Blogging Tips Archives - Whitney Nic James

Self Care | Why Taking a Break from Blogging Is Good for You and Your Readers

September 15, 2015 by Whitney 17 Comments

Hey there! I missed you all for yesterday’s Personal Style Monday. I found myself checking my site to see who’d linked up, what they were wearing, and there was nothing there! So why didn’t I post yesterday? Glad you asked. I honestly didn’t feel like it. There, I said it. I had an outfit post and content ready to go, but something in me just wasn’t feeling it. I was feeling the outfit because I looked fly, lol…but I didn’t feel like the editing and sharing part.

That was a wake up call for me. This summer I’ve been providing stylish outfits, personal style tips, inspiring features, and I’ve LOVED every moment/post! However, I’ve been so adamant about feeding my readers great content that I neglected myself. No bueno. In a nutshell, it’s time for Whitney to hit the pause button and regroup.

Hitting the pause button has been something I’ve thought about and talked about with my husband and family for a few weeks. For some reason, I kept convincing myself that I’d wait until “next week” or “next month”. After all, I’ve worked so hard to remain consistent throughout the summer and I’ve really been trying to define and grow my brand. So taking a break from all this just didn’t seem right. However after attending Blogalicious this past weekend, I realized that taking a break can actually be beneficial, for me and you (my readers).

You can’t serve others if you neglect yourself. #wnjinspired

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Self care is crucial for a happy and healthy life. It’s also a main ingredient to success. Regrouping, rejuvenating and relaxing is a good thing! It allows your mind to rest and reset itself. If done correctly, taking a break from blogging (or any other job/occupation) helps refuel your mind and re-energize your body. When you hit the play button and get back in the game, you’re ready to share SO MUCH MORE amazing and useful content with your readers. And that’s what I intend to do, starting Monday….lol.

I learned SO much over the weekend, as well as throughout the summer. I now need time to sit with and sift through those lessons, tips and ideas and figure out how to implement them when I return. I’m already excited because I have so much helpful content and activities planned for WNJ and #FearlessWomanIam. But I must make self-care a priority in order to continue serving my readers and potential clients.

We must make self care a priority in order to continue serving others. #wnjinspired

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So tell me, what do you think about taking blog breaks or breaks in general? Have you been making self care a priority? Let me know!

In the meantime, I invite you to join me on my new Instagram page, as well as sign up for my newsletter. I’ll be updating and sending out information through both outlets this week, as well as when I return. As always, thanks for reading and following. I truly appreciate the support here on WNJ, through social media, and even through the emails. It’s such a blessing and helps get me through those “blah” days. I’ll be back tomorrow so until then, stay blessed and be safe…XO!

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Social Media | Why You Shouldn’t Follow Everyone on Social Media

August 14, 2015 by Whitney 19 Comments

Lately, I’ve been really paying attention to who I follow on social media. I’ve come to the conclusion that it doesn’t make sense to follow everyone on every platform. There are very few people I choose to follow on multiple outlets. Nothing personal, it’s just my preference. It’s simple; I like to follow people who are positive, encouraging (without being preachy or redundant) stylish and helpful. If you can give me that on all platforms, great! If not, I’ll pick the platform that inspires me most and follow there. That being said, here are 3 reasons you don’t need to follow everyone everywhere.

1. It can be overwhelming. Have you ever followed someone who posts the same images and posts, 24-7, on every outlet?? The redundancy is a lot and while some people prefer that posting tactic, I’m not a fan. I like pictures and quotes, but not the same ones on every social media outlet. Pay attention to the posting patterns of those you follow and decide which outlet you can “deal with”.

2. It can become a distraction. Following someone everywhere can be a bit distracting. Recently I started noticing that I was missing out on some pretty good posts/announcements on Twitter. After sifting through my news feed, I saw there was a lot of “fluff” on my feed. That was causing a distraction and at the end of the day, I was missing out on some pretty helpful content. Check your feed and be sure you’re not being distracting and missing out on valuable content.

3. Every social media outlet has a purpose. I like Instagram for visuals, Twitter for conversation/engaging, Facebook for a little bit of everything, Pinterest for a recipe, home decor, and #OOTD ideas/pics, and Periscope for live interaction. Those who use each outlet “the right way”, I appreciate. Decide what you like to see from those you follow and pick your favorite way to follow.

