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How to Build a Loyal Blog Following Through Storytelling & A Giveaway

How to Build a Loyal Blog Following Through Storytelling | Blogging tips by Lauren Lanker from The Thinking Closet. How can we craft opening sentences that rise above the noise? Through storytelling. It's one of the most effective ways to build a long-term relationship with loyal blog followers. Here are some practical exercises to help bloggers draw out their own stories and find their voice through writing killer hooks!

In kindergarten, my friends and I would crouch down on the big black rocks and dedicate our recess hour to scraping the shiny mica with our fingernails.  It came off in small, thin sheets that we collected in our jacket pockets.  To the teacher looking on, we were just kids being kids.  That mica wasn’t worth much.

But to us, it was worth a lot.

It was pirate’s booty for our treasure chest.  It was currency for our game of house.  It was magical fairy dust that could make us fly.

And so, we set to work each morning, scraping away, busying ourselves with our mission until we could replenish our stock.  It wasn’t a painless process.  It sends chills up my spine to remember that old familiar feeling when a shard of mica would wedge itself under the nail.  What can I say?  All in a day’s work for us kindergarteners.

Blog Divider - The Thinking Closet

I can’t help liken that experience to the process of writing a blog post.  {Awkward pause.}  Stay with me now.  I’ll explain.  {Smile.}

When I sit down at the computer keyboard, I use those same hands, but instead of digging for precious minerals, I’m digging through words and 20 different sentence-starters, searching for the way in.  Some like to call it the hook–those first few sentences that you hope will grab your reader’s attention and invite them to read on.  It’s the make or break moment for writers when you either hook them or lose them.  {Dun dun dun.}

And because those sentences are so valuable, it’s where I pour in my biggest time investment.

Sure, my photos or title or searchable keywords may have brought a new reader over from Pinterest or their email inbox, but with so many distractions battling for her attention–the baby crying, the microwave beeping, the flashing phone notifications, the 10 other open tabs–all I really have are just a few short seconds of her time before she clicks away.

{Is your heart thumping a little bit?  Because mine is!}

And in those few seconds when her eyes scan over the first words–maybe the first few sentences if I’m lucky–that, my friends, is when our writing can be as precious as glimmering mica to kindergarteners.  That is what is worth working on for us bloggers.

So, how can we craft opening sentences that rise above the noise?

Well, I think it’s pretty simple really.  Through storytelling.

Why storytelling?

People remember stories.  They don’t necessarily remember facts.  And that notion impacted my teaching method in the classroom.

For instance, when it came time for the test, my students all knew the difference between verbal, situational, and dramatic irony thanks to some film clips I had shown from Mean Girl, Candid Camera, and Caddy Shack.

They were memorable.  Just like your stories can be.  Especially if you tell those stories in your own unique writer’s voice.

Let’s imagine that you were right there with me, crouched down on the rocks, picking at the mica, but because of your distinct perspective and unique style of storytelling, your written version of our recess exploits would read really differently than mine.

And that’s a marvelous thing!  Because your readers will become invested in your own personal story as told in your own unique voice.  And that’s when blogging goes beyond an informational exchange and becomes something more: it becomes relational.

And I don’t know about you, but I find that really exciting!

Let’s make a simple little equation out of this all:

storytelling + your unique voice = the power to grow a loyal blog following

That’s right.  I believe that one of the most effective ways to build a long-term relationship with loyal blog followers is through our words.  Carefully-crafted words.  Words that carry our unique voice and our unique stories.  Especially in those first few sentences.

5 Ways to Use Storytelling to Write a Killer Hook

5 Ways to Use Storytelling to Write a Killer Hook | Blogging tips by Lauren Lanker from The Thinking Closet. One of the most effective ways to build a long-term relationship with loyal blog followers is through our words. Carefully-crafted words that carry our unique voice and unique story. Those first few sentences of every post, "the hook," are so very important for capturing your readers' attention so you can forge a deeper connection. Here's how to do it!

Now, let’s get practical.  Here are 5 different storytelling techniques to experiment with as you carefully craft those opening lines!

1.  Tell a story from your childhood.

Maybe that story connects with an emotion you feel right now.  Maybe it offers some valuable backstory for the rest of your post.  Or maybe it serves as a metaphor like how my “digging for mica” story connected to “digging for that hook.”  Regardless, revealing stories from your past are a wonderful way for your readers to get to know you and build a long-term relationship with you and your blog.

Example 1:

Sigh….  I remember the good old days when we’d hear the clink of milk bottles arriving on the front doorstep.  The glass bottles would be icy to the touch.  For once, I actually wanted to drink my milk.

Personalized Milk Bottles

Example 2:

There’s something about scrubbing bathroom floors together while belting out angst-filled Alanis Morissette songs that bonds you.  Amidst giggles and soap suds and “you oughta knows,” a friendship can be born.

Baby Shower Gift Package & Printable

2.  Share a story of struggle or failure.

This seems counter-intuitive, I know.  Especially if you want your readers to view you as an expert in a particular area.  But I’ve learned from experience that being vulnerable in your writing and admitting failure can go a long way in building trust with your readers.  It can also break down any false notions of perfection (this feels especially relevant for craft, home, and fashion bloggers).  I think we can all agree that we find honest stories of struggle or failure to be refreshing because we easily identify with them.  So, don’t be afraid to take some healthy risks in that arena!

