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Life Lessons I’ve Learned Through Blogging

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Life Lessons I’ve Learned Through Blogging

Writing a blog seems so easy and simple, doesn’t it?

I started writing my first blog when I was 15. Back then, blogs were those online journals where you’d write about your day. This blog, is completely different from the one I wrote twelve years ago. Running this one involves a lot of amazing things, meeting brilliant people. BUT, it also involves a lot of self-doubt, self-criticism and fear.

Honestly, I don’t think I even remember how it felt NOT to have this blog. It’s so much more than just me telling you which foundation I currently like or which lipstick was my favorite last month. It’s become such an important part of my life, an outlet for my creativity and sort of a tool-one that helped me grow and learn a lot of things about myself.

These are some of the Life Lessons I’ve Learned Through Blogging.

DON’T EVER UNDERESTIMATE YOURSELF

About three years ago, I was contacted by a certain clothing company. I didn’t have a ton of “followers” but I was already getting some decent traffic. I won’t lie, I was a little excited. It’s just a really cool feeling, knowing that a big brand gives you some recognition and takes time to reach out to you. The story was that the brand wanted me to write an article featuring them. For free. They also weren’t willing to send me any products, as “we don’t have an established relationship“. How am I supposed to feature a brand whose products I haven’t used? This just didn’t make sense to me. Why would I give them free advertising? I thought about it for a moment, and sent an email back, saying that I appreciate them getting in touch with me, but I can’t possibly write about a brand or a product I’ve never used before. I thanked them for the opportunity, and that was it.

That was the very first time I’ve ever said “no” to a PR-related offer (if you can even call it that). The next day, I get a reply saying “LOL you’re funny! You only have 30 Twitter followers, you really think you’re in a position to negotiate anything?” Needless to say, that response was beyond unprofessional, and it left me feeling pretty upset.

Then I got to thinking… if I clearly don’t fit certain criteria, why reach out to me? Obviously, there must have been something about my blog that they liked- otherwise, they wouldn’t try to get me to feature them, would they? That was when I learned that you should never underestimate yourself. You should always know your worth and never let others discourage you from doing what you like. I’ve invested a ton of money in this blog. I use expensive equipment and it takes a lot of time for me to create content (which I do in addition to working full-time, so I have to be very selective about the type of content I put out there). I always make sure to stay true to myself and to create the kind of content I’m proud of. While I love collaborating with some fabulous brands (and there are many of them, trust me) I will not be writing an 800-word article featuring a brand whose products I haven’t used, in exchange for a free pair of socks, any time soon.

To me, it’s not about getting free stuff or only collaborating with brands who are willing to sponsor content. It’s about staying true to myself. I don’t want to feel obligated to write about something I don’t like or wouldn’t personally use. This is why I decline about 80% of offers that come my way. I’ve learned that sometimes you have to say “no” to good things, so you can say “yes” to even better things.

TRYING NEW THINGS CAN BE FUN

Doing things that scare you, getting a little uncomfortable, is good for you. That’s when you discover new things about yourself, that’s when you grow. I was so afraid to write about some things- like opening up about my personal struggles, or giving out advice to others. It ended up being one of the best things I’ve ever done for my blog. If I didn’t find that courage to try something different, something new, I would have missed out, big time.

Another thing is that I don’t make new friends easily. I also hate networking. With blogging, I was able to learn how to do both of those things, at my own pace, on my own terms. I’ve learned how to connect with others and how to build new relationships- both on a personal and business level.

blogging

IT’S OKAY TO MAKE MISTAKES

I used to be terrified of making mistakes. I’m the type of person who’ll beat themselves up for them and I’m slowly learning to let go of that. Not being a native English speaker, I sometimes would find myself constantly questioning everything I write. Every single time I’d notice a small grammar error or a spelling mistake in a post that was already published, I’d feel paranoid. I’d literally feel my heart rate go up and a cold sweat wash over me and wouldn’t calm down until I was able to edit those mistakes out. It’s such a stupid, irrational fear.

Making mistakes is one of the only ways to learn. Whether it’d be collaborating with a brand I didn’t really feel comfortable with, creating a different type of content than usual, focusing on the wrong things, etc. Blogging is one of those things that you learn more and more about, the more you get into it. You kind of need to figure out what works best for you and you can’t do that without making a few mistakes along the way.

