Today we're going to spend some time dreaming! Sometimes we all need to take a minute to answer the question: If I could do anything…
Tip: You significantly increase your chances of having a successful blog if you blog about what you love.
Why: If you don't care about your subject matter, you are more likely to lose steam and fizzle out. Also, your readers are more likely to pick up on your disinterest and become disinterested themselves. Besides, if you're hoping your blog will be a ticket out of your current, unexciting job, why trade one boring job for another?
Goal: Our goal today is not to come up with our final blogging topic, but to come up with a short list of things we enjoy — that when thrown into the blog-topic-picking machine in a subsequent post, will provide us with a stellar final choice.
How: I've provided some questions below to get your creative juices flowing. You might pull out a piece of paper and jot down some answers. Like I said, be free in your brainstorming. In the end, make a list of 3-5 topics you really, really love. (Feel free to leave them in the comments too!) Go ahead, dream!
- What enjoyable activity do you get so involved in that you frequently lose track of time?
- If you were given one week to spend any way you liked (and all your responsibilities were taken care of), what would you do?
- If you were given a check for $2000 and ordered to use it on something fun for yourself, what would you spend it on?
- If you were guaranteed a handsome salary no matter what, what would be your ultimate dream job?
- What do you do consistently in your free time simply because you enjoy it?
- What do you purposefully make time for not because you have to but because you want to?
- If money was not an issue, what activity would you spend time doing more regularly?
- What do people say you are good at and appreciate about you?
- What makes you over-the-top excited, angry or emotional?
- What kinds of books do you read, TV shows you watch or websites you visit?
- What's your favorite hobby?
Anyone want to tell us what you came up with? Leave a comment (anonymously if you want). They might just be featured in an upcoming post! 
Here at BloggingWithAmy you'll find tips, tools & tutorials about blogging and websites. In plain English. Want to 
Hi Amy! I am excited to learn from your blogging expertise and look forward to applying your lessons.
The things that come to mind are a lot of the things that I'm already blogging about, but I'm hopeful that I'll create a better sense of focus/marketability.
My Family
Blogging (the technical side, not just the writing)
PhotoShop & Photography
Broad topics, I know!
I so need to tune in on this one! Some of what I blog I love, but not all, so need to CHANGE THAT! NEED TO FIND MY VOICE!
I already blog about deals, freebies, couponing, etc. which I really, really love! But I also love decorating cakes, baking, and recipes/cooking. I sprinkle a few posts about those things into my blog, but I think sometimes I could blog about that all by itself and I'd be good too! I need to focus…or get another blog!?! Or maybe it's okay that I mix it up… I ramble. I love your blogging Amy! It's so focused!
I think you can mix it up a bit, especially if your readers seem to respond positively. The other thing you could do is simply ask them if they'd like to see more posts about _________.
What a great list of questions to make me think about my passion! It's so true that if we don't have passion, we will eventually run out of steam.
For me, I have come to realize that I love to travel so I restart my blog with more family travel focus and I couldn't be happier to do it.
I can't wait to read the next post.
Hmmm…passions?
Cooking
Things to do with kids: having them, feeding them, teaching them, etc, etc Anything related to frugal living
I'm so glad you posted these questions! I've been wondering what to do with myself lately (career-wise and blog-wise). The things I'm passionate about are: Art History (my B.A.), knitting and teaching! At this moment, my blog has NOTHING to do with those things! I'm just not extensively trained in those areas. I've been playing with the idea of teaching at our community center or the library. Who knows if it would be worth it or not… I could find out!
Oh, teaching in your community sounds like a great idea to me!
I'm building my own blog right now and ran across this blog and am loving it!! My passions include: taking pics and scrapbooking, reading and saving! I love to save money by couponing and getting things free – I love to save time by having things planned and organized-I love to save hassles by just having a simpler life! This is what I will be blogging about! I can't wait to get started!
Hi, Amy,
I met 5J's (Joy) at Savvy Blogging Summit last weekend and she recommended your website to me.
Last weekend made me think about my passion, my story, that I want to share in Blogville.
I became an "accidental blogger" in January and focused mostly on couponing and money-saving tips.
Now, I realize that I want to share more of me. Some days, I don't want to write about saving money. Instead, I may want to share my heart about my daddy, who has Alzheimer's and lives 1300 miles from me. Some days, I want to write about homemaking or homeschooling or being a wife or most importantly–my relationship with Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior.
I'll be removing my blog from blogspot due to some info I rec'd last week. Joy said this is the perfect time because I don't have that many Evergreen posts and it will be easy to change things over.
My name should reflect more about me, but should I change it? There is more to me than just couponing.
Your insight will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks so much for this helpful site. You are a blessing.
Bonnie
I love saving and managing money.
