking for new blogs to read.
Lexi
I have been clicking around here a while, and it astounds me to see how many bloggers there are out there. I get despondent most days cause I can’t see loads of traffic going to my blog… but knowing there is such a big community out there is awesome!
Here’s to us! The little bloggers in the huge sea of internet.
(http://www.whiskingit.com/)
Emma
Lexi, your blog is great – keep at it!
Judi
Thanks for this Joy! I know that I feel overwhelmed by this interweb and need more community. I love your blog, podcast, and the relationship you and Tracy have that you share with all of us!!
ileana
Keep the tips coming! And I always like browsing through the comments here and finding new bloggers.
For a girl who’s fairly new in the kitchen and learning to cook with her boyfriend, check out alittlesaffron.com
Ayala
That was such an inspiring post Joy! I’ve been following you blog for quite some time now, even though I don’t have an oven at my home…please pity me (baking is not very popular in China) :(
I also have a blog where I write about my experiences here in Beijing http://adventurousayala.tumblr.com/ It’s in German but maybe there is a fellow German Joy-the-Baker-reader somewhere out there ;)
Katie
Thank you for these tips! Always good to remember – you are YOU, don’t try to be someone else, but get inspiration from them :)
Elizabeth @ Rosalilium
Hear hear! I like the cut of your gib Ms Joy. I have literally just published a vlog about Five of my Favourite blogs for the same reason. I want to share the blog love, because it makes the community an awesome place.
here’s my blog post
http://www.rosalilium.com/2013/02/vlog-five-blogs-i-love/
Happy Valentine’s Day!
#sharethebloglove
x
Vickie
I always enjoy reading you posts Joy & this one is very true :)
http://unusualmagic.blogspot.com.au/
Janan
As a new food blogger, this is exactly what I needed to read. I underestimated how hard and time consuming blogging actually is, and how much pressure there is. It’s good to read that one of my favourite blogs thinks this is normal. Such an inspiring post, thank you.
Feedingcravings.blogspot.com
Priya Kumar
That is a very nice write-up! thank you so much for the tips, I barely manage to stay active on my blog managing work, home, a little pre-schooler and this hobby of mine…
Emma
Amen sister, amen!
betterwithcake.com
I am so excited to see the amazing work of your talented readers, such a great idea. Thanks sweet Joy :)
runinboise
My little blog – http://runinboise.blogspot.com
you have some great tips that i will be using for future reference!
Jennie
I felt as if you were writing to me today. Sometimes you just have to give yourself permission to be yourself, rather than aspiring to be someone else. Maybe I should write about that!
Thelma
I love your tips. Usually I hate these posts because I read about all the stuff I’m getting wrong. I should have known yours would be different- bravo! xo
Lena
Thank you so much for this. I felt pretty uninspired with my blog lately, comparing it to so many other wonderful blogs out there, but now I am inspired again to just write about whatever I want. Flowers today, treat yourself!
Ellie
This is a great post!
theunappreciatedbaker.wordpress.com
Julie
Inspiring! Thank you. Clicking around now…
Kristy
Thanks for this! Helpful, as always.
My blog, an outlet for me to share what comes out of my kitchen and also a way to practice photography: http://www.ollieandthegirl.com
Briel K.
I’m not a blogger but I love this post and the one from 2 years ago. Yay for real talk!
Julie
Joy!
I love your blog in general, but most of all I love your happy, easy going attitude! I too have a food blog, and I reached the stage where it’s adapt or die. I’d like to think I have some good stuff up there, but I’m struggling to grow my readership, and feeling totally behind the times. It seems like everyone is 10 steps ahead sometimes. It’s important to remember that I do this cause I love it, and that keeps me going.
I’m a total perfectionist, and I’m working on letting that go. I have sooo many recipes that I haven’t shared cause I hate the pictures, etc. Plus, I have a complex about my silly blog name. It seemed like a good idea at the time….lol
happygoodtime.com
Danielle
Thanks Joy for this lovely post! Such great advice that I really appreciated and needed to hear. The toughest part and the best part about blogging is trying to figure it all out. But one this is for sure, we are all in this crazy mess together : ) You are awesome! xo
Danielle
danielle-daniellesweets.blpgspot.com
Lisa
I have met so many wonderful friends from blogging and the Internet, it’s a great post to remind us of all the good things that can be derived from this place.
Liz
Joy – thanks for the simple and wise words. Your blog is one of my inspirations and I love to read what you are up to and baking/cooking. All the best! http://milosandbeans.blogspot.be/
Rhonda Sittig
Wow! Love this post. As an easily discouraged, very amateur blogger, it’s so nice to hear your sage words– just when I’ve been needing them. I’m am grateful.
Julianne
Hi Joy! Thanks for sharing your words of wisdom. As I am in the “fresh meat” category of blogging, I always appreciate when a blogger I look up to shares a few tips here and there!
Amy Lynn
Love these tips! Very helpful :)
I’m following from over at Fabulously Ordinary
nags
I am in!
If you like curries and simple cakes and cookie recipes, my site is the place to go!
I am so glad I came across some of your sites in here.
Monique
Another inspirational and wonderful post! Thanks so much :-)
Samantha
Real is right! These tips should go without saying, but I find that they are things that we often forget. Thanks for sharing.
http://aussi-belle.blogspot.ca
Gretta
Even though we are not real-life friends, reading your blog and listening to your podcast always makes me feel like you are a friend. As a fellow baker and blogger, I appreciate your support, encouragement and advice!
annie k
this post gives me life!!! i follow your blog incessantly and i just started mine this new year! its very rust and bone and my pictures are not artsy, but i have a good following via my large friend group- but i do hope someday it will expand and be pretty!
putaringonannie.com
jackie
My friend and I started a blog together awhile ago, but I always get uncomfortable when thinking about “promoting” it. Even though it’s great to write things that someone other than your boyfriend’s mother and your co-blog-writer reads, promoting the blog sort of feels like I only care about getting anyone and everyone to read it. Although I’m sure most of it is in my own head, it keeps me from spreading the word. Thanks for “real-talking” these kinds of things!
intergazing.wordpress.com
Colleen
Thanks Joy!! I have been wanting to start a blog for a long time but haven’t been able to find the time. I work full time from home and have two little ones so free time is nonexistent. I obsessed about a name for a long time, this post may just be the nudge I need and I love your thoughts about collaboration.
Samantha
You sound like a big sister giving a pep talk. It’s lovely.
Julie @ Willow Bird Baking
Love these :) I’m at http://willowbirdbaking.com.
Marilyn
This was extremely refreshing…from one recovering triangle-head to another. :-)
Angie Tobias
Having so much fun clicking around! You have some really talented followers. Thanks for your honesty and this platform girl-fran.
http://www.angietobias.com
XX Angie
Stephie @ Eat Your Heart Out
So true, such lovely words of wisdom and great reminders.
I love finding new blog friends! I’m at Eat Your Heart Out: eat-your-heart-out.net
Sarah
Perfect timing with these tips Joy! I have just loved going through all the comments checking out the blogs & finding some new ones to add to the good ol’ Google Reader. I’m working out the kinks and trying to love all of the learning that comes with making my own blog better bit by bit. I blog at bysarahrae.com.
kristin sjaarda
thanks for the encouragement! here is where I keep up my practice of photography: http://withyoustill.tumblr.com/
If I keep the self judgement at a low volume, fit small shoots in between caring for 3 small kids and point my lens at things happening right around me I can post every few days.
p.s your banana millet bread is the best!
