allume

real light living

My Journey to 5000 Followers

By

Today’s guest post is from Courtney of Women Living Well. She has some wonderful tips and words of advice for you!

 

I have been blogging at Women Living Well for nearly 4 years. This is my journey to the first 5000 followers BUT I want to give full credit to God because it is he who has given the increase. It makes me squirm a little to share my numbers but I want to help. I think it’s only fair that I share the progress. Okay – now that I got the disclaimer out of the way – let’s get to it!!!

I began blogging in August of 2008…late one night I registered for http://www.womenlivingwell-courtney.blogspot.com. At the time, I had no idea that I had just chosen the longest and most difficult website address ever! lol! If someone found me and liked me – there was no way they’d ever find their way back to me without subscribing!

I started out blogging 5 days a week – Monday through Friday and I continued 5 days a week for the next 2 years straight with NO breaks – none! I remember blurry eyed nights and dark early mornings tapping away on my keyboard – praying that God would give me a word for my readers. I was not on Facebook or Twitter and Pinterest didn’t exist at the time, so there was not as much to “keep up with” as there seems to be nowadays.

One day – a year into blogging – I decided to make a YouTube video (which is no longer accessible…too embarrassing). I posted it and received next to no comments…but I did get a phone call from my best friend (who now runs Good Morning Girls.org) and she LOVED the video! I told her I was embarrassed and she said – “don’t stop – make another“! So I did…I made one titled “How to Be the Wife of Your Husband’s Dreams“. I completely winged it – it’s SO bad – I’m in my bathroom because it’s quiet there!

Obviously I had not read Problogger yet! But this is where my feeble preparation met God’s sovereignty. I posted this video on October 14th, 2009 and 15 days later I appeared on the Rachael Ray Show because a producer had found that video.

It was at this time that I decided I should get a Facebook page. So I started my page in November 2009 and the first record I ever wrote down of my numbers was in January 2010 (1 year and 4 months into my blogging journey). I had:

323 Feedburner followers

426 Facebook followers

I was averaging 300 readers a day…

Being on the Rachael Ray Show did not bring a barage of readers. My website was not mentioned on the show…so it did not spike my numbers (as you can see my numbers above reflect what I had 2 months after the show aired)…but it did give me confidence and some credibility as a blogger.

By the following January 2011, I had:

3,059 feedburner followers

3,824 Facebook followers

And I hit my first 5,000 exactly one year ago in May of 2011 (2 years and 9 months into my blogging journey).

What practicial things did I do to get to my first 5000 followers?

1. I wrote 5 days a week for 2 years straight. Which equals discipline (5 days a week) and diligence (2 years straight). Sometimes we may feel that someone got lucky -like being on the Rachel Ray Show…but don’t underestimate hard work.

2. Content is KING! People follow and spread “amazing” not blah. It’s not possible to create “amazing” five days a week but we can’t predict what post will spread like wild fire. Some posts I agonize and spend hours on and get 5 comments. Then others pour out in 15 minutes and they get 55 comments. I honestly have no way of predicting which post will get the best response (if I did – I’d write it everyday lol!) so keep writing.

3. I left my link after my name everytime I commented. I know that some may feel this is bad ettiquette but I welcome it on my site :)! I think if you are taking the time to read someone else’s content and are leaving a thoughtful comment (not a spammy comment) the writer is thankful your comment popped up. It’s a great way to introduce yourself to another blogger and their community.

3. I built friendships with other bloggers. I privately email many bloggers. Get to know them on a personal basis – brainstorm together, dream together, encourage each other, promote each other and pray for each other.

4. Try something that none of the other bloggers are doing – I made a video in my bathroom – I mean – who does that? lol!!! But seriously – it was a game changer for me. Don’t be afraid to be different and swing for the fences. I felt terribly awkward making videos! Without my friend’s encouragement, I would have stopped making videos…but now nearly 500,000 views later – I’m so thankful I didn’t give up on the ideas that were bouncing around in my head.

In year 2 everything changed! I joined Facebook and Twitter – made nearly 20 YouTube videos – and because a speaker was unable to attend Relevant – I was invited as a fill-in speaker at the Relevant Conference.

In year 2 these are some of the new things I did:

1. I participated in a gazillion link-ups! THIS was a traffic bonanza for me! And once I discovered it – I maximized it! I HIGHLY recommend you participate in these – they work! Ashley has a great list of link-ups – start with these.

2. I joined Facebook and began interacting. At first, Facebook was like a baby. I fed it every 2-3 hours! Some are going to have boundaries and not approve of this…but here’s my truth. My Facebook page is growing rapidly and it’s like a toddler. I feed it about every 4 hours, 6 days a week.

3. I joined Twitter because everyone else was doing it! I only visit twitter once a day to check for mentions and talk back. I have it set up so when I post on Facebook it automatically posts on twitter. Sometimes, late at night I’ll hop on Twitter and read 🙂 It’s an interesting animal.

4. Guest posting and contributing – In year 2, I was invited for the first time to contribute on two different group blogs. Participating in link-ups were more effective than contributing but it was an honor to be asked and I love the community and friendships I’ve made as a contributor on group sites.

5. I started a second blog with a partner. I had started Good Morning Girls groups on my blog and they began to take over my site…so I needed a second site to spin off and my best friend Angela was up for the challenge and has done a beautiful job running GoodMorningGirls.org!

All of the above brought me to the 5,000 follower mark.

Since then I’ve cut back to writing 3 days a week. I’ve done summer book clubs, created series and challenges for my readers, I’ve asked a real life friend to contribute once a week to give me a break, I’ve started a weekly Wednesday link-up, (open to all types of bloggers 🙂 – hint!), I’ve joined Pinterest and just started offering a free ebook to subscribers this year!

Last June I moved from that very long blogspot name – to WomenLivingWell.org. I added a tiny word at the end of my header ~ “Ministries.” My blog started out as a hobby, a passion, a joy, an overflow and a labor of love and it has birthed into a ministry. I encourage you to surrender your blog to God’s purposes, to never go to your computer until you have first opened your day in prayer and God’s word, and to remember that “the integrity of your writing starts at home. Your family is the first book your readers will ever read.”~Sally Clarkson.