3 Reasons You Don’t Need to Follow Everyone Everywhere on Social Media #socialmedia

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So tell me, do you follow everyone everywhere on social media? If so, why or why not? Let me know!

Thanks for stopping by and as always, feel free to keep up with me this weekend on social media. You don’t have to follow everywhere though, LOL! Pick your fave outlet and I’ll be there. Have a wonderful weekend and until Monday, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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5 Truths | What I Know for Sure About Blogging After 5 Years

July 3, 2015 by Whitney 9 Comments

I was chatting with my Mom the other day and I realized that I’d been blogging for about 5 years now. ~~WOW!~~ I still can’t believe it sometimes. When I started blogging I had no clue how many opportunities would present themselves and I didn’t know how much about myself I’d learn. It’s always rewarding looking back and realizing that this hard work really is paying off. So today I thought it’d be helpful to share 5 what I know for sure about blogging tips.

1. It Takes a Village. I wouldn’t have started blogging if my husband hadn’t nudged me to publish my thrift store findings and tips. Without my parents constant support and idea sessions, I’d have no direction. My 13-year-old sister pours ideas out on a daily basis, and she’s a big help when it comes to editing my content. Even my grandmother has chimed in on the edits and content ideas. My fellow bloggers (in and outside of the DMV area) have helped me articulate blog post ideas, and of course you (the readers) have given me SO much support throughout the years. From emails, tweets, messages, blog post comments, and even stopping by at events to say hi have been a source of inspiration…it means the world to me. And I would not be such a dedicated blogger without my entire village. THANK YOU!

2. It Takes Time. Like most of us, I had that microwave mentality when I first started blogging. I just knew I was going to be an overnight sensations. HA! Not even. It takes time and endurance to be a committed, trusted blogger. The quality of your content depends on your consistency and effort, and taking your time is a big part of that. Also, valuing your time is crucial. Are you attending certain events to be seen or is there really a purpose to you being there? If there isn’t, you could be spending your time doing something to enhance your craft. Be mindful of how your spending your time as a creative (entrepreneur) and take your time when working to get to the top of your game.

If you don’t have a tribe/village behind you as a blogger, you need to get one ASAP. #wnjblogs

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3. It’s All About Relationships. At the core, I’m a loner. I don’t prefer crowds, but you’d never know it. When I socialize and network, I make it a point to meet 3 new people wherever I am. And by meeting them I mean getting (~~and remembering~~) their full name, business name, and walking away with a business card. Building relationships with (the right) people is also a key factor in being successful. Relationship building takes time, and it also requires a follow up with the people you’ve met. Mattieologie has some great tips on how to be taken seriously when you haven’t made it yet that you may find helpful. She also has a podcast (Ask Mattie) that answers a lot of questions you may have about blogging. Check it out!

4. Learn, Be Social & Enjoy the Ride. I don’t like school/classroom settings. I get that, understand it and I’ve accepted it. However, I love to learn. It’s like air for me; a necessity. Learning tips and tricks form other successful bloggers, as well as the in’s and outs of entrepreneurship has been awesome, especially since the beginning of the year. Attending seminars (online and in person), traveling to conferences and meeting like-minded people has allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone and really grow. Deciding to blog with a purpose and with intention was the best decision I’ve made, and since I’ve done that I’ve been enjoying the ride a lot more. Be social, get out there and find classes and activities that will enhance your career and better you as a person. It’s worth it, trust me.

5. Everyone will not wish you well, and that’s OK. This is the toughest pill I’ve had to swallow, but in some strange way it’s been satifying. I have become more aware of those people around me and have made a conscious effort to only have people in my circle who not necessarily agree with everything I say, but respect me and want the best for me. Time is everything and spending it with people who have your best interests at heart is crucial. Everyone won’t be on your team and everyone won’t root for you. It’s fine. Accept that, understand that it’s part of life, and don’t take it personal. Don’t let it break you; keep going and remember your purpose.

Time management and consistency are key factors in achieving success of any kind. #wnjblogs

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So tell me, what do you know for sure about blogging? Anything I mentioned resonate with your journey? Let me know!

