Let’s Talk Bookish is a weekly meme hosted by Aria @ Book Nook Bits and Dani @ Literary Lion where we discuss certain topics, share our opinions, and spread the love by visiting each other’s posts.
Even though I have been blogging for over five years, I am far from an expert! I haven’t updated my site or graphics in a while and I don’t analyze my stats, I am just here to gush about books and there is still a lot about blogging that I have to learn. That said, I have realized some things over the last few years that I would love to share with anyone just starting.
What have you learned since you first started blogging?
I have learned that though consistency is key, it is so important to take breaks to avoid burnout. I have seen a lot of bloggers come and go over the last five years, and I completely understand why people quit. This is a lot of work for something that is supposed to be a hobby and it can be difficult to find time to do it or the motivation when it can feel like you are speaking into a void! Do this for as long as you love it, but don’t force it if it isn’t fun for you anymore.
I have also learned a lot about SEO and other technical jargon that I still don’t completely understand but is fun to research! I think my writing has improved as well. I have also learned that blogging is my happy place within the online book community. I have a bookstagram and a BookTube channel, but I feel most at home here. That is because of all of the support my fellow bloggers have shown me throughout the years, so thank you!
What is your favourite thing about blogging?
I think my favourite thing is that I never feel like I am holding back here. I can write book reviews, recommendation lists, tags, etc. and you will all support me. It is not about how pretty a picture is or how eye-catching a thumbnail is, people who read blogs just want to read what you have to say about books and it doesn’t have to be fancy. I absolutely love that about this community!
What is the hardest part of blogging for you?
A lot of it can be hard, but I think it has been finding the time lately. Like I said, I am very involved in the online book community and it can be difficult to balance it all, but it is worth it to me! I also think it can feel like book bloggers aren’t valued as much as they should be, but that is an entirely different conversation!
Is there anything you wish you’d done differently with your blog?
Honestly, there is nothing I can think of that I would have done differently! Starting this blog was one of the best decisions I have ever made and I wouldn’t change anything about the journey. I do wish that I had stayed in touch with bloggers who no longer post though. It can be sad to see your friends just disappear from the community!
I would love to know all of your answers to these questions!
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