I just started blogging. My blog is called Penny Pinching Starving Artist's Wife. I went through your questions on this post and came up with the following 5 topics for myself.
1. My family (husband and kids)
2. Children (in general)
3. Cooking
4. Words of Encouragement
5. Saving Money/Frugal Living
I don't want to just focus on saving money and frugal living. There are enough blogs about that. I am hoping that the title of my blog is a good name for me. My husband is an artist so I thought that the name was appropriate. I also wrote a description of my blog so that people wouldn't think that the blog was just about saving money but only part of it. Any ideas or suggestions? Also, any ideas on how to make my blog more unique?
What about simply "Starving Artist's Wife"?
If I leave Penny Pinching off, then it can be more broad of a topic, is that what you are saying? I think that it is a good idea. I was thinking that having too much in the title (such as the words, Penny Pinching" might make it a little much.
I am still trying to think of some things that I could do to make my blog more unique. Any suggestions, considering the topics that I have listed in my last comment? I really appreciate any help. I am such a newbie at this!
Yes, my thought was that making it shorter would give you freedom to talk about more stuff…and also would be easier to say, spell, remember etc.
As far as making your blog unique, I think the best way to come up with ideas is to ask yourself which type of website you wish you could find. The key is to meet an unmet need!
I was referred to you by FishMom/Jessica and boy am I glad
I want to start a blog that is real yet uplifting for single parents out there in today's world (with a little of my Christian beliefs but not to overpowering that I cut half the world out). Life is hard, we all know this. I really believe that life is even harder when you are a single parent with multiple hats going at it alone (or what seems to be alone). This is what I love and what I hope to share and I hope you can help me figure out a way to connect it all and catch peoples eyes.
1. I love being single (though someday I hope to remarry)
2. I love my child and he is my life (good and not so good I want to share and so do other parents, we need that adult sharing time even though we are stuck at home with our sleeping kids at 8:30pm)
3. I work full time as a teacher and LOVE it! (Pre-K, work with children with behavior issues like ADHD and such) done this line of work for nearly 20 years now.
4. I am really active in my church and giving back to the community and found coupons and freebies a GREAT way to offer more when I have little money to offer (its a form of tithing and every little bit helps)
5. I am a full time student learning Web programing and computer software and securities hoping that someday I can make more and put my son through college
6. I'm all about doing something cheep but well (like VBS on a dime rather than breaking the bank), kids crafts at school, Christmas gift baskets for all the extra's (like my son's teachers) with the freebies I get – pamper yourself you deserve it.
7. I love giving…. love sharing…. and just think everyone has a story and lesson I can grow from. Pictures are also cool (both taking and viewing)
I want to share this love with the world not because I'm any better but because I am willing and able and the world of single parents need to know they are not alone and there is hope. Maybe its too much and I need to narrow it down, I hope not though. Looking forward to your wisdom and thoughts.
Thanks!!!!!!!
Sounds like you're inspired!! Awesome!
I am a recently singled mother of three little ones and I'd love to hear your thoughts! Point me to your blog.
I've been a mommy-blogger sharing unmonitized for family and friends for 4+ years but am considering starting a new blog for profit and sharing. I feel it something I could do from home to supplement my income.
It's overwhelming and exciting!
Thank you SO much for posting these step by step "How To" guides!
My list of items that I thought of were:
1. Family
2. Fitness/Health
3. Parenting – AP (cloth diapers, extended breastfeeding, co-sleeping, baby wearing, etc)
4. Spirituality
You're welcome!
I started my blog as a challenge in frugality. I am a stay at home mom, teacher's wife, with three kids. During the summer when he isn't paid, we have to be particularly careful, so this year I blogged about it. I got a lot of great feedback and people asking me to continue blogging. But now I am feeling that frugality is a kind of over-represented topic in the blog world. Plus, I don't really publish anything particular about couponing or time sensitive material, mostly just funny stories about our life. I try to integrate my love of literature and art and spirituality into the bizarre world of diaper changing and macaroni mixing. I love writing. I love blogging, but I don't know where my niche is. Maybe the blogosphere is too full of cheapskates for me?
Hi Katrina,
Have you read my recent post about finding a unique angle in a crowded niche? I think you might find it helpful — I share some of my tips for someone in a position like you find yourself.
Hi Amy, Since your comments still look fresh. I thought I would post as well.
My niche is cooking, losing weight, eating healthy
Domestic Chica was a name I was after.
I am latin- so I figured that would entice readers to come-
What do you think? Do you have any feedback for names that might work?
Thanks
I will be following you and blogging -I need to buy a domain
Hi Amy! I was referred to your blog and I LOVE IT! My list of passions and my answers to your questions were LONG!!!!! I obviously need to pair down.