Do you self-critize after making a mistake? If you do, you probably know that it doesn’t make things any better- it actually makes them worse. Try to challenge your need for perfectionism and embrace your mistakes. Think of wabi-sabi- a Japanese art of finding beauty in imperfection, beauty that is imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete. This is something that can also be applied to life, not just art. The fact that you make mistakes is what makes you authentic, so if you happen to make them, don’t beat yourself up, embrace it. Forgive yourself and move on.

YOU CAN’T WAIT FOR THAT PERFECT MOMENT TO COME

When I closed down my first blog and created Lifestyle Gleam, I wanted it to be perfect. I wanted to have nice photos, a good layout and great content. I was kind of frustrated when I first started getting into photography and discovered just how much I suck at it. I didn’t know how to tweak my blog design and was completely clueless when it came to using WordPress. I barely posted any content and kept telling myself “I’ll just wait until I get a hang of this camera” or “I’ll just wait until I get some studio lights“. Truth is, the only way for me to actually learn something, was to start. If I hadn’t put that perfectionistic thinking behind, I’d miss out on finding something that I’m passionate about, something that brings a lot of joy into my life.

You can’t wait for that perfect moment. If you wait, it’ll never come. Trust me on this one. I think that a lot us of spend majority of our time waiting. I hear people say, all the time: “I just can’t wait to get a better job“, “I will be happy when I get a bigger house” or “I will be happy when I’ll meet the one“, “I will start once I’m ready.” You can spend your entire life, saying these things.

You can spend the rest of your life waiting to start living.

My advice? Don’t. Don’t wait. If you want to do something, start now.

life-lessons-blogging

140 Comments

  • Reply
    BlonDee
    September 28, 2016 at 8:05 am

    This is such a lovely post, and truly helpful! :)
    P.s your blog is gorgeous!
    X

  • Reply
    Lola
    September 28, 2016 at 8:11 am

    Great post, specially the waiting for the perfect moment part, perfectionism can really hold us back sometimes. Thank you for sharing this

    http://technicolor-heart.blogspot.com

  • Reply
    Christine C.
    September 28, 2016 at 8:54 am

    I seriously can’t get over some of the emails I have received from PR people, but I will say that none of them have been as unprofessional as the reply that you were sent. WOW! i struggle with the whole idea of being “perfect” and having a blog has taken that issue to a whole new level, but it’s something that I’m working on! Great post! I am so glad that I stumbled on your blog!

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      September 29, 2016 at 8:14 am

      Letting go of that need to be perfect is definitely a process. It feels weird when I mention some of my past struggles and someone tells me “omg I thought you had this perfect life” no, I don’t. I want my readers to realize that you don’t need to be perfect all the time or have a perfect life in order to be happy and fulfilled. :)

      Thank you so much Christine! x

  • Reply
    Jen
    September 28, 2016 at 9:18 am

    I don’t remember how I found your blog, but I am so grateful I did. You are so inspiring to me. Keep on rockin’ Paula!

    http://decoratethesoul.blogspot.com/

  • Reply
    Ambar Syed
    September 28, 2016 at 9:20 am

    I love this post Paula – these are all really good lessons. I’ve only been blogging for nearly a year and I can really feel the amount I’ve learnt building every week. From photography, to writing style, to the way a post is presented, I’m learning gradually and I think we all go through the same process. What you’ve written in this post is really inspiring, thank you for sharing :)
    – Ambar x
    http://www.herlittleloves.co.uk

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      September 29, 2016 at 8:21 am

      Thank you Ambar! Blogging is definitely a great way to grow, in more than just one way. I honestly can’t imagine my life without it now :)

  • Reply
    Leneth
    September 28, 2016 at 11:02 am

    This post is so motivational, especially the part about not waiting for something to happen. I’m a big believer in that you have to work hard for what you want, it won’t just get thrown at you! Pinning this for later ! x

  • Reply
    Erin Azmir
    September 28, 2016 at 11:08 am

    This is inspiring. Thank you Paula x

    Erin | http://www.erinazmir.com

  • Reply
    Lauren Bunting
    September 28, 2016 at 12:01 pm

    Really interesting and inspiring post. Your blog is gorgeous!
    Lauren xx
    http://www.aestheticalblog.blogspot.com

  • Reply
    Naomi Andrews
    September 28, 2016 at 12:07 pm

    Great post Paula! It’s both encouraging and inspiring to me to read what you’ve learned! It’s so easy to be critical of myself when I blog but I’m so encouraged by your words and advice! Thank you!!

