I often get a lot of questions about how to start a blog, figuring out your niche, and growing an authentic following. I can honestly say it didn’t happen overnight and takes a lot of hard work and dedication. One mistake that I see a lot bloggers making when first starting out is trying to be everything. Whether it be trying to blog about every topic, or shoot in every location possible, I wish someone would’ve told me I didn’t have be everything when I first started. Thankfully over the years (and through some trial and error) I’ve found what I’m most passionate about. It’s so easy to get caught up in the blogging “bubble”, especially with platforms like Instagram at our fingertips. Rather it be constant comparison, the desire for instant gratification, or seeing someone “living their best life”. I’d be lying if I said Instagram didn’t cause me some sort of stress each day in my life.. How many likes will this photo get? Is the algorithm going to work in my favor today? Does this picture fit in with my feed? Why are they having more fun than me? (In reality they probably weren’t having that much fun).
It’s instances like this that remind me to take a step back and realize that Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will I be. The truth is, I honestly started seeing a lot of success in my blog when I started truly being myself. I know you’ve probably heard that a million times. But no one is you and that is your power. If you try and imitate someone else’s aesthetic or style, it might work for a little bit, but it’s not going to work in the long run. I can’t even count the numerous times I’ve seen someone post a photo wearing the SAME outfit, in the exact SAME location, doing the SAME pose as someone I saw on my feed 2 weeks prior. I can promise you that people are going to notice and it’s not going to help you stand out. I used to try to do this, because I always thought — if it’s working for someone else, why doesn’t it work for me? Eventually it got exhausting. Mentally and physically. That’s when I decided to just be happy with myself, because how could I find my perfect fit if I was trying to fit into someone else’s version? It’s important to remember that what works for someone, might not work for everyone.
My biggest advice for finding your perfect fit in both real life and in the blogging world is to take things day by day. Don’t be afraid to try new things. Eventually, through some trial and error, you’ll find your niche. And when you do you’ll know it’s right. I’ve dedicated countless hours to figuring out what I want to do with my blog. It wasn’t until I stopped trying to be someone else, that I started finding what works for ME and being satisfied with my own Instagram page and blog. I’m honestly not 100% there yet, but I’m working on it. Blogging should be fun, not stressful! You’ll have some good days and some bad, but I promise you’ll see success. It’s just how the universe works. There isn’t a handbook on how to do life, and there are no rules on what your timeline for success should look like. And don’t forget to love yourself first. Some days I just have to put down the phone and read a book or take my dog on a walk. I think it’s so important to stay surrounded (and grounded) by things that I find most important, because the internet will be there when I get back.
I love that brands like Express are encouraging people to find their perfect fit with their new denim. Finding your fit is about more than just measurements, it’s about feeling confident and finding the perfect fit for me. Whether I’m shooting for my blog or heading to the office, what I wear definitely helps define my mood. It’s so hard for me to find a pair of jeans that fit just right. Express Denim is designed to fit, flatter and flex to create your BEST silhouette. I’m wearing these high waisted, dark wash jeans and absolutely love them. They fit true to size, and are truly a perfect fit. I paired them with these leopard block heeled sandals, and a plain v-neck tee. You can shop my entire look below!
*Thank you to Express for sponsoring this post!*
I really loved this! It is nice to see the REAL beneath all the filters and presets if bloggers. Thank you for your honesty and encouragement.
Thank you, Theresa! SO happy I could provide some encouragement! xo
Love this post! I know as bloggers we hear it all the time to just be yourself but it’s so true and important! Oh and your puppy is sooo adorable! Xoxo ?
Thank you so much, Kristina! xo