Top Blogging Resources and Tips for New Bloggers

I love blogging. It has been a learning journey ever since I nervously clicked “publish” on my very first post on August 4, 2010. (I had to check the date — fun fact: my upcoming two-year blog anniversary falls on our 22nd wedding anniversary.)

Every blogger’s beginning is different. Some blogs take off quickly, while others grow slowly but steadily. I didn’t even read many blogs before I started my own, and I probably wouldn’t have taken that first step if my friend Kim hadn’t sat with me and guided me through each part of the process. (Thanks, Kim!)

Along the way, a few generous bloggers shared their stories and tips, and they became my virtual teachers. Below are five of the most helpful blog-series and resources I’ve found. I hope these recommendations help you whether you’re just starting or need a push to move forward with your blog.

(Of course I wanted to include photos. Most of these images were taken on a recent Sunday evening drive with my husband. I remember him saying, “Why don’t you step away from the computer and come for a drive?” See point five below… )

1. Gail’s “The Bold and the Beautiful — Your Blog Reviewed” series on My Repurposed Life was one of the first comprehensive blogging resources I discovered. I still have pages of notes from that series. Gail’s follow-up post, “Blog Tips for New Bloggers,” offers practical, actionable guidance and is especially helpful if you began on the Blogger platform.

2. Sarah from A Beach Cottage offers a series called “Real Girl Blog Tips.” Her post on “5 Blog Essentials” distills core principles every blogger should consider—simple, realistic advice that’s especially friendly for new creators looking to build a consistent and engaging blog.

3. If you’re considering turning your blog into an income source, Crystal Paine’s free e-book “How to Make Money Blogging” (from MoneySavingMom) is a solid introduction. The early chapters clearly explain what blogging involves and provide a realistic view of the work and rewards, making it a useful resource for both beginners and bloggers exploring monetization strategies.

4. Infarrantly Creative shares an extended, twelve-part personal blog story that reads like a mentorship in written form. I found these posts encouraging and full of practical perspective when I needed reassurance. Reading an experienced blogger’s journey in detail helped me make better decisions and reminded me that steady progress matters more than overnight success.

5. Support at home matters. Blogging can be time-consuming and, yes, a little addictive. Beth from Home Stories A to Z wrote a thoughtful piece on “How to Blog-Proof Your Marriage” that collects wise tips from many successful bloggers. Making space for relationships and setting healthy boundaries around blogging time will help you sustain creativity without straining important connections.

As you read advice from experienced bloggers, you’ll notice common themes: many repeat the same core guidance in different ways, while others take opposing positions on particular topics. Use discernment and adopt the practices that align with your goals and values. What works for one blogger may not suit another, and that’s okay.

If you’re new to blogging, take heart. Even well-known bloggers have discouraging days, and there will always be larger blogs out there. The reality is you can’t control everyone else’s success—only your approach and consistency.

Do your thing, enjoy the process, and be patient with growth. Happy blogging!