Living a tasteful life

Monday, October 12, 2015

1 Year Blogging Anniversary


Today I'm celebrating one year since the debut of A Polished Palate! I'm proud to say that I made it through the first year and I look forward to continuing on this journey. I wanted to start a blog for quite some time, but it took a while for me to gain the courage to actually do it. Putting your thoughts out there for the world to judge is a bit nerve racking, however, I'm so glad that I decided to do it. Honestly, my biggest regret is not doing it sooner. Today I want to reflect and share with you a few things that I've learned through my blogging journey this past year.

1. You don't have to post everyday.

When I first began my blog, I felt the need to post content every single day. I began to realize that it's more about quality over quantity. It's okay if I don't have a post everyday, and quite honestly, it's normal. Life is busy and I want my blog to remain enjoyable, and for that reason I decided to stop putting so much pressure on myself to create content five days a week.

2. Writer's block can and will happen.

There are times when I've found myself staring at my computer screen, searching for the right words to express my thoughts. I've actually spent hours scouring the internet in hopes of sparking an idea for an interesting topic to discuss. I've realized that sometimes I just need to step away and clear my mind. On multiple occasions,  I've come up with great post ideas while laying in bed at night or while I'm in the shower. It's when I have a clear mind and I'm not focusing so hard, that I come up with some of my favorite posts.

3. Supporting other bloggers through commenting is an appreciated gesture.

When I first started this blog, I often wondered if anyone was even reading. I then thought back to the times when I had come across great blog posts but never left a comment, or shared my thoughts with the blogger. I really enjoy receiving comments on my blog. It reminds me that there are people out there reading and that I'm not just talking to myself. So the next time you come across a good post, share a little positive feedback. :)

4. Patience is important.

Patience, it's definitely not my middle name. I try very hard to remind myself that "good things come to those who wait." After just a few months of blogging, several people would ask me if I had any companies reaching our for collaborations yet. I would get frustrated when my answer was no, and often had to remind myself that it doesn't happen overnight. Blogging takes time and effort. Companies want to see that your are putting your best content out there and that you aren't going to disappear overnight. It took me a while to realize this, but I finally did. I by no means have a ton of collaboration experience, however I've recently started receiving a few inquiries here and there. It takes time for people to realize you exist and it took time for me to understand that. Patience is key.

5. You will make some great friends along the way. 

From attending blogger events to getting to know someone via the web, blogging has opened a door to new friendships for me. I've made friends with people that I haven't ever actually met in person. I've also met a lot of new friends through blogger socials and local events. For me, blogging has filled a void. From being on the cheerleading squad in high school, joining a sorority in college to being a part of other various groups, I've always been a social person. I realized that I needed some sort of social activity in my life after moving to Charleston and starting my job, which is one reason I decided to start blogging. I'm so thankful for the new friends I've made, and I look forward to meeting more!


Thank you to everyone out there for your support and following along! 



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3 comments

  1. happy blogging anniversary!! so happy i found your blog! xo jillian - cornflake dreams

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    1. Thanks! And thank you for following along. I'm glad I found your blog as well. :)

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