I think I’ve made quite some good decisions in my life, and so it’s rather interesting that one year later, choosing to start a blog is up there as well. I was so scared to start, so scared to let people into bits and pieces of my life. But on 10th February 2016, which happened to be Ash Wednesday, I thought “what purpose is there to life if we don’t try, step out of our comfort zones and inspire others”.
So I paid for the domain name KacheeTee.com, and shared my first post on Facebook. The response was pretty encouraging. And well, since then I haven’t stooped. I’ve published roughly 130 blog posts and just passed 150,000 views.
I’ve met incredibly amazing people. I’ve grown. I’ve become better. I’ve worked with a couple of brands and I’ve actually made money from my blog via sponsorship (little, but hey, humble beginnings).
I’ll love to write about how blogging has changed me, but I’ll save that for another day. Today, let’s discuss the myths associated with blogging. Because there are quite a few.
I was in a meeting recently with a couple of lawyers. And at the end of it, the conversation tilted to what we like to do outside of work. A lot of interesting answers came up – skiing, wine tasting, baking etc. To borrow Chimamanda Adiche’s phrase of happily boring, I said “well, I like to chill at home, read a good book, see a good movie, and write”. After a couple of back & forth and “what do you like to write about?”, the dreaded question popped out. “So do you have a blog?”.
I’m not sure why I shifted slightly uncomfortably in my seat. What was the big deal if I blogged? Were there going to take me less seriously – if the term blogger was associated with my name? I answered halfheartedly, “Yeah I blog occasionally” – (but with my aim to have a daily lifestyle blog, I’m not sure this qualifies as occasional).
Related: 2016 in Blogging and 2017 Goals (+a genuine thank you!)
And when they asked what I blogged about, I was sure to include the fact that I love to write about law and careers in general.
But I love blogging, and day by day I admire bloggers. It’s therefore unfair that a lot of people believe these myths and under-appreciate bloggers. If you’re also thinking of starting a blog anytime soon, this will help set you on a clearer path.
1. Blogging is Easy
Bloggers get a lot of flack because most people believe it’s easy. I mean, what could be difficult in it? You write and/ or take photos and you upload right? But in actual fact, blogging could almost be tougher than a regular 9-5. It’s often a one man business and you run on full steam, all the time – particularly if you’re serious about it, creating original content, building a brand and a community.
You’re the writer of posts and the editor. You’re responsible for constantly promoting your posts on social media (and this is tough! – forever saying #LinkinBio and Don’t forget to subscribe and follow me!). You design graphics and posters. You may have to learn to code, and become a tech geek – keeping tabs on latest apps and software. It’s crazy the amount of new things I’ve learnt in this one year. From building my website from scratch to some of the other things mentioned above.
Blogging can be tough and some days bloggers may want to break down. But they love it so much so they keep pushing. And for some people, blogging has actually become their full time job. So if you ever thought blogging was easy, please erase that thought.
2. Blogging is Cheap
How I wish. Even if I forgot about my one year blog anniversary, the £100 that was taken out of my account for my host registration definitely reminded me. Plus the very many apps and software I’ve put off buying, because I’m not sure I can justify it at this point.. Blogging is not cheap. And it’s probably because of this myth, many people brands refuse to pay bloggers due remuneration.
I laughed, when I considered buying an iMac to help with the blog, and my husband said “can’t your blog pay for this?” . Unfortunately it couldn’t. But asides gadgets that have to be bought, there’s regular software subscription to be paid – for emails, graphics, promotion and maybe even ads. Blogs which rely on great photography or video might have to pay for these as well. So when you require a service from bloggers, please consider paying them in cash.
3. Everyone’s in it for the Money
We can’t really blame people who think this way, can we? Based on myth number 1 & 2 above – it might seem like an easy way to get rich!
I was slightly upset one day on Facebook when someone suggested that I was all about the clicks, when I was genuinely hoping that someone would share her story in a bid to inspire others. And so yes, once you start a blog, there’d be people who think you’re in it for the money.
The truth is, the money may come – but except you start of as being incredible – it’ll come much later. And it’ll come in different ways. Lots of people have built their brands first by blogging. Others have created products, others have begun to render services & others have worked with brands. So for many, passion comes first. That and a genuine desire to share and add value is what sustains a majority of bloggers, while they hope the big bucks come soon. Plus honestly, not everyone is in it for the money.
4. Blogging is not real writing
Where do we even start to debunk this? Someone once said to another blogger on Twitter, “But all you guys do is copy and paste?”. I was literally too weak to engage in a sensible conversation.
I guess it’s as a result of this myth that some have chosen to identify as “Content Creators”, rather than bloggers – to show the emphasis that they create original content. And truth is, for many bloggers, it’s real writing. Whether it’s their style or thoughts on fashion, on beauty, on faith, fitness, lifestyle, career, food – there’s so much real effort and creative energy that goes into it.
Not to say that some bloggers do not simply copy and paste. But for a whole lot, blogging is often real writing. Please appreciate this. And if you intend to succeed in blogging you’d probably have to come up with real original writing / content.