Example 1:

Today I have for you all a cautionary tale of a DIY project gone terribly terribly wrong.  This tale is set in spring of 2009, just a few month before our wedding on the seashore.  I give to you my inner monologue….

The Great Wedding Invitation Disaster of 2009

Example 2:

Part of it fell in the lake.  While I was taking photos of my awesome Ruler Framed Chalkboard Sign, the hot glue came unstuck, which caused the twine to slip out of place, which sent the sign crashing to the floor of the dock, busting the frame, and part of it fell in the lake.  I kid you not.

It Was Almost a Craft Fail….

3.  Turn an experience you recently had into a storytelling opportunity.

Nearly every experience, however “mundane,” can be turned into a story.  The key?  Vivid imagery through language that appeals to the 5 senses: sight, sound, smell, touch, taste.  It can transport the reader, so it’s like they’re right there with you!  And immediately, they are invested and want to know more.

Example 1:

Yesterday, I put on my lime green rainboots, ran around in the muddy backyard, and then stomped on an open book.  All in the name of creative recklessness.

Wreck This Journal: A Perfectionist’s Nightmare

Example 2:

Saturday morning, I tossed my business cards in my purse, grabbed my laptop and iced coffee, and headed northeast to Full Sail University for the third annual Florida Blogger & Social Media Conference.

Highlights from Florida Blogger Conference 2013

4.  Create a story in which your reader is a character.

This is a fun storytelling technique where you establish a setting (maybe it’s a coffee shop or your own home) and invite your reader into that setting by creating a scenario for the two of you.  You can address them using the second person narrative (“you” “you’re” “you’ll”).  It’ll be an imaginative exercise for you both!  And it’s a truly effective way of making each individual reader feel known and celebrated.  Once they’re a player in the story, they’ll want to stick around.

Example 1:

“Hi, friend!  So kind of you to stop by.  And how did you know today was the day I finally folded those baskets of laundry and got the house tidied up?  That’s serendipity for ya!  {Wink.} Well, what am I doing?  Let me invite you in, friend!”

A Rustic Glam Holiday House Tour

Example 2:

You look at your watch.  The clock nears 1p, and you have that sneaking suspicion that you’re supposed to be somewhere, but can’t for the life of you remember where.  Suddenly, your phone buzzes with a new text message.  It’s your friend, Lauren!

Choose Your Own Adventure Fall House Tour

5.  Start with “Once upon a time….”

This could be a valuable creative prompt to start with those familar four words and see what spills!  Even if it’s a fictional story, there can always be some capital-T Truth in there!  It can be a great way to change things up for you and your readers.  Everyone loves a good old-fashioned story.

Example:

This would be an opportune time to grab a snack, a cozy blanket, and perhaps silence your cell phone.  Why?  Because it’s story time, folks.  Gather ’round for… Once upon a time, there was an old chair.  And there was a girl who sat in the old chair.

Black Distressed Table Makeover

Beginner Bloggers, Rejoice!

For those of you just shoving off on your blogging journey, never fear. Abby is here!

My friend Abby Lawson from Just a Girl and Her Blog created a comprehensive course called *Building a Framework: The Ultimate Blogging Handbook.  It quickly became an invaluable primer for beginner bloggers, and when I first read it, I benefited immensely from her guidance.

For example, check out this graph of my email newsletter subscriber list.  Can you guess which was the month when I applied Abby’s tips for growing my list?

I owe the success of my list's rapid growth to Abby Lawson's book, Building a Framework: The Ultimate Blogging Handbook

You guessed it!  Late October of 2014.  My email sign-ups soared and haven’t stopped soaring.  And of course, I was kicking myself for not implementing her tips sooner.

Building a Framework: The Ultimate Blogging Handbook by Abby Lawson - a comprehensive course for how to get gain a following, work with brands, and make money in your first year!Naturally, I jumped at the chance to join Abby’s affiliate team for Building a Framework. Not only is Abby a dear friend of mine (who you probably recognize from my own Thinking Outside the Gift Box expert interviews), but she is a blogger whom I truly admire and look up to. And I’m excited for others to benefit from her wisdom just as I have.

She also happens to be one of the kindest, most generous bloggers I know, and the wealth of resources and information she has jam-packed into her course is nothing short of astounding.

Some of features of her Building a Framework course include:

  • 9 power-packed video modules
  • multiple tech trainings
  • 30+ page workbook
  • BONUS: private Facebook group access
  • BONUS: “How to Make Printables” detailed tutorial
  • BONUS: “Abby & Donnie LIVE” Video Vault
  • BONUS: eBook version of the course

 

You don’t have to go it alone when it comes to blogging.

And now, in the words of Dan Kennedy from one of my favorite podcasts, The Moth:

“Have a story-worthy week!”

This is Lauren, signing off.

*Full Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase after clicking through, The Thinking Closet may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.  Thanks for helping to support this site!

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133 Comments

  1. Thanks for the inspiration! I think I struggle with deciding if incorporating stories will be something that people actually want to read or if I should actually get to the point already! Nice to know this strategy has worked for you. As a fiction writer, I appreciate a good, vivid, relatable story to drive a point home!

    1. Oh yes! Stories all the way! I’m always a fan of bringing more of yourself along for the ride. Happy to hear you’re keen on the idea, too, Rachel. Thanks for taking the time to share your comment.