Now let’s lock arms together as sisters in Christ and go into all the world and pierce the darkness!

Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world…let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Walk with the King,

Comments

  1. Courtney,
    Thank you for sharing your heart and for your example. You shine God’s light and I’m thrilled He has blessed you so! I’m praying for Him to be first in all things and have so enjoyed the community that blogging brings. I’m looking forward to seeing you at She Speaks in July! Many blessings to you!

    • Oh Jacque, I can’t wait to see you at She Speaks – you blessed me at Relevant with those letters from your Good Morning Girls!!!  So touching! Thank you!

      • Hi Courtney,

        I appreciated this post as I have the Blogger Blues!  I am a published author who is writing a non-fiction, Christian book for women…it was suggested by a few author friends (including my agent), to start a blog on my topic to help build a platform, which I have now done. I also have some speaking engagements coming up in the Fall at MOPS groups, which will hopefully help grow that readership. My biggest problem is populating the blog with articles vs. finishing the book…I don’t have a lot of time and now feel compelled to write for the blog when I really need to finish writing the book. My second problem is growing the blog readership beyond friends. I will often post my blog post on my FB page, but don’t receive a lot of comments so have not wanted to start a FB page dedicated to this. Any suggestions?

        Regards,
        Linda (www.lindawriteson.com, Shaping Your Identity in Motherhood)

  2. Thank you, Courtney!  It is easy to assume that success just “happens” even though deep down I know it take hard work.  Thank you for your honesty and transparency.

    You dropped by my table the opening night of Relevant 2011.  You were the most warm and welcoming of all the speakers.  You engaged everyone at the table and made each of us feel important.  Thank you.

    Hugs & Blessings~
    Mary

  3. Nicely done! You run a lovely site so full of inspiration and hope. It is good to see success, and especially good to see the behind the scenes beginnings and all the hard work that goes into building a community.
    I agree that the credit belongs to God, for I believe he works through us if we open ourselves up and allow it to happen.
    And since you encouraged posting our sites: http://www.toodarnhappy.com  🙂
    Thanks for what you do!

    • Kim – I love your blog title (made me smile!) and I went and visited 🙂 I love your color scheme there – so cute!  Keep dropping your link – you work too hard at your writing to not let others discover you! 

  4. as a relative newbie to blogging, I admire your diligence and dedication to blogging every day. It’s a challenge I’d like to set for myself as well. This world of blogging has taken me to a whole other place I didn’t even have a clue existed. Your post has opened my eyes to even more! Thanks so much! 
    I blog at: http://wordsfromthehomefront.blogspot.com 
    drop by if you have an opportunity. thanks again, Nancy

    • Nancy – I visited! See leaving your link works 🙂  I can see that you have only just begun your adventure in blogging AND that you are attending Allume – hooray!  God is going to do great things through you – just be faithful to come to your keyboard and write for his glory!

  5. Thank you so much for sharing, Courtney! Since I found Women Living Well this winter, I’ve been amazed at your loyal followers and your numbers … and, of course, your content. 🙂 It was a treat to learn about what you’ve done in the past four years.

    • Thank you Hilary!  I share your amazement – I know that clearly this is God at work. 🙂 Cause I’m nobody special!  But God doesn’t use us because we’re “special” he uses us because we are His.

  7. This is a great post with pratical tips. And not forgetting to put God first in everything that you do. Another thing is to continue to build your community of like-minded people and take risks. Thanks for the advice.
    http://www.wifemotherfirstlady.com

    • Kathy – WOW – you have a SHARP layout on your blog!  AND videos on your sidebar which I watched!!!  I love it – it’s great to hear your voice and see your face! Keep up the great work!

  8. Thank you for this very real, refreshing and helpful post. I appreciate you sharing your journey and being an encouragement along the way. I love the attitude about linking arms and working and walking together in this blogging world. 
    Looking forward to Allume!
    Rachel

    • Rachel – yes – we are partners in Christ – we will all be stronger if we work together than if we compete seperately.  We must blog differently than other mommy bloggers who don’t know Christ – which is why I felt convicted to write here and share my “secrets”.

  9. Thank you for your blog Courtney. Again, I’m not sure how exactly I stumbled across your blog. It might’ve been through Candace Cameron Bure’s blog..but I’m pretty sure I clicked a link to your blog from someone elses. That was about a year ago. Since then, my life has been an interesting roller coaster. Most recently, four weeks ago, I had my right kidney removed due to cancerous tumor that thankfully, was self contained so I don’t need any further treatment at this time.I believe God led me to your blog last year(and to other Christian blogs) to help grow my faith so that I could deal with this latest issue! Thank you so much for all you do! 

    • OH Kelly – I’m so sorry – cancer is a scary word and I’m so glad to hear that it was contained and removed.  Keep pressing on in your walk with God.  Thank you for your words of encouragement.

  10. I LOVED this post!!! I just started blogging – like this month… and I keep juggling the idea of posting 5 days a week or not. I’ve been inclined to the 5day but of course, i’m like “sheesh..that’s a lot” LOL I love how encouraging you are (in everything you do!). 
    http://adiligentheart.com/ (since you mentioned it LOL). The hardest part for me is getting down on “Paper” what’s in my head! 🙂

    • OH Marlene – I went to your blog and I totally did a happy dance when I saw that you are a Good Morning Girl!!!  You are one of my “peeps” – you had me at ‘hello’! lol!

      Your blog title says it all – diligent!  Be diligent to post as frequently as you believe God is moving you to post.  The biggest key is to not try to post perfect posts…that could take days.  Write what God has laid on your heart and then hit publish.  Some of the posts will get crickets but others will resonate with your readers – plus your writing will be fine tuned…it may be another reason why now I can write a little less because the process of cranking out content trained me on what touches women at the core and what doesn’t.

      Keep writing!!!

  11. Thank you for this post.  It was just what I needed this morning!  Thank you for the practical tips and the realness of your journey!  I look forward to reading more!!