*health/wellness
*fitness of all kinds
*scrapbooking
*taking care of me (mom's)
*Nutrition/Medical/Holistic
*RECYLING and saving the planet
*Socializing/Parties – with usually a theme behind them (ex: scrapbooking)
*Teaching (I teach fitness classes and cpr)
*Reading blogs
*Writing
So, I realize now that FAMILY is not on my list? That sounds awful! I DO have a passion for them
Dream job: Be on a TV/Radio/talk show (OR BLOG) about a topic I'm passionate about…see crazy long list above!
The question I may pose to my friends, b/c I find this the most interesting: What do people say you are good at and appreciate about you?
Thanks for the help, can't wait to read more!
Selena
Hi Selena, so glad you stopped by! Love your enthusiasm!
Hi Amy,
I have just recently considered starting a blog. The niche I have in mind is one about which I am NOT knowledgeable but I am passionate. Due to health problems in my family, I want to learn how to feed my family healthier. Due to our very limited income, I need to learn how to do it frugally. I really don't know how to do either – my experience with organic, whole foods diets is that it is EXPENSIVE and my experience with trying to convert my family is that it is quite challenging – especially since I am having to learn how to feed them well as we go along. I don't know all the ins and outs of what I expect to do but I thought I'd share recipes that I have used and/or created, review books I've read, share strategies to save money that I hope to discover (it's not as easy to coupon with organic foods and non-processed foods) as well as share what I learn about living a healthy lifestyle.
Is it at all possible to earn money blogging about something about which you really know nothing (or very little)?
I think, if I did this properly, there would be a lot of interest in my blog – I know that a lot of people want to feed their families well but are as frustrated as I am in their efforts simply because they don't know how to transition from their current diet to a healthier one and because they don't have the money for a larger food budget.
I think this is definitely something you can do! My advice would be to find similar blogs and follow them a bit to get a feel for how things go in that niche. Some blogs you might be interested in are Saving Naturally, Lynn's Kitchen Adventures and Kitchen Stewardship.
I'm so glad I stumbled upon your original blog and then followed the link to bloggingwithamy. I'm at the beginning stages of my blog, and I'm already gleaning so much!
I never considered myself a writer per se, and although I'm very opinionated (har har), I never had a blog idea that just took off. Then one day I was thinking about my life as a pastor's wife – how it is so different from others' in some ways. All of a sudden, I had posts coming out of my ears about what God was teaching me about being a pastor's wife – and really about being a disciple; I was constantly writing in my head!
I am very passionate about people connecting with God, whether they've grown up in church or not (I didn't!), so it's no wonder this blog idea really fits for me. It's a little backwards in your process to already have my idea and a posts posted and saved, but this is still really helping me hone what I'm doing. THANK YOU!
Other random things I'm passionate about: natural childbirth (aka being an amazon woman
, mathematics (dork!), reading (have a huge blogroll that I follow), health/nutrition, and my family!
well, it was pretty easy to come up with what I'm passionate about. I've taught in one capacity or another since I was 15, my 1st teaching experience was Sunday school; my students were only 3 years my junior! I became an elementary teacher later and taught until my health at 52 forced me into early retirement. I LOVE working with my only grandchild; a 5 year energetic fella. Now, I also love quilting, sewing (NOT clothes), making things with him, and saving $$. I read Christian fiction, juvenile fiction, and how to s on quilting techniques. Does anyone have any good ideas for me? Thanks and God bless y'all!!
Thanks for all the helpful information!
So, you do think it's possible to find a niche in something that you are truly passionate about, though not knowledgeable? Writing is really what I most enjoy. However, I am also passionate, though not knowledgeable, about homemaking skills. Some of these design and homemaking blogs are pretty hardcore, which is good! They are really informative; however, most of them seem to be for people who have that background. I have been really intimidated about even trying to do any kind of home improvement or decorating project, because I did not grow up learning those skills. My skills lie elsewhere. I've wondered if there are other women that feel deficient in the domestic arts who are looking for encouragement and a place to begin. I definitely need to hone my homemaking skills, and I am wondering if that could be my niche.
Amy, how do I combine blogging with my former career? LOL! I know this is reaching for the stars, but I would love to start a blog on all things microbiological, as science is my passion (besides baking – and no, never together). I have some ideas swirling around in my head in regards to the blog, but I can't think of enough to make it substantial and keep it going. Any thoughts?
Hi Amy! I'm so glad I found your blog. I've gotten into reading blogs lately and decided to start my own. I want to blog about helping kids to become good eaters– not just "getting" them to eat, but teaching them to eat. I'm not a nutritionist but simply a "retired" teacher and mom who has kids who are good eaters. I want to help other parents but I don't want to be preachy- I'm challenged with how to give advice in a way that people will be open to it and without sounding like a know-it-all. Since this blog is an advice blog I'm wondering if you've struggled with this? When I read your blog, I appreciate your advice so I read it and enjoy it- how do I establish myself as a trusted expert?
