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Views Last 30 days : 4181This year marks my 5th year of blogging! I started this blog back in March 2016, and over the years, I’ve learned so much about improving my writing skills, blog content, and even my English. I won’t lie, building this blog was challenging at first because I had to start from scratch. There were a lot of trial-and-error moments, and honestly, I didn’t have anyone to guide me. It was just me, Google, and YouTube. So, honestly, Google and YouTube were my blog gurus.
If you’re considering starting your own blog or improving the one you already have, here are some tips that might help. These tips are simple, but they’ve made a huge difference for me, and I believe they can for you too.
1. Keep It Informal and Simple
One of the first things I learned about writing is to keep it simple. When I started, my writing was much more formal because I thought that’s how it should be. But it didn’t feel natural to me, so I decided to switch to a more informal style—like having a conversation with a friend. This approach makes my content feel personal and relatable, which is exactly how I want my readers to feel when they visit my blog.
I keep my sentences straightforward and avoid overly complicated words. Writing informally feels more authentic and enjoyable for me. Honestly, when I read blogs that are too formal, I struggle to get through them, and I’m sure I’m not the only one.
When I first started this blog, I tried to follow a “proper” style, thinking I had to stick to the rules. But over time, I realized,
“This is my blog; I have full control over it.”
I let go of trying to sound “correct” and focused on letting my own voice shine.
Writing takes inspiration and mood, which don’t come every day. I don’t pressure myself to stick to deadlines or post daily. Instead, I write when I feel like it, ensuring each post feels authentic and not rushed.
2. I Use Both Malay and English
In my daily life, I speak both Malay and English, and I mix both languages in my blog posts because that’s how I communicate with the people around me. Some posts are fully in English because I have foreign friends who can only understand English, and I want them to enjoy my content too. This doesn’t mean I’m trying to show off or act “fancy.” Rather, to make my blog more accessible to everyone
Now, I’m not saying that my English is perfect—far from it! I know I make mistakes in my posts, especially with grammar, but I embrace those mistakes because they help me grow. I’m grateful that some of my foreign friends helped me improve my grammar. It’s a process, and I’m constantly learning. Even in my English posts, I use simple and clear vocabulary because. That way, I can stay connected with my readers, no matter what language they speak. It’s all about making the content accessible and enjoyable for everyone, and keeping it easy to understand is key to doing that.
3. My Blog Content Is Based on My Life Experiences
Coming up with blog content can be challenging, especially on days when fresh ideas or motivation are hard to find. When I started my blog, my focus was on sharing travel experiences—the places I visited, the adventures I had, and the lessons I learned. But the pandemic put my travel plans on hold, leaving me stuck at home with no new material. I felt lost, as if my blog’s purpose had stalled.
That’s when my mom, my greatest supporter, suggested writing about my life instead. She believed my personal experiences could resonate with others, even if they weren’t about travel. At first, I wasn’t sure, but as I shared more personal posts, I received emails from readers who connected with my stories. It made me realize how powerful sharing everyday moments can be. Writing about your life—big or small—creates a deeper connection with others. Your story matters, and being vulnerable can inspire and comfort someone who needs it.
4. I Often Check and Edit My Old Blog Posts
One of the best parts about being a blogger is watching yourself grow. I’ve seen my writing improve over the years, but it’s not just about looking forward—I also look back at my old posts. Sometimes, I find sentences or words that I could have phrased better, so I go back and make changes. I compare older posts with newer ones to see how far I’ve come. It’s a great way to track progress.
I believe that learning is a never-ending process. There’s always room for improvement, and revisiting old posts keeps me humble and motivated to keep getting better. It also helps me keep my content fresh, making sure that what I’m sharing is the best version of my thoughts at the time.
5. I Research Before Writing About a Topic
Before I write about a topic, I always take the time to do some research. I want to know how many other people have already covered the same subject and find a unique angle or perspective to share. I believe that in order to create valuable content, it’s important to be different, to add something fresh to the conversation.
Doing research helps me avoid repeating what others have already said. It also ensures that I’m providing my readers with new insights or information. I don’t want to just copy what’s out there. Every blogger has their own unique voice, and that’s something I value in my writing. The key is to make your content stand out.
Before I hit publish, I always read through my post a few times. I want to make sure I’m happy with it, that it flows well and delivers the message I intended. The editing process is just as important as the writing itself.
Conclusion
Writing is a journey, not a destination. It’s about finding your voice, connecting with your readers, and sharing stories that matter to you. Whether you’re starting a blog or improving your writing, remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Stay true to your style, be patient with yourself, and most importantly, enjoy the process.
Every post you write is a reflection of your growth, creativity, and experiences. So take your time, write from the heart, and let your unique perspective shine. Your words have the power to inspire, comfort, and connect with others—even if you don’t realize it yet. Keep going, and don’t forget to have fun along the way!
X, Hani.