As I said yesterday, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. I’ll be sending out free printables and resources for blogging and entrepreneurship. It’s something I’ve been wanting to do for a while, so why not now?? As always thanks for reading and keeping up with me on social media. Until Monday, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: Garay Treasures **

#WNJBlogs | 5 Things You Need to be Taken Seriously as a Blogger

April 29, 2015 by Whitney 20 Comments

When it comes to blogging I’ve learned a lot over the years. While I thoroughly enjoy the art of blogging, it’s no secret that it takes a lot to be taken seriously as a blogger. If you have the right tools and remain consistent, blogging can easily become your side hustle and possibly your full-time career. Sound like something you might be interested in? Check out 5 blogging must-haves you need to be taken seriously as a blogger.

1. Professional Headshots | These are a must! Professional headshots are great to have for several reasons. If you’re being featured on other sites and need a photo to accompany the content, use your headshot. If you’re planning to present at an event or if you need to create an event flyer/announcement, use your headshot. It’s also nice to have an updated headshot to in your About Me section. You can also use the shot for your social media pages. Doing this instantly makes you appear more professional.

2. Long & Short Bio | I’ve been asked several times for a bio and as of this year, I’m happy to say I have 2 on deck! It’s nice to have 2 to choose from because there may be times you’re asked for only 2-3 sentences about yourself. In this instance a short bio is perfect. If you’re asked for a full bio the longer one, of course, is the way to go. Keep in mind that the person asking for your bio may chop it up and only use what they want. It’s all good; you still gave them what they asked for. Lastly, be sure to keep your bio updated. Just like a resume, read over and add (or take out) certain information to keep it relevant.

Be taken seriously as a blogger with these 5 must-have tools! #wnjblogs

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3. Reliable Camera | If the bulk of your posts include pictures, a reliable camera is a necessity. It doesn’t have to be the most expensive camera and you don’t have to be a genius to figure out how to use it. Simply use your resources. Head to YouTube and search for “how to” videos to learn how to use the camera you own. You can also ask around to see if your peers can give you tips and pointers on how to use the camera. Knowing the basic functions is really all you need. Trust me, you’ll figure out the rest as you go along.

4. Clean & Simple Website | I’ve always been drawn to clean and simple websites. The easier is it for me to navigate the more I’ll come back. If you’re just getting started and have a limited budget, there are tons of free templates to choose from. I used a few free WordPress templates before I hired Her Name is Kim. If you’re not into the DIY themes and have the funds, hire a designer. Not sure who to hire? Do your research and ask around. Compare prices, check the designer’s client portfolio and figure out what it is you really want. Keep in mind that when hiring a professional, it may cost more than you expected. But trust me when I tell you, you get what you pay for.

5. Business Cards | Your business card is your mini resume. The information provided must be accurate and spelled correctly. Keep the design simple and clean, just like your website should be. Also, don’t be scared to use your professional headshot on the card. Including this is a great way to set you apart from your peers. A few other ways to make your business card stand out is to create vertical cards, upgrade to a thicker paper quality, or add a quote or a short mission statement. To keep your business cards clutter free, order double sided cards.

So tell me, what do you think about these basic blogging must haves? What do you have to add? Let me know!

As always thanks for reading! If you have any questions or tips, leave them below or feel free to contact me. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Blogging + YouTube | What Should I Do?

October 7, 2014 by Whitney 12 Comments

I’ve been back and forth with my decision to head (back) to YouTube. I mean I was never really a huge YouTuber, but I did have a few thrifting videos here and there. Lately, I’ve been really feeling inspired to get back to it. Acting on it, well, that’s another thing.

I mentioned in this post that my YouTube days would return in late summer. As you can see that didn’t happen, lol. Yes, I’m still dragging my feet. But I have a good reason, lol. I’m thinking about making my channel a true extension of my blog. What would that entail? Without going into all the details, below are a few ideas I’ve been tossing around.