I think one of the best ways to not come across as "preachy" is to speak from your own experience. A "this worked for me" tone along with "I'd love to hear what worked for you" is a great approach.
To establish yourself as a trusted expert, I recommend finding as many blogs and forums related to your niche as possible. Visit them regularly and get involved, always leaving no-strings-attached, helpful advice. It'll take some time, but eventually people will start recognizing you as a trusted source of inspiration.
Hi Amy! I have been reading your blog and trying to figure out the best way to start my own. I am a wife and mom of 2 (age 3 1/2 and almost 11 months) and love blogs. My youngest (son) was born missing his left hand and part of his forearm, and I have so much to share about our family and how God has used this and taught us so much. And, to share the amazing things that he is able to do! it's an adventure. On top of that, I love to bake and craft. Do you think I stand a chance at a decent blog? I have written some things already and people have enjoyed reading about my son.
I'm new to this, and I've been thinking about starting a blog and this is one of the best sites I've seen so far on writing one. I've always wanted to be a journalist or a doctor I've been to college for nursing and I've taken philosophy and psychology classes. I always been interested in anything medical especially related to pregnancy I started writing on yahoo answers just to answer peoples questions on their pregnancy's and I definitely lost track of time doing it. I was disappointed when my 20 question limit was up after a half hour and all my answers were chosen best so I'm assuming that's a good sign that I should write on that topic. I also am interested in anything that has to do with child's activities and where to go for free with kids. Also love the sites that show you where to get free samples in the mail. I really seem to enjoy writing reviews as well again mostly for kids things. There are sites that pay for that but I've yet to receive compensation. Sorry this comment is so long I can get lost just writing about things I enjoy. Thanks for this site.
Hey Amy! I am so excited about coming across your blog-what good direction & advice. We just moved to CO from TX & I currently blog just for my family & friends to keep up with our lives & the adventures we are on. I have such a desire to blog more, gain a more widespread audience, but feel some what inhibited because my family reads me daily. I love writing, photog mostly, but also travel, family topics & my babies. I have debated just running in the direction I want to go & they can like it or not. I was in medical writing professionally before kids & have a hard time just fully being my creative self & putting it out there. I get told all the time that I should've been a journalist or how people are touched by my writing, but it's as if i am having a hard time envisioning the transition into the next phase. So for now it's family type blogging. Do you think it's ok for me to just take off in a new direction from there?
I am so happy to find a blog on "how to blog" because I have wanted to blog for awhile but I didn't know where to start. I love couponing and great deals. I have a passion for weight lifting and working out in general and have years of experience and knowledge about health and fitness. I am also a recovering alcoholic and would love start a blog that ties all of that together. What do you think? I have no idea what it would be called…….thank you
i'm passionate about shopping for, buying, and creating outfits. and as my family continues to grow, i'm passionate about making the household run smoothly!
Salutations, Amy!
I had been looking for work for a while, when my wife turned me on to your blog. The concept of making real money with a blog fascinates me, so I decided to pursue this. As a writer, I definitely understand the concept and practice of brainstorming. So, I decided to waste no time and get right to it!
• What enjoyable activity do you get so involved in that you frequently lose track of time?
I tend to lose track of time while gaming, writing, playing guitar, and spending time with friends.
• If you were given one week to spend any way you liked (and all your responsibilities were taken care of), what would you do?
In theory I would write. However, in practice, it would be a toss up between writing, practicing guitar, gaming, or reading. Reading would be either books or comics, online and off. Gaming would be board games first, then roleplaying with friends, then video games (most likely rock band/guitar hero for most of the time). Guitar would be getting a full setlist ready, learning the songs I should be able to play for it, and mastering the songs I can already play. Writing would be writing short stories, working on my novel, working on my webcomic, and/or working on finding an agent/publisher.
• If you were given a check for $2000 and ordered to use it on something fun for yourself, what would you spend it on?
I may actually take that money and go traveling, if I had the time. I would love to see Europe, Japan, Australia, etc. and yearn for an adventure. If it was enough money, I might spend it on a workshop and tools so that I can get back into wood working.
• If you were guaranteed a handsome salary no matter what, what would be your ultimate dream job?
If I didn't have to worry about money, I would be a writer. I would write short stories in every genre, and novels in creative nonfiction or, as I like to call it, educational fiction. Any extra money I got would go towards promoting myself or finding an artist to work with so I can write comics.
• What do you do consistently in your free time simply because you enjoy it?
Gaming and playing my guitar seem to be the two things I spend most of my free time on. Writing comes third, unless I have a sudden strike of inspiration.
• What do you purposefully make time for not because you have to but because you want to?