  • Reply
    Kim Petersen
    September 28, 2016 at 12:20 pm

    This was such a beautiful post to read. First of all, you know I LOVE your blog and am always grateful for the advice you give, so I’m happy you do that! Second, it is so scary and you see all these creative people around you and you think you are the only one who feels any of the feelings so it’s nice to know even amazing bloggers like you have been there. Love this! XO -Kim

  • Reply
    RobynLouiiise
    September 28, 2016 at 1:38 pm

    Your closing statement is really how I try to live my life. You never know what is coming round the corner so just exactly what you want to do and do it now. Amazing post and so nice to read. Thank you!

    Robyn x | <a Robyn | RobynLouiiise

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      September 29, 2016 at 8:42 am

      I totally agree on that Robyn, you definitely can’t spend your entire life waiting for a perfect moment to do all the things you want to do! Thanks so much!

  • Reply
    Janet
    September 28, 2016 at 2:22 pm

    A quote I love is, “Waiting for happiness is what hell is all about”. SO, so try. Find your passion and go for it.

    As far as the companies that want free advertising…it’s funny. When I tell them no I later see another blogger who took the bait.

    Jane

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      September 29, 2016 at 8:48 am

      Love that quote Jane, it’s definitely very true. I see that happen all the time, too. I don’t really think there’s particularly anything wrong with that, if that’s what they want to do.

      I do think though, that some brands take advantage of bloggers and a lot of bloggers underestimate themselves and don’t think they should ask for samples or a fee for featuring a brand or a product.

  • Reply
    Katie S.
    September 28, 2016 at 2:57 pm

    Ugh, that last point hits home so hard!! I’m guilty of that on not just a blogging level, but a million other ones. I’ve gotten better at overcoming it but it’s tough! Blogging is such an interesting journey and I’m right there with you as far as having a Livejournal that I used to use every day. A bunch of my friends and I had our own domains with blogs too! We were bloggers before we even knew it! But it was FAR less work that blogging is nowadays. But it really is such a learning experience as well as a discipline. And PS – I can’t believe that e-mail. I’m sure working with them would have probably been a bit of a nightmare. it’s astounding how rude people feel entitled to be.

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      September 29, 2016 at 8:54 am

      Oh I am guilty of that too, trust me Katie! Overcoming that is definitely a process. Haha yes I was so upset when I got that email and really wanted to send them a nasty reply, but my husband forced me to just let it go, I’m glad I did! it didn’t really have anything to do with the fact that they didn’t want to send me the product, it was just that reply that really bothered me. lol I say “no” to probably 80% of offers that come my way, but nowadays I only deal with very professional , kind and understanding people, even when I decline their offers, so there’s that haha ;)

  • Reply
    makeupsessions
    September 28, 2016 at 3:16 pm

    Great post Paula! English is also my second language so I always doubt myself when I write but I think in now days it’s easier with computers and auto correct :)

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      September 29, 2016 at 8:55 am

      Thanks Beti! Oh I had no idea, I’d never be able to tell! That right there shows that you definitely shouldn’t doubt yourself :) :)

  • Reply
    Mammafulzo
    September 28, 2016 at 3:28 pm

    This is such a brilliant post, you’re right about self worth and waiting for things, I am terrible for the “I’ll do it when” phrase, I am going to try my best to stop doing that from now on xx

    Zoe MammafulZo

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      September 29, 2016 at 8:58 am

      Thanks Zoe! I definitely stopped saying “I’ll do it when” as often as I did and it forced me to try a lot of new things and I only wish I’d started doing it sooner!

  • Reply
    Emily Trinh
    September 28, 2016 at 3:42 pm

    I completely agree with all these points especially the last one about not waiting for the perfect moment. I always tend to wait until inspiration hits or my writer’s block leaves to work on my creative writing but I am trying to learn to write consistently, get started and just do it.

    http://www.emilytrinh.com/like-clouds/

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      September 29, 2016 at 9:08 am

      Thanks Emily! It doesn’t always work that well for me, when it comes to writing, but getting started is definitely key.