  2. This is amazing! I always struggle with introductions whether it’s a college paper or a blog post. Typically, I write my introduction last because I get so stuck on what to say!
    I loved all of your ideas and that you used your own advice in this post! I actually forgot that I had food on the stove I was so into reading your post. The food was salvaged (hooray!), but I saw just how effective these techniques are when done well. Thank you! Maybe I’ll turn that story into a blog introduction someday. 🙂

    1. Ha ha. Yes! You totally should turn that story into a blog post someday. “By George, I think she’s got it!” So glad you found some inspiration in this post of mine. It truly was a favorite of mine to write….

      Happy journeying with your writing pen, Melanie! I trust it will lead you down many an adventurous path.

  3. I re-read this post and am going to use some of these tips as I prepare my presentation of the story of my WWI Nurse at the AAHN conference….I think they can apply there, too. At least some of them. You do such a great job telling stories on your blog.

    I love that you share mistakes. Maybe I can include some of the failures of my nurse, too–will make her more real.

  4. Loved your post and the information you shared. I’ve learned to write my introduction last ,& it’s usually my favorite part. It’s always fun when I’ve nailed it and I know it. Not so much when it doesn’t come together the way I’d like it to. LOL I’ll have to check out Abby’s course & book, I’ve seen it everywhere!

  5. I struggle not with finding the words but second guessing myself. I tend to go back and over edit. And overthink. It shows a lack of confidence, but I just want it to be right

  6. I really struggle with writing in general but especially getting started. I have been wanting to start a blog but haven’t jumped in yet, mostly due to fear. 🙂 I love your advice and hope to implement it soon! Thanks!

  7. I have to say that I look forward to receiving my weekly email. Though I am not vocal, it is a wonderful feeling to see someone that puts so much TLC into our weekly emails. You are the first person I have ever subscribed to, and I love it. I’ve gotten great ideas, but also I’ve reached further into my spiritual side.
    Thanks for being you! I thoroughly enjoy it.

  8. I don’t remember how I stumbled upon your blog, but so happy I did. Have been thinking of starting a blog for some time as there seems to be nothing from bloggers in my age group (I’m a young, vital 71!). We seniors still have so much to give and learn and I’d love to delve into the adventures of aging. I am so happy to find the help you ladies offer in this wonderful world of blogging. Thank you from the bottom of my thumping heart!

  9. Abby’s awesome, isn’t she? I started her blog challenge about a week ago and while I haven’t implemented all of her advice yet, it’s already made a difference in how my blog’s been received. If this is just a sliver of what to expect from Building a Framework then I’m sold! Thanks so much for the opportunity to win a copy!

  10. Hey Lauren! First time commenting on your blog, though I find myself here often… your newsletters always hook me in! I think it’s a combination of storytelling and content that has me opening your emails first. Thank you for sharing this post; creating a blog has been on my bucket list 🙂 I’m checking out Abby’s site now.

  11. I am just starting to blog and this would be perfect! I find myself frustrated with my lack of knowledge and bouncing around different sites and sources to answer questions.

    One of my biggest struggles is concise storytelling and creating a good hook to grab the reader’s attention. Sometimes I feel to board or long winded.

  12. Thanks for the great tips on storytelling! I tend to get right to the point in many of my posts, especially anything with a step-by-step tutorial. Your tips are good reminders of ways that I can infuse my own personality into my posts. Thanks for the opportunity to win Abby’s book!

  13. I’ve found your blog via “Just a girl and her blog” and I love what you’ve created here!! Since I am having my own blog, a German one about babies, family and everyday life, I am always looking for help and inspiration to make it a success. At the moment it is just a little blog, but I would love to see it grow…
    But whether I am winning the ebook or not, I am pretty sure, I will stay as a reader on your blog.

    Have a nice day, greetings from Germany 🙂

  14. I think I struggle with being insecure about what is “good enough” or interesting enough to share!

  15. I want to start blogging, but I want to do it the right way. I think this this the best program I have seen but as a broke recent graduate, it’s a bit too expensive for even the book alone. I would be so excited to win this complete set!

  16. My biggest challenge is coming up with something to write about that I think people will want to read.

  17. I just started out, and I have had one really successful post. I would like to get to a point where many more posts are also successful! I just need to find that voice!

  18. This was very helpful and informative. Thank you.
    I am still very new to this entire blogging world and i am so unsure how to go about it, and this post was one of the best written and still helpful ones that i found so far.

  19. I just started a blog and I’m overwhelmed with all the how-to’s and what-to-do’s out there. But I enjoyed reading your post on holding a reader’s attention. I’ll keep this in mind as I write posts. Thanks!

  20. My biggest struggle is not sitting down to write my posts at 9 pm the night before it’s supposed to go live… I feel like they are written in a delirious fervor and most likely don’t make sense. I also need to come up with a better email marketing strategy!

  21. My biggest struggle is trying to share my stories without detracting from the actual project. I am kind of a rambler, so working on reigning myself in at times is a struggle! I really “censor” myself on my blog and social media, fearing that if I say the wrong think or even use the word damn *gasp!* in a post that I will lose followers.

    I also struggle with my email list. I am no good at graphic design, so offering fun awesome printables when you sign up is something I’m not so sure on. Plus, I am just not sure how to keep email subscribers interested!

  22. Hey Girly, as usual your post hit and hit me hard, and even made me enroll to Abby’s course…. You have always been such an inspiration in so many ways. One of the funniest thing is that I’ve been analyzing your writing for a long while… trying to figure out what is about it that makes it so special and so inspiring and I had figured out that was your storytelling style. When I got your post and read it was a clear confirmation of what I was starting to realize I had been missing on my own blogging journey.