I try to make time for friends, and find myself making time for writing and playing my guitar. Sometimes, however, I use that time for other things, such as playing games.
• If money was not an issue, what activity would you spend time doing more regularly?
Playing the guitar and writing. I would probably spend less time on games because I would have less stress and less desire to "get away from it all." If I had the equipment, I would definitely do some wood working, making automata to sell. I love designing things and creating.
• What do people say you are good at and appreciate about you?
My skills as a writer, a speaker, and a guitarist. I'm good with people in person and on the phone. I'm a good waiter. I work hard when I need to. I am honest about my opinions and have an open mind. I learn quickly, as well.
• What makes you over-the-top excited, angry or emotional?
Excited – When I see something I've written get published. When I get an inspiration to write something. When I work with a partner on an idea. When I learn how to play a tough song and can play it for friends. Getting recognized for my work. Getting to play with my cats. Watching/reading a particularly good story.
Angry – when someone displays a closed mind or a prejudice. When someone tries to take advantage of me or my loved ones. When someone I care about is a victim, particularly of a poorly designed system. When someone cheats on a loved one. When a story involves rape.
Emotional – when bad things happen to good people or to animals (particularly cats). I do not tend to get very emotional.
• What kinds of books do you read, TV shows you watch or websites you visit?
At the moment, I am reading more fantasy than anything else. However, I read sci-fi, romance, adventure, nonfiction, and others. Most TV shows I watch (and would choose to watch on my own) are nonfiction things on the Discovery channel.
• What’s your favorite hobby?
Playing the guitar, most likely… I suppose writing can also be counted as a hobby.
Awesome Spencer!
What enjoyable activity do you get so involved in that you frequently lose track of time?
Filmmaking, writing, and drawing.
If you were given one week to spend any way you liked (and all your responsibilities were taken care of), what would you do?
I'd make a movie (or dream of making one…)
If you were given a check for $2000 and ordered to use it on something fun for yourself, what would you spend it on?
Movie making gear
If you were guaranteed a handsome salary no matter what, what would be your ultimate dream job?
Making movies
What do you do consistently in your free time simply because you enjoy it?
oh, that's a hard one. I don't get a ton of free time, but when I do I guess a read books about filmmaking
What do you purposefully make time for not because you have to but because you want to?
Filmmaking and writing
If money was not an issue, what activity would you spend time doing more regularly?
Filmmaking and playing music
What do people say you are good at and appreciate about you?
I don't usually ask
What makes you over-the-top excited, angry or emotional?
Too many things!
What kinds of books do you read, and websites do you visit?
Filmmaking related ones
What’s your favorite hobby?
Filmmaking, writing, and drawing.
See a pattern?
Why yes, yes I do.
I just want to say first and foremost-your blog has so insired me, Amy! I have wanted to start a money saving blog for a long time, have played around with it, but as a mother, wife, with a full time demanding job as a manager of a medical facility, my dream of blogging was just a dream. But as things change and the economy has continued to turn, I have found myself somewhat pushed out of my full time job. So what I want to write about is now, truly saving money, going from a 2 parent full time income, to basically a 1 parent income right now and being able to save and realize that less is more.
I am currently looking for a work at home job, due to the age of my daughter, I want to be able to do more with her at school, etc. I have missed out on a lot of her early times. What do you think about this, a blog where saving money, being frugal, realizing that you can live just as well on less. I also want to make my blog a family blog, I would love for my husband to have a "man's corner" , ie he is a big hunter, sports fan also as part of my blog. But I have already gotten a name and started having a web page built. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance!
Hi Amy,
I'm just starting to read through this fantastic resource of yours step by step. I have a blogspot blog, but didn't realize that it would not be a good way to earn income. My thought was to start with a free blog and see if I could even build up a readership before investing in a domain name, with the goal of monetizing if I was able to get regular traffic. So was this not a good idea? What should I do now? The traffic on my blog is sporadic. On Saturday only 2 views and today 33, with various figures on the days between. I want to go ahead and start using affiliate links, but am not too keen on having ads all over my blog yet. Please help!
Thanks,
Hannah
As far as free services go, Blogger is my first choice and plenty of people start there and move over. So, no worries.
Amy
I attempted a blog before, but I abandoned ship on it as I felt it was not going in the direction I wanted, or that anyone would want to read. I want to be able to write about a variety of things that make me, me. Such as being a wife, living with in laws while saving money for real so that we can buy a house next spring, cooking (or trying to at least), Cystic Fibrosis is a huge part of my life and I do all I can for the foundation, trying to get pregnant which I could go on for ever about our experience thus far and how it is an emotional roller coaster (I am sure I am not alone with this one), being unemployed due to the joys of the construction business…
I read a bunch of blogs, I just love reading them because someone is actually writing them, it is personal, and inspiring, mostly enjoyable. I love the tips I find, recipes, DIY ideas and so much more. I want to be share mine with the blogging community, just cannot find my go to topic! I am rambling, aren't I, and that is no way to get the blog going…
LOL…you sound like me!
