Hey there. Back in 2013, I decided I was going to be a blogger. I read all the courses, studied all the how-to lists, and grabbed every ebook I could find. I even set aside dedicated writing time every day, thinking that was the key to success.
And yet, between 2013 and 2014, I produced less content in two years than I do in a single week now.
Lesson One: Creating Is More Important Than Planning
I spent so much time learning how to be a good blogger that I barely spent any time actually blogging. I had content calendars, outlines, and drafts, but I wasn’t publishing. And when it comes to content creation, publishing is what matters.
If you’re thinking about starting a blog or a brand, don’t fall into the trap of over-planning. Sure, research is helpful, but at least 90-95% of your success comes from actually creating and publishing. That’s how you get feedback, improve, and build an audience.
Lesson Two: Play to Your Strengths
I’ve realized over the years that while I can write decent content, I communicate best through audio and video. That’s why most of my content now is spoken, not written. Instead of forcing myself to be a blogger just because I thought I should be, I leaned into what I actually enjoy doing.
If you’re trying to build a personal brand, ask yourself: What’s the best way for me to communicate? Are you better at speaking? Do you love making videos? Do you prefer writing? Focus on what feels natural and improve from there.
Lesson Three: Most People Quit Before They See Results
So many people want to start a blog, a brand, or a content-based business, but most of them never stick with it. The fear of putting something out there stops them before they even begin.
The truth is, you’ll feel uncomfortable when you start. That’s normal. But if you push through that discomfort, you’ll find your rhythm and start enjoying the process. The only way to set yourself apart is to keep going when others give up.
Just Start. You’ll Figure It Out.
You don’t need the perfect plan. You don’t need months of research. You just need to start. Put your content out, see what happens, and adjust along the way.
Let me know what you think! And if you’re looking for support, structure, and consistency in your personal development journey, join The YLF Experience today.