If you’re new here: I currently earn around $30,000 a month from blogging, which naturally leads to a lot of questions about how to start and grow a blog.
Recently I received an email from a reader who doesn’t yet have a blog. His question inspired this post because I know many people are in that same early phase—thinking about starting a blog but unsure where to begin.
Here’s an excerpt from his email:
The main reason I’m reaching out is that, while I find your current success inspiring, I’m more interested in how you began. I’ve read the beginner’s guides on your site, but it’s the psychological startup phase that worries me most. Would you share more about your beginnings?
Below are key things to consider before you start a blog, based on my experience and common pitfalls I’ve seen others face.
Do you want to blog for money or as a creative outlet?
I launched my blog in August 2011, and I didn’t expect it would grow into a full-time income. I began writing mainly as an outlet. After losing my father and going through other difficult personal events, I needed a place to process my thoughts and track progress. Looking back at those early posts is still entertaining and humbling.
Be honest with yourself: are you blogging to make money, or do you want a personal, creative space? That distinction shapes your decisions—from platform choice to content strategy and time commitment.
How much do you want to spend upfront?
Starting a blog can be very inexpensive, and sometimes free, but costs vary depending on your goals. If you want to monetize or maintain full control, avoid free hosted solutions like Blogger. I recommend starting on WordPress because it’s affordable and gives you ownership and flexibility.
Typical expenses for a self-hosted WordPress blog include:
- Hosting — Often available for under $5 per month from many providers.
- Domain — Usually $10–$15 per year.
- Design — You can DIY for free, hire inexpensive designers for around $100, or invest in a professional custom design that costs much more.
Do you enjoy writing?
Blogging is writing. It’s different from academic or business writing, but it still requires clear thought, editing, and effort. Many new bloggers stop after a few months because it takes time to craft quality posts, engage on social media, and build an audience. If you enjoy writing and communicating, you’re much more likely to stick with it.
Are you comfortable with your content existing online forever?
Once something is published online, it can be archived, copied, or viewed even after deletion. Treat online publishing as essentially permanent and think carefully about what you post, especially if it involves personal or sensitive details.
Do you like interacting with people?
Blogging involves people—readers, commenters, peers in your niche, and potential clients. You don’t have to be extroverted, but a basic willingness to engage, respond to comments, and collaborate with others helps. The blogging community is one of the most rewarding parts of the process: connections, support, and shared learning make blogging far more enjoyable and effective.
Why did you start your blog? What advice would you give someone thinking of starting one?
If you don’t have a blog yet and think you’re ready, here are practical next steps to explore:
- How to start a blog — A step-by-step guide to setting up hosting, registering a domain, and configuring WordPress for beginners who want to do it themselves.
- How to make money blogging — An overview of monetization methods, including advertising, sponsored content, products, and services.
- Blogger or WordPress? — A comparison of platforms and tips on moving from Blogger to WordPress if you want more control and growth potential.
Starting a blog is a meaningful project whether you want a creative outlet or a business. Decide your purpose, budget realistically, commit to learning and writing, and be mindful that what you publish can last indefinitely. If you’re prepared for those realities, blogging can be a rewarding and impactful experience.