Greetings,
I'm gonna go a little different direction than most on here. I really enjoy outdoor activities and am passionate about my critters. I love gardening and have already been able to help others get started with their own raised bed gardens! It's so much fun to help others see a new and exciting way to do the same things much easier.
I enjoy baking (as opposed to 'cooking') and like to either adapt recipes to my liking or just create new ones! They don't always turn out like I hoped they would, unfortunately! But that's part of it.
I also love my animals and really enjoy breeding and raising all kinds of farm animals. Horses have always been a passion for me, as any of my friends can tell you! I have raised and trained horses for most of my life and absolutely love it! They are the most beautiful creation God ever made!
I raise meat goats and rabbits to sell both locally and to processors. I'm sure some of you will have a problem eating those poor cute little things, but they sure do taste good! And smell wonderful as they cook on the grill.
I also love cast iron cooking and have started selling Lodge cast iron cookware. I believe it's much healthier for you and once seasoned properly works as well as your non-stick pans. The cookware also lasts generations!
So between riding and training horses and hitting rodeos as I can, selling cast iron cookware, raising and selling goats and rabbits for meat and caring for the rest of the farm duties I stay pretty busy! At this time I am currently single, having lost my newly-wed husband in a freak accident at work a few years ago, so it's not as hard for me to keep up with lots of things like it would be if I had young'uns running around too! Someday I hope that happens but for now I'm happy where God has me.
I hope to begin a blog that will help others enjoy the same things I do, providing practical advice for farm and country living. That is my goal at least! The direction I want to go…
I'm so sorry to hear about your husband, Whinny, but my, you sound like you have a rich and full life! I think I should send my 4yo to spend some time with you as his dream is to be a farmer and he loves animals of every variety. Me? I'm a total horse person myself, although, it's sorta hard to have horses here in the 'burbs.
Hi there, I just found your site and am now following you on facebook and twitter.
I have some blogging experience but kind of gave it up last summer when my mom passed away. I think I'm ready to begin again. Of course, I'm now questioning everything I set up before…right down to the name of the blog. My goal is just to have fun, share my knowledge, and generate a small amount of income (eventually). If it grows beyond that, I would love it, but it is not my expectation right now.
My problem has always been in deciding what my niche is….I like your questions above. My interests are varied. I am a Registered Nurse and I have a small child with diabetes. So, here is my list:
1. medical care of children – here is a link to an article I wrote on fever management:
http://momovertheedge2009.blogspot.com/2010/03/treating-fever-education-for.html
2. Caring for a diabetic toddler/preschooler – this is hard as it is sooo specific and beyond the basics, there isn't much to write about other than daily life (which could look like whining).
3. Scrapbooking and paper crafts
4. Deals – I enjoy using coupons and posting the deals I get , I also enjoy passing along some deals I see online, but there are so many bloggers that do that already. I thought about making it specific to central CA (where I live)…..I found previously that if i was just repeating what others were posting, I got bored.
5. Home management and raising kids. We have 5 daughters, age range 17 to 3….however, we are a public school, don't go to church as often as we should family….which definitely brings some blogging topics to mind, but not sure there is a readership there.
I also work and am working on my master's degree! My hubby coaches sports and is a stay home dad otherwise.
I find blogging to be a bit of a release, a way to provide a service to others by sharing knowledge and deals, and I enjoy writing.
Do I have a chance?
Would love any suggestions you have!! even regards to name of the blog and layout, etc.
Sincerely,
laura
Everyone has a chance.
That's what's nice about blogging! Having said that, results vary drastically from one blogger to the next, so it's hard to say how it will all pan out. Most of your topics are well-covered, so my biggest recommendation is to spend some time finding a really unique angle. But see it as a challenge, not a discouragement because there's no one like you on the internet!
Amy,
These are some great questions to ask yourself prior to starting a blog. Too many people jump into blogging without really taking the time to discover if they love the topic (or even like it).
I am constantly asked by my readers the question, "how do I find my passion". Your list will add a few ideas to my recommendation list
Thanks
It's amazing how people forget that if they're not passionate about what they're doing, they may as well just get a job and go right back to the grind, isn't it? Just subscribed to your blog.
Amy,
I started my blog a while back. The main focus is that I will be turning 30 in a year and a few months and am trying to complete a list of 30 things before that time. My question is, at the mark of the 30 things do I just stop that blog and go onto the things I want to focus on or try to combine them together?