  • Reply
    Paula @ The Geeky Shopaholic
    September 28, 2016 at 4:34 pm

    Love this! Especially that last one! It’s hard to beat that perfectionist thinking, but once we do – oh the wonderful things that can happen!

  • Reply
    Beautylymin
    September 28, 2016 at 4:42 pm

    Love, love, love this post!! xx

    Beautylymin| Kat Von D Contour Palette & brush Giveaway

  • Reply
    Madowo | see what I see
    September 28, 2016 at 4:59 pm

    I can definitely relate to some of the things you mentioned.

    Also in my case, me knowing blogging platforms and having a blog of my own helped me get creative internships, although, my degrees have nothing to do with creativity.

    Thanks for sharing your thoughts! I really enjoyed the blogpost and found it very encouraging!

    Xx

  • Reply
    Claudia Barnett
    September 28, 2016 at 5:10 pm

    I can’t believe a PR would email you saying that- how rude and unprofessional.

    The last point you made about “waiting for the perfect moment” is so valid. It’s also a great point to remember about life in general- it’s a journey, not a destination! x

    Claudia // Lipstick Theory // Lifestyle Blog

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      September 29, 2016 at 9:12 am

      I couldn’t believe it either haha. Thankfully, these days I only deal with very professional and kind people, even if I decline their offer.

      Thanks Claudia!

  • Reply
    Glam & The City
    September 28, 2016 at 5:29 pm

    wow this was so inspiring! and I can’t believe they said that to you, props to you for sticking to your values!!!
    http://www.GlamAndTheCity.co

  • Reply
    Sophie
    September 28, 2016 at 6:26 pm

    Such a great post, and I can’t believe how unprofessional that brand was. I love your blog and your writing style. Keep up the good work! :)

  • Reply
    Dea Andriany
    September 28, 2016 at 7:55 pm

    I applaud you for refusing that PR offer, Paula, and it was truly an unprofessional for them to do. As always, your post is always so inspiring :)

    Selene Addicted

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      September 29, 2016 at 9:14 am

      Thank you so much Dea!! That incident taught me to be picky with what and who I chose to feature on my blog. I say “no” to probably 80% of offers that come my way. So glad you enjoyed this post!

  • Reply
    Cindy Wick Nelson
    September 29, 2016 at 12:12 am

    Hi! I am just getting started in the blogging world, and even though I feel like I have learned a lot, I know there is still so much that I don’t know. That makes me feel insecure about the whole thing. I am enjoying reading everyone’s blogs. Yours has especially inspired me to keep going. Thank you! Cindy//cindysoverfiftybeauty.com

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      September 29, 2016 at 9:16 am

      I’ve been blogging for four years, and there are still so many things i don’t know or want to learn about! Don’t be to hard on yourself Cindy! Just stick to it and continue to learn, and you’ll do awesome! ;) Thanks for stopping by! x

  • Reply
    Mary Ann
    September 29, 2016 at 4:51 am

    Hi! I really enjoyed reading your blog… an inspiration to do better for my blog… Can I have a request? Can you post some tips for what to do if ever you want to find a new job when you are living in a country that there’s an age discrimination? How do you maximize your daily life while you are still working in a job that you feel sucks… thanks again

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      September 29, 2016 at 9:24 am

      Thanks so much Mary Ann! I wouldn’t know anything about finding a job in those circumstances, but I can definitely touch on the second topic you mentioned!

  • Reply
    Lauren
    September 29, 2016 at 7:23 am

    Thank you for such an honest post – really interesting to how so often these blogs (that start off as hobbies) completely change your life! I’ve just launched mine, and I’m thinking about it 24-7!! Lauren – http://www.theyoproedit.com [latest post: How to Hygge on a Budget] x

  • Reply
    Aleksandra // bunniesaremagic
    September 29, 2016 at 8:33 am

    The best thing about blogging is pushing oneself to do crazy stuff. If I didn’t have to look for new ideas, I swear as soon as it got even a little bit cold, I’d be just under my blanket and not moving anywhere till spring is back :)

  • Reply
    Rebecca Olivia Capel
    September 29, 2016 at 8:57 am

    Wow how unprofessional of that company. It’s strange how your blog changes in positive ways as time goes on without notice. When I look back on my posts from a year ago it makes me realise how far I’ve come. This was a really inspirational post, your blog is one of my favourites and definitely an inspiration to me!x

    Rebecca | Rebecca Olivia Capel

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      October 4, 2016 at 7:51 am

      That’s one of my favorite things about blogging- getting to see how far I’ve come and how much I’ve learned. It’s pretty cool! :)

  • Reply
    Odera's World
    September 29, 2016 at 9:20 am

    Thank you for this. It is sooo inspiring. I kick myself when I make mistakes but I’m learning to stop doing that. I also care too much about people’s opinions of me and I know I shouldn’t, so I turn that feeling around and use it as a motivational tool to be better.