  12. Courtney, I just have to say that you are my blogging hero.  I remember when you blogged 5 times per week ( and was a little sad when you switched to 3 haha but I do understand).  Your link-up has helped me grow my blog tremendously.  Your godly example when dealing with negative commeters has encouraged me in my blogging journey.  Your posts and videos make me feel like I know you, like I have a personal mentor helping me prepare for a future marriage and family.  

    Your name is a common thing to hear in our household because I talk about you and your blog all the time!  And that’s not lie! 🙂

    Thank you.  I just can’t express all the ways you have blessed me.

    ~Ashley@ http://www.stayathomedaughter.com 

    • Sweet Ashely – I have told my husband about you (and the man in your life who is a pilot ) and you have come up on other occassions – so I’m talking about you here at our house too 🙂 

      You have such an admirable and kind heart.  Keep writing!!! I loved your family beach pictures this week!!!

      • Thank you, friend!

        I really wish we lived closer!  Chris and I frequently go out with different married couples to glean advice and I’m sure you and your husband would have so many good, relevant things to say….  🙂  
        Praying for you today!

  13.  What an encouraging message!  Thanks for sharing.  It is wonderful to see God’s message of abundant life spread through beautiful women such as yourself. I can be found blogging about hope and healing at hispenonmyheart.com 😉

    • I went to your blog and recognized that I have been there before.  You are a very talented writer and I know that your story is going to change lives!!! Thank you for sharing it openly – keep writing!

    • I went to your blog and saw that you have only just begun – with your rebooting 🙂 You are a funny blogger with a very unique voice!  I appreciate your honestly – like the Doritos and lemonade for breakfast ha! Made me smile at your realness! Keep writing! 

  15. Thank you for sharing your wisdom Courtney! You are a blogging inspiration and I love reading your posts. I think we all need to be reminded at times that it is God who directs our blogging journey. Sometimes we get so caught up in the hits that we forget who we are doing it all for.

    Blessings,
    Becky
    http://ministrytomotherhood.com

    • Absolutely Becky – I’m reminded of the story of the tower of Babel…In Genesis 11:4 the people said:
       
      “Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens,
      so that we may make a name for ourselves” 

      They wanted to make a name FOR themselves!  When God is at the lead of our blogging – we will write to make his name great! 

  16. Thanks for sharing your journey, Courtney!  It is a JOY to see how God is using your faithfulness for His glory.  He is leading me down similar paths- although a few years behind.  If you had told me back in the Moody days that I would be a blogger, I would not have believed it.  Yet, I love this ministry that He is calling me to!
    I have been blogging at http://www.dayebydaye.com for a little over a year now and I love it.  Can’t wait for the Allume conference and to see what God has in store!
    All the best as you continue to follow our great God!!!

    • Becky – I just went to your site – you are a beautiful writer – I can’t believe I haven’t been to your site before – you have a lot of great content there – loved your letter to Lindsey and the choreography post.  I look forward to meeting you at Allume…you mentioned Moody – were we there at the same time? I was there from 93-97.

      • Aw, thank you!  I discovered your blog through Joy Forney.  I was embarrassed that I didn’t remember her and it turns out that I was her RA for a semester!  Yes, we overlapped- I was there from 94-98.  I remember you, but I don’t know that we had any significant interaction.  I was a missions major, worked in food service and was an RA on Nine West.  (I was on Houghton 2 for my first two years- roommates with Alyssa (Currey) Harris).  I would imagine that we know a lot of the same people.  LOVED my time at MBI!  Can’t wait to “meet” you at Allume!
        As for my blog- I struggle with knowing how much to promote it and how much to simply be faithful in writing and trust God to do what He desires with it.  It is a constant prayer and surrender.  Any words of advice on that?

  17. Thank you for this, Courtney–all these good ideas will be being put into practice in my blog over the coming weeks.  I have been being tempted to get tired of blogging, and you have given me some renewed motivation. 🙂  I have been thoroughly enjoying your blog for many reasons, not the least of which are: 1) your transparency–you are a real person, not some perfect figurehead who intimidates me 2) your theology–you are one of the few blogs I’ve seen that has a Statement of Belief (it’s on my to-do list for my own blog); it is very important to me to be filling my mind with an accurate assessment of Scripture, not just an emotional one, and 3) your obvious enthusiasm for the Lord and for the Word.  Thanks for being a good example for us all! 🙂  –Ann at http://www.beingawomanofthebible.com

    • Wow Ann – thanks for mentioning my Statement of Belief! 🙂  It has come in handy many times when theological issues have come up in the comments section.  If your statement of faith is the same as mine – you are welcome to copy and paste it (with a link to my page) – if that’s useful to you.

      Your use of Romans 12:2 in your header is so creative – love it! 🙂

      • Thanks so much for taking a look at my fledgling creation!  I feel honored!  Your generosity with your time, and your willingness to follow up on all these comments, is another reason why we all like you so much… 🙂

  19. Thank you so much for sharing Courtney!  It’s so inspiring to see how God works – He takes our little steps of faith and moves mountains!  As a new blogger (I’m at http://modernchristianwoman.wordpress.com/ ), it’s really nice to hear success stories – it helps me get through those tough times when I feel like quitting because it doesn’t seem like I’m getting anywhere!  I know that persistance is key – and your story has truly refreshed my outlook!  Thanks again! 
    – Stephanie

    • Wow! You look like an amazing cook Stephanie – my hubby would LOVE it if I made some of your recipes lol!!!  There are two link-ups for food that you might want to participate in to get extra traffic…if you haven’t used them yet – http://www.comfyinthekitchen.com does one every Friday and Jennifer at http://beautyandbedlam.com/ has one every Tuesday.  I participated in Jennifer’s for over a year in year 2 of blogging and got a lot of traffic from her 🙂 Pinterest is huge for recipe bloggers too if you haven’t discovered that yet.  Keep writing!