    The Thing is, that I have no idea what my voice is yet, I’m scared sometimes to let more of myself out, I’m a bit shy and I know how to give ideas but little about letting myself be a part of it.

    I feel projected on how you are when you write and when you share a video, because I’m so much like you when I’m with a friend, I’m a bit crazy, I do a lot of gestures and faces, I babble and talk and talk but then when I’m writing I get stuck on the facts instead of letting myself be.

    I work so hard on my blog and design business and yet my traffic sucks so definitely I’m missing something and probably it’s exactly that: MY VOICE. And probably my writing since I struggle everyday with English but I would’t have half of my traffic if was still blogging in Spanish. I love blogging, it’s something that keeps me going, learning, growing but also frustrates me when I see almost nothing coming from it. I’ve got to meet amazing friends, I must say that. and I have pretty awesome loyal readers and I love them all. It’s just that my traffic doesn’t take off, doesn’t go up as I would like. And that’s what disappoint me I guess!

    I guess I’m just feeling a bit lost and trying to find my ways through your thoughts and Abby’s… I’m doing my homework with the course, and hopefully I’ll be able to share my story on the blog soon!
    XOXO

  23. Thanks so much for the info…can’t wait to use your advice………I have been trying to get my blog up and running for the last two months. However, due to sickness, and personal problems I haven’t succeeded in making that happen.

  24. Your interview was a gem! Pop pop would be proud of your story telling style! I will take a look at Abby’s book…that’s amazing how much your readership went UP after reading and applying Abby’s ebook tips for growing your readership.

  25. Hello,
    My biggest challenge with writing is that I have tons of ideas and I get them started but its hard to finish all of them so then I feel a bit like a failure because i have trouble deciding which ideas to “finish” and which to let ride until next time or maybe just let them go completely.

  26. This is such a helpful post. I’m still very new to blogging, and I need all the help I can get! These tips are seriously so, so good, and I am so looking forward to trying these in future posts!

  27. Thank you so much for providing all of this very useful information! I’ve been thinking of starting a blog and I know that this will come in handy when the time is right.

  28. I’m just getting started blogging. I have spent the last year or so trying to find my voice. I would love to read this book!

  29. I have been attempting to start a blog for years– but never sure what exactly I should write about, so I get stuck. I love your story-telling ideas and will use them. Thanks for the chance to win Abby’s book!

  30. I love this post! I found it from The Peony Project group on Facebook, and I am so glad I did! Your tips about storytelling are so helpful. I have been writing stories for as long as I remember, but I often forget that I should integrate them into my blog posts more. Thank you so much for you wonderful tips! 🙂

    1. I’ve heard great things about that group! Thanks so much for stopping by and for leaving such a warm comment, Taylor. Glad to hear that this may have empowered you to incorporate your years of storytelling into your blog writing more. I hope it brings you as much joy as it brings me during the writing process!

  31. I’ve struggled many times trying to start my own blog. I will try to take some of your tips above and apply them to my journey.

    1. The struggle is real! I know. But I love that you used the word “journey.” Because I think that really does describe how we’ve never really “arrived” by are constantly growing and changing…and by golly, if starting a blog is a goal you want to conquer, then I believe you can do it, Chasitti! The key is putting that belief in yourself and overcoming the many hurdles that will inevitably come your way. I can tell you from experience, though, persevering through the struggle is worth it!

  32. Hi, I’m Mel. Long time reader, first time commenter. 🙂

    My biggest struggle is overthinking. I tend to get an idea in my head, start writing, then think “Eh, no one’s gonna wanna read this,” and scrap it. Then, I go weeks (or, gasp, MONTHS) without blogging. I LOVE to write and share inspiration and teach – but my mind just beats me up every time.

    A very close second? Fear.

    I look forward to reading more of Abby’s blog (and continuing to keep up with yours)!

    1. Hey Mel! Great to finally meetcha! I definitely know the overthinking bug. I think that voice in your head saying, “Eh, no one’s gonna wanna read this,” is your inner critic. And she is doing you no good! Especially if she is quieting your writer’s voice. Sometimes I like to write down a list of my FEARS before shoving off on a new adventure or tackling a goal. Just by “naming” those fears out of the gate, then identifying what their consequences might be (which are usually way smaller than I initially thought), fear loses its power over me. And I can gain enough momentum to move forward. Perhaps the same exercise would be useful for you!

      Thanks for taking the time to share (and so vulnerably, too). I can tell from this comment alone that you are writer with a lot of heart…and I want to encourage you to let that heart spill onto the page. And click PUBLISH before the voice that inner critic has time to tell you otherwise. Blogland will be better for it.

    1. That can be tough! One of my best tips for that is to have an idea notebook where you write down your ideas whenever they pop into your head (and before they quickly vanish). Maybe it’s a physical notebook, small enough to carry in your bag. Or maybe it’s a note in an Evernote app. on your phone that syncs with your computer. But I think you’ll find you have more ideas than you realized once you start capturing them! And I like to plan out post topics in an Excel calendar on my computer. But there are plenty of other programs and apps you can use…sometimes a paper calendar that you can post by your computer can be inspiring, too! Hope that is helpful.