Renee
Thanks for an inspiring post! It’s great to hear that other bloggers have the same thoughts and frustrations! Can’t wait to check out some of the other bloggers that follow Joy the Baker. I’ve mentioned you a few times on my blog and I love how unique your posts are! Just started following you on Instagram and I”m having fun “hounding” your pics :)
Leah
Joy! Thank you always for your real talk, inspiration and kindness! And I love when you talk about curly bangs.
Notyet100
Wow,…this one truly made my day ,,.
dearabbyleigh
i would add to this list: “don’t work for the internet, make the internet work for you” – it really is just a THING that we are all connected to and that can be beautiful, but let’s not let it run away with our lives.
love these tips, joy! i’m at dearabbyleigh.com and today we talked about dressing for the day we want to have, not the one that’s trying to have us.
Rachel
Joy. I would have to say yoiu are probably the first blog I ever started following, and that was only about 6 months ago. I was so behind on the times and now I have started my own blog on sustainable food nutrition. Its just a baby, but I have a link to your page from mine. Keep inspiring! http://www.theconsciousdietitian.com xx
Sylvie
Joy, you are one of the inspiring bloggers I have looked up to from day one, all your tips are so true!
Thanks once again for being a great blog teacher!
Kim
Thank you for this! I just started blogging again at the beginning of the year. I had taken a long break after my son was born. You have motivated me to try to be more engaging with fellow bloggers and readers.
Amber- Loves Food, Loves to Eat
Great post! Nice reminder to comment on and share posts and blogs that inspire me. Would love to meet up and collaborate with other Seattle area food bloggers sometime!!
Loves Food, Loves to Eat (www. Lovesfoodlovestoeat.blogspot.com)
Erin
Wow.
So sweet. So helpful. So very joythebaker. Ha! Can I have a crush on a website?
I just started one, http://www.perfectcrumb.com…figuring it out slowly.
Kerry
I so totally have blog envy sometimes, but that doesn’t actually make my blog any better so it’s a waste of time, I know. Great list! My blog is
http://recipesthatfit.com/ if anyone is looking for something new to read (and I always welcome feedback.)
bethh
I can’t wait to check out some of these blogs! I’m at http://bookishbiker.blogspot.com/ – some baking, some cooking, some travel.. mostly misc musings.
Elise @YumFoodieFoodie
Joy, you always are inspiring me!
Thank you for your sweet-tastic words of wisdom. Here are some of mine…
http://www.yumfoodiefoodie.com
Please forgive me, i have been neglecting it lately!
Alanna @http://toughcookieblog.com
Joy, you are always saying just the thing I need to hear. I’ve only been blogging for a few months, but have felt all the insecurities you talked about! Thank goodness for cookies. And pie. And community.
I can be found at One Tough Cookie , if anyone’s interested in the Toronto food scene!
Michelle
Such a great blog post. Thanks for sharing. It is so easy to get lost in ‘building numbers’ and ‘how did she do xyz or get abc’. My word for 2013 is collaboration (yes I am on that trend – although I haven’t blogged about my word) and I am really hoping to build an even more amazing community of lovely people. I’m lucky that I have already started this and met some amazing ladies.
Keep up the good work and high five!
julie
awesome!! thank you! i have a pretty bizarre blog at therelativelyshittycook.wordpress.com.
Sharon@Cheesy Pennies
Julie, I think your blog is hilarious and great. And you should absolutely keep the name!
Shawnna
Thanks for posting this Joy! I started a lifestyle blog a few months ago and it’s hard to not compare myself to others who have been at it for a lot longer than me. I really appreciate when a popular blogger (YOU!) can keep it real and remind us little bloggers (ME!) that what you see is not always what you get and to not to get so overwhelmed. You’re pretty cool and stuff ;)
Ellen
I loved this. It makes me feel better about my photography shame. That being said I’ve been striving to make my pix prettier…
Here be the Gruel: http://www.scrumptiousgruel.wordpress.com
Link Lurve!
Ang
Thanks so much for this great post, Joy! I ran a blog about eco entertaining/keeping a green home back in 2009-2011. I was blessed — it was quite successful, but then life got in the way and I had to let it go (frowny face). I made a New Year’s resolution this year to get back into blogging (this time with an emphasis on food) — it is CRAZY how much stuff has changed in so short a time! Your post was super inspiring! Thanks for taking the time to write/share it! Keep doing what you do!
thechefswifecooks.blogspot.com
Jennifer
Oh wow… I really, really, REALLY needed to read this today. Thank you for being honest and getting down to the gritty bits with us readers. So helpful.
Kay
Aww, you’re the best. Love the advice!
Kay @ inthefarmkitchen.blogspot.com
claire
Great list, Joy! Some good reminders in there for me. Also, I always get a kick out of your stories and enjoy your photos.
My blog is Taller Than Average Tales.
mia
I totally rocked that triangle haircut in middle school…it makes for funny family pictures to look back on!
Christy @ My Invisible Crown
Great tips and great idea! I do love the feeling of community and found myself here because it’s been a while since i got around to comment on the blogs I love. Also, I saw your Mardi Gras pictures on Instagram! I was there, too. My husband rides Endymion and it’s always a process but so much fun!!! Glad you enjoyed it. Headed to eat crawfish now…just can’t get enough!!!
Elizabeth
I’m a latecomer to the blogging world. I started because of my love for healthy food and photography and my desire to share that love in a creative format. I appreciate your tips.
Fender's Mom
Soooooo refreshing! I always laugh when I read your blog! Thanks for keeping it real and being fun at the same time!
raechel @the rebel grrrl kitchen
you are such a doll, joy. such a joy, even. : )
i love your point about the internet being like a clique of nice girls. i am so grateful for my “blog friends,” all ladies who have been nothing but sugar-sweet to me during my first two years of blogging. no Regina George’s in my blogosphere!
thanks for this!
visit me!: http://www.rebelgrrlkitchen.com
<3
claire
Thanks, Joy. I needed this. :)
Kristina
“it’s ok if you don’t put text on your pictures” <– THANK YOU.
I love posts like these, and this, no text in photos, is the best part of this! (well, the best part is community and collaboration – I love it!).
someone recently said they tested their "text" photos with "non text" photos – each received the same amount of Pinterest love. yes, there are a few who really do the text well, but… it's all over the place now, and now I think my "text free" photos are what stand out ;)
yeeee!
Kirsten
Thank you for your tips! I especially appreciate #4 as I start blogging again. I also love that you suggested leaving links to our blogs in the comments! I enjoy sharing my blog and finding new ones!
allthingsboy.tumblr.com
Rika
Wow, found this post retweeted and I’m so glad I found it! For some reason the food blog community seems more competitive to me than the travel blog community I’m a part of. Anyone more in the know than me want to shed some light on it for me?
And if anyone wants to take a look, I’m at http://www.cubiclethrowdown.com and am off to visit some of you now!
Sarah
Even though I’m comment #108, I’m still gonna write, because my favorite part of your post was about not getting discouraged! I have found some of my favorite blogs in the comment sections of others..maybe some you will enjoy mine!
http://atticlace.blogspot.com
Hope you like! Cheers to us all!
xo
joythebaker
i appreciate you commenting!
archer
Thanks for the tips, Joy!
