The opinions I share below are my own. This blog post contains links but is NOT sponsored by Wix.

So you want to start a blog but aren't sure where to begin. I'm glad you found me. Maybe, like me, you are in your 40's and have decided to share your passions with the world through writing. I had no clue where to begin. I didn't even know where to start. I used good old google to help me find the resources online to help me create this blog...which is about living and thriving in your 40's and beyond!
A blog is a great way to share your life experience, expertise, or favorite aunt's recipe for pound cake! A blog is an opportunity to be creative and explore. A blog can potentially become a lucrative side business.
Whatever your initial reasons for starting a blog, the point is that the right time to start your blog is NOW. Below you will find Five easy steps to get you started.
Step 1 : Choose a Blog Name
This is an opportunity to get creative. Stinky Tacos or Catchy Cooties. Whatever your thing maybe, if it inspires you, use it! If you know what your blog will be about, this will make it easier. If you aren't sure but have some catchy names, the first thing you want to do is make sure it isn't being used by someone else. Below is the Domain Search I used from my web host, Wix. There are other web hosting platforms, but I found Wix to be user-friendly and beginner-friendly.
This content block can only be edited from a browser
Once you have found your blog name, it will likely be your domain name. The domain name is basically the address where Internet users can find your Website. Your Website is what visitors see when they type in your domain name.
Step 2: Get your Blog Online- Find a Web Hosting Platform
Like I mentioned earlier, I use Wix as my web host, and this is not sponsored. I chose Wix because my favorite YouTubers, Mr. Kate, recommended it for its ease of use. I checked it out, and I was impressed with how easy it was to use. I was able to purchase my domain and publish my Website and first blog post on the same day.
Step 3: Create and Customize your Website
I also found it helpful to watch a YouTube Tutorial on creating my first Website using Wix templates. Please see the linked video below that I found the most useful in making my first Website.

You want to create several static pages which will introduce your visitors to who you are and your content.
Ideally, you want to include the following pages:
An About Me Page: The about me page is basically your mission statement. On this page, your share with the world who you are and why you do what you do. Perhaps your blog is about reviewing the best taco joints across the U.S. You may want to write about how you discovered this hobby on a trip to San Francisco, CA. You get the gist.
Contact Me Page: Your contact me page is where visitors can reach you or contact you. I suggest getting a free google email address. You can also purchase a professional address with your domain name directly from Wix.
Disclaimer Page: If you monetize your blog, such as using Google Adsense, you must include a disclaimer page that describes how you intend to generate income. Likewise, if you are discussing or endorsing a product and are making a profit via an affiliate link or sponsorship, this relationship must be disclosed. For example, I put in a disclaimer that this post is not sponsored by Wix just to make things clear. I just really happen to like Wix.
Privacy Policy: I include a privacy policy page on my Website since I use Google Adsense. This page is required by the CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act) and the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation). I basically used an example from the Wix Help Center and created my own privacy policy.
Terms of Service: If you plan to create an online store or sell your services, it is highly encouraged that you include the terms of service. Again, I adapted my terms of service from an example I found on the Wix help center.
Step 4: Write your First Post
The point here is to get started, but there are a few things I recommend you do before you move on to the next step.
I happen to use Grammarly to check that my writing is easy to read and help me ensure that my post is not only clear but also engaging.
I am not sponsored by Grammarly. I use it day to day for my regular 9-5 job. It has really helped me write for my audience.
Step 5: Publish
Publishing your first post can be really scary, but it is best to rip off the bandaid and just do it! To help you get started, share the link to your blog with your friends and family. When you feel bolder, share the link on your Social Media pages such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
If you don't want to link your blog to your personal social media accounts, create new accounts just for your Shiny new blog.
I really hope you find this blog post helpful. Good look. I'm rooting for you.
Love,
Vivian
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