  33. Lauren, I just love this post. (Wait a second, I love all of your posts–#thinkingclosetfan :)) Thanks for sharing how story is so important. I think as DIY bloggers it can be easy to dive right in with instructions on how to make something, but it is so much more fun to give the background story & to tell people why in the world you made that item in the first place. Keep on telling your story, Lauren! 🙂

    1. Ha ha. That’s officially my new favorite hashtag.

      Thanks so much for the fantabulously encouraging comment, Jennie. Yes, we DIY bloggers can sometimes get sidetracked by the HOW we forget the deeper WHY. Sometimes I try to make it my goal to include enough entertainment and inspiration that even if someone didn’t cared AT ALL about the tutorial, they’d still get a lot out of it! Not always easy, but a fun challenge.

    1. Love that goal, Julie! You keep on keeping on. Even if you feel like the humor doesn’t always read, I have a hunch you ARE giving joy to a lot to people nonetheless. And what’s most inspiring for readers is seeing someone be authentic themselves, even if they have a different sense of humor or writing style than they do. Authenticity trumps all, I say!

  34. I’m a bit out of practice when it comes to writing. I used to keep a daily journal, but I’ve let that lapse for many months now. I want to start a blog, but my excuses get the better of me. I’m supporting my daughter and her family through her cancer journey. I’m in transition myself to a new balance and a new life after several losses. So much to learn and do. I’ve taken pictures for future blog posts, but my perfectionism kicks in when it comes to choosing a blog hosting site. I research and research and wonder if I should start with a free site but have trouble pulling the trigger. Love Abby and her blog and her and her husband’s transparency with blogging. I hope to get over my hurdles, find my voice, join the blogging community, and find joy in storytelling. I’m a fellow teacher too.

    1. Perfectionism can be paralyzing sometimes, can’t it? I’ve had to actively work on breaking myself of my perfectionism when it comes to creative acts…and it’s a constant battle, but one in which I feel I’m growing. Here are two posts I wrote that may help you do the same: Wreck This Journal & Permission Pages.

      And for what it’s worth, I would recommend just starting a free blog on Blogger or WordPress.com before you feel “ready.” There will never be a perfect time or scenario, so you just need to take that leap and begin! And if it ends up taking off or becoming something you want to grow into a business someday, then you can always switch over to paid hosting through WordPress.org. But better to just start now imperfectly than start never perfectly. That’s what I constantly have to remind myself!

      And let me know if you do decide to give it a go, so I can swing by and give you some comment love!

  35. P.S. but I do come from a story-telling family (or two families — both father’s and mother’s side). I once met someone who did not know how to tell a story! That possibility left me speechless!

    1. Aw, yay! So glad you stopped by, Elizabeth. And I loved hearing about your writing life (and storytelling family). And that makes me sad to think about the person who didn’t know how to tell a story. 🙁 Stories become like dear friends, don’t they? And the act of storytelling a balm to the soul. Pardon me and my poetic language, ha ha, I guess it’s a subject that really just strikes me deep to the core.

  36. I am first a technical writer and editor. Not yet a blog owner! I’m here because Abby sent me, and I’m reading Abby’s blog because I want to organize my life!

    1. Aw, Sondra! That means so much coming from you. Remembering with fondness getting to meet you at Haven last year. You just exude warmth and love in all that you do and this comment is no exception.

      Thanks for making my night! And for entering the giveaway. Fun fun!

  37. I am so excited to devour every bit of info abby has to offer. I am an aspiring artist and i want to take my art to the next generation. gone are the days where you simply MUST be shown in a gallery and impress directors to start. I will be my own gallery, my own art director.

    1. Ummm…okay, after reading your comment, my first thoughts were: 1) Who is this woman? She is amazing. And empowered. And I want to be her friend. Lol. 2) Wow, what a gifted writer she is. A poet. An artist in more ways than one. 3) I need to use the verb “devour” more. So vivid!

      Ha ha. But truly, as someone who self-published her own book this past fall, I can’t encourage you enough to go after that dream of being your own gallery and art director. No more waiting on others to discover you or give you a chance. You can seize that day and make that chance for yourself! Go for it, Mandy

      1. Aw, that was such a meaningful and thoughtful reply! We can definitely be friends! 🙂
        I just bought the book and I’ve got my wordpress site up and hosted on my own domain. Lets get this party started!!! My site is at mandyivy.com, but there is literally nothing on it (yet)…

        1. Ha ha. Yay for being friends! It’s offish.

          And you are a go-getter, that’s for sure. So impressed that you’ve already got a site and domain and a spirit to party. There’s no stopping you now! Oh, and I know you’ll love the book. And you can probably write a book of your own after this on courage and going after your dreams with tenacity.

          Can’t wait to see that site filled up your art and stories in the days to come!

    1. Think of it like a fun challenge! Dig and dig until you find that way in. Facts nested in story are facts that we’ll remember. At least, that’s my biased opinion! And I think if you write the blog post you’d be excited to read, well then you’re on the right track. 😉

  38. I have always struggled to find that right balance between being me and writing so people can follow along. lol I’m slowly learning to let my scatter-brained self shine through a little more without overwhelming my reader.

    1. It’s tricky, right? We want to be our honest selves, but we also want to craft our words in such a way that they are accessible. Yes, it’s an edited version of us…but one we choose. One we work to shape. And I love that you’re striving to embrace your endearing “scatter-brained self” because by golly, I know that’s the kind of blogger I find refreshing and entertaining. Keep being you, Alli. And if they’re overwhelmed, well then, that’s their problem.