1. Making “Inspirational Tuesday’s” a weekly or bi-weekly YouTube segment

2. Introducing Style Bloggers and Entrepreneurs via-YouTube

3. Doing (my own) product reviews & monthly favorites

4. Exploring and filming my experiencing at shops, restaurants, etc. (local & non-local)

As I continue to blog, I don’t want to get stale. I think trying different approaches and new things is always a good idea. I also think listening to what your readers want is another important factor. That said, you know I have a question (or 2) coming! 😉

What do you think about YouTube in general? Did any of my ideas stick out to you? Do you have any suggestion of what you’d like to see me cover on YouTube? Let me know!

Don’t be shy. Comment below and let me know what you think. You can also contact me here with any ideas, suggestions and thoughts. Your feedback is appreciated and I truly appreciate how much love and support you all show me. It’s a blessing. Hope to hear form you all soon. Until then, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Style + Lifestyle Feature: Molly of Still Being Molly

August 6, 2014 by Whitney 4 Comments

An infectious smile, a positive and upbeat attitude and an adorable baby girl. Those are just a few of my favorite things about visiting Molly’s blog, Still Being Molly! I’m a regular over at SBM and have been for quite sometime. This North Carolina blogger willingly shares posts about fashion, style, makeup, money, and more! Her blog is a true reflection of what a lifestyle blog should be. Read more about Molly below and be sure to stop by her blog to say hello! 🙂

ABOUT YOU & YOUR STYLE

Where are you from and what’s your occupation?

I am originally from Herndon, Virginia where I was born and raised but currently live in Durham, North Carolina. I am the Director of Marketing for a company called rAVe Publications – we are a media company that covers commercial audio / visual technology. I also am a mom! I call that a job in and of itself. 🙂

How do you define your personal style?

I’m a bit of a chameleon when it comes to my style. I like a little bit of everything… with exceptions, of course. But I’m always open to trying something new. However, my “go-to” style tends to be on the more classic and preppy side.

What are your 5 must have wardrobe items for the summer?

– A denim vest! I wear one ALL THE TIME! It’s the perfect layering piece.

– A fun pair of bright, printed shorts.

– A comfortable, but also fun maxi skirt.

– Flowy layering tanks – the kind that can be worn with shorts, jeans, skirts, and you can easily throw a cardigan over top.

– A lightweight tunic – that’s a super versatile summer piece that can be thrown over a swimsuit at the BEACH or it can be worn with jeans or shorts.

Check out @stillbeingmolly’s Lifestyle Feature. She talks about motherhood, blogging and more!

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Name 5 must have wardrobe staples every woman should own?

– A denim jacket

(A serious must-have; it goes with everything.)

-A good pair of neutral riding boots

(Boots can be worn in ALL seasons, I wear my riding / cowboy boots all the time.)

-Cardigans. No woman can have too many cardigans.

– A lace dress

(To me, the lace dress has replaced the LBD…)

– A neutral maxi skirt

(Perfect for any occasion)

ABOUT STILL BEING MOLLY (SBM):

How long have you been a blogger?

I had a Live Journal BACK IN THE DAY (but I don’t really count that… I just used to write random stuff on it). I moved over to WordPress.com from LiveJournal in 2007 right after I graduated college, and then moved to a self-hosted blog on WordPress.org in November or December of 2009 (I can’t remember exactly when). So, about 7+ years or so!

What inspired you to start SBM?

I have always loved to write. I was a creative writing major in college… so a blog was naturally a therapeutic way for me to just write. I have never been good at keeping a journal, so my blog has chronicled my life for the better part of a decade. Over the years it has evolved and changed as I have and has taken on MANY different forms. I really like where it is now.

Where do you see SBM in 5 years?

I think every blogger hopes and prays (at least in the back of their mind) that they would be able to do it full time. So, yeah, there’s a part of me that wonders if I’ll ever be able to take this thing full time. I love it and pour my heart and soul into it and work really hard on it… so I’d love to be able to say that one day it is my full-time job. For now, I just treat it like it is. 🙂

What’s the best & toughest thing about being a blogger?

The best thing is the people that I have met through blogging. I realize that is extremely cliche to say, but it’s true. I’ve made some amazing friends through blogging and have connected with so many awesome people some of these people are now my best friends and I never would have met them if it weren’t for the blog. I love the opportunity to connect with people on such a deep level!

The toughest thing is just the natural “comparison” trap that all bloggers find themselves in eventually. It’s a constant struggle to not compare yourself to everyone else out there and get caught up in the “mess” of it all.