  20. Thank you for this! Since going the self-host route, I have been so discouraged b/c of the lack of traffic that before I had…I’ll just keep plucking away and pray that My Story is for HIS Glory…Needed this reminder today!  http://www.highheelsformuddyboots.com

  21. Wow!  Reading blogs is all new to me.  I recently had foot surgery and haven’t been able to put any weight on my right foot for 6 weeks (only 1 1/2 more weeks to go!).  I’m a busy wife, mother, grandmother and Pampered Chef Consultant.  I knew when I HAD to slow down for 6 weeks that God had some amazing things to teach me.  I am an “organized woman wannabe” and really thought that was going to be the content of what God wanted to show me.  I was doing a Bible Study for 2 1/2 weeks and rockin along, when my youngest daughter suggested I join a “Good Morning Girls” group Bible Study – Proverbs 31.  The study of Proverbs 31, Good Morning Girls website,Women Living Well,  Comfy In the Kitchen and Time-Warp Wife have been an amazing discovery in my life. I absolutely love Women Living Well and don’t know how I made it without this encouragement.    I am LOVING the Proverbs 31 Bible Study. God is renewing and refreshing me as a wife, mother and grandmother which is my heart.  Of course I still need to be more organized especially in my Pampered Chef Business – But first things first.  Thank you Courtney for letting God work through you to remind me of the awesomeness of being a Godly wife.  It has always been my aspiration but I needed renewing and refreshing and a reminder!  I haved an amazing husband whom I love dearly and I want to be the best wife, mother and grandmother that I can possibly be with God’s strength and Him lighting my path.  What did I ever do without your blog?  Love you.

    • Lynn – it’s comments like yours that keep me going when I’m tempted to quit.  Thank you so much for your kind words of encouragement!  I wish I could reach through the screen and hug you!!! Thank you!

  22. Thanks Courtney!!

    My consistent struggle is focusing on my family and not taking time away from the kids to blog about them:).  It is by God’s prompting and my husband’s further prompting that I have starting podcasting on my blog.  http://blogging-mama.com/family/from-5-to-14-children-podcast-with-becky/  Sometimes I wonder if the world needs one more blogger (or podcaster)…isn’t it already all out there?  Then there’s the battle to not be focused on myself so I go through streaks of being consistent and then feeling guilty about being consistent and then slowing down and feeling guilty about being inconsistent…ahhh!!  I don’t know if you have struggled with this on your journey at all.

    Anyway, I so appreciate your blog and I’m pretty particular about what I “follow” so I’m not wasting time online.  I feel like you speak truth and encouragement that really lifts me up and helps to point in the right direction and therefore it is worth my time.  (I also loved how you handled the comments with Mormonism lately as my husband grew up Mormon.)  Thank-you!  Blessings to you!  http://blogging-mama.com 

  23. Love this.

    I have a question 😀

    Where did you come up with all the topic ideas to post every night, back when you posted 5 days per week? I need that inspiration!

    • Christin – that’s a great question…I get most of my inspiration through real life, my personal Bible study times or  books on my shelf.  I have certain authors that inspire me like Elizabeth Elliot, Elizabeth George and Edith Shaeffer. I also like to do series…that helps me focus my thoughts.  Even if I don’t know what I’m going to write in the series before I declare it – it gives order to my thoughts and research 🙂  

    • My blog is tiny, but I do usually post Monday-Friday on my blog, and Here are a couple of things that help me:
      1. Having a series or “schedule” for topics (ex. Monday- Meal Plan, Tuesday: Recipe, etc.)2. Posting my meal plan and recipes (which readers enjoy as well)
      3. Invite guest posters

      So, I can post quality content to my blog every day (since my readers enjoy recipes as well), without having to feel pressure to post something “inspired” every day of the week.  I think there is room in blogging for the occasional, family-related post as well because I think blogging is built on relationships, and those posts can help readers get to know you on a more personal level and not just as a “talking head” telling them what they should do from a distance (I hope this makes sense).

  24. thank you thank you thank you I have been blogging for a little over two years but have just recently started taking it seriously, before that it was just me trying to get my thoughts out . . . sometimes us stay at home moms just need an adult conversation 🙂

    I blog at http://www.accidentalbabymaker.blogspot.com

    I know another crazy long address that people will be lucky to ever be able to find again
    but its my journey through unexpected motherhood

  25. Thanks for sharing your tips.  I really do believe that it is a ministry mindset that drew my husband and I to starting our blog this year and your advice and tips are in line with wise time management, dedication and most importantly for the Glory of God! 

    Megan

  26. Thanks so much for sharing this!!  I’ve been getting really excited about my growing blog… I only started blogging as a way to access my menu plan from any computer!!  It’s amazing what God can do when we let him use us.  Thanks for the encouragement!!  http://trialanderrorhomemaking.blogspot.com

  27. Posts like this are exactly why I love you. I can imagine you all bubbly and excited writing this. THANK you for your insight. It was most helpful. 🙂 You are such an encouragement.

  28. Thank you for this.

    I am ‘struggling’ to move my blog to the next level, but believe I am following God’s plan in this as a small blogger.  I hear many times how those in my ‘circle’ are blessed by my posts, which in turn blesses me.  I would love to increase dialouge on my site, but that isn’t what is most important.  I have attempted my first giveaway, and will start my first series in June…pray for me!

  32. Courtney, thank you so much for being transparent and sharing your numbers. Honestly, it’s incredibly encouraging, and it’s so great to see what has worked for other bloggers. And wow, you did a great job at the first Relevant! I thought you were a master blogger 🙂

  33. Thanks so much for sharing this, Courtney! It is easy as a “small” blogger to look at the numbers and get discouraged… but then, I remind myself that *this* is what God has called me to do right now, and He will bless in His own time and way. Anyway, thanks for the tips on networking (etc). I know that’s something I can work on!
    Quick question – how do you balance the time spent networking/blogging/etc with your other responsibilities? 
    Feel free to visit me at http://DogFurandDandelions.wordpress.com!

  34. Hi Courtney

    In late 2009 I was going through a very dark time in my marriage and was searching for any kind of help or inspiration and found you via Dr Scott’s website. Your blog turned my life around as you were just the inspiration that I needed. I don’t believe in coincidences at all…I was desperately clinging to God and hanging on by a thread, you gave me a solid foundation and a place to go to where I felt encouraged. It was where God wanted to lead me.