  39. As a teacher, I have to think of hooks for my lessons to draw my students in and get them engaged in what we will be learning about together. I hadn’t thought of how the same principle could apply to blogging, but it sure makes sense!

    1. I’m a teacher, too, Melanie, and I think that’s why the “hook” concept really resonates with me…and I’m glad it does with you, too. Nothing was more of a creative challenge for me than staring out at a sea of bored, tired faces. I tap-danced. I talked in accents. I turned grammar lessons into a mini Olympics. Whatever it would take to hook them. And once I had them, well then, the possibilities were endless! Hope tomorrow is a day full of fun hooks for you and your students, Melanie!

    1. One of my favorite posts from days of old was on the subject of Blogger’s Block! If you check it out, I hope it’s an inspiration to you, Dawn.

      Oh, and as for finding someone else who already wrote it, I’ve stopped Googling project or post ideas. Because inevitably, it’s been done before. There’s nothing new under the sun, it’s true, but no one can tell it quite like you!

  40. What a great giveaway! I struggle with feeling like there are already so many blogs out there, so why should I start one too.

    1. I think that’s a really common struggle, Jenni. And I guarantee you that every blogger has wondered that same thing at one point or another. Actually, a friend of mine who just started a blog recently wrote on that very subject and had some really inspirational thoughts. You should check it out…and be encouraged! Finding My Way by Gina Booton

  41. i am fairly new to crafting and have had a small home business for a year. one main struggle is working my fulltime (extremely stressful) crappy job while finding the time to get my home business up and running so that i may turn it into my fulltime job soon. i have toyed with starting a blog to go along with my etsy shop, etc., but am not sure i should begin something else that will be time consuming. but i am not giving up!!

    1. Time management is a tricky thing, isn’t it? I’m constantly wondering if I’m taking on too much and wondering what I should cut out.

      While a part of me wants to urge you to start a blog because I know how much joy it has brought me, I also don’t think it would be healthy to squeeze in one more thing if there’s not already room for it.

      So, I recommend you check out the Goal-Setting Workbook over at one of my favorite blogs, Living Well Spending Less. That really helped me get my priorities straight and make some changes in my schedule to allow for what was important to me.

      Through that process of goal-setting, it might helped clarify for you whether a blog will help you reach your goals or if it will keep you from them right now. And if it WILL help you achieve your goals, perhaps you will discover other commitments in your life that are taking up your valuable time without giving back to you like they should. And letting them go might make way for something new like starting a blog. Anyway, check it out! (And you can hear my experience of using the Goal-Setting Workbook HERE.)

      Hope that’s helpful! Best of luck, Lesley.

    1. Abby’s book will be the perfect primer for you! Truly. It’s a resource I WISH I could have read when I first shoved off on the high seas of blogging. And Abby really is the perfect guide to help you along what can feel like a treacherous path sometimes. She breaks everything down into such do-able, actionable steps. But I think you’ll quickly find that it’s not as intimidating as it feels like once you dive in. Especially since the blogging community can be such an incredible support! Best of luck to you, Kimberly!

  42. I love your blog, Lauren – and I’m so excited to read the updated version of Abby’s ebook! That graph you showed is awesome (and inspiring!) – building my email list is on my blog to-do list. I love the blogging community and how supportive and helpful everyone is!

    1. You are too kind! Thank you, Meg! Yep, that graph is pretty cray-cray, right? I really put off focusing on building my list until I was in the homestretch of writing my own eBook…and while I’m kicking myself I didn’t prioritize it sooner, it’s really never too late! Onwards and upwards, right?

      And I’m with you, the blogging community is so fantastic. And you’re another prime example of that. Thanks so much for stopping by and introducing yourself! Great to meetcha!

    1. I know, it can be overwhelming to begin. I have found freewriting to be incredibly helpful though in getting over that initial hump. Just set a timer (5 – 10 minutes) and start writing (or typing) whatever comes to mind. You can’t stop. You can’t go back and fix errors or mistakes. You just keep going. Even if you write “blah blah blah” until a new thought appears. And you’d be surprised what you can get by the end of a freewriting session. It really does set you FREE!

    1. Aw, thanks Meredith! I actually share a bit of my journey to find my writer’s voice in the interview I did with Abby. Voice was something I really struggled to find at first and it was a professor in college who called me out on it and gave me the tools I needed to discover it. And now, it’s become such a huge passion of mine to help other’s find theirs. We’ve all got a voice. A lot of it is about setting ourselves to free to play around with our words until we really hone in on what feels right. I’m constantly evolving and changing my voice, trying on new voices, revisiting old styles of my writing voice. Nothing is set in stone. And that is something that really excites me. Anyway, clearly I have WAY too much to say about this subject. Bottom line: thanks for your comment-love!

    1. Ha ha. Thanks, Kelly! I’ll never forget when I first met you at FL Blog Con and you mentioned how you heard my theatrical flair come through in my writer’s voice. That was a completely new idea to me at the time, but you really hit the nail on the head. The two are intrinsically linked! And now, you’ve empowered me to identify it as such and really own it. Thanks!

  43. It’s always hard to think about what a reader wants to know and write without assumptions of knowledge.

    1. True, true! And as I mention in my interview with Abby, you really can’t please everyone. And I think if you try to write for everyone, you write for no one. So, there are decisions you have to ultimately make that may cause some readers to feel in the dark or others to feel patronized. That’s the hard truth.

