On Starting A Blog Inspiring Entrepreneurs, Bloggers, And New Online Businesses
I am Arfa Nazeer, and I am the founder of shemeansblogging. I started this blog to teach practical blogging strategies for aspiring bloggers, and passionate individuals who want to kickstart their own profitable blogs and make a decent income online.
My audience is anyone who struggles with blog creation and growth. This blog is also created to inspire entrepreneurs, bloggers, and new online businesses to use blogging platforms for their own best.
My in-depth ebook on ‘evergreen content strategies’ is my flagship product and I’m so proud of it. As content creation is the biggest struggle for new bloggers so I wanted to create an easy to digest ebook that includes all steps from brainstorming a content topic to making conversions.
What's your backstory and how did you get into entrepreneurship?
I never knew I would become an online entrepreneur. Even though I had this business mindset because I had run an online clothing boutique with my sister for about 2 years as my dad always encouraged us to be self-employed and we were eagerly passionate about clothing. Unfortunately, we couldn’t continue with our boutique as it was getting difficult to manage a business while still studying in college. So, we continued with our studies. So, the idea of becoming an entrepreneur is actually from a very young age.
Never quit. There can be times when you feel like quitting your idea but dream a little and be hopeful. If you can really persuade yourself and get success then you will be doing all those amazing things you never imagined.
When I finished my graduation in mass communication and was still indecisive about whether to pursue a job, I started to write as a freelancer. That was when I decided to be self-employed and work for myself. However, the early stage was a real struggle. But, the passion to do something keeps you inspired, creative, and consistent with your journey.
I still remember those sleepless nights when I only used to read articles and posts on blogging and entrepreneurship.
Alongside my small freelance writing career, I launched my own blog. And, that’s simply how it started. The same day I asked him, ‘Can I make a business out of a simple blog?’. He replied and said, ‘why not! Read this story. Check out this young successful blogger”. Upon his reply, I said ‘I want to do it myself no matter how hard it’s going to be’
It’s obvious that I learned everything on my own and with the help of some other bloggers who I proudly call my best friends. I also continued writing for freelance clients and because I had an interest in entrepreneurship and marketing, I chose to write for this specific niche. This further enhanced my knowledge in my own blog business and polished my writing skills.
I still remember when I was paid $100 for an article! That was the time, I was sure that I wanted to build an online career and that’s it. I never looked back for any jobs.
I choose blogging as a model for my online business. Knowing how challenging it could be, I made a promise to learn everything on my own and become self-employed.
Take us through your entrepreneurial journey. How did you go from day 1 to today?
Even in these competitive times, starting a blog and making a business out of it seems very easy. But, honestly, it was never easy at all.
Whether it’s a new business venture, a job, or a blog, the first few months or maybe, a year is going to be a tough journey.
I had several pitfalls in my own journey but that’s how we grow. People are not willing to share their mistakes but trust me, those mistakes set your path to success. If you are starting to become an entrepreneur then do not fear mistakes. These mistakes are shaping your journey and the experience you learn is invaluable. No one can teach you what you learn by yourself.
The start was quite challenging for me. I even had this thought that the blogging niche is competitive, and it might take years for me to make real money. But, I made a decision and sketched the plan.
As soon as I started to build my blog, I focused on my blog audience. On my blog, I share all these different ways to monetize a blog or online business even without ads.
I started to publish in-depth articles which helped me get noticed by others. With that, I focused strongly on affiliate marketing.
It’s a huge model for earning a decent passive income and that’s what I choose. Even though I took several mini-breaks from my blog business, I never quit and continued to grow my blog here and there.
I believe that your ideas come from the people you serve.
That’s exactly what happened to me. When aspiring bloggers reached out to me and asked, what’s one thing to focus on building their blogs, I replied with ‘create valuable content and you will have your own audience cheering up for you’.
The idea of an ebook that answers every question on blog post creation and even provides them insightful strategies on making their content work for them showed up. That’s how I validated my evergreen content ebook idea and was compelled to write it.
How are you doing today and what does the future look like?
Today, my business is doing well. All the hard work has started to pay off. Last year, I made myself a promise to set a monthly income goal and that was the best thing I did. And, how would you feel if you surpassed your goals?
Incredible!