Here’s my blog: http://www.archerfriendly.com
Don’t hate me for my latest post…I do say to eat the good junk if you’re going to eat it!
Amy @ Amy, Actually
Such a great post Joy! I love reading your blog and hope to discover more great ones from the comments! (http://www.amy-actually.com)
Sarah
Thanks for the great reminders! It’s easy to get sucked in and feel like you need to post, post, post! Quality over quantity!
I write a vegan recipe blog—Fried Dandelions. Check it out at frieddandelions.com
Sarah
Kristin B.
Right on Joy! As a newbie blogger this is super advice. Thanks for keeping it real!
I can only hope to become as successful as you; http://www.ahiphousewife.com.
Haley
Great post! My blog is haleyeats.com :)
Laura
http://betulaloo.blogspot.com
Kinda neglected… still trying to find my blogging voice (3 years later!)
Rachael
joy, my dear, i don’t have a blog, but i just want to say THANK YOU for being you. you answered my question on the podcast a while back, i’m the rural juror working at a college in the cornfield. anywho, taking the time to answer my question and addressing ME made me feel less lonely and so grateful. i’ve gotten in the groove here, so thank you for your advice (seriously – we had a killer election party that sealed the deal with a lot of co-worker friendships). just wanted to tell you that i really, really appreciate the honest way you write. just keeping doing you girl, discovering this blog (and shutterbean’s) were gemstones in my 2012.
you rule. keep going. lots of love from ohio.
RP
joythebaker
you shine!
Monica
Thank you, Joy. I really enjoy visiting here. It’s good to know so many of us love food and want to cook, bake, talk, write about it! I’ve already clicked away at some of the cool blogs listed here.
I started my baking blog because baking relaxes me and it’s such a great feeling to make something from scratch. I’m also addicted to chocolate! : ) I love to write and it’s been fun “documenting” the stuff that I try out in the kitchen. I’m at http://www.playingwithflour.blogspot.com
Kelsey
joy, these posts are always a great reminder of why i write in the first place. thank you for being a source of inspiration and support in this blogging world!
xox
website – http://www.readytosalivate.com
twitter & instagram – @readytosalivate
Sincerely Jill
I’ve got into Twitter. I’m truly awful at it, but I would love to build a community that way. Thanks for the real talk Joy!
Joelen
Thank you. Thank you for keeping it real. Thank you for reminding folks that it’s not about how one ‘measures up’ or ‘keeping up with the {food blogging} Jone’s. Eat, cook, bake & blog to your own beat bloggers. Most importantly, keep it genuine. :)
Nicole
Reading your encouraging words, makes me think that I actually CAN do this food blogging thing I’ve set out to do. It’s so easy to just give up and believe that I will never be as good as I want to be or have enough time to get there. You are truly an inspiration, so thank you! ?
grace
i just started my blog a few weeks ago and so these tips are really helpful. thanks! :)
dressedinstripes.blogspot.com
joythebaker
go on and get it!
Laurel
Love this, and love your blog.
onesmallpatch.com
Keegan
I love this simple, straight-forward advice. I’m in the process of starting my own blog, and it is ideas like these that help shape my vision of my blog future!
Lindsay @ The Lean Green Bean
love this so much. totally spot on!
Kylie
Joy- these words are exactly what I needed to hear as my blog grows out of the “read by my mom and my best friend” stage.
http://likepurlsoffastring.wordpress.com
I blog mostly about knitting, but food, travel, books, and etc. also work their way in there.
Kristi @ 30 Pounds of Apples
Preach it! Sometimes, I love how personally invested I am in my blog. But that also means I have the tendency to wallow in pits of paranoid self-consciousness if I have an off-day or if I don’t get the kind of response I was hoping for on a post. Thanks for keeping it real and helping all of us with young food blogs that we’re not in this alone!
Annes Kitchen
What a sweet post! I couldn’t agree more with everything you say, and it’s such a big relief to see that even you, one of the biggest and coolest food bloggers out there still can feel slightly intimidated by browsing other great blogs. Cherreoh girl!
Catherine
Love this! This is my blog: http://onelittlestar.blogspot.com/
My blog is mostly pictures, I usually don’t know what to say besides here are some pictures of jewelry I am working on and what I am doing. I feel pressure to try to write more but I am just more of a visual person. It is good to remember to do your own thing.
dawnb
Great tips Joy! My blog is probably a bit lost and unloved, I always feel like I have nothing of any interest or value to say, it is mostly just some odd craft bits, doodles, bad pics of dinner, and the odd book review. I totally need to do number 9! However, I do love looking back over my own posts, just because there are so many memories, and I always come away feeling really grateful for life and all the little things :)
http://dawnbevinsdesign.blogspot.co.uk/
My Kids Mom
so hard to remember to not compare ourselves! pookandbug.blogspot.com come visit!
Christine
love this advice. i’m *brand new* at blogging and pretty sure i’m doing everything wrong. love your style, joy!
Grace
Thanks Joy! If any of you love baking as much as you do style, check my blog out!
steepedinstyle.wordpress.com
Sheila
I’m immensely happy you posted this. I might have just had my favorite food picture I took, ever, turned down a foodie site. Wierd, right? Live and let live. Share the love at http://www.loveandwildhoney.com – see my chocolate coconut beet bon bon pics! And smile. ;) Love ya Joy.
Erin Hemmelgarn
Oh, Joy! You’re the greatest. I actually ran into Gentri Lee at Zupas (kind of) last night and it made my evening! You can find me at threehundredandfour.blogspot.com
Becca
Love this real talk. Feeling this collective deep breath of the blogging world, taking a chill pill and turning their gaze inward.
My work: http://www.thedabblist.com
We are all amazing :)
Ula
Hi Joy
Great post, thanks for all the tips.
I have been a secret admirer for a while and have started my own blog inspired by people like you.
I have recently tried your recipe for the Orange and Cranberry Coffee Cake and plan to post about it on my blog soon (greenteaandcookies.wordpress.com).
And having bangs myself I really get your hair traumas…
Haley
this was one of the best “blogging tip” posts I’ve ever read–so genuine, and right on target. you have such a voice when you write. i always feel like i’m reading a note from a close girlfriend whenever i read your posts!
i blog over at les petites joies (hybove.blogspot.com). i try to focus on capturing all of the little joys in daily life, and for me this means a whole lot of food, dates, and tiny adventures. blogging has proven to be a great way to stay positive and creative while in law school, and i love being a part of the “blogging world”–there are so many impressive ladies online!
Julie @ Forbiddenriceblog.wordpress.com
Joy,
Thanks so much for this post today. I’ve been feeling all over the place about blogging the last couple of weeks, and this was grounding and… hopeful for future blogging. I equally enjoyed your first 10 Real-Talk Tips, as well. Thanks for doing what you love; it’s admirable.
Jessica
thank you for the awesome advice and validation! and, for the chance to check out a bunch of new blogs :)
Synne
Thanks for another insightful and inspirational post about blogging! It is so much fun, and there are always new things to learn and new friends to make!
Right, I write about my life in Paris at
http://etdrysskanel.wordpress.com/
Fear not, there are English translations in the bottom of each post. At the moment I have a contest going, so this is kind of awkward timing (if we were at a come-as-you-are party right now, my blog and I would be wearing something inappropriate).