      Buuuuut, the more I blog, the more I get to know my “reader.” And who she is. (Of course, my reader isn’t always a woman, in her 30-40s, with kids, a college education, and a penchant for crafting. But she often is.) And when I think about my typical reader, it helps to guide my voice and level of knowledge she may have. I’m getting better and better about giving her what she needs.

      Also, I can trust that she will read what is useful and skip what isn’t. And so by really working on a killer hook and inspirational conclusion, I give my reader at least SOMETHING she can takeaway from the experience that was positive and new. And hopefully, it brings her back again!

  44. I always enjoy reading your blog tips! They’ve really helped me in these beginning stages of blogging! The Ebook giveaway set is amazing too! I’d love that!

    Keep it Classy, Keep it Country,
    Gretta Patrick <3
    chicagocountrygirl.blogspot.com

    1. Gretta, you’re too kind! I’m so glad you’ve found my blog tips to be helpful! It really can be intimidating at first to be a brand new fish in the great big blogging pond…but the more you swim around, the smaller the world becomes. 😉 Also, that’s a fabulous signature you’ve got. Keep it classy, I will! Hugs!

  45. Lauren, I always enjoy your posts! Your kind friendliness shows clearly through your words. I’d love to start my own blog, but fear of failure holds me back. Specifically, I wonder if I truly have anything to offer that is relevant to anyone besides myself. If i do make the “blogging” leap, it will be thanks in great part to your encouragement and example!!

    1. First of all, I’m incredibly humbled by your kind words. Thank you. Secondly, Maaike, if your comments here at The Thinking Closet are any indication of what your future blog will be like (in thoughtfulness, articulation, and heart), well then sign me up to be your first subscriber! Truly, you’re just one of those people with an inner light that I think would shine so brightly in any venue, but especially a blog. If you ever feel that final nudge to get one started, let me know! I’ll be your cheerleader all along the way!

      (Also, my friend wrote a blog post recently where she shared similar fears…and worried if she would have anything new to share. Ultimately, she overcame those fears and is a few months into her new blog. I couldn’t be more proud of her!)

  46. I genuinely loved this post. The fact that you told it as a story was what kept me captivated. I saw it on facebook, and as soon as I saw “blog through storytelling” I was hooked. This is top notch advice that I completely agree with, and will implement!

    1. Oh yay! I’m so glad to hear this resonated with you, Samara. I actually spent a lot of time working it and re-shaping this post…and the story I told actually wasn’t in the first drafts at all. So, I’m glad I pressed on until I uncovered it! (That mica metaphor just keeps working its way in here, doesn’t it? Lol.) Anyway, thanks for taking the time to offer up such a powerful affirmation of this work. And I believe in you and your storytelling powers. Go after it with gusto, girl!

  47. I always feel I struggle with finding the line of what is personal, and what is too personal. Sometimes, I’ll write something that seems really authentic, but after further reflection, crosses that invisible line of being maybe a bit too intimate. But I suppose, after reading all these amazing tips, I might not struggle with this so much now! 😉
    And can I just say, how lovely that you are such a champion of Abby’s! I think that’s really really sweet & speaks volumes to your amazing character.
    Fingers crossed!

    1. First of all, it’s my joy to cheer on the gals who have always been there to cheer me on…and yes, that includes you, missy! It’s one of the best parts of being in the community of blogland. Rejoicing in each other’s victories and walking alongside each other through our struggles. What a gift.

      As for your writing struggle, thanks for sharing. Yes, there definitely is a boundary line there, ins’t there? I think it’s different for each of us and perhaps different for every post…but it’s there. And I know I sometimes go through several drafts where I’ve crossed that boundary and in the process of re-reading it, I end up trashing it and starting over. Or re-working it to death.

      I try to trust my instincts. And if I’m in doubt, I’ll sometimes ask a friend or Mark to read it.

      I mentioned this in another response, but I think it applies here, too. Perhaps think of your “reader” as one person. The one person who sums up your typical reader (or at least the reader you want to write to). Is she offended by those intimate details? Or inspired by them? Or perhaps jarred by them in a good shake-em-up kind of way? I think you write to her…and while you may turn off a few others, you’re staying true to your vision and true to your reader. And that clarity and confidence is something I think new readers will respond well to.

      Anyway, thanks for letting me ramble. Love discussing these things with you! Crossing fingers and toes for you, chickadee!

  48. Thank you so much for this post! I think my biggest struggle with using my own voice is that I’m sometimes terrified that people won’t like the “real me”. I’ve been trying lately to push past that and use my own quirkiness more often in my blog posts 🙂

    1. We can be our own worst enemies when it comes to voice, can’t we? We let that negative voice in our heads, the inner critic, keep us from expressing our honest selves. I actually had a college professor who had us all draw pictures of our inner critic (mine was a hybrid animal-person who looked like something out of hell! Lol) and just by personifying them, we could more intentionally tell that critic to step aside when the creative writing process began. And then, she could speak again when we were done, but not during. It was a useful exercise that perhaps might help you, too!

      Also, for what it’s worth, quirky is my favorite. Do you, Kara! And even if it means you won’t be liked by everyone (none of us are), be confident that there’s a BIG ole group of people out there who will not only like you, but be inspired by you and your quirkiness. We all need a little quirky in our lives. 😉 Go get em!