5. Blogging is dead and saturated
The truth is, there are A LOT of blogs out there. Trust me, you wouldn’t realise how many unless you were a blogger or an avid blog follower. When I launched my blog, I had no idea just how many people blogged. And as time went by, I often started to think “geez who would read my blog”. So we can’t blame the audience if they roll their eyes when another of their friend says “Guys I finally launched my blog, please subscribe!”. But it’s hard for a field to be truly saturated, as everyone brings a different perspective.
As a blogger, you’ll probably find yourself wanting to quit sometimes when you think you’ll struggle to shine. Don’t! The top is never saturated. If you’re willing to be excellent, are passionate and put in the work, you’ll most likely stand out. Plus there’s always someone who wants to hear from your unique experiences.
6. Blogging has no use
This is surprisingly common and even though I’m in it, sometimes I have those “why am I bothering with this blog” kind of days. And interestingly many people have this opinion as well. I think fashion bloggers get hit the most with the question “so you just dress up and take photos, why!?”
But if we truly think about it, bloggers share so so much that help us in our daily lives. Whether it’s fashion tips, or improving our natural hair slay or quick food hacks, inspirational & motivational posts, travel and tourism, career guidance or even just for laughs. That’s the use of blogging. And that’s why contrary to myth 5 it’s unlikely to die anytime soon. It may evolve, but I doubt it’d die.
So as a blogger, for the days you think it has no use, the days no one leaves a comment on your blog, think of the very many people you continue to inspire in one way or the another. Even if it’s just one person. It’s probably worth it!
So that’s it. Some popular blogging myths hopefully de-mystified!
Bloggers what other myths can you relate to? If you don’t blog, what do you genuinely think of bloggers?
Love,
Kachee… Xx
pS: A similar version of this post was first published on BellaNaija here and I loved the comment about someone stumbling on a blog about Dandelions – a class of flowers. How very niche? What are the most niche blogs you’ve stumbled upon?
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Omowumi Oguntuase
March 13, 2017 at 10:30Passion definitely comes first! Trust me it’s so not cheap and the struggle to be prominent is real. Days when I want to quit (more recently sef) I just remember that I actually inspire people even though they are not many but I do and I don’t do things halfway. God keeps me going but its painful when people look down on what we do. I can’t count how many free promotions I’ve done but not anymore because people don’t even appreciate things like that. Thank you for this post Kachi,www.wumituase.com.
mosimi20
March 13, 2017 at 12:09When I started blogging, I knew I wanted to do write on food, technology and travel. I mentioned on a blog post some months that, the first thing about blogging is having fun with it and inspiring/impacting people. This is what I aim to achieve every time I create a blog post, I hope to inspire people to travel within Nigeria, to be adventurous and come out of their comfort zones.Blogging has made me develop skills I didn’t think I had before (I now create illustrations, infographics, graphic designs even travel photography etc) and I learnt all these myself using YouTube tutorials and all. I may not have made money from my blog yet but with time I guess.When I first started reading, I knew I had read it before then I got to the end of the post and I realized why. I hope to collaborate with more bloggers.Awesome post Kachi!!! EatTechTravel || Camping & Hiking at Omo Forest Reserve
Debs
March 13, 2017 at 12:35I remember someone calling me one day to say, “Oh so now you blog? You must be a rich girl now…” And I was like really? Is blogging only money inclined…People really need to understand that not everyone is in it for money. If the money comes, fine…If not, may our passion not die…
Precious
March 13, 2017 at 14:29Lol blame it on the popular Nigerian blogger. Because of her, a lot of people think blogging is copying and pasting. Blogging is so much more than that. It is sharing your unique perspective with the world. And yes, it is a lot of work. Creating content requires so much effort and strategy.
Afoma
March 13, 2017 at 16:51I really enjoyed this post, especially the part where you noted that not everyone blogs for money. It’s definitely not as easy as people think to share bits and pieces of your life on the internet. Great post!ihundasmusings.com
favour moyse
March 13, 2017 at 18:20Thanks. Blogging can be exhausting especially when its all about original content, you can jus zoom out of ideas fast. And promotion on social media? Kai!!! This post is the real dealCONSENT IS SEXY
jennifer ijeoma
March 13, 2017 at 18:41Interesting post. Most bloggers are on journey and it is nice to relate to their different experiences and learn a thing or two. it can therefore never be saturated because everyone tries to bring something different to the table. As a new blogger i am surprised at how much i have had to learn about myself as well as teach myself in such short time. As for the money part, when the time is right it will happen. Its funny how you just keep at it even when you are not sure of any monetary reward in the beginning. I am happy to have met new people and meet more on this journey.#newpost #newpostalert #linkinbio #bloggerslife and the numerous funny hashtags …..lolwww.ijefinelivin.com
DamiLoves
March 13, 2017 at 19:47Yes O! Blogging is not cheap! Content creation is not easy, it takes a lot of work time and dedication. Great postDo hygiene right
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
March 16, 2017 at 16:23Thank you Dami!