My blog business is based on affiliate marketing, digital products, and ad income. In the future, I’m planning to create more digital products and focus on affiliate marketing. I also aim to grow my total income via different methods and mostly, diversify it while focusing on readership growth and email marketing. Starting another blog is another thing I am looking at.
It’s important to get a clear monetization and growth plan for your online business. Once, you set a strategy and an action plan, it gives you a guideline to focus on. *Otherwise, it’s easier to get overwhelmed in this online business world.
Through starting the business, have you learned anything particularly helpful or advantageous?
This is the best part of anyone’s entrepreneurial journey. Speaking of myself, I have made tons of mistakes but I have also learned incredible things. I have learned to hone my capabilities and skills for the best of my business. What I mean is that writing and making conversations is my power. It feels amazing when I receive emails and messages on how much my posts or my content has helped them.
Whatever it is, it’s inside you! Find your hidden skills and abilities to grow your business. With time, I also knew that comparing myself to others is not a solution. You just end up wasting time and that’s all you do. When it comes to mistakes and poor decisions, everyone is guilty of those. And, that’s a part of your journey. I don’t feel terrible after making a mistake but I make sure to not repeat that mistake twice.
Never aim for perfection. I used to give endless hours in making things perfect. Whether it’s a small idea, a blog post, or even a new opportunity - just give it a go! Do it and correct it later. Take the courage and move on with your idea. Never kill your ideas beforehand.
In addition to that, I have understood the significance of networking and working environments. I realized this later but that’s one thing I have now understood clearly.. Having a friend in a similar field who is there to listen and critique to your ideas is so important. You need motivation and inspiration from people who share similar mindsets. As a single person, you need people around you who believe in your ideas. Surround yourself with other bloggers, and entrepreneurs. Connect with them. We learn from each other.
What platform/tools do you use for your business?
Even though I love to try out new tools but these are some of my favorite tools;
- WordPress
- Canva Pro
- Tailwind
- Gumroad
- Mailerlite
- OptinMonster
- Trello
- Stock images [Deposit Photos, Unsplash, and some stock image sites]
- Keyword research tools [KWFinder, Keysearch]
What have been the most influential books, podcasts, or other resources?
I haven’t read too many business books yet but I do like Girlboss by Sophia Amoruso and Hustle (The Power to Charge Your Life with Money, Meaning, and Momentum)
by Neil Patel. Both of these books are encouraging.
I like listening to a couple of podcasts.
Some of my favorites are;
- The Influencer Podcast by Julie Soloman
- Online Marketing Made Easy with Amy Porterfield
- The Strategy Hour Podcast
- The Marie Forleo Podcast
Other than that, I am an avid reader for online content. Whether it’s Ahref’s blog or Enchanting Marketing by Henneke, I learn a lot from them :) I usually share all these resources along with my favorite courses in my blog posts, and emails.
Advice for other entrepreneurs who want to get started or are just starting out?
First of all, do not overthink. If that’s the thing you are passionate about, or strongly believe in, just take the first step. However, it is better to consult with someone, read other stories online, learn from their experiences, and take the plunge.
Here is some other advice for budding entrepreneurs;
- Start with a mindset - You will most likely fail or struggle very hard if you don’t believe in entrepreneurship. You need to have a strong mindset for your business beliefs.
Don’t feel scared to invest - You need to have a risk appetite if you are willing to start a business on your own. Whether it’s investing your money into products or buying tools or even getting an online education, you have to spend money to make money. Don’t compromise your time and energy over money. I don’t know how to explain to those people who want to start an online business but are not ready to spend their money. That’s not going to work.
Do not fear mistakes. You might make mistakes for every step or decision you make. I’m here saying that it’s okay to make mistakes. Everybody makes mistakes. “I have not failed. I have just found 10,000 ways that won’t work" - Thomas A.Edison
Network and build your tribe. When you allow yourself to connect and network with other people in the field, you are opening doors to new opportunities. Even if you gain nothing, there’s invaluable knowledge you learn from just hanging out with smart people.
Never quit. There can be times when you feel like quitting your idea but dream a little and be hopeful. If you can really persuade yourself and get success then you will be doing all those amazing things you never imagined.
Where can we go to learn more?
Get connected with me on;
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
