What I've Learned After 3 Years of Blogging + Clarisonic Mia 2 Giveaway!

It's still hard for me to wrap my head around the fact that I started my blog three years ago today! I still remember hitting publish for the first time and my heart beating out of my chest because of how both nervous and excited I was. That same feeling resurfaced when I uploaded my first video on my YouTube channel after debating starting one for the longest time. So, to celebrate my three years in the blogging world and my one year of making videos, I thought I would share what blogging has taught me with tips and lessons learned along the way. I also wanted to thank you for following me on my journey, so stick around until the end for a chance to win this limited edition Clarisonic Mia 2!

Blogging Tips and Lessons Learned

1) Go at your own pace
Starting something new and stepping out of your comfort zone is no easy task, especially if you are a creature of habit like me. Testing out the waters and getting a feel for your new hobby can take some time. It took me a few months to find what worked best for me with regard to what I enjoy writing about, my writing style and how often I want to post. Don't be too hard on yourself at the beginning, it will all come together eventually! Which brings me to my next point:

2) Consistency is key
I aim to put two or three new posts up each week, and looking back, I think I've been pretty consistent about it. That is the secret: find what works for you, and stick with it! Of course there are weeks when I am not as active on the web because life gets in the way or I find myself in a bit of a rut as to what I should write about next, and that's okay. Take a break to find your groove if that's what it takes and you will come back motivated and inspired.

3) Don't compare yourself to others
"Comparison is the thief of joy"... so true! We have to remember that we all start somewhere, don't we? This reminder has helped me so much on my journey. With time and effort, people will see the value of what you have to say and will want to stick around. The right opportunities will come to you, trust me!

4) Participate in link ups
I cannot even begin to explain how wonderful these are! Link ups are a great way for your blog to get more exposure all while finding new blogs to follow. I have joined a bunch of link ups over the years and I can say from experience that they are one of the best ways to attract new readers to your blog. For the last year or so, I have also been co-hosting the Wake Up Wednesday Linky which goes live every week on Wednesdays -  I invite you to join us each week here!

5) Join blogging networks
Best way to find a group of like-minded people who share common interests? Blogging networks of course! I have come across and joined quite a few over the years, and with a bit of research you will find one that appeals to you. The Canadian Beauty Bloggers Network is my favourite by far. It is run by a wonderful group of ladies and everyone in the group is so helpful and resourceful.

6) Be active on social media
Truth is, the only reason I am on social media is for my blog. When I first started using Instagram and Pinterest I was beyond confused but thankfully got the hang of it pretty quick. I had no idea how helpful setting up accounts and being active on social media could be to drive new visitors to my blog and provide a friendly reminder to my current readers that a new post just went up. At first it might seem like a hassle, but stick with it and you will see how well it works!

7) Accept that not everyone will like you
This one can be hard to swallow, but really it's just a fact of life! I used to be so scared of what others would think of me, and I can honestly say starting this online adventure has helped me get past that! Negativity is unavoidable in whatever you do (even from yourself!) - you just have to learn to take it lightly and not let it bring you down. Those who believe in you will stick around and show their support!

8) Be proud of your blog and what you have achieved
There is something about blogging I feel many of us have in common - we're kind of shy to talk about it to others, especially friends and family. A blog is very personal and I initially feared being judged. I realized it is something I should be proud of because I really do enjoy it. It took me a lot of courage to approach others with the news, but after letting the cat out of the bag, I wish I had done it sooner! Everyone has been so supportive, and it makes for a great conversation when people want to learn more about it.

Whether you are a seasoned blogger or looking to start, I hope these tips and reminders were helpful!
If you have any tips, feel free to leave them in the comments below!

Now for the part you've been waiting for! I am so excited for this giveaway because I have been saving the prize for this special occasion. Some of you may remember that I was a candidate in the Made in Blog Awards last year. At the time, I shared how you could win a Clarisonic Mia 2 device just for participating in the voting process here. Lo and behold I was lucky enough to win one as nominees were in for a separate draw! I already have the original Mia (which I reviewed way back here) and it is still going strong. Of course, I couldn't resist giving this new one away to one of my readers to say THANK YOU for your support!

This giveaway is open internationally.

Please use the box below to submit your entries.

To enter, you must:

1. Follow my blog on Bloglovin'

2. Be a subscriber on YouTube

3. Leave your email address so I can contact you if you win

The first three entries are mandatory.

The more entries you complete, the higher your chance of winning.

For full terms and conditions, see the box below.

Good luck!

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