     I began blogging because of you…because I wanted to be a part of the community and leave comments. I later joined GMG and it has all been such a rewarding experience. My blog isn’t big and I’ve had some challenges with getting time to write lately. (I also have one of the longest urls lol! and I’m still making rooky mistakes) It has been frustrating and earlier this year as I passed the one year mark I started wondering about whether or not I should continue. I do believe that God has me here for a reason though and, as you say, the focus is on Him. If He wants me to write something it will get written and if He wants people to read it He will draw them. If He wants my blog to grow, the doors will open for that to happen. 

    Meanwhile, I have to be content in the season I am in and I am so very grateful for all that you do and for the whole world that you have introduced me to. God bless you and yours!

  35. Thanks for sharing this post. I’m new to blogging. I find myself wondering…”what in the world am I doing?” I’ve blogged about my books. I’ve blogged for clients. But to sit and blog on a regular basis…especially 5 days a week as you mentioned…my brain is screaming…run!!! However, I realize this is the next step for me and your words offer encouragement. Thanks again.

  37. Courtney – Great tips!  I love how you say that God’s fingerprints are all over your blog!  It amazed me how after two Youtube video’s you get asked to be on Rachel Ray.  Truly God….And all your hard work!  Blessings & keep up the great blogging! ~ jen   http://richfaithrising.blogspot.com/

  40. Thank you for sharing this, Courtney! I started my blog several years ago, blogged for a while and then stopped. I started writing again about 4 months ago, and I blog now with a deep desire to encourage and strengthen marriages. My husband had an affair two years ago. Thankfully, God brought us back together and we are now allowing God to use our story to help other people. I just shared it on my blog. I check your blog every day, and look forward to the encouragement and support I get every time. Thanks again!

    Megan at http://wwwsunshinethroughthewindows.blogspot.com  (also a very long address 😉 )  

  41. Oh Courtney!!! My friend! How in the world did you write for 5 days straight with no breaks. I can’t even handle 3! I moved from 3 to 2 and now once a week! Yes I am a weakling compared to you. 
    You are such a hard worker. Everyone is created differently to handle different tasks. I commend you! You are awesome and thank you for being a wonderful friend and counselor.

    • Lol!!!  You are not a weakling – it’s just as you said – God created us each differently – I really see your gifts in the areas of mercy and encouragement – mine lean towards teaching and encouragement…the end product is different – but both serve God 🙂 Keep writing!!!

    • I agree I could never spend that much time on my computer!!I It would be an act of God for me tooo do that!! God Bless I will be praying for you!!

    • Jessica, click on Design (on the right above your blog header bar), go to the bottom option on the left, which is Settings, and halfway down the top option Basic there’s a space where you can edit your address. =)
      Best wishes, Narelle
      http://www.BoutiqueNarelle.blogspot.com
      an online resource helping women be modest and gorgeous

  44. Courtney, I’ve read lots of articles on blogging, but this is so helpful and encouraging!  I’ve been reading your blog since the early days, and it’s been one of my morning three for a couple years now:)  I so appreciate your contagious joy in the Lord!

    Chelsea
    http://daughteredeemed.blogspot.com/ 

  45. This was very encouraging Courtney! I started Working Kansas Homemaker as an outlet to something I really enjoy and I love the community I have found in other bloggers. Thank you for the encouragement and tips, we truly are lights shinning in a crooked and depraved (internet) world! 🙂

    ~Nicole
    workingkansashomemaker.blogspot.com

  46. What a great post Courtney!  I sure am glad I found your blog.  The first video I ever watched of yours was one where (i think) you were talking about how to love your husband well.  My hubby heard me listening and looked up from his book and said, “I don’t know who that girl is but keep listening to her!  She’s got good things to say!”  LOL!

  47. Thank you so much for this!  It’s so encouraging to hear from a blogger who has been around the block, so to speak, and to hear her tips.  Plus, I just love your positive and happy attitude 🙂 

  48. This is so wonderful. Thank you, Courtney! I’ve been rolling ideas around in my head for a blog for a very long time. This post is inspiring me to put in the work and take the plunge! 

  49. Love seeing how the journey unfolded before I started following WLW.  It is inspiring and also challenging, as I struggle with the principle of diligence and yet to figure out an ideal balance with social media.  But I’ll press on, not for the followers, but to persist in being an overflow for the Kingdom of God as He leads me to encourage, equip, and provide resources at http://www.moretobe.com and http://www.pnpcoaching.com.

  50. I love this, thanks for sharing!  I remember when you used to link up to my Making Your Home Sing Monday meme.  I really loved reading all you had to share, and I still love your blog today.  I am barely blogging one day a week right now.  My big problem is that I can’t decide what I want my blog to be, it really doesn’t have a “niche.”  I also don’t have as much time as I used to have. 

    But I pray about it and I really don’t feel God telling me NOT to blog, so I guess I need to step it up, but I can never decide which direction I want to go in.  I loved doing articles on don’t ever stop hugging your kids, or how to clean your kitchen, or raising respectful children, etc., but these kinds of posts take a lot longer than a stupid silly little humorous post.  I guess I’ll never have the kind of blog I want to have if I don’t put more time and effort into it (sort of like a marriage, right?  haha!).  Anyway, thanks for sharing, these are all great ideas that I’ll have to look into once I get more content on my blog.

  52. This was a GREAT post and very encouraging.  I attended Relevant last year and was both encouraged and at times a bit discouraged by all there is out there to “keep up with” as you say…but I think you make so many great points about hard work and persistence here…It can be easy to forget that that those are the things that are really important. So glad to have read this today! 

    Lisa
    http://www.littlewritermomma.com

  53. Thanks for the encouraging post! I started a crafting blog, and realized that all my posts were about taking care of my family, Biblically. So… blog number 2 got started. It seems like God had a different plan for me. I just got it up and going. Somehow, the “burden” to post has been lifted- I love talking about guiding my house, and discovering were God is leading me! I appreciate the tips- it’s tough finding readers when you are starting out, and family and friends don’t have a lot of the same goals. =)
    http://www.guidingthehouse.com

  54. Thanks for sharing.  I started a blog several years ago and revisit it every so often but always feel that nudge that God has given me a message to share. I even have it half written in my mind.  I am in a place that I have the time to refocus now I just have to find the discipline.

