It took me more than a year to finally get round to starting my blog, but it was one of the best decisions, financially, that I could have made. Ever! I am so pleased that I decided to go ahead and start a personal finance blog. After seeing the recommendations of other bloggers to use Bluehost, I bought my domain and hosting on May 31st, 2014 and the journey began from there.
But, there are so many reasons why this was the best decision I ever made. Especially in terms of our own finances, it has definitely helped by having to write things down.
Having a blog has made me more focused.
Right at the very beginning, I made some goals for the future, in terms of financial and personal goals. One of my very first posts on here is all about being goal orientated. Having to continuously update and reflect on goal setting has made me much more focused on what I actually want to achieve.
It has made me define my goals.
Before starting my blog, I had a vague idea about early retirement. I knew I wanted to aim for something like that, but nothing particularly solid. Since starting my blog, I have very much defined the goals I want to achieve, both on here and in my own mind. It has cemented the idea of early retirement as a priority in our lives.
I have been able to earn money, online.
There are so many bloggers who earn money online, whether that’s a small amount or in the tens of thousands. Before starting a blog, I didn’t believe that it was actually possible to earn anything online. But, as my income reports show, I am managing to earn money. Slowly but surely, I am beginning to consistently make money online.
I am saving more money.
I suppose this goes hand in hand, but as I define goals and earn money, I am saving more. Without this blog, I do not think I would have opened an investing account. I do not think I would be now receiving dividend payments each and every month and am saving towards our early retirement, thanks to this blog.
I am educating myself.
I had read a couple of money related books before starting The Frugal Cottage, but I am reading more and more about finance. I read other personal finance blogs, I read the business section of the news, and personal finance books. One of my favourites is The Millionaire Next Door as it emphases living within your needs.
I get to meet like minded people.
I have met and talked to so many people online who are in the same situation as we are. Who like talking about frugal things. Who blog about early retirement and money saving. I have met some in person too, at the money bloggers awards, where everyone was so welcoming. Again, without starting this blog, I would not have had the opportunity to do that.
Hopefully, I am inspiring others.
I have said before about how we an ordinary family trying to do something a little different. There is nothing special about us; we aren’t millionaires, we don’t live a fancy life, but we are trying to do our best. Hopefully, I am inspiring others to do the same, make that change. Thank you for reading my blog.
If you fancy starting a blog of your own, I would recommend Bluehost. I have used them from the start and my hosting has been excellent. And, if you sign up through my link, you will be able to get hosting for only $5.95 which is cheap when converted into £s!
I am branching out.
I am in the process of writing my first e-course, details of which will be released very soon. I am very excited about this, as it seems a natural progression of the blog at this stage. I am hoping to launch this on 1st January, 2017. Watch this space…
Starting a blog was definitely one of my best decisions ever. I cannot wait to see where the next few years takes me!
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Katy Stevens says
Starting a blog has had similar benefits for me too – I also love to hopefully inspire people! Keep up the great work – I love your blog x
Nicola says
Thanks Katy, what a lovely thing to say!
KnyttWytch says
Good for you! My blog is more my personal journey through pain so no where near as interesting as what you come up with!
Nicola says
Thank you 🙂
Sarah @tortoisehappy.com says
I procrastinated for 5 years before finally starting my blog in July this year. On the one hand, I’m cross with myself because I’d forgotten how much I love writing. On the other hand, I’ve started now and am enthusiastic about inspiring new readers in the future. I’ve not got to the point of trying to make money yet, I’m trying to focus on putting some content together that it useful to readers. 🙂
Nicola says
Slow and steady wins the race 🙂
ESI Money says
If no one ever read my blogs they would still be good for me. They have helped me refine my thinking, take action, and ultimately become wealthy. Well worth the time and effort.
Congratulations on having similar results! I hope your future years will be as productive as your past.
Penny @ She Picks Up Pennies says
The community of bloggers makes me so happy, too! I love your point about using blogging to learn and define your goals. I’m still a terrible goal setter (way too lofty and long term or way too easy and immediate). Inspiration from the community helps a ton!
I’m also really glad you started a blog!
Jayson @ Monster Piggy Bank says
It’s great that blogging has been helpful to you, Nicola. Great job!