by Paula Atwell

Created on: April 17, 2009

Starting a blog is something that I thought I would never do. I was one of those people who tried to keep a diary or a journal at least ten different times during both my childhood and adult life and after a few entries could not keep it going. I started blogging for my business, thinking that I didn't know if I could keep it up, but I would give it a try. And to my surprise, I loved it! To this date, I now have three of my own blogs, and participate in another group blog, and an online magazine. There is something different about blogging than just journaling or keeping a diary.

Before you start a blog, however, you need to consider a few things. First of all, who is your audience. Your blog is targeted to your readers, even if when you start out you don't have any. Blogs are best if they have a purpose, even if the purpose is just writing down your thoughts or experiences on a regular basis.

Once you are ready to blog, there are a few steps that you need to take:

1. Choose your blogging platform.

I write my blogs on blogger because that is where I started and I am very comfortable with it. There are several other blogging platforms, or you can host your own blog.

2. Choose your design and format.

Give your blog a personality. You can choose colors, templates, or design your own. If you have a logo or symbol associated with you, you can put it on your blog.

3. Put some information on your sidebar.

You can place ads, profiles, links to your sites, or just about anything you want on your sidebar. Choose something that represents who you are, and why you are blogging.

4. Decide how often you will blog.

Some blogs are weekly, some are daily, and some are every once in a while. Anything is okay as long as you are consistent.

5. Pick a style to write in.

Most blogs are written in a casual manner. Just remember that your blog can potentially be picked up and quoted by anyone worldwide.

Once you have your layout, and how you want to proceed, then just jump right in. (Or write in.) Blogging is fun, should not be stressful, and should not take too much time out of your day. To have a successful blog, let people know you are starting one. Post it on your Facebook page, tweet it, and email your friends about the blog.

Make your posts interesting. Add pictures, quotes, videos, and links to things online that have caught your eye. Did you just come back from vacation? Blog about it!

Blogs can be about any topic. That is what makes them so much fun. There are recipe blogs, techie blogs, and just about everything in between. So don't wait! Get out there and start blogging.

Learn more about this author, Paula Atwell.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.