  58. Thank you so much for sharing! I am nearing the one year mark of posting 5 days a week at http://www.livingcrunchy.com/, and am just now starting to have a following. I started not to “make it big” but as a resource for people starting a greener lifestyle. I was always asked questions by friends, and it developed into the website. It brings me much joy to share the knowledge God has imparted to me, and the fact that others are starting to subscribe means they want to hear it! 🙂

    • Amen Katie – this blogging this is not really about us – we are God’s tools in his hands – servants nothing more.  We are not writing to make a name for ourselves (as the people who built the tower of Babel did – that so displeased God) – we write to make a name for God and to shine like lights in a dark world! Keep writing!

  59. This was post is very helpful Courtney!  I started a blog earlier this year and absolutely love it just because it challenges me to do things I’ve always wanted to and to share my real life experiences! 🙂 I really love your encouragement to surrender it to the Lord! Thanks for inspiring and encouraging us all!! 

  60. Awesome advice, Courtney! It’s so amazing to see that only 15 days later you appeared on RR. Obviously, God wanted to spread the Word through You Tube! Your success is inspiring. Thank you for such a great reminder to give glory to God for everything that happens in our lives!

  61. you are a huge inspiration! thank you for encouraging me. sometimes it is hard to be persistent, but you showed so much faith to keep going. THANK YOU for your example.

  62. This is amazing, i know nothing about blogging, but i do have one to in fact encourage others and spred the word of God!! * Laura Ritsche

  63. Courtney, I just love you! It was so cool to read about your humble beginnings! 🙂

  64. I struggle with wanting to promote my blog and wanting to keep my hands off of it so that God can do with it what He will. It’s a balance that is difficult to find. 
    I also struggle with posting daily….mainly because I’m afraid of being a “bother” and will actually LOSE readers instead of gain them! 
    Now, I’m also wondering if my blog address is too long! LOL
    Donna
    http://www.anotherbattlewon.blogspot.com

    • Yes – it is a VERY hard balance to find – writing and marketing – they are two different things entirely.  But here’s the key – if you haven’t written well – then marketing won’t work.  So content is king – write to the glory of God.  Then if God moves in your heart for you to try a few different things to share your content with women on-line so they can find you – then try some marketing. 

      I must admit that God’s fingerprints are ALL over my blog and I see how he marketed for me – for example the producer finding my very weak video on youtube…finding that video would have been like finding a needle in a haystack – but God led them there.  The key for me was to be faithful with coming to the keyboard to write and speak. 

      That is what God has called us to – to write.  If God allows you the time to do more in the way of marketing (and God has done that for me) then go forward in peace – it is not wrong to wisely use marketing to pierce the darkness of the on-line world!!!  I personally WANT to see more women writing and marketing! There are so many non-christian mommy blogs out there – they are smart and savvy – and they are sucking mommy’s in – we want to be out there too making a difference – making waves in the mommy blog world!  It takes courage – but if God is for you – he will help and guide you!  Shine brightly!!! We are the lights of the world!!!

      Keep writing!

  65. Courtney, I would like to blog but my audience (if there was one) would be different then yours.  

    I Breed/Show Siamese cats.  I wanted to do this long ago, but it has only been in the last couple of years that God allowed this of me.  He has DONE IT ALL…and I continue to be amazed (when I shouldn’t be) at the things He does.  I want to write of it.  

    My MAIN desire to do this is to have a written testimony of what God has done. 

    I want to also (gulp) be transparent before other Breeders.  So they can see that doing what is good and right is where the blessing is.  To encourage others to maybe consider doing the same.

    The cat fancy world is NOT Christian, and I expect that if there were to be anyone out there watching…it would be in this peer group God has placed me.

    Dear lady, I am quiet, I would never want to be out there speaking (like you ladies), I wouldn’t (and cringe at the thought) of being pointed out and getting attention.  I don’t do well in large groups.  I’m the one in the back, who smiles and listens and quietly leaves.  Dear lady I have no aspirations of wanting to be big, or known, I only want it wrote down “His Doings”.  

    I have started a set-up of a blog on WordPress, and have a FB account in the same name, but there it has ended.  Would you pray for me?  I DON’T know how to do this.  I want to do my best…but am horribly ignorant of how it all works.

    I hope to borrow a few books from the Library to learn how to DO blogging, but if you have any suggestions, or can point me anywhere to learn, please feel most welcome in sending them.  I would so very much appreciate it.

    The Lord continue to be with you, bless you, use you.

    Have a LOVELY day!

    Melody

  66. God Bless You!  Thank you for sharing.  This article and the comments of other readers has inspired some thoughts and encourages me to keep doing what I set out to do.  Numbers don’t matter as much as content.  Thank you again.

    http://missionsacademy.blogspot.com/

  67. I really want to make a difference to women, and so I write a blog – I always have more than enough to write about but wonder whether the way I write is focused.  Often it feels more like an online diary and though I get a fair amount of support and comments – I am constantly questioning myself and saying – what is the purpose, who is this for?  I want to change lives through my writing. 

    Thank you for this – I am glad to hear that link party’s work.  Sometimes I wonder.  And also to realise that it does demand discipline.  And to be reminded that I also need to become more diligent!
    http://www.mother-mel.blogspot.com

    • Melanie – when I first started writing I wasn’t sure what angle I was headed towards either.  A lot of the times it was just about my quiet times…then one day I wrote about marriage and I got a lot of reader feedback.  So I wrote about it again – and again and again and before I knew it – that was something that women were looking to me to write about. 
      Look back over your posts to see what resonated with the inner core of your readers and if it lines up with something that you are passionate about write on that topic in a series.  Test the waters – this is how you find your unique voice.  After about a year of writing on marriage frequently I gave it a rest and wrote on other things like homemaking and my walk with God – but then I always come back to marriage and those seem to be my most popular posts. 
      It takes time to find your voice but the best way to find it is to keep writing!

