Life Lessons From 13 Years Of Blogging
This week we published our 3000th blog post on my blog, and it’s incredible to think that some of you may still be reading after 13 years of daily blogging. Naturally, I’ve learned a thing or two over this much time and dedication. As I reflected on my biggest learnings, I realized that committing to one idea—blog every day (every weekday to be specific, though we often post on the weekends too)—has completely changed me. I believe these lessons can resonate with everyone, so I hope you enjoy reading them. Thank you so much for being part of my journey.
1. Consistency + Volume = Growth
The real value of consistency lies in how it drives growth and improvement. By committing to showing up every day, you’re constantly pushing your boundaries and honing your craft. The sheer volume of work you produce over time allows you to see progress, identify strengths, and improve in ways you couldn’t achieve through sporadic efforts.
2. Algorithms shift, but connecting authentically stays key
While social media and search algorithms evolve constantly, the need to connect with your audience on a human level remains the same. Prioritizing authenticity and engagement over chasing trends is always a sound strategy.
3. If it’s not a “Hell, Yes!” it a “No”
Time and focus are your most valuable resources. If a project, idea, or collaboration doesn’t excite you, it’s better to pass on it. Saying “no” to things that don’t serve you allows you to invest fully in the things that do.
4. Learn to do everything yourself, then ask for help when you become the bottleneck
In the beginning, knowing how to handle every aspect of your blog is empowering and helps you understand the process deeply. But as you grow, recognize when your involvement is slowing things down and don’t hesitate to delegate.
5. Have a partner that’s invested in your success
A partner, whether personal or professional, who believes in your vision is essential. Their support and feedback can help you stay motivated, and having someone invested in your journey makes the wins sweeter and the challenges easier to face.
6. Own as many of your channels as possible
Relying solely on platforms you don’t control (like social media) is risky, as algorithms and policies can change overnight. Owning your channels—such as your website, email list, or podcast—gives you full control over how and when you engage with your audience, ensuring long-term stability.
7. Spend lots of time and money on branding and design
First impressions matter, and your blog’s branding is often the first touchpoint for your audience. Good design and a clear brand identity build trust and make your content more accessible and attractive.
8. Falling into habits is OK. Being unwilling to break them is not
Routines can be helpful in maintaining consistency, but they shouldn’t become restrictive. Being flexible and open to changing habits when needed is key to growth and staying relevant.
9. Understand the business you’re in and where you fit in it
You can’t just blog in a vacuum. Understand the broader industry, your competition, and how you add unique value. Knowing where you fit helps you make smarter strategic decisions about your content and growth.
10. Connect with a bigger mission
Blogging can be draining over time, especially if it’s purely self-serving. Connecting your work to a larger purpose or mission gives you a sense of fulfillment and direction that keeps you going even on tough days.
11. Experiment, track, and tweak. It’s the only way to know why you got better
You won’t improve without deliberate experimentation. Constantly testing new ideas and analyzing what works helps you refine your approach and understand what drives your success. Try to take an analytical approach.
12. Big goals push you to grow and achieve more.
Pursuing ambitious goals, like launching a product or collaborating with a brand, forces you to stretch beyond your comfort zone. These larger initiatives come with obstacles and deadlines that push you to grow, stay disciplined, and ultimately achieve more than you would through small, incremental efforts alone.
13. Reinvent yourself boldly
Growth often requires change, and evolving your content or direction can sometimes result in losing followers who no longer resonate with your new focus. However, following your natural changes can attract a new, more aligned audience. The key is to embrace this evolution rather than staying stuck out of fear of losing people who are no longer a fit.