“I am a blogger” – I get mixed reactions when I say that I am a blogger. Some ask me genuine and meaningful questions like my profile as a blogger, how I got into this field, how I get paid, etc. And when they get their answers, there is a wow expression on their faces. They get some, if not all, idea that blogging is not just a pastime that most mommy bloggers do. It is a serious field and requires hard work, commitment, discipline, networking, and technical knowledge. 

On the other hand, some people convey with their eyes that it is not a big deal and I am doing it as a pastime. Those expressions conveying their unspoken words – “good for you” used to bother me. “Why they don’t want to know what blogging is all about? How can they assume that it is something anyone can do?” Yes, I used to feel like this. But with time, I have outgrown this feeling. Maybe because I got my virtual family via blogging. I got like-minded friends who are amazingly talented and skilled.

I don’t remember if I have ever written any post on why I chose parenting and lifestyle as my niche or my personal growth from being a blogger/influencer? So, let’s have a candid conversation today.

Who am I? Parenting and Lifestyle blogger or Mommy blogger?

Sometimes, I cannot decide whether I should call myself a mommy blogger or a parenting and lifestyle blogger? Who says that a blogger writing about parenting topics cannot write about health and fitness or vice-versa. I started with parenting as my niche because I was experiencing it when I stepped into blogging, but with time, I also explored other areas like fitness, mental health, and lifestyle. 

But what pushed me more towards parenting blogging?

Parenting can feel like a lonely journey sometimes, even when you know so many others who have been and are in the same shoes. We look for inputs, suggestions, and quick fixes. Other resources can help moms in answering their questions. I decided to share my real-life experiences – from the complex challenges to the joyful moments that make up modern-day motherhood. 

Today, parenting is way more challenging than how it used to be. We have heard, ‘it takes a village to raise a child’, but from where can we bring a village when all are far away? Such times, mommy bloggers share their motherhood journey and create a virtual village for several other moms out there. From the start, mommy blogs gained popularity because of their authenticity and rawness over the polished and sentimental scripts that we see in ads. As a result, the mom blogosphere became an authentic space where mothers could openly talk about their insecurities, find support in their fears, and understand their failures.

Related article: Happy International Bloggers Day. 7 years fast forward

Did being a mommy blogger contribute to my personal growth?

Off-course yes!!

It made me a better version of myself.

My approach towards people’s questions has changed. The main reason for this is I don’t have time to think about anything else other than my work. My entire week is pretty much planned and packed with work. I write every day, and with almost seven years into blogging, my mind is always looking for new topics. There is no time to waste or to give attention to something unworthy. 

It has broadened my thinking. I got to meet with different people who groomed me by sharing their knowledge and expertise with me. I came across some amazing brands through collaborations.

They motivate me to learn new things. Their work inspires me to learn from them. Not all are open to sharing their skills, but most of them do.

I never felt insecure in sharing what I know. During my initial days into blogging, I have experienced the challenges, and I understand where new bloggers need help. I would say it made me more modest. I don’t expect to get something in return, but I genuinely want to help them. 

The shift I have seen in reader’s patience and receptiveness

From time to time, we see Instagram or social media influencers coming into the picture. It quickly grabs viewer’s attention. But traditional blogs have once again gained popularity as more moms are looking to connect and find community.

To me, the blogosphere has been an extraordinarily empowering space. I found my tribe and established meaningful networks with other women who share their passion. It has played a crucial role in my podcasting journey as well. 

Whether to become a published author, a lifestyle consultant, an RJ, or a podcast host, blogging is increasingly viewed as a first step in establishing an audience. Blogging is and will always be an integral part of my life. 

Request to all the mommy blogger(s)

In order for others to take you and your work seriously, first you have to take it seriously. If you treat your work as a hobby, it will treat you the same. If you takeout seriously, then you will see the results.