Another thing that feels kind of embarrassing right now, but should probably be mentioned: This morning I sent a few lines to the editor of an online magazine that I write for. She had asked all the contributors to recommend one blog each, and I chose none other that yours. Speaking of “Let’s support eachother”… Maybe there are some new, Norwegian readers coming your way.
You are super, Joy! All the best from Paris!
Rocky Mountain Woman
I love this list! It’s just what I needed to see right now…
http://therockymountainwoman.com
xxoo,
RMW
Fernanda M. Duran
You got me at tip one. I’m a novice blogger who writes in my mother tongue (spanish) and the blogosphere in my language is just starting to take off, but i haven’t had the time to translate my words into english so i can reach more people, mostly because i’ve found TONS of interesting, inspiring, cute and everything blogs and i can’t keep up with them!
So i’ll take MY time and set my limits.
Anyhow, the other 9 tips got me too :)
Thanks!
Natalia
Hello Fernanda,
I am another spanish blogger I would love to visit your post!!!
Mine is
http://basmatilime.blogspot.com
It’s about finding your voice… that I think is the key!!!!
Kay
Hi Natalia,
I’m from India and have some nice spicy recipes. Do check it out! http://thetreattruck.wordpress.com/
Thanks
Kay
Natalia
Kay your blog is great!!! Beautiful pictures and great recipes!!! I have already signed up to follow you
;-)
Kay
Thanks Natalia!!! I hope you njoy the recipes…. And that is so sweet of you to mot only check out my blog but follow too… :)
Margaret
Thanks for the oh so wise words Joy. As a newbie blogger, this couldn’t have come at a more perfect time. I particularly love eight and nine and will try extra hard to stick to those.
Here’s my contribution: abiteofhistory.com
Christina
What a treat it was to read your words today. Thanks for your ever-inspiring, ever-honest contribution to the community of bloggers. My twin sister and I (www.ataleoftwins.com) are always, always loving your blog, writing, and the sweet creations that come along with it.
erin @hooleywithaz
i love this one: “live a good life. it makes for a good blog.” so true. and one of my main goals for myself and my blog this year. authenticity is so important, yet so easy to forget.
here’s me: http://hooleywithaz.com. stuff has been semi-deep lately because of the loss of an important person in my life, but lots of times there is a lot of silly on there!
Jessica @ The Desert Abode
“Live a good life. It makes for a good blog.”
I couldn’t have said it better myself. My blog http://www.thedesertabode.com is about good food and good living so I always find myself writing about life even when the post is about food.. I can’t separate the two. :)
Loreli
Great points! Enjoyed this! (Thanks for the referral Joy McEwen!)
Danielle
Awesome advice. You are so inspiring. Thanks a million times over for writing this post :)
Ashley @ Yeah. We Bake.
Thank you so much for this opportunity, Joy. I like love you.
http://www.yeahwebake.com/
xo,
Ashley
p.s. I’m posting a recipe tomorrow that I’m really excited about!
meghan
Joy, I really enjoyed this post. I just love what you said about stepping away from the computer and kitchen… “Live a good life. It makes for a good blog.” Definitely sticking that quote up on the fridge!
My blog is luckybakes, and I’m looking forward to clicking around on some other blogs in these comments!
Dana
I love the idea of not following trends! That is so refreshing! I actually love the whole list. Also, I wonder if you have feedback on the use of original photography, and, if so, do you have camera tips!!! Thank you!!!
Erin
really great post – definitely helps to bring everything into perspective. thanks for being so real with us!
Emily
Thanks for posting, Joy… You have been such an inspiration to me! I actually started a blog just a couple of weeks ago because it’s something I have always wanted to do, so there are only a few posts, but I have more in the works!
http://polkadotsandpie.wordpress.com
I would love for y’all to check it out!
Amelia
ERMAHGAD, I’ve been looking for the archived post for a while. Ok, I haven’t been looking that hard but I rememberd you wrote it and that is the important thing!
I’m taking a social media marketing class and used you as an example of a successful business person using social media. You’re an inspiration!
Thanks for posting this…and being awesome.
tabitha W
I am the wife of a chef. I write about my adventures of bring a chefs wife, being a social worker, being a semi-foster parent, about my cats. Sometimes I just write about the crazy.
http://lifeofthechefswife.blogspot.ca/
Also. I have spent over an hour checking and bookmarking new blogs. WOW! I can’t believe how much I have been missing.
Nikki
Love this, Joy. I remember the first day i launched my blog, (http://kitchencartel.net/) I posted on your Facebook Wall to let you know what an inspiration you are to so many of us and how I was so inspired that I started a blog of my own. The amazing part? You actually responded to my comment with well wishes and a smile. You truly made my day :) Thanks for being you!
Abby
this. was. the best.
also is it appropriate to feel like i’m a giant group of friends i’ve not yet met?
abbyandthejets.blogspot.com
Mateusz
I laughed! So true! Thank you for that! I really needed this post!
Tiffany
Live a good life. It makes for a good blog.
BEST BLOGGING ADVICE EVER.
Thank you, Joy, for keeping it real.
garlicandsalt-tiffany.blogspot.com
Tiffany
Live a good life. It makes for a good blog.
BEST BLOGGING ADVICE EVER.
Thank you, Joy, for keeping it real.
garlicandsalt-tiffany.blogspot.com
Anna
Loving these tips and hearing your words! Totes taking them to heart.
I’m the voice and nails behind: http://businessladypolish.blogspot.com/
Mad love to you, Joy!
joy m.
thank you thank you thank you for all your tips!
my blog is only a couple months old, but I try and make delicious things and talk about the life of a college really honestly. :)
joyeuxcusine.wordpress.com
Imen
Fantastic idea! I am TOTALLY stalking you Joy. Thanks for this post….really inspiring…totally bang on about bloggy things I have been wondering about lately. Love all that you do!
http://www.marriedanirishfarmer.com
Imen xx
Jonena
Imen! I love your blog and have been following it for a while now – it makes me smile every time it’s on my reader. Thank you for sharing the beauty!
Lauren Burkitt
Such a great idea Joy! Thanks for sharing your tips and always being real, it’s very inspiring. I turned your chocolate beet cake into pink velvet cupcakes this year to hand out on Valentine’s Day.
Smiles from Vancouver, Lauren.
for the curious & the creative
thefigsheart.com
Lisa Klow
Loved this post. thank you.
Jill
I love your tips, mainly just be yourself! Met you in Austin! http://bakingbyprecious.blogspot.com/
Bianca @ Confessions of a Chocoholic
I love these real talk series! Thanks, Joy. I’m looking forward to discovering new blogs, too!
My blog is http://www.confessionsofachocoholic.com/ :)
Jen of My Tiny Oven
Great tips Joy!! I have discovered so many great blogs through your site!! Thanks!!
http://mytinyoven.blogspot.ca/
Anna
What a fun idea, Joy! My blog is http://www.serendipitousanna.com and I’m always stoked to find new bloggy friends!