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      October 4, 2016 at 7:52 am

      You’re welcome! I know how it feels to beat yourself over and over after making a mistake, but it’s a part of life. It’s how we learn. :)

  • Reply
    The Sunday Mode
    September 29, 2016 at 9:33 am

    That email you were sent…what the hell! I don’t know if I wouldn’t been really upset or just really annoyed and angry about that, or possibly both.

    http://www.thesundaymode.com

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      October 4, 2016 at 7:53 am

      I was really tempted to send out a nasty reply, but thankfully I didn’t haha. Ever since then, I always make sure to be extra nice, polite and professional, regardless of someone else’s attitude.

  • Reply
    Darina
    September 29, 2016 at 11:43 am

    Very inspiring post, thank you for sharing!

  • Reply
    sophie
    September 29, 2016 at 1:07 pm

    I feel like I want everything to be perfect with my blog already but I am so far from that and that is okay haha, I just need to remember that in time things will progress and will fall into place xx

    http://www.sophieblxck.com

  • Reply
    Kate
    September 29, 2016 at 1:37 pm

    Another really inspiring post Paula. I have to say, if you hadn’t said you weren’t a native English speaker, I would never have known from your writing – it’s excellent. I can’t believe that response you got – how unprofessional! Really, if we’re considered worth approaching to work with, then we’re worth paying for that work. Maybe not as much as bloggers with hundreds of thousands of followers, but still a fair wage for a good job. I think more of us need to share experiences like this, because if we all insisted on a fair deal it would be harder for companies to take advantage. x

    Kate Louise Blogs

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      October 4, 2016 at 7:59 am

      Thank you so much Kate! Oh that’s so sweet of you to say, thank you! I definitely think that it’d be great if more bloggers shared their experiences- which not always are positive. That way, we could help others not make the same mistakes, or let them know that it’s totally okay not to know something.

  • Reply
    Polly
    September 29, 2016 at 2:24 pm

    I also had a few companies reach out to me asking me to write a blog post and advertise them for free! I know I’ve been blogging for less than a year but I still have visitors and I refuse to do any work for free since so much work goes into every blog post. I can’t believe how rude and unprofessional that company was with you! Glad you know your worth because you don’t deserve to be treated like that!

    Polly
    http://gemsandjoy.com

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      October 4, 2016 at 8:03 am

      I honestly wouldn’t have a problem doing something like that for a brand that I’m familiar with and really like, but when they send me a 4 paragraph email with all these requirements they have and what they want my post to say and don’t offer any compensation… not happening!

  • Reply
    Jennifer Rose
    September 29, 2016 at 7:06 pm

    Wow, I can’t believe how that company responded. I’d LOVE to know who it was so I can be sure to never shop there but I know you can’t tell us. As a new blogger I find that I get very wrapped up in what people are thinking about my blog and the fact that I don’t get a lot of feedback makes me question my direction. An email like that might send me over the edge!

    http://www.roseofthecity.com

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      October 4, 2016 at 8:06 am

      Letting go of that- constantly thinking what others think of your blog- can help you grow. I also pay attention to what kind of posts get more interaction, comments, shares and views- and treat that as a very valuable feedback.

  • Reply
    Kathy
    September 30, 2016 at 12:52 am

    This was so helpful and inspirational. I have definitely underestimated myself a few times especially when it comes to working with brands and such! Being a new blogger can be hard especially when trying to build confidence

    Kathy x
    http://www.alongcamekathy.blogspot.co.nz

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      October 4, 2016 at 8:08 am

      Thanks so much Kathy! You should never underestimate yourself- even if you’re new to blogging. However, sometimes partnering with a fun brand (even when no compensation is involved, just product samples) can be great for a new blogger. Brands love sharing posts from bloggers on their Twitter and Facebook, so as long as you’re being careful and not let anyone take advantage of you, it can be a great opportunity to expand your audience.