Ngumabi
March 14, 2017 at 00:48You said it allVery right when you mentioned the easy mythSome people think blogging is like eating biscuits. It was until I started that I really understood how difficult it isAnd for the money part, like you said it’s really the reason why brands dont want to pay bloggers enough or at all. Even if you don’t take pictures, or buy apps or gadgets, you do buy internet and that is not cheap especially in AfricaThis is a nice post and i definitely relate with all of these mythsThanks for sharingNgumabingraffi.blogspot.com
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
March 16, 2017 at 16:24Lol ” eating biscuits. True. Even without taking pictures, there’s still a lot that involves money.You’re welcome hun!
Muna
March 14, 2017 at 10:24Mahn blogging is not childs play, I’ve been on it for a bit now and still trying to get my balance lol!It’s Munastiic: 25 Lessons in 25 Years
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
March 16, 2017 at 16:22It’s not. To be fair initially I thought it couldn’t be that hard. But if you want to be serious with it, it is a lot of work.
RuthsTravel:Because I Believe
March 14, 2017 at 13:15You wrote this so accurately and like I said on BN, you always come through with truck loads of wisdom, truth, love, and light.These myths are just everywhere 😩.Sometimes it’s funny what people imagine and on days that are not very bright, it can be an unpleasant mix of anger/frustration. I can relate to all that goes into this: the expenses, devotion, etc. I get the “so you’ve started making money” questions. Sometimes, people think the fact that you’re a blogger or writer implies you are great with all niches. People want me to have gossip columns, trending political topics, etc and I keep trying to explain that I’m not about every kind of life. SOme people might be good with any kind of topic but the fact I write doesn’t imply I’m good for or with all. It’s surely not easy work but for me, this is NOBLE work. I celebrate people as you that furthermore, constantly inspire and encourage me to wear my blogger badge/crown with so much pride.We’d keep this space full of all the rich goodies and let the myths remain just that.http://becauseibelieveblog….
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
March 16, 2017 at 16:22Thank you Ruth. I can definitely relate to your feelings. It’s best to stick to writing the noble things you care about. Let’s wear that badge with pride!
Kosiso Asomugha
March 14, 2017 at 13:56Thank you for informative post again… This is so important especially if you ever consider blogging… Hope you haven’t forgotten my matter?
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
March 16, 2017 at 16:00You’re welcome Kosiso! And no, I definitely didn’t forget.
Phos Reflections
March 15, 2017 at 05:13I found a blog that was just for laughs and the posts were genuinely funny. I thought it was really interesting but sadly I don’tremember the URL. I thought my memory was more reliable. Your posts are always good reads Kachi!https://phosreflections.wor…
Toluwalade Toyin-Kehinde
March 15, 2017 at 12:47So spot on!! I think the worst comment i have gotten was when a ‘friend’ was literally making fun of me blogging and was quoting all my “there’s a new post up on the blog” “don’t forget to subscribe” updates and ended by saying “linda ikeji mama”. I was just done and was too mad to say anything and i knew explaining will go no where…smh. Who ever said blogging was a piece of cake? And no, blogging doesn’t = Linda ikeji tsktoyinwithfashion.com
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
March 15, 2017 at 13:02Loool!! A lot of people get those responses as well. Let’s not take it to heart. It’s annoying though, but hopefully they’d understand.
Ihuoma
March 15, 2017 at 14:14‘Linda Ikeji mama’???!!! What the heck?! It may be funny, but I’m so offended for you. Imagine. Linda Ikeji mama. Smh.omasserendipity.wordpress.com
Live In Ibadan
March 15, 2017 at 19:10Number 1, 4 and 5 are just it! This post is pretty insightful.www.liveinibadan.blogspot.com
Candace McGee
March 16, 2017 at 15:33Girl, you are SO on it with #6. I have those “screw this” moments too. But my blog represents so much more than a personal space to talk about life and share tips. I educate people on how to be better writers and that converts people into real customers for my freelance writing business. I actually used to be one of those people who thought blogging was no big deal – until I started one. Now I see things completely different!
Praise Abu
March 16, 2017 at 15:51This post is so insightful.I’m constantly depending with having to explain to people why I blog or how I’m not doing it for the money. Also, people think that blogging is not real writing which is just crap, like it’s so easy for someone to express themselves with words. No aspect of blogging is child’s play or cheap and most people are ignore to these facts.Going to share this post to enlighten them.My Style Look Book Series
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
March 16, 2017 at 16:37It’s so so not child’s play. A million things are involved. I hope people get more aware.
Saprina | Hustle and Grow Girl
March 17, 2017 at 03:28This is a great post. #1 especially. When I started my blog I had no idea how much time it would require.www.HustleandGrowGirl.com
Nedoux
March 22, 2017 at 08:50Hi Kachee,Brilliant post. Yes, blogging is serious business, and goes beyond just scribbling on the white screen. Reader engagement requires quite a bit of dedicated effort.I’m very thankful that I started blogging because it birthed the idea for the Sewing Workshop. It all started from my blog.
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
March 22, 2017 at 09:25Thank you Nedu!You’ve done so well with the workshops your blog must be super proud of you. Lol!Well done!
Lara Teshola
March 22, 2017 at 18:16Awesome Post as always. I Absolutely agree, Blogging is a lot of work!!! But won’t trade it for anything… Can’t wait to share my journey. http://www.larateshola.com