I haven’t been in the game as long as others but before I started LWSS all I did was goggle tips on beauty blogging. You have so many questions and thoughts running through your head that it can all be overwhelming. You either have a thing for it or you don’t, it’s that simple. The amount of effort put in shows through your work and If your blog looks crappy chances are your traffic will be crappy. I try not to focus too much on the numbers aspect of it because I truly love blogging, but to see a crazy spike in your views makes you feel a sense of accomplishment. As far as all the “freebies” it comes with the job, what matters is you stay true to yourself and what you think about a product. I would never jeopardize the integrity of my blog just to review something for the sake of, not my M.O. and never will be. So for all the noobs or established bloggers I bring these tips to you . . .

1. Schedule! Schedule! Schedule! – I can’t stress how much easier this makes it on you! I find that when I think of what I want to write, schedule them on said dates, visually it makes it realistic as to how busy you’ll be. Maybe you only want to post every other day or even twice a week but that all depends on what other things you have going on in life. Do yourself a favor and get a planner, journal or notebook. If you’re a stationary freak like me, keep one in every corner of the house!

2. Nap Time & Bed Time – I have two little bugs that are the ages of 7 & 3. It’s super hard to find time to shoot photos, type up posts, clean, cook, play and all the good things moms do. My son is in school of course so that’s a help but my little one is home with me all day so no break for me! She has a scheduled nap time, that’s when I am able to take some photos or plan out posts for the week. I’ve definitely learned how to multi-task after having kids, a part-time job, the boy and a house. If they’re up while I’m working I’ve got two handy helpers! Typing at night is a bit more relaxing when you can get comfy and know you don’t have to get up to run to the potty with the little one!

3. No Busy Bee-ing! – I know that some people love bows and polka dots which is completely fine but always remember that less is more! I hate looking at blogs that have too much going on with their backgrounds and photos, it distracts from the actual content. A nice clean look is a bit more mature and a lot more appealing to the eye. I started out with a mint background and some polka dots that I wasn’t happy about in the end so I changed it. I feel that the layout has to balance itself out and shouldn’t be too busy, it can be tacky at times!

4. Accept The Good & Bad – People will be people and you’ll always have someone to spread some hate, what can you do about it? Shit. You can’t please the world nor are you meant to so continue to do what you love and all you can do is give yourself the necessary tools to become a better blogger everyday. You need to have a tough exterior and learn how to click, block, erase. Exposing yourself to other people in different parts of the world has its perks as well so it isn’t all bad, I’ve met some wonderful people through this experience. That right there is what counts, your faithful viewers! P.S – btw I love you guys!

5. Twit-Sta-Book It Up! – Social media believe or not plays a major role on getting your blog noticed! You can interact, share links and post updates to give your viewers a little insight of who you are as a person. I love talking to my viewers and when things are shared it makes it easier to talk to new ones as well! You start building relationships with other bloggers and really engaging in the blogging community which I think makes you a better blogger. It’s also nice to know you aren’t the only one obsessed with that new Nars Palette that just released, yea we’ve all been there!

Everything is trial and error, eventually you’ll find what works best for your lifestyle. Be confident, patient and never give up. I’m hoping one day this all leads to what my goals are and I’m determined to get there. I’m also realistic of my chances of being recognized and that’s where being patient comes in. I’m proud of my work and it should be the only thing that matters in the end!