The process of actually writing blog content could be the biggest hurdle between an idea and a success. Content creation must be treated as a priority or there will always be a valid excuse for putting it off. Whether you manage your organization’s blog or are responsible for the content remind yourself: there is time to blog.
Blogging doesn’t have to take hours out of the day. Instead, blogging can be done in small windows of time that fit into your schedule. It all begins by considering blogging as important and throwing out the excuse of not having enough time.
Create a task to write a blog and set a deadline.
Treat creating blog content like other work tasks by holding yourself accountable. Look at the calendar, block off time, and then spend that time developing blog content.
Create a task for yourself in Asana, or Slack, or whichever application you use to track assignments. Hold time for researching, writing and editing blogs so blogging becomes a series of manageable tasks rather than a big process you don’t enjoy.
This doesn’t mean you have to block off three hours at a time for blog exploration. Start with 30 minutes to work on the blog then adjust time as necessary. Remember, it’s about creating a pattern that works for you.
There are different ways to write. It’s important to find something that fits your situation. Not everyone will have the luxury of writing in a cabin as they overlook ducks on a lake. You have to do what makes sense.
Put a “do not disturb” sign on the door, write in a distraction-free window that isn’t populated with countless tabs of things meant to be read at some point, and draw out your ideas via doodles. You can even dictate the blog to your phone or computer. In fact, that method may make traffic jams more inspirational and less frustrating.
You don’t have to write like everyone else to develop a good blog post. Blogs benefit from the author’s personality, so put your twist on things when finding a writing style.
Don’t back your blog into a corner. Find the writing styles that make your topic shine.
Not every blog will be the same. The key is to see varying styles as opportunities instead of challenges.
There are variety of blogging styles, including reviewing a study or publication, conducting an interview, writing evergreen content (like this blog post you’re reading now!), and using images to speak for you. Knowing there are different roads to take can ease the pain of a blank page. If you’re continually running into writing roadblocks, then consider switching styles to see if there’s a better fit.
Be thoughtful of how you approach blogging by considering the overall importance and benefits of the blog. Do what works and change what doesn’t.
Find ways to use your time blogging by simply starting. Discover which timeframes, writing environment, and which subjects keep you interested. Being mindful of these activities will help overcome the excuse of “not enough time” and help you create a blog experience that keeps readers engaged with your message.
Have thoughts about blogging you want to share? Connect with us on Twitter @ReachStrategies and let us know what you think.