Ondina
true: we are our own boss. I keep forgetting that… Thanks for reminding me :)
My blog is: http://coentrosrabanetes.blogspot.pt/
Hannah
What a helpful list, Joy. I found myself nodding in agreement with so many of your points, and cringing with embarrassment at some too. Thanks for how real you are on your blog- it’s one of the many reasons why so many people love your blog! You are brilliantly talented and completely accessible to your readers. Keep doing what you do, Miss Joy.
Lucy
Inspiring post – it’s nice to have real talk, achievable tips. Particularly must remember not t o get hung up on ranking systems!
Stephanie
As a brand new (I mean, I just now posted my first article!) blogger, this is great information! Thanks for sharing. Check out my brand new blog: http://www.mylongbeachkitchen.com. Keep the great photos coming, Joy!
Nicole
Are you some sort of freaky blog psychic lady??? First, I adore you. I love your cookbook and blog, can’t wait for your next book and just truly aspire to have a similar positive impact on people that you have had. And I felt like this and your first part on this subject spoke exactly to all the fears and doubts I have been experiencing. This was a wonderful reminder that I am blogging because I love cooking, I love my kids, and I will never regret having this cool record of those things.
http://modernfamilycooking.com
xxoo – total girl crush for you going on here.
Nicole
Rebecca
Thank you so much for that post Joy! It was really inspiring, and so many words were spoken right form my heart… I am a beginner blogger, always looking up at nice big blogs, dreaming, baking, thinking about my blog and how I can improve it (do I need fancy kind of vintage style fonts on my pictures??). Well, I guess I am not the only one troubled by that ;) But I also think, a Blog is always developing like (hopefully) its maker. So who know how my/our Blogs will look like in a few month, years :) I am ready to get myself totally into the Blogging World, and I can’t wait what the answer will be :D
Take care!
Cristina A. -The Batchmaker
Just what I needed to hear on this cold, rainy day (in Charlotte, NC at least). Just started my blog in November and it is harder than it looks. Especially on the emotional side. Thanks Joy!
Amy K
I’m giving you a virtual high-five, because it just sounded like a fun thing to do. Thanks for writing such a helpful post!
(amynaustin.blogspot.com)
Claire
Fabulous stuff, love it…needed to be reminded…
I’m over at http://musings-of-a-ponderer.blogspot.co.uk
Hannah Jade
love love love these posts – lots of points that, as a newbie blogger, I’m pleased to see!
Hannah Jade
(http://thelittlestbakehouse.com/)
Malgosia
Darnit, I got my url wrong!
smartcookiebakes.blogspot.ca
Nicole @ The Dirty Oven
Love this post and love you. From one curly bang girl to another.
Kelly
Thanks for more amazing blogging tips. Your blog is always such a joy to read and I know I can come to you for fool proof, tasty recipes! Here’s my blog: http://kellybaked.wordpress.com/
Looking forward to discovering new ones :)
Kate
A very useful post – thanks Joy! I only discovered your podcast with Tracy last week and I am making my way through them – starting at the beginning with one a day. I am loving them! I also just ordered your cookbook tonight and can’t wait to get it :)
Liz
Thanks Joy for all the great tips! I have been blogging for about 9 months now and sometimes feel overwhelmed at trying to keep up with everything that is involved in keeping a great blog. Thanks for some great reminders :) My blog is http://www.asweetbaker.com Hope you stop over sometime!
Maddy
joy– this is just the post that i needed. i am fairly new to the blog world and just trying to figure out my rhythm. thanks for just keeping things in check.
Jamie
Thanks so much for the post Joy, you’re awesome. Keep on keepin’ on!
128johnst.com
Evelyn
My bestie and I just started a blog – http://www.ohsosplendid.com. Its been interesting to see our different styles coming together!
I am always looking for new blogs to fill my google reader, excited to have a new list to look through!
Molly
Great post Joy! Absolutely from the heart and I’m taking in all your advice and wise words! xx
Dawn
What a great, well written post. This totally resonates with me and how I feel bout growing my blog. Appreciate the honesty and hearing your thoughts. Always love this little spot of the Internet!
Dawnbydawn.com
Tori
You are such an inspiration, Joy! I just started my blog less than a month ago, but I know exactly what you are talking about in this post. Your insightful words and positive attitude are exactly what I needed today!
My website is FrontPorchCooking.com
I’m looking forward to visiting some of the great links posted here!
amy aka Mrs. Brown
wonderfully encouraging Joy! i love the way you inspire community through your blog. There’s a quote (who said it?) about how “truly great people make you feel that you too can become great”..
You do that well!
Amanda
Great advice! I especially agree with building community and living a good life. Not to mention ta always get better! Inspiring tips when they come from an upbeat positive voice. Thanks! :)
You can catch me at simplestepstorealfood.com
Claudia
Joy thank you so much for this post! I’m a new blogger and feel like I’m just stumbling around in blogland. I don’t post as regularly as I’d like, so it’s nice to hear that it’s OK. I’m trying to set goals, but also be easy on myself.
Thanks for inspiring folks to just go for it and have fun!
buenprovechoblog.blogspot.com
Tess
i love this! i’m trying to write more and not put up everything that’s going on in my life – 2013 is off to a stressful start, and i’m really conscious of the fact that some things, i just don’t want to share with everybody. so my blog is becoming my happy place, where i post things that put me in a better mood, and not a place for me to be like “hey, guess how much this year SUCKS?”
lifeoftess.wordpress.com
allie@sweetpotatobites
Thanks for posting this – I’ll definitely take some of your tips and apply it to my blog!
If anyone out there is looking for easy, food allergy friendly recipes or just wants to learn more about the Orange County dining scene, please check out my blog at http://www.sweetpotatobites.com :)
Stephanie @ Food and Fitness 4 Real
Hi Joy! I was so excited to meet you in person last year at BlogHerFood and find that you were just as down to earth in person as you are on your blog. Thanks for giving your readers the chance to share their blogs too, my site is http://foodandfitness4real.com where I blog about balancing real life with healthy living.
Just so you know, your cookbook is displayed on the corner of my kitchen countertop and I drool over your recipes everytime I open it. Thanks! Stephanie
Ulrica
What a great reminder to just be yourself. I have a small Swedish blog and have now started up in english. The goal is to translate all the food posts that I have in swedish into english. It’s going to take a lot of time, but it’s a great way to be better at the language and hopefully I will meet a lot of food interested people from all over the world. I know that nasty feeling when I look at other blogs with gorgeous photos and a new post everyday. I have to remind myself that I have a job and the blog is just for fun. Most of the people I follow are doing it for a living. It’s a big differense but easy to forget.
So thank you. Thank you for the great reminder. :)
/Ulrica
Cliodhna Prendergast
What a lovely post to share with everyone. I’m just starting out with my new company called Breaking Eggs, an online cookery programme for parents and kids and have to start a blog. Unfortunately I’m terrified to write anything!! Think this will help, I hope.
I’ll have to read it over and over to psych myself up!
Chelsea
this sounds lovely. I, for one, would enjoy reading about your cookery. be brave and post!
Maryanne
Thank you, Joy! You are such a great source of inspiration. Your blog makes me smile every week.
Freddi
I especially love tip number nine! Good advice Joy :)
dani
Thanks for this – you’re always very inspirational!