  • Reply
    Kelly Stanton
    September 30, 2016 at 9:52 am

    I so agree with all! So refreshing to read and compare notes to another blogger! xx
    http://www.KELLiLASH.com

  • Reply
    Olivia W
    October 1, 2016 at 11:02 am

    I’ve realized too that perfect moments just do not exist. You have to create it yourself. I love this post x

    https://wineandwhine99.wordpress.com/

  • Reply
    Donovan Tribe
    October 1, 2016 at 9:42 pm

    Great encouraging thoughts. I am currently building my first website using wordpress with very generous help from a tech friend. I registered domain name nearly a year ago and have been in the same mindset you describe here and beating myself up for letting the project languish for months. Now that the website is becoming a real space, I am worrying over content. Blah, blah, enough of me. It was uplifting to know that my doubts and anxiety are normal. That even successful bloggers have to start somewhere, and when you are putting yourself out there for the public, you feel exposed and vulnerable. That may be where the best content originates from.

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      October 4, 2016 at 8:14 am

      Don’t worry about the content too much- just put it out there! :) It might take a while to find your style of writing (if you don’t already write) so starting is the best way to figure it all out ;)

      Thank you so much for stopping by!

  • Reply
    Katy Hope
    October 1, 2016 at 11:32 pm

    Thanks for this post, having just started my travel and motherhood blog 6 months ago, it helps me to confirm that it doesn’t have to be perfect and to just start and keep going and its OK. Thanks for sharing your lessons with others. http://www.hopepostkids.com

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      October 4, 2016 at 8:15 am

      Thanks Katy! There’s definitely no need to be perfect or to compare yourself/your blog to others/other blogs. Good luck with your blog!

  • Reply
    bee
    October 2, 2016 at 1:39 am

    I’m a new blogger and I really needed this today! I I tend to be a perfectionist, but I’m learning to just try it and see what happens. Loving your page!

  • Reply
    Fingal Ross
    October 2, 2016 at 1:40 am

    Thanks for this post Paula. Really inspired me!

  • Reply
    Ana Bogdanovic
    October 2, 2016 at 3:48 am

    Such a nice and inspiring post. I think that as bloggers, we deal with certain judgments of all kinds. Sometimes it so hard to overcome them, especially when the judgment comes from “friends”. Anyways I really like your blog I find it very inspirational, well done!

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      October 4, 2016 at 8:17 am

      I was so afraid to tell anyone other than my husband and mom that I had a blog- but I actually received amazing feedback from friends, although there are a few people who just don’t get what it is that I do haha, and that’s ok! :)

      Thank you so much Ana! x

  • Reply
    Glace De figueiredo
    October 2, 2016 at 5:40 am

    Your post was very inspirational. I am a bignner at blogging and I keep delaying to post because I want them to be perfect. This post was an wake-up call.

    Glace
    http://amoraandred.blogspot.co.uk

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      October 4, 2016 at 8:17 am

      Just start! Write as much as you can- it’s the only way to find your style of blogging/writing. :) No need to be perfect- perfect is boring! :)

  • Reply
    Weena Pradhan
    October 2, 2016 at 7:31 am

    Enjoyed reading your post. Yes, we are all at some time bogged down by self-doubt, but I guess you learn to overcome shortfalls along the way, there is no better teacher. Agree completely that a blogger meets fantastic people and learns a thing or two everyday. Like you, I had been putting off blogging 2 years ago simply because it all seemed so overwhelming, but baby steps and a bit of courage has got me well into the process. I browsed through your posts, they all see, interesting, will read them at leisure.

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      October 4, 2016 at 8:20 am

      Thanks Weena! Starting is the way to go :) Now, I wish I’d started sooner- when I first had the idea of starting another blog.

      Thanks again for stopping by and best of luck with your blog- it looks great!