Hmmm…well, I think it depends on what your long-term plan is and what topics you will focus on after you're done with your 30 by 30. If you've gained a following and don't feel like you an just cut it off, I'd try to come up with a creative way to continue. However, if it seems like it's a good time to make a clean break and start fresh, I'd do that. It really depends. Might be a good opportunity to start something with a new, more broad name. On WordPress of course.
After answering all those thought-provoking questions, I realized that my passion is writing, reading, researching, traveling and social media. I am just starting to revamp my blog so that I can attempt to make money doing what I love. One of the ideas I have about my niche is working to be a Proverbs 31 woman whether your married or not. I love digging into the Bible and then sharing what I learn. I love sharing my own personal experiences when it comes to living the Proverbs 31 lifestyle as well as give a platform to other women to share theirs.
You have a fantastic blog here… I have been here for hours just reading page after page.
Thank you so much for sharing what you have learned.
So glad it's been helpful.
I just found this site, and I'm so excitied. My husband lost his job in December, and I'm DYING to be a stay-at-home mom. It makes me sick to go to work everyday, and I know that's not a way to live. I'm working on contentment where I'm at, but I also want to strive to stay home.
My passions:
Children
Cooking
Being open to new things and following God's will (ie: how we chose to…. do natural family planning, use cloth diapers, eat whole foods, get our baby to sleep through the night, praying/being thankful for blessings, use love & logic parenting…)
I would love to start a blog, but never knew how. I'm excited to read through this.
Also, my husband is an avid duck hunter. Do you think there would be an interested for a block about hunting out there? Do guys really get that info reading blogs???
Oh you'd be surprised — there are blogs about everything.
Wow, Amy, after reading all these comments I wonder where I fit in. Although I love the thought of being a crafter I just don't seem to have the patience. And, of course, I love my family too. I am also very passionate about unschooling but that won't last a lifetime and at moments it doesn't always bring joy : ) The thing that seems to keep popping up is vintage/antique clothing and furniture, shopping, and talking. And books, lots of books. I love to buy old books. Maybe I could be on that show American Pickers?
Kris P
Oh you fit in. Everyone fits in. That's the beauty of the internet.
Hey Amy! Just stumbled across your website and it is quite inspiring! Thanks for all of your transparency and hard work! You really are an inspiration.
My husband and I really want to start blogging together. He is a Journalism major (will be graduating in Dec. 2011) and I am at a community college currently and hope to transfer to a 4-year to get a psychology degree because I am interested in counseling. My husband is an EXCELLENT writer and we both have lots of interests. My husband is interested in music and movies; he writes great reviews and I like frugal living, photography and inspirational things. We are both interested in traveling, adventure, the outdoors, other cultures, food/restaurants, non-profits and being generous, especially to people in third-world countries.
We are trying our best to figure out what our blog needs to be focused on and we are very torn between all of these different things. Do you have any tips on what to do? Like I said, we both want to blog together. Right now on our blog we have 6 different categories to post in and really need to find our "niche" I guess. Any tips would be great!
Also, a little more background on us; we are 21 and 24 years old, been married for 4 years in July and we both just lost our jobs last month so we have plenty of time to work on something that we both enjoy: writing! We are also going to be moving from Kentucky to Oregon this year once our house sells. We are still madly in love and love Jesus too! We really want to make a difference in the world and bless people.
Hopefully that gives you enough background to give us some tips. =)
Thanks so much!
thank you for great questions on finding your passion. i am thinking of starting a blog, but with all the interests i have it is hard to figure out tyhe focus of a blog.
this is my list so far :
* gardening (veggie, herbal, organic)
*sewing, crocheting…..ok crafting in general
*self sufficiency
*homeschooling
*cooking/baking
*simple living & frugality
*family
these aren't in any particular order, but these are my "things".
Hi Amy! I've been reading your blog via Facebook since last fall when I started blogging. I haven't kept up with it and thought I'd look into your step-by-step guide as I attempt to re-start. I wasn't starting the blog for financial gain but more as a way to get myself to make time to write. I have a passion for writing, but don't very often allow myself to make time for it…
Anyway, I've discovered my deepest passion is still for my husband. I imagine that's a good thing to have after nearly 13 years of marriage, but I'm not exactly sure how to make a blog about that, LOL. The things he and I most often talk about are our faith, our family, and our future- in that order. Originally my blog was about my faith which was awesome because it became a great conversation source for my husband an I. I'm wondering if maybe my problem with keeping up with it was that I painted myself into too tight of a corner with my "organizing" of it. I love to organize everything into neat little boxes… I have no idea how to add flexibility to my blog.
I am really, really looking forward to the rest of the posts on this topic. Thanks so much for sharing so many of your insights!
I hope they are helpful! Yours is a large niche which is nice because there's a large pool of readers but can be tricky to stand out. Don't miss my post on how to find a unique angle.