I’ve been blogging for a couple years but I’ve always just done it for fun. I love seeing that more people have visited in a month because I love sharing inspiration. But sometimes I just have months where there aren’t enough hours in the day for blogging, and that’s ok with me. I’ll get back to it when I have time. If it becomes a stressful thing about writing blog posts, that’s when I’m done :)
stop by and take a gander – http://yellebellyboo.blogspot.com – hope you enjoy :)
amy
This is so great and such wonderful advice. I especially love the advice about not being jealous and just being yourself. That’s such an easy trap to fall into. I’d love it if you’d check out my blog sometime. It’s http://southernsweetsandeats.blogspot.com.
Joanne @ Fifteen Spatulas
These tips make me feel sane again. It’s easy to get sucked up in these little details and so important to take a step back and breathe.
Totally loving all these blogs! I’m at http://www.fifteenspatulas.com
Natalie
Great advice- thanks for keeping it real!
Meghan
boom!
(http://www.stirandscribble.com)
as soon as you realize these things the pressure releases and things can get really start doing it for love, thats when the magic happens.
Leila
This is so great to hear…all of it. You’re right, blog envy and getting overwhelmed and feeling like you’re just not cut out for it is totally real (I’m in that phase right now!!) It’s so nice and refreshing to hear people being honest. Be real with me, you know?
Thanks for this! You’re an inspiration and I love hearing your voice come through in posts like this.
Olivia @ Liv Lives Life
This was a great post, and one that I really needed to see. Thanks so much for sharing! (Oh, and I could not empathize more with you about frizzy-triangle-bob-hair. Oy.)
Lacy
oh joy. listening to your podcast and reading your blog for the past year have made me feel like less of a weirdo in this crazy world called the internet. so thank you for that. and thanks for keeping it real and not being afraid to post about your past hair woes.
we’ve all been there.
i blog at my personal blog http://laceeelynn.blogspot.com/
and on the blog my cooler friend and i started http://simpleflavorsarekey.blogspot.com/
Grace
I am an art blogger but I LOVE this website! could never post about food, but here I am drooling with every new post of yours. All of you foodies are an inspiration to me!
Donna
Joy,
How is one so young so wise? You are full of great ideas and I appreciate that so much. I’m glad that I found your blog, here’s the address to mine: http://www.thedevilsfoodadvocate.com
Bake
Great post – so much truth here!
Especially like the tip about living a good life, that’s what we are all about. :) xoxo
Alissa
Thank you so much! I am really taking these to heart, and now I am off to explore Instagram! I truly enjoy your blog, thank you for all your hard work!
Ashley
Such a great post. It’s so easy to fall into some of these traps. Love the part about text on photos :)
Kathrin
You’re so right! Thank you so much for these words! :)
mary fran | frannycakes
I gave a presentation on blogging (http://noteandpoint.com/2013/02/10-things-to-make-your-blog-awesomer/) to a group in San Francisco last weekend, and I stressed some of these exact same things :)
Although, I didn’t have any triangle bob stories. I went with a high school reunion tale instead :)
Raquel Somatra
Thank you, Joy, for the lovely tips. I’ve been considering joining Twitter but have wondered if it was really worth it, and reading your experience is convincing me even more.
Here is my link: http://raquelsomatra.blogspot.com/2013/02/the-blue-chamber.html
I’m excited about reading the others. :)
Erin
Very nicely done, Joy. I’m always impressed at how positive and encouraging you are.
I’m a teacher currently writing a blog about my sabbatical experiences in Finland and Turkey at finnishinglessons.wordpress.com
Kali
These are great tips Joy and I wholeheartedly agree!
Anna
Totes loving this & taking your words to heart =)
I’m the voice & nails behind: http://www.businessladypolish.blogspot.com
Mad love to you, Joy!
Julie
Great tips! Thank you for sharing. The second I compare my blog to anyone else I’ve lost the game – the whole point of starting a blog for me was having fun in the kitchen. and documenting the ensuing trials and tribulations.
Melanie
I’ve been relying on the blog tips you posted originally, and they’ve helped me calm down. It made me realize that I can do what at I want, at the pace that is good for me. And that made me enjoy the experience so much more. My blog is not super personal but I’m hoping to make it more so soon. Thanks for posting more tips!
Hilary
Wow! This is great advice, and excellent timing: I just set a new blog.
http://www.cant-be-too-old-to-spy.com
DessertForTwo
This is so wonderful, Joy! You are the one I compare myself to (and I’ve been doing it for years), but it’s totally in a positive way. Not in a negative, down way at all. Your passion for dessert and sweets FUELS me :)
Blog link! http://www.DessertForTwo.com
Yay!
Natalie Paramore
I always feel the pressure to keep up… Thanks for the reality check! I always feel inspired by your posts!
Winter
Gosh, those were lovely words to hear today. Thanks for the dose of real talk and inspiration at the same time.
You rock!
Karen
Thank you so much for this post! I am a new blogger and I can get so caught up with getting my blog “out there”. Reading this post was like a breath of fresh air! I needed to see this today. Here is my site:
http://www.karenssoiree.blogspot.com
I will check out the other blogs too!
Karen
Allison
I love these suggestions. I think we have to remind ourselves why we started blogging in the first place. For me, it was to create a place to preserve memories and to share my life with friends and families. It didn’t start as a competition or a popularity contest. Thanks for the excellent reminders :)
I’m over at teamlysenko.blogspot.com!
Penny @ From Harvest To Table
This post was perfectly timed for me. I have been a blogger since 2006. My original blog is http://www.thecomfortsofhome.blogspot.com . It is a lifestlye and decorating blog.
The end of last year right before we moved to a new home, I started a cooking blog called From Harvest To Table. http://www.fromharvesttotable.com . Though the timing was off due to the move, I did get it up and running, then paused it for a few months until this week. Now I am all settled into my home and ready to start cooking and posting again.
Penny
KC Saling
Joy – thanks for the tips. Sometimes it’s so easy to get sucked into the fads and forget that blogging, in the end, is about sharing the things we love with people and hopefully as a result having some really cool conversations – and learning new things!
And I totally agree with Kara – I am really trying to clean up my Pinterest and make sure I’m pinning pictures from good sources so that when I click on that image I saved, it really takes me to the article with that thing I want to make! When bloggers text-tag or meta-tag their images, it helps!
http://kcsaling.com
Abby @ The Frosted Vegan
I can’t even tell you how happy this makes my heart. I have been struggling with a lot of this, but you are such an inspiration, keeping it real and doing it right! Thanks for your beautiful work Joy! : )
thefrostedvegan.com
Amy B
Very comforting advice! It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the amazing talent out there. My own plan is just to post when I have something worth sharing. But I still get anxious when it’s been a week with nothing new up on my blog. Thanks for your wise, relaxed words! :)
Amy B
– FamilyFeedbag.com
Caroline @ Pink Basil
Loved these tips, good to hear from a pro blogger like yourself :)
Sarah
Joy~ I just adore you real talk blog tips! I’ve probably read your first one eight times. Thank you for being such an inspiration!! *high five!*
knittedfoxtrot.blogspot.com
[waves]
Sarah
Averie @ Averie Cooks
I can’t believe it’s been that long since your last post/part 1. Two years….time flies. Gosh, wow. Feels like about 6 mos ago!
I echo everything you said from not comparing, competing, not have to put cute font on all our pics, posting content we’re supremely proud of and reaching out to those in this community and doing what we can to support each other. Sounds trite but, can’t we all just get along :)
Lovely post, Joy, full of reminders. Will be re-reading it often.