  • Reply
    NuttyHiker
    October 2, 2016 at 10:21 am

    This is an awesome post and so true! I have had to turn down brands before as well as I didn’t feel it was a good fit for my blog (or like you I simply had not used the product).
    =) Bridget | http://nuttyhiker.com

  • Reply
    Jabeen Waheed
    October 2, 2016 at 11:13 am

    Omg that first PR story is a joke! How unprofessional! But it’s true, you learn so many life lessons via blogging.
    Jabeen x
    http://www.spilling-the-beans.co.uk/

  • Reply
    Lindsey
    October 2, 2016 at 11:28 am

    This makes me feel so much better about finally starting my blog last month after thinking about it for years! So much about it isn’t perfect, but that’s okay with me now.

    https://thismisscooks.wordpress.com

  • Reply
    Naville T
    October 2, 2016 at 12:05 pm

    your English is great, don’t worry about that. It’s not my first language either

    xo

    Inspirations Have I None

  • Reply
    lilian Tahmasian
    October 3, 2016 at 2:14 am

    Truly Loved this post!
    So motivating- Thank You! : ) x

    http://www.liliantahmasian.com

  • Reply
    Meghan Leigh
    October 3, 2016 at 5:05 am

    This post was awesome! So inspiring…

  • Reply
    Jaylan Kasli
    October 3, 2016 at 8:53 am

    Thank you so much for this post! I’m a perfectionist at heart and I keep putting off the launch of my blog because I feel it’s just not “there” yet…my partner actually said to me the other day that I keep putting it off waiting for it to be perfect and that I should stop waiting and just do it! This post is such an inspiration in many ways, thanks a lot! :) x http://www.instagram.com/beigeandgrey

  • Reply
    Yuri + Meilisa
    October 3, 2016 at 8:27 pm

    Yes! I completely agree! Do not wait for the perfect moment. Every moment can be special! Always sharing some great thoughts =)

  • Reply
    Zinny
    October 3, 2016 at 10:06 pm

    Really inspiring post. Thank you!

    http://www.zinnyfactor.com

  • Reply
    The Gossip Darling
    October 3, 2016 at 11:46 pm

    OMG! I love this post. I have been blogging for over 5 years…I have made MILLIONS of mistakes…

    Mel | http://www.thegossipdarling.com

  • Reply
    ThePartyParrotBlog
    October 4, 2016 at 6:41 am

    Love this post! I can pretty much relate to everything you’ve said, after all I am also a beauty blogger, who gets a lot of strange PR offers and is expected to work for free most of the time. There is more positive, than negative though (thankfully) and I am always glad to meet people like you thanks to what I am doing. By the way your photos are great!

    Naya
    http://www.partyparrotblog.com

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      October 4, 2016 at 8:24 am

      There’s definitely more positive than negative, I agree! I rarely have a negative experience these days, even when turning something down.

  • Reply
    Natalie Redman
    October 5, 2016 at 3:05 am

    Completely agree when it comes to PR related emails coming in. A lot of them say they don’t have the budget so they try and use upcoming bloggers to do their promoting for free and it shouldn’t be that way. Great blog post!

  • Reply
    Margaux White
    October 5, 2016 at 11:11 am

    I love this blog post, these are such great pieces of advice ! Especially when it comes to the art of finding beauty in imperfection and the “practice makes perfect” part. I am a relatively new blogger and I find difficult to be satisfied with some posts sometimes, but I now focus on the positive, aka what I like most in my work to do better the following time! x
    Margaux bonjourwhite.com

  • Reply
    Emmalisa Tilli
    October 6, 2016 at 6:45 am

    This is absolutely great – you have inspired me to move forward, and not give up!!!!! I have been blogging for a year now, and I love doing what I do… wherever I go, whatever I do, I get inspired to make a post on books, beauty and travel!!!! I recently bought some books too, on “Blogging for bliss”!!! I am sooo inspired!!!!

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      November 5, 2016 at 10:17 am

      Thank you!! You definitely have to stay patient and make sure to write about something you love! :)

  • Reply
    Sara "Ozdemir
    October 12, 2016 at 11:02 am

    This post is so inspiring! I feel like coming through at this right instant, the only problem is that I’m at work so I’m going to have to wait untill I get home. I’ve always loved writing and sharing my point of view of this world and everytime I started life came in between which made me focus on something else. Your post has inspired me to not let this happen anymore! I will not give up on my passion anymore :)

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      November 5, 2016 at 10:16 am

      Thank you Sara, so happy to know that this post has inspired you! :) My life comes in between all the time and when it does, I just slow down a bit :)

  • Reply
    Mónica Romero
    October 14, 2016 at 9:24 pm

    I can totally relate with what you say! I’m not an English native speaker as well, and I’m always freaking out about my grammar and spelling mistakes…tbh this has been one of the main challenges I’ve had to overcome. I actually decided to make my blog bilingual (Spanish and English). This post was really inspiring! :) Btw I love your content and the way you write your posts :)

    http://www.moniromero.com

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      November 5, 2016 at 10:14 am

      Thank you so much Mònica! I actually contemplated making my blog bilingual for a while, but ultimately decided against it.

