Blogger Rebel- Breaking the “Rules”

I think, most of my life I have been a rule follower.  That’s not to say I
haven’t broken any.  I am sure many people could come forward to
attest of all my wrong doings.  BUT for the most part, I enjoy not being in trouble.

When I was younger, I could remember my father didn’t always follow “the rules”.   I thought, “Hey, you’re a Pastor!  Isn’t that part of the deal?”.  And to top it off, he always carried himself so confidently.  For example, he once told me about how he told the church board how long he would sit in a meeting.  Since I have worked for a church, it didn’t even occur to me that you could actually say that.  Don’t you HAVE to just sit there until it’s over?  Did I mention my father was a large man?  But size isn’t the only thing my father had on his side.

 

See my parents were older when they had me.  I was the bottom of five children, and my oldest brother is 13 years older than me.  My father knew a little secret that comes with age.   There is a lot more gray in life.  No, I don’t mean hairs, but yes those too.

He knew the difference between important, God rules,  and non-important “rules”.  Some non-important rules are merely suggestions disguised as have-to’s.  What I have come to find out, with age, is that I wasn’t always following “the rules” for structure.  Sometimes I followed rules to PEOPLE PLEASE!  Ouch!

 

What does this have to do with blogging?

 

Since I started blogging in my 40’s I am less bothered by “the rules”.

In any area, whether it be blogging or not, you have to decide what is necessary to follow and merely someone’s suggestions.

“BLOGGER REBEL”

 

Here are some “rules” and how/why I (we) break them:

1. Niche – Tighten down your niche category.

With our site, our goal has been to do what we feel “called” to do-our passion, and where we see a need.    For us, that is to help others live their best life by salvaging time, money, resources, and moments. 

One day we might post on how to paint cabinets because there are lots of people who can’t afford to fully remodel: #salvageresources.  Another day, we might share ways to reuse glass jars for your pantry : #salvagemoney.  Then another might be suggestions on ways to take a vacation to be with your family: #salvagemoments.  Just like a magazine has different categories, we consider ourselves a salvage magazine because people have many different aspects of their lives.

TAKE AWAY- Trends go in waves so make sure you are doing what’s right for your business and not just following a trend.

 

2. Technology – You need the latest in equipment.

Here is the deal.  It helps to have really nice equipment.  The reality is we don’t!  We are saving, but we started this site with no smart phones and a pretty frustrating computer.  We finally upgraded to smart phones, less than two years ago.   The computer???  Well, let’s just say that there is a 5 second delay on every K-E-Y I type right now!  AND I have just spent hours and many tears trying to make some spacing changes to this post!

TAKE AWAY- If you have a mindset it can’t be done, it won’t.

 

3. Instagram – Instagram doesn’t transfer into blog views.

While it’s true that Instagram is tricky because the link is in the profile, it has been a wonderful social media for @salvagesista.  It has provided social proof, business and personal connections,  and has also given opportunities to consult to help others build their audience.

*If you are interested in an Instagram consultation to grow your business, please email salvagesista@gmail.com for more information.

TAKE AWAY- Listen to what is working for you.

4. Photography – Images are GOLD!

Of course, there is really no argument that the prettier the image the better chance you have.  The reality is we don’t have photography experience, photoshop, or a DSLR.  In fact, since we live in Oregon, natural light can be an issue at times.  And yet, we have been able to grow and build an audience.  Maybe not as big as a “pretty” blog, but one none the less.  Sometimes people relate to a not so perfect???

TAKE AWAY- You can do much more than you think you can, with what you have!

P.S. – Thanks for hanging with us while we continue to improve in this area!

 

5. Hip, Young, and Pretty!

There are a lot of young pretty bloggers out there.  In fact, I have heard others discussing this very thing……where it feels as if they don’t measure up.    And yet, there is room for everyone in this pond!  You have a unique voice and perspective.  Use it.

TAKE AWAY – Don’t waste your time trying to be someone else.

It’s nice to get inspiration from others, but always make sure to know where YOU are going. 

Be a blogger rebel…….

 

MARCH TO YOUR OWN DRUM! 

If you are a blogger, we have a few more resources that you will may find helpful:

Bloggers you are off the hook!

Blog Planner