Malgosia
Words of wisdom so approachably written. Amazing as always Joy!
Malgosia
smartcookiebakes@blogspot.ca
Kelsey McGinley
Once again you have inspired me! I have pinterest and facebook down but I have to up my twitter game. And I love doing me so check! YOU ROCK.
http://littlebitsof.com
^check it out!
Krissy @ Make it Naked
Keep keepin’ it real. These are my favorite posts of yours.
Jenn
You’re amazing Joy! Such a lovely post by one of my favorite bloggers. Keep being real and producing amazing content — I for one would love to know what you know about curly bangs!
Rebecca @ Pavlova's Dog
This was excellently written, and thank you! For the reassurance and confidence boost and words of wisdom. This is a bit of a side note, and totally not meant to cast negative judgement on other people with blogs & book deals running concurrently… but I really like that you’re blogger-first, author-second. I never feel like you’re neglecting us, your core lil food blog readers, for the wider audience you can reach on actual physical paper. Yay, you!
Becca @ Amuse Your Bouche
I love this post! Some fantastic advice :)
My blog is http://www.amuse-your-bouche.blogspot.com – I post simple vegetarian recipes, and I’d love some of you to stop by <3
Thanks Joy!
Kelsey
I love the name of your blog! so cute!!
Angie Tobias
I love the name too! Can’t wait to check it out :-)
Holly
This post is why I adore your blog.
Do your own thang.
Here’s mine: http://www.thehealthyeverythingtarian.com!
Lindsey @ Pas de Deux
This is great advice–thank you so much for articulating it so well. :-)
amy
love this. thanks for posting!
missamylovesla.tumblr.com
Amber Lewis
Thanks so much for this. I have been in such a blogging funk since I had my baby. I’ve been in the kitchen, but just overwhelmed with trying to keep up to the amazinginess of other blogs and being a working mother, I havent hardly posted in a while. I’ve been meaning to change hosting sites…the whole nine yards. And I just feel subpar. This post makes me feel a million times better. You rock.
Billy
This is why you are a megaforceultrablogger. High fives for everyone!
witandvinegar.com
Sharon
Just subscribed.!
Marisol Dodson
Very well said, Joy!! High fives to all bloggers old and new!
Nikki
Joy… Like all the others have said, your comments are spot on. My favorite is number nine because that is the one I struggle with. I so easily get caught up in what my next blog post is going to be or what I’m going to cook today and how will it photograph that that becomes my life. Having a full life means never having to struggle with what to write about. When you are invested in the real world, not just the world that exists between you and your readers, it comes through in your blog.
Here is my blog…
http://simmerandshoot.com
Now off to click on some new links. :)
The Teacher Cooks
I love your blog!!! This is just the post I needed to read because it really is hard on me when I see everyone’s perfect blog. So it’s not so bad to jut be me and try not to keep up with the Jones’es . I just should try to put my perfectionism to the side sometimes. Thanks
Nicole
I always love your real-talk, Joy. “Live a good life. It makes for a good blog.” YES, a million times yes.
Sharon
Could not agree more. Thanks, Joy, and all of the other commenters. I have officially lost hours tonight clicking through!
Bee
Well said and very inspiring, as usual. I actually just launched a blog (deuxdilettantes.wordpress.com) with a friend of mine, who is as passionate as I am about food and Seattle (an interesting combo) and I consequently identify a lot with what you wrote.
Never stop being so sincere, it’s so nice and refreshing!
Foodess
I like number 10 the best! I’m the worst for lurking in the shadows of my favourite blogs, despite comments being the BEST THING EVER about blogging. So I hereby resolve to comment more! :)
Love, Jennifer at http://www.foodess.com.
Shannon
I feel like blogging is a crazy sort of thing. But most things that people are passionate about are. I bake probably 4 times a week, but that’s just as much time as I would spend if I were in a band or designing clothing.
As long as you are happy with what you are doing, then it’s perfect.
pen&pudding
As a new and totally terrified blogger, this has just made my day – thank you, Joy! x
penandpudding.wordpress.com
Stephanie
Love the advice. I completely understand the concept of getting frustrated because I don’t update as often as others or my pictures don’t turn out as well. But, its something I find fun to do and so I continue on @ simplybysteph.com
Love all your posts and recipes.
Allison (Spontaneous Tomato)
Thank you, Joy! (As always!) I’ve been blogging for a little over a year now, and I love your blog, and all of these tips and bits of advice. (#s 1 and 4 are key! …though it took me long enough to figure them out.)
My blog is here: http://spontaneoustomato.com/
Please stop by (even if you hate tomatoes!). I post plenty of non-tomato-related recipes, too :)
Elana
I absolutely love the name of your blog. :) Pretty photos too!
Sara @ The Cozy Herbivore
Beautifully written, really. So thoughtful and encouraging. It’s so easy to get caught up in the whirlwind that is the internet, but I love your advice about slowing down and appreciating your peers. I can’t tell you how wonderful it’s been to be a part of the blogging community– every time I get lost and start to feel lonely and competitive, I find that by reaching out and connecting with people my perspective shifts. Food bloggers tend to be a pretty amazing, warm and supportive group. I love being inspired and challenged by this community!
And on a personal note, thank YOU for being the kind and generous blogger that you are. Plus thank you for reassuring me that my non-existent Photoshop skillz are okay, because my photos don’t really need cute writing and arrows and hearts.
Here’s my blog, y’all: http://thecozyherbivore.blogspot.com. Can’t wait to check out yours!
Kelsey
I totally want to visit the Franklin Fountain now! Perhaps next time I’m in Philadelphia :)
Celina @ NerdyBaker
Totally crying right now. I needed this, Joy. I have been having issues with my pictures (my point and shoot that I knew how to use got spots inside, so upgraded to my husband’s that I am absolutely flummoxed trying to figure out using) and cannot deal and my lack of enthusiasm at editing pictures is effecting my posting schedule. I usually give up on it and end up using pictures I took from my iPhone. This was supposed to be fun! Thank you, Joy, for helping me remember.
You are right about the communities. They make me smile every day.
Emily D
My blog (www.emilydensten.tumblr.com) is mostly just me rambling to get myself writing, because now that I’m graduated I have nothing that is specifically making me write other than my own desire to do so. Still, I find these tips really helpful and appreciate you taking the time to write them.
Elena @ Randomly Happy
Always so good at telling it how it is. Life became better when you started blogging (all those moons ago :) )
x Elena @ Randomly Happy
Michelle
This was just what I needed, winter is slowly killing my creativity. This will remind me to get back on track! Thanks! Michelle @ http://www.dustandwanderlust.com.
Kate @ Our Best Bites
Love it. I’ve been in the biz for awhile now, but if I’m not careful, it’s easy to let the comparing and the what-ifs and the insecurities become debilitating.
joythebaker
you understand! and your blog is rad always!
Annie @ Annie's Noms
Thank you so much for this post – I’m still relatively new to the whole blogging thing and sometimes I’m worried I don’t do it as well as others or the “right way”, this is so inspirational and you’re totally right, I’m the best at being me so I should just stick to that from now on :D Yours is one of the first blogs I read when I got into food blogging and you gave me the final push to start my own blog, thank you so much and stay being awesome! :D
Anna
Really great suggestions, I’ll have to keep reminding myself about some of these on a regular basis, but it’s still nice to hear.
http://blondiescakes.blogspot.com
Stop by if you like :D
Elsie
Your cakes look gorgeous! I am going to have to try some of the recipes!
tabitha W
WOW! I love your photos! Can’t wait to take a better read. You are officially bookmarked!