  68. Thanks so much for sharing your journey with us & for your encouragement. I am wanting to step my blog (threelittlearrows.blogspot.com) up a gear so your advice is much appreciated! God bless you & use you even more for His kingdom 🙂

  69. thanks Courtney!  As always, it’s a joy to read your posts – always inspiring and always REAL!  To me, the most valuable thing you mentioned was Content.  Some days, the only thing I could blog about would be something like my frustration with the carpool lane, and I just don’t think that’s blog-worthy!  That’s why your blog is so enjoyable – it’s always worthy of a good read.  Blessings!  -diane  http://www.sweeteuropeandreams.com

    • Diane – for me a lot of my content comes from reading – I recommend that you read and aspire to becoming an expert in the area you like to blog about – Elizabeth George says just 15 minutes a day of reading on one subject can make you an expert in a year.  🙂

  70. Thanks for youtin logging tips. I appreciate any info on blogging I can get as i’m a ‘newbie’ to it. My question has to do with security. I just started a blog called “A Dash of Salt”. It was mainly started as a way for family that lives around the country to see what we are up to out here in Oregon. So I made it private for security sake. Security mainly because I have little children. But, my parents and my husband’s parents have yet to figure out how to even get on to look at it, so, I’m thinking about putting it all the way ‘out there’. Plus, i kind of feel like the Lord is placing it on my heart ro be more real about my faith through this blog. Any tips on how I can keep things secure for myself and those around me. It just makes me nervous. Also, can you suggest some websites or blogs on tips about constructing blogs. There are so many things to do on a blog and I get completely overwhelmed when I try to just figure it out on my own. Need a little direction. Thank you for any thing you can share on these topics. I know you are a busy gal, Sydney K.

    • Yes there are two great sites for helping you learn to build a great blog I’d recommend – http://diyministry.org/ and http://bloggingwithamy.com/

      As far as security, there are a few things you can do if you have those concerns.  1.) don’t use your last name or location.  For example – my readers know I live in Ohio but rarely do I allude to the actual city in Ohio I am in.  I kept my last name secure until the Rachael Ray Show – then I had less of a choice.  Secondly, it is common amongst bloggers to rename their children with on-line nicknames for example some call their daughters dimples, princess or curly top, or their boys are titled buddy, spike, junior etc.  Those are a few things you can do to maintain privacy.

  71. I love reading your blog, but you said that you can spend hours on one post and get 5 comments and 15 min. on a post and get 55.  Please don’t feel you aren’t successful with 5.  The 5 people you touched with your message and encouragement, is what God laid on your heart that those 5 were needing.  God has given you a gift.  Many blessings.

    • Oh thank you Becky for that encouragement…I fully agree – I feel it is my job to be faithful to come to my keyboard to write and I leave it up to God for who he’d like to touch with my words.  5 or 55 really does make no difference…and that was my point – we can’t predict who will be touched or how many with our words – we must simply keep writing in faith 🙂

      • or it could be that only 5 responded and many more read and were encouraged by it.  I know that I read almost all of your posts but because I am not set up yet to respond I don’t.  I am ministered to everyday by your posts.

  72. Dear Courtney,

    I thank you so much for sharing your insight and personal experiences.  The Lord has impressed on my heart to start a minisitry that will oneday reach young girls.  This was my first week and I sent out an email to a few women that I thought may need to hear from our Father.  My mind has been very busy in trying to figure what the Lord wants me to do.

    Your post today brings much clarity.  May the Lord bless you in all your endeavors.

    • Michy – This is such a great thought – my journey will look different from your journey – there’s no do’s and don’ts on the blogging journey…this is just one story of one girl’s blog and God’s work there.  I only pray that my story is helpful to another sister in Christ on her journey 🙂

  74. Thank you so much for this – I do see my blog as a way to share my Savior to others, and that is why I have been known to ask bloggers I feel have the same view to share any tips to reach others. That is all I’m trying for, a community of supporters who love the Lord, and a chance to touch one person who might not know who the Savior is. Thank you so much, i can’t say it enough!

  75. What great information for new bloggers like myself…I began blogging several months ago and have never been very tech savvy so that part is a challenge! I do, however, love the writing part and feel compelled to share the things that God lays on my heart. Thanks again.
    http://www.bbmidlifewife.blogspot.com
    “The Heart of the Matter”

  76. What a great post! I really enjoy your blog and your link up party. You are in inspiration Courtney!

  77. Fantastic! Thank-you so much for sharing openly and all the wonderful tips! I linked up to one of your WLWW, and I was disappointed I got a comment on my blog post to which I linked by a fellow Christian who commented that they don’t agree with a pro-life decision I make concerning a charity I will not support. Although I know we will always have different opinions (and I’m grateful God designed us differently) it kind of hurts when it’s something you feel God has strongly called you to make people aware of (because most people actually DON’T KNOW many organizations do many things in contradiction to pro-life beliefs!) and the only comment you get is negative toward that calling. (The entire post wasn’t centered on that subject, but it does happen to be one I feel God has strongly called me to speak on.) I’m sure in all that time you have received comments that maybe hurt – particularly coming from a Christian sister. You may not be as “sensitive” as me, but could you maybe share how you keep the courage to move on after something discourages you? I haven’t linked since, and I keep praying I’ll break through that fear to connect again! Thanks!

    http://peaofsweetness.com 😉

    • Oh Emilee – if I could tell you the stories of insults and rude, mean, hateful, scary and hurtful comments – you’d know that I feel your pain completely.  I have been there SO many times…I have ones that stand out in my mind like the one where a woman said “I hope you daughter becomes an atheist and never speaks to you again” ouch! Or the one where a high profile non-Christian blogger (who happens to have over 230,000 twitter followers – yes that’s 4 zeros there!!! She’s huge!) posted one of my youtube videos on her blog and then mocked me terribly.  She had nearly 500 comments on that post of women saying how they hated me and I made them want to throw up…and even one said they wanted to kill me! LOVELY lol!