  49. Great post! Is it relative & interesting enough – are a few struggles. I don’t want to waste my readers time and I also want to keep them engaged.

    1. Great comment! My college English professor always said, “Start with passion and your work will always succeed.” So, I think if it’s relative and interesting to YOU and you use your unique voice and stories to express that to your readers, it has the power to become relative and interesting to them!

    1. Then, maybe “eloquence” isn’t your thang. But maybe “quirkiness” is. Or being down to earth! One thing I shared in my interview with Abby is the concept of copy-change, which is where you “try on” other writers’ voices by emulating their style and structure, but you change the content…and through that process, it can be incredibly helpful in discovering your voice. Because you’ve got one! And it’s unique. And just like your story, I believe it deserves to be heard. Now, it’s just a matter of finding it!

  50. My biggest struggle is fitting the “story” part of my post with the tutorial. I want my tone to be instructional and conversational, and sometimes those two tones fight in my head. 🙂

    1. Ha ha. I can relate to the two tones fighting in my head concept! I think it might be a teacher thing, too. Right? Because we’re both instructing, but also striving to keep students engaged with humor or slang or whatever tricks we have up our sleeves. Maybe it’s a matter of not thinking of it so much as a battle, but a marriage! Or a dance between two different but complementary partners. Now you’ve got my gears turning, Bethany!!!

  51. I have days that I could sit down and write all day long and then other days I sit down and just kinda zone out. I try to take advantage of the days that I feel like I could write all day long and write as much as I can on those days.

    1. I hear ya! I often find that my procrastination gets the best of me sometimes, and if I was only disciplined enough to actually sit down and start writing, the words would actually come. A friend of mine has recently started getting up early and writing first thing. She said she has been able to work ahead on blog posts – – like weeks ahead – – which is something that feels so foreign and impossible to me. But it compelled me to want to get back into the “discipline” of writing. An hour a day! And for it to be the first thing I do. Even if nothing but “crap” comes out for the first 30 minutes, there are bound to be some gems we uncover along the way. No? Thanks for your comment, Sheena! Love this chat.

      1. I spent nap-time today working on some post and then after nap-time we went outside and I carried my camera with me and took some pictures for a few post. After I got my children in the bed I ended up back on the computer editing pictures, writing post and doing some other blog work. That was four hours ago now..lol. I seem to do better late at night than I do early in the mornings. But I have to plan time to take pictures during the day.

        1. I am a night owl, too! And I’m a little nervous about how that impact the blog when we have kids one day. It’s usually after midnight when I get my best writing done…so maybe that’s when I need to try some timed writing time. (And I’m with you – – I have to remind myself to work on projects during the day when there’s natural light, otherwise my tutorials would all have that yellow hue from being taken indoors at night. Blech!)

  52. I’ve always known that storytelling was key, but I find myself struggling to write a story when my current posts are centered around the photos I take. Especially as many of the posts are from my trip to Europe last summer and all my experiences were one big marvel after another. I think what’s happening is that I’m trying to avoid cliched expressions, try to write something that expresses the emotions i felt, and in the process I struggle find my voice. You’re definitely on spot though and I’ll have to spend some more time consciously honing my storytelling skills. Thanks for the encouragement Lauren! It came at a much needed time!

    1. I’m glad to hear it was an encouragement to you, even if you’ve sometimes struggled to incorporate story into photo journeys. And actually, I had to pop over to your blog to read some of your recent posts, and I have to say, I think you’re doing a great job of finding your “way in.” You do a fantastic job of bringing the reader along with you. Sometimes it’s with a thoughtfully posed question to the “you.” Other times, it’s using sensory details to transport us. i.e. “While I’ve stood in lines for art exhibits in the past, I don’t ever recall standing in line for a photography exhibit. In the sun. On a hot summer day.” I don’t doubt that it was a challenge for you to get there, but allow me to be your cheerleader for a moment, saying that I think you’re on the right path! And I know there’s plenty more story and voice where these came from. Keep on keeping on, Kim!

    1. Ay, there’s the rub! One of my favorite Madeleine L’Engle quotes comes to mind: “Inspiration usually comes during work, not before it.” And so I have to remember to just sit down and write, even when I don’t think I have a story to tell. Inevitably, one finds me!

      Thanks for stopping by and being the rockstar friend you are. And yes, Abby is killin’ it! So proud to say I know fantastic blogger buds like her and you!

  53. Alright, you are seriously amazing with words! I actually watched your video last night and I loved it. Loved this post as well! Thanks so much for sharing your wisdom! Have an awesome week!

    1. That can be a fear we bloggers all struggle with – – for sure. But I think if it’s important and worthwhile to you, it has the power to become important and worthwhile to your readers – – especially if you really let your passion shine through! It can feel risky to go there sometimes, but once you experience that kind of liberated writing, it’s addicting. And you’ll never want to hold back again!

  54. We are DIY Home & Garden bloggers and if wasn’t for purchasing Abby’s Building A Framework ebook our blog would not have come to fruition. She has shared her knowledge in a step by step format making it easier to walk through each chapter. Abby has been there and her generosity of sharing what she has learned saved us a lot of time and frustration!

    1. It’s so wonderful to “meet” you Diane and Dean and hear how Building a Framework has been such an incredible resource for you two, too! And you hit the nail on the head there with the word “generosity.” I’m declaring it as Abby’s new middle name!

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