Yes, I'm working on that. I know what I want to do, but I can't find a blog like it anywhere, so I'm not sure how to do it well… I'd like to start a devotional/Bible study blog, have you seen anyone doing it well that maybe you can point me too?
Thanks!
Some that come to mind are Courtney at Women Living Well, Amy at Mom's Toolbox (Bible in 90 Days) and Simply His. I know each of them do things along the lines of Bible Study (or have in the past).
There are so many ideas bouncing around in my head for a blog that I might start. This helped narrow it down a bit (although its still broad). I'm a new mom who went from working to a full time stay at home mom, tough transition for a type A personality! I want to blog about my experiences and trials as a new mother but also the things that drive me, such as fashion, cooking (which I love love love to do) and family. So maybe this is where I will begin!
Great stuff flows from your own experience and passions, that's for sure! I would encourage you to read How to Find a Unique Angle in a Crowded Niche too.
My friends have been encouraging me to blog about various topics for awhile now. I really didn't see the point. "Isn't it just an online journal for most people? Only a few people can make money, right?" Ummm….. way seriously completely and totally wrong on that assumption. As someone trained in marketing and communications, I should probably be posting this anonymously, because HOW EMBARRASSING is it to admit such ignorance?
Anyway, I stumbled up on your blog and am enjoying the "schoolin'" you've been giving me via your posts.
I just asked the big question today via Facebook… If I had a blog, what would it be about? It's amazing the consistency in the responses. Apparently my friends and family have had this job in mind for me for years and have just been waiting for me to figure it out. Once again, I feel a bit behind the eight ball on this one. Everybody else figured it out long before me!
You're crackin' me up.
With your marketing background, though, you've got some advantages, so be encouraged!
Ok, my answers were almost all the same…cooking traditional foods, growing in my walk with the Lord, keeping my home (teaching my kids, gardening, laundry, cleaning, etc), blogging, reading great books (ebooks and regular books) about things I love as mentioned above.
Here is my dilemma….my blog is geared to the cooking side and I so desperately want to change it to a homemaking blog that would cover what I already cover and the other topics I mentioned above. I am thinking about going with a hosted site as opposed to my free wordpress so I can have more options…but what to do about my current subscribors, and my facebook/twitter links? Oh it seems like a lot of work that I would hope to be seamless.
This is you, right, Nikki? Just wanted to make sure you were covered.
Yes that was me! And I found a great link that explains the migration. There is a simple export/import process. So I need to buy my domain (godaddy) and set up my host (host gator) and then I can export. Questions: the site where I am learning about the migration states to use Google Apps for the domain because the info stays private. Thoughts? Next question is do I still download and install wordpress.org or is this done during the "host" set up portion through host gator?
I just GoDaddy to register domains and choose the Privacy Registration option (it's a bit extra but worth it in my opinion). Yes, you're right, there is a simple export/import option to get your posts and comments migrated over to your new self-hosted blog, but keep in mind that won't bring your subscribers over.
If you purchase hosting via HostGator or Bluehost, you will install WordPress right from your account.
Oh I am glad you pointed that out about the subscribers…ok, my google search continues.
i like art /ethnic studies, i love weddings event planning type stuff, and politics themes of justice and i like music, i also like food, i love computers and working on the internet researching learning for my website could do it all day. ha!
I absolutly love shopping and saving money. When i shop and can walk out of a store with things my family will use and save lots of money on it, I have more money to do other things I love such as vacationing. I love cooking also. I need to find a name for a blog to start and need to continue to read your blog for tips. There are so many couponing blogs, I'm afraid I need to find something fresh and different…
You might like How to Find a Unique Angle in a Crowded Niche.
Thanks for the great tips Amy…I feel like I have so many things I'm passionate about. Entertaining, home decor, fashion, beauty , home making, gardening, books, my faith, encouraging/coaching others and shopping. I guess the key is to figure out what I'm most passionate about or a way to weave them all together? I really appreciate all your hardwork in giving the rest of us a helping hand w/blogging!
A good question to ask is what you can see yourself talking about for months or years to come. You might also be interested in How to Find a Unique Angle in a Crowded Niche.
Hi! Loving this website and all the help you are providing people with. Some things i like doing, and am passionate about include: God, my family, making out home "homey", reading (books that encourage my walk with God, or encourage me in reaching our financial goals), cooking for friends (VERY casual dinner parties), researching things I'm interested in online (i.e. topics like decorating, DIY, saving money, simple crafts).
I'm not sure exactly where to go from here, which passions to pursue as blog content. Things I would like to post are recipes we've tried, house improvements we've made (in the process of buying a house that needs some work), the occassional deal and/or coupon, maybe book reviews… Am I being WAY too broad??