ABOUT YOUR LIFESTYLE

What makes you happy & what inspires you?

My family makes me happy. Simple things like playing with my baby girl and her giggling at me or nights on the back deck with my husband bring me so much joy. I am inspired by EVERYTHING around me. I’m always taking stuff in wherever I go. I used to be a comedian so, naturally, I’m a bit of a people watcher and I observe my surroundings constantly. I draw inspiration from the guy across the street to the way a display is set up in a store.

What are 3 things you do daily to live a healthy lifestyle?

(1) Exercise. I try my best to do this regularly and it is a challenge, but I’m working at it!

(2) Sleep! Sleep is sooooo important, especially with a baby. So I sleep whenever I get the chance.

(3) I cut back on my Diet Coke intake. It’s no secret I’m obsessed with Diet Coke… so I stopped buying it to have in our home. I only have it as a treat when I’m out. That’s made a huge difference! I drink SO MUCH water now!

As a wife, mother, and entrepreneur how do you find balance in your everyday life?

Balance is a thing I struggle to find every single day and I don’t have it all figured out, as much as I wish I could. It’s just a matter of prioritizing each thing as it comes and taking things one step at a time and one day at a time. It’s also REALLY important to realize that you don’t have to (and can’t) do it all.

Be honest with yourself, at all times. Don’t try to “fake it til you make it.” ~ @stillbeingmolly

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Any advice for someone trying to find their passion& purpose in life?

Be honest with yourself at ALL times. Don’t try to “fake it till you make it.” If your heart doesn’t feel right about something, listen to it. Trust your gut instinct. Seek counsel from your close friends and family members who will be honest with you. At the end of the day, do what you love. Who wants to waste their life doing something they hate?

WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU?

#WNJBlogs | 10 Things I’ve Learned About Blogging

February 18, 2014 by Whitney 39 Comments

The other day, I looked back at my very 1st blog post from March 2011 and instantly realized that I’d grown so much as a blogger. I actually leave my old blog published because from time to time, I look back at where I started as motivation. Especially on days when I’m not feeling it. That said, I want to share 10 things I’ve learned about blogging. Maybe you’re thinking about blogging but unsure of “what it takes”. Or maybe you’re already a blogger and you find yourself at a fork in the road, unsure if you want to continue blogging or not. Whatever the case, I invite you to check out this post. In one way or another, I hope it helps. 🙂

1. Stay True – Regardless of what’s “popular” or “trendy”, blog about what you know and what you’re passionate about.

2. Be Consistent – You don’t have to blog every day but, have some kind of blogging schedule so your readers know when to expect your posts.

3. Connect – Do your best to respond to blog comments and questions. When a blogger responds to my comments, it shows me that she/he actually cares that I visited their site.

4. Network – Attend as many conferences, meetups, etc. that you can afford. This keeps you up-to-date on the latest blog trends and it keeps you motivated.

5. Be Nice – It’s a small world, but an even smaller blogging world. Word travels fast so, be careful how you “act” online and in person.

6. Plan Ahead – This is something I’ve gotten better at, but I’m still working on it. Planning your blog posts and social media posts saves so much time. Especially if you have a life outside of blogging.

10 things you should know about blogging.#wnjblogs

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7. Work Together – Working with other bloggers is a great way to introduce yourself to a new audience. Find another blogger that shares your interests and figure out a way to team up!

8. Learn to DIY– When it comes to the blog itself, a lot of blog tweaks and changes can be done by you, the blogger. You don’t have to hire someone to do every little thing for you. If you’re investing in your blog, why not learn a thing or two about how to run a blog?

9. Trial & Error – Try posting at different times for a few weeks and pay attention to which time brings more traffic. You can also do this for your social media sites too!

10. Have Fun & Keep Going – For me, blogging is fun. I love to write, meet new people and connect with readers so it’s a perfect match! 😉 Also, don’t get discouraged because you “only have a little bit of followers”. Followers will come and even if they don’t, remember why you started in the 1st place.

So tell me, what are somethings you’ve learned about blogging? Let me know!

I hope you’ve found this post helpful. As always, thanks for reading! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe.

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