Blogging completely changed my life, and it’s funny to think that I had no idea what blogs were until just before I started one in 2011. Back then, I never realized you could make money from blogging. I didn’t even look into it because that wasn’t my goal. I certainly never thought blogging would drastically change my future, but I’m so glad I gave it a shot.
When I started, I had so many questions and learned 99% of what I know the hard way—by making mistakes. I know many new bloggers probably have the same questions I had because I get around 100 emails a day from readers wanting to know how to start a blog and make money from it. So, I hope today’s post will help answer some of those questions.
Blogging can seem scary at first, but remember that most bloggers were in the same place when they started. It’s not as easy as it looks, but it’s something you can do. You can make money blogging and work towards living the life you want.
Blogging has allowed my husband and me to leave our day jobs, travel full-time, see family and friends more often, meet great people, and live an amazing life. Because of this experience, I love helping others learn how to start a blog. I never thought it would be possible, but here I am. Plus, I know many other bloggers in various niches who are making a great living online.
While there’s no 100% guarantee you’ll be able to earn a full-time living from blogging, I know many bloggers who are doing it full-time and are very happy with it. Today’s post is all about answering the common questions I get about starting a blog and making money from it.
### Is 2024 too late to start a website/blog?
No, it’s not too late, and you haven’t missed out. It’s a great time to start a blog. People were saying the same thing when I first started in 2011, but that wasn’t the case then, and it’s not the case now. The online world is still new, and each year brings new ways to monetize and grow your blog. Companies and advertisers are increasingly recognizing the value of online influencers, such as bloggers, which means more opportunities to make money.
### How do I come up with a blog name and URL?
Choosing a name for your blog is one of the hardest parts of blogging. Even if you know your topic and have articles ready, deciding on a name can be a hurdle. Here are some tips:
– **Make it easy:** Ensure your blog name is easy to type or spell.
– **Think about your content:** Consider what you’ll be writing about and jot down related words.
– **Use a thesaurus:** Find similar words if your first choices are taken.
– **Make it catchy:** Consider something funny or memorable.
– **Use your name:** If you’re stuck, using your name is always an option.
### What topics should I write about to earn money blogging?
You don’t have to write about blogging to make money. Many successful bloggers cover various niches like health, fashion, DIY, finance, travel, and more. Choose a topic you’re passionate about, an expert in, or simply enjoy. This makes blogging fun rather than a chore. You can blog about multiple topics or focus on one specific area.
### Should my blog be self-hosted? What does that mean?
Yes, your blog should be self-hosted if you want to make money. I recommend starting on self-hosted WordPress. It makes your blog look more professional and increases your chances of monetizing. Plus, you have full control over your blog, and it can’t be deleted without reason.
### How much do I have to spend before I can earn money blogging?
When I started, I spent almost nothing on blogging expenses. You don’t need to spend a lot to make money. Some expenses might include a computer, blog design, hosting, courses, and an email list, but you can start with minimal investment.
### Do I need a lot of readers to start making money from a blog?
You don’t need millions of pageviews to make money, but increasing your pageviews can help. Here are some tips:
– Publish high-quality posts.
– Be active on Pinterest and other social media.
– Post regularly.
– Network with other bloggers.
– Guest post.
– Make it easy for readers to share your content.
– Create catchy headlines.
– Learn SEO.
– Make it easy for readers to browse your blog.
### How do beginner bloggers make money?
Beginner bloggers can make money through display advertising, affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, product sales, and staff writing. Display advertising is usually the easiest way to start, but it may not bring in a lot initially.
### Can you make money on TikTok?
Yes, you can. Check out resources like “How I Make Money On TikTok – How I Grew To 350,000 Followers and Made $60,000 In 6 Weeks” for more information.
### Do you have to pay taxes on blogging income?
Yes, blogging income is taxable. I recommend reading resources on blogging and taxes to understand your obligations.
### Where do you get your photos from?
I use my own photos and stock photos from sources like Ivory Mix. It’s important to use images legally to avoid issues.
### Why do I need an email list for my blog?
An email list is crucial for engaging with your readers and promoting products. It’s a direct line to your audience, not subject to social media algorithms. Building an email list can significantly boost your blogging income.
### What blogging ebooks and courses do you recommend?
Here are some recommendations:
– **Making Sense of Affiliate Marketing:** Learn how to make passive income from blogging.
– **21 Strategies I Used to Increase My Monthly Page Views:** Great for increasing blog traffic.
– **Making Sense of Sponsored Posts:** Learn how to earn money through sponsored partnerships.
### How can I learn how to use social media for my blog?
Social media is vital for engaging with readers and driving traffic. Courses like Pinterest Traffic Avalanche and resources like Simple Pin Media can help you master social media strategies.
### How do you think of ideas for new blog posts?
I get ideas from life experiences, reader questions, research, brainstorming, and surveying readers. Keeping a running list of potential topics helps me stay organized and inspired.
### If blogging is so great, why doesn’t everyone do it?
Blogging is not a get-rich-quick scheme. It requires hard work and dedication. Many new bloggers quit within a few months because they don’t realize how much effort it takes. However, if you stick with it, blogging can be incredibly rewarding.
### How to make money blogging for beginners
To start making money from a blog, find a web host, determine your niche, start email marketing, and learn about different monetization methods. Follow the step-by-step guide above to get started.
What other questions do you have about how to earn money blogging?