      Honestly – that’s only just the beginning – I regularly get comments about me being an airhead and doormat and on youtube I get vulgar comments a couple times a month where I have to block guys…it’s gross but they are into the whole “respect, bless and serve your husband” thing in all the wrong ways 🙁 boooooo. 

      So my words to you Emilee…we serve a Savior who wore a crown of thorns and was crucified…how can we expect any less from a world who does not understand.  Yes, sisters in Christ hurt us too…again I could give you a laundry list of things my sisters have said to me – including the time I went to McDonald’s and was insulted for feeding my kids that or when I posted a pic of my kids doing homeschool in their pajamas – oops – some Christians disapproved…

      When you open your life to the world – not everyone is going to agree with you – but that’s not why we write – we write to glorify God.  James 3 tells us no man can tame the tongue – we will ALL make missteps with our words when blogging – there are times to be humble and admit mistakes and there are times to stand our ground.  Have courage and do not give way to fear!!! God is with you – he will fight for you – you need only to be still 🙂 Exodus 14:14.

      Keep writing 🙂

      • Thank-you so much for your sweet reply! You are definitely right! There will always be people that hurt us, but I have to remember my WHY (glorifying Him) is more important! 🙂 I try to remind myself I’m still new to this, so there will be more to come! I need to learn to work through it and pray about it now! We’ve definitely done homeschool in pajamas, too! Hehe I look forward to linking up this coming Wednesday! 🙂

  78. Courtney, this was an excellent post on blogging. I like that you give honor and glory to God. You have put God first over your blog and that is the most important advice that  you can give the rest of us. Thank you so much!!

  80. Dear may the lord Bless you richly ur a big huge inspiration for the society . Your words of encouraging are a blessing. My God ur kingdom continues to expand in this ur childs hands. amen  keep me in prayer i know words of wisdom will be there for me Amen again amennnnnnnnn

  81. Thank you so much for this post. I am currently doing my second GMG study and am enjoying it immensely. I really found the information useful as I am starting a blog myself. We have joined a CSA farm this summer and I thought that it would be fun to blog about the experience. This tips will be very useful! Thanks again and God Bless You!! 🙂

  82. I hesitate to post this for fear of it coming off the wrong way, but I hope you can see my heart. I have had a burden for a long while to write. I have a site I just started but is not ready to be launched yet. I resigned my teaching position to care for my disabled husband (he’s 46 and I’m 43). We adopted four terrific and amazing kids six years ago and they are ages 14 and under. I would like to possibly earn a small income (I realize this may not be possible.) through writing, however please do not think I am a fake who just wants money..I promise I am not. I am actually leading one of the GMG Proverbs 31 groups now and really loving it. I prayed about what the Lord would have me do to help my family financially since I am the primary caregiver to my husband. He led me to write, however I am at a loss on how to create income through it. Do you have any suggestions? Ohhhhhhhhhhhh I hope I have not made you lose confidence in me by asking about blogging for an income. God bless you…I love and look forward to your weekly blog posts. Walking with the King, Cindy Bryson from Georgia

    • Cindy – I think this is a WONDERFUL idea!  I think the decision to make money from your blog is a personal decision that each woman must make and in no way judge other women who make a different choice than I have made.  Actually – I applaud the women who are able to keep their family first while bringing in an income as the Proverbs 31 woman did.  This can be a huge blessing to the family and I support your decision – as I can see your heart and love for your family just oozing through your comment – it’s beautiful!!!

      Okay – so suggestions on how to make money?  I recommend you visit Problogger at this link here:

      http://www.problogger.net/make-money-blogging/

      It is very thorough in explaining ways to make money and gives lots of extra links to more reading about things you can do! 
      May God bless your family and your writing Cindy!
      Courtney

  84. Hey Courtney!  I feel like I know you:) Thanks for sharing.  It was an answer to prayer for me…the Lord laid it on my heart to start a blog awhile ago and I have been doing it on and off.  He reminded me recently that I need to put more effort into it.  My spiritual gift is teaching and I LOVE teaching women about the Bible, but I have 3 small children and I homeschool the oldest which limits my time.  I love to be at home and do teaching ministry which is why I love blogging!  Anyway, I had been asking the Lord to show me how to make it better and then I read this!  So thank you! Love, Brandi http://www.truebreadandwater.blogspot.com  

  85. AWESOME! Thanks for the great advice and the links. I started an online journal over a month ago as part of a challenge group. I LOVE IT! So much so that I’m going to keep going once the challenge is complete on May 31. I’ve been doing it seven days a week but am going to cut back to five in June. I’m still working out what it’s going to be once I’m “on my own” so to speak but that’s all part of the journey! Blessings! Mindy http://newequus.wordpress.com

  86. Thank you so much for writing this!  I am a novice blogger and have really struggled with the learning curve.  I’m thankful that so many bloggers, like yourself, are willing to share.  I follow your blog/website.  Again, thank you! 

  87. Thank you Courtney.  I needed that post!  After writing for sometime (just for myself!), I finally decided to start a blog and this answered a lot of my questions.  

    I’m just constantly torn between being such a private person (when it comes to my writing) and now putting it out there, like I believe I’m being called to do.  Very scary for me!

    I appreciated being able to see that you felt embarrassed at times too!  : )

    Christine
    http://www.livingjoel225.com 

  88. Great information! My blog  (http://blog.nugenerationwebdesign.com/)is just starting out and I find it hard to blog everyday in between my studies and family time so I have sought out guest contributors. I am still trying to find a following after several months. I’m doing fine on Twitter but not so much with Feedburner but I’ll try some of your tips.

  90. are you finding it difficult to pay the bills (11701)

    feed the family, fuel the car and enjoy life?
    if you answered yes then a work at home position is for you! we give you the
    opportunity to earn a real income working from home in a variety of positions.
    including typing, research, compiling, processing and more you have the freedom
    to work as many of our positions as you like – working in your own time from
    home. visit us today for full details on our positions or to register today.
    your (http://tinyurl.com/3gce3ot) ids (11701)

Categories

Archives

Google+