Having a blog is a great way to get out there, but you need to do more than merely update your site with posts every week. You need to stay committed to your blog, which includes writing often and the site upkeep. However, being committed isn’t enough. You need to have goals.
Most writers are thrilled when people visit their site and even happier when someone actually comments. These are, of course, wonderful things, but you should have some goals for your blog that will help you strive to make your site better and give you something to reach for.
You can set a goal of how many new visitors a month, or hits per month. You can track the statistics of your site to find out which topics most people are interested in which will help you focus your writing and get more people interested in what you have to say.
Maybe your goals don’t have to do with the number of people who visit your site, but what you produce. If you want to become a better writer then consistency is very important. You’ll have to pay close attention to your writing and what you want to say rather than just writing fluff articles. If you’re having trouble finding better ideas to write about get outside and let the world create inspiration for you. Sitting in a coffee house or at a park (though since it is winter I would not advise this if you live in colder climate) will help get your creative energies going.
Other goals might be writing longer posts, finding creative pictures to go with every post, or even spreading the word about your blog through social networks. Choose goals that are obtainable. If you make goals that are too far to reach, then you might end up not meeting them and feel like a failure. You know your limits, make sure your blog goals reflect that.
I've been writing down my goals and that's really helped it seemed more real for me. I've always had goals in my head, but writing them down forced me to take them serious and act on them.
I try to write my goals down.
The only one I have at the moment is one about not checking emails or talking on MSN until I've finished the article I'm working on.
I agree Patricia. I'd like to add that once a blogger has those goals/dreams, they should go ahead and put a solid foundation under them. Setting clear realistic and achievable objectives can help one chart their course from A to B.
I use mind maps and write down S.M.A.R.T. objectives, constantly review my performance and time-line. I find I'm more focused this way because I have a plan.
thank you