Elizabeth
perfectly said! i made goals for myself at the beginning of the year, and one of them was to always be myself. i actually wrote “you are not deb, you are not joy, you are elizabeth.” i’ll never be you, but you are such an inspiration! so thanks for that :)
Holiday Baker Man
The perfect words of wisdom…thank you
Elana
Game on! http://www.stirandstrain.com
If you like cocktails, please check out my site!
Thanks for these sanity tips Joy.
Elsie
ummm a blog about cocktails with amazing pictures and a home made grenedine recipe!! Where have you been all my life?
Kelsey
WOW! I’m always looking for new cocktail recipes — your site will be sure to provide instant inspiration, thanks! (Love the Amaretto Whipped Cream!)
Anne
so glad I checked your blog, stirandstrain… I have a shelf full of liquor and I have no idea how to make cocktails.
Lexi
Love the cocktails! I need to build up a bit of a liquor cabinet before I can try all of those but man do they look yuuuummmyyy
Janet A.
I just love this!!!! I’m a cocktail “goddess” and love making drinks from scratch. Purees, Syrups, using all sorts of fresh items from the produce section.
Thank you!!!! Beautiful site!!!
Paola Domínguez
Wow! I absolutely LOVE your blog! Great inspiration for week-night cocktail cravings! :)
Elana
Thanks to all of you wonderful ladies for the compliments and a BIG thanks to Joy for letting us share on here!
amy
love it!
Jenna
love all these tips! I realize that I LIKE writing on my blog and want to keep it that way, so that means no crazy ridiculous pressure to write–just write when I want about what I want, and people who want to hear funny (I hope!) rants on life with a few picture thrown in are still willing to read.
i’m at jennalorence.blogspot.com
Malgosia
Love your blog tag line. Truth!
Lisa Gray
What timing! I feel my blog (just a writing blog, no food) is languishing as I am. I needed this., Joy. Even though what I do is totally different, I share your attitude and I needed to be reminded of this. Thank you!
TiaChocolate
What’s your blog link? I write as well…and am always looking for other good stuff to read – I find myself so inspired reading other people’s musings and stories!! :)
Mine is http://www.ambergriscaye.com/tiachocolate
I hope I can get my site up and running this year…xx (PS – thank you Joy!!)
Martetatin
Thank you for the tips, an inspiring post as always.
barefootrooster
Love this. I’d just echo that when I started my mostly knitting, but now cooking and grad school life and cute pictures of my dog, blog five years ago, I had no idea that the internet could feel like a community. The friendships I’ve built in blogland have been the best part. (www.barefootrooster.com)
Thanks, Joy, for sending these good vibes out to readers here in blogland.
Ann
I love these posts, Joy! I can’t believe your last one was two (?!) years ago.
Love your real talk.
sara
Beautiful words, Joy :) thanks for the inspiration. keep on, keepin on!
Erika
Joy, you’re so cool. Great thoughts, lovely posts. I appreciate you and your writing. I just found Kara thanks to your suggestion! And I’m at http://thepancakeprincess.com.
Cassie Sue
I’ve been wanting to start a blog for a while, but I think the fear or not being good as (or even coming close to ) the blogs I love, is keeping me from even taking the first leap. Maybe i Just need to go for it.
Sarah
Totally just go for it! \(*^_^*)/
Mere
Cassie–I felt the same way for months and finally, one day, i realized that the only person telling me that I wasn’t/couldn’t be as good as XYZ bloggers was myself. And I suddenly decided to stop being negative, stop doubting myself and making excuses, and take the leap. Do it for yourself, first and foremost. It’s a passion, it’s an adventure, and you’ll be surprised at all the support you get from others–I promise! I started my blog (Chocolate + Chard) in December. It’s still a baby but i’m so happy that I did it!
Seph
Thirded over here, but the only person holding you back really is you to begin with. I found that blogging on my own and not sharing it initially has given me a chance to get more confident as I muddle along. Brave the leap and see where you end up!
Lexi
I am in the same boat as you! My blog was my new years resolution, I bought the domain name a YEAR ago and only plucked up the courage to actually do something with it in January. And I love it!
Mere, your blog is super pretty, I love love love your green windmill plates.
Claire @ Lemon Jelly Cake
Do it!! :) I’ve been blogging since October. I used to follow a few “big” blogs, but I never really sought out or appreciated newer or less fancy/well-known blogs. I’ve discovered so many creative, kind, awesome people since I started!
Laura
Claire, I feel the same way! Sometimes following “big” blogs makes me feel so small town, but even blogs that haven’t been around for years have authors with a beautiful and quirky voice.
Can’t wait to check out your blog, I am enjoying being inspired by others. I started my blog, http://www.theartfulife.com last November and love sharing photos, recipes and my thoughts with the world check it out!
Sarah
Yes! Go for it!! I was so nervous too for awhile and then I just went for it and have really been loving it;)
Good Luck! xo
Moira
I felt exactly the same way for ages…and I just took the leap in December. I’m still figuring it all out, but it’s fun! I didn’t tell anyone about it for a few weeks because I was still scared, but I’m getting braver as I go along! Give it a try-I bet you won’t regret it :)
thedalstonyears
You get the love all the time (we TOTALLY stalk your comments) and we love your voice. It’s totally girl gang and idiosyncratic. You inspired thedalstonyears.wordpress.com and it would be totally cool if one day you came and visited (I loved that post you did about your parents especially).
fanks pal (from the UK)
thedalstonyears.wordpress.com
we’re reaching out to you, and we hope that’s ok.
Kiersten Becht
You are awesome. Never stop being you because I admire your cool and quirky ways, I only wish to be half as cool as you when I grow up! Thanks for always being entertaining, helpful and consistent!
YOU ROCK!!!!
Kara
Joy – I love the tips and I have to admit I’ve gotten sucked into some of those things in the past myself.
I will say one thing for putting text on photos: Even if you don’t use a fancy, flowery font or make it all curly-cue or graphic, putting a simple descriptor and the name of your blog (or url) on your images really helps if any of your posts/photos get pinned to Pinterest. I love it when I come across a pin that has the name of the creator on it – it means I can find the original post, even if the image and the link are separated.
(and my slowly becoming revitalized blog is http://www.karacooks.com)
Ann Le Yonce
Kara,
Thank you so much for your great insight about adding text to photos… It
makes so much practical sense. I will definitely have to incorporate that into my blog photos. I look forward to seeing you on your blog and learning even more from you… :-) My blog is http://www.CreatedToCook … It is currently still in the construction phase, but I hope to launch it soon.
Lots of Love and Success,
Ann
Amy
Love so much about this. You’re so right on. Great!
Michele
Great advice. I blog to relax and I adore reading blogs. What an entertaining bunch of people out there. http://nostalgiccafe.blogspot.com/
Megean
Thanks for sharing! It is easy to get caught up in the comparison game, but way more fun to pat people on the back for their great work.
Rue
Thanks for this. I particularly needed to hear the part about reaching out. Not my strong suit.