  • Reply
    Sherie Ann Peterson
    October 22, 2016 at 1:06 pm

    I am a native English speaker and still make mistakes. Sometimes the brain just moves faster than the keys. Proof reading is so hard! I think it’s like anything else, after awhile we can become desensitized to that our little mistakes aren’t so painful. At least I hope so. :) My blog is at Food4Thought.Today

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      November 5, 2016 at 10:12 am

      I think that’s definitely true haha :) I think my brain definitely works a bit faster than the keys haha ;)

  • Reply
    JaynieShannonx
    October 22, 2016 at 1:31 pm

    This is a great post. I definitely overthink and worry about my grammar or what people with think of my writing!

    JaynieShannon Beauty & Lifestyle

    xx

  • Reply
    Enjoy London
    November 2, 2016 at 7:20 am

    Thank you so much for your tips I am just start my blog and this advises were really helpful

    thanks a lot!!

    http://www.enjoylondon.co

  • Reply
    MihaBalan
    November 4, 2016 at 8:22 am

    Great post and it actually got me thinking. Just a question. How long did you took you until you got a real feature offer? What were the requirements? or where were you at that point with the blog? I really enjoy your posts all the time.
    http://mihabalan.com

    • Reply
      Paula @ lifestylegleam.com
      November 5, 2016 at 10:11 am

      Thank you! What do you mean when you say feature?

      • Reply
        MihaBalan
        November 5, 2016 at 10:16 am

        Sorry typo, I meant when did you get offers to feature products? :)

  • Reply
    Lou Garcia
    November 19, 2016 at 11:12 am

    this post is really helpful thank you! I’m just starting my own blog and yeah, like you, I’m not a native English speaker too, before i publish my blog, I’ll re-read everything more than 3 times just to make sure my grammar doesn’t have any errors. I’m always anxious about my grammar and I’m glad to see this post, it inspires me to help myself to overcome this anxiety :)

  • Reply
    Rebecca Ellis
    January 14, 2017 at 5:51 pm

    It’s really intriguing to see what someone else has gained/learned from blogging itself on a personal level. I’m glad that I’m part of this community x

    http://www.sheintheknow.co.uk

  • Reply
    Vanessa H. Wood
    February 5, 2017 at 6:37 pm

    Thanks for sharing such great lessons. I’ve been blogging since January 2012 and sometimes feel like a bit of a fraud and a failure because I’m still such a small viewed blogger. So thank you for encouraging me with this blog post!

  • Reply
    Zoe H
    February 23, 2017 at 4:19 pm

    Love this post! I have definitely learnt from blogging that I can write about anything I like and nobody can tell me not what to write about, and that I need to take some time out from my busy personal life and do the things that I enjoy the most (like blogging!) xx

    Zoe | nuggetstumpblog.com

  • Reply
    DealsMound
    March 11, 2017 at 2:50 am

    Great Life Lessons. I love this article.
    https://www.dealsmound.com/

  • Reply
    onyejekwe Ethel
    August 30, 2017 at 10:17 pm

    wow you just motivated me. I will keep pushing.

    http://www.makychurchill.com.

  • Reply
    Gouri Prathwani
    December 29, 2017 at 8:42 am

    It has really inspired me to continue writing my blogs..I really like the fact that you wrote all about yourself in the blog but still it didn’t felt that you are bragging about yourself even for a second..
    Check out mine at: https://thetomboystyle.blogspot.in/

  • Reply
    CouponVictor
    December 31, 2017 at 6:39 am

    Great lessons. Thank you for sharing.
    https://www.couponvictor.com/

  • Reply
    Pete Tubene
    October 19, 2018 at 12:43 am

    I like how you mentioned ”you can’t wait for that perfect moment. If you wait, it’ll never come.” I have had this mentality since I was about 16-17 , and now many things have significantly changed in my life.

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