A couple of weeks ago, I had a serious case of writer’s block. This rarely happens to me because I am always thinking of ideas for blog posts and jotting them down, but I just could not think of anything. I blame it on a certain 4 month old’s growth spurt and lack of sleep lately. I decided I had to get out of the house and try to ignite my brain somehow. I wasn’t coming up with anything by just sitting around there anyways.

I ran out to Hobby Lobby and BOOM the idea for my DIY burlap wreath tutorial (and something else that is coming soon) was formed. I was checking out at the counter when I saw a Taste of Home /magazine – hello, 3 more ideas for blog posts! Then, the idea for this post flew in my head! I see that a lot of bloggers struggle with writer’s block from time to time. I thought it would be a great idea to share some of the ways I stay inspired and gain ideas to form my own blog posts.

Look through magazines – one magazine gave me 3 instant ideas for great holiday themed blog posts. Just remember to make them your own. Add your own flavor the them. Do not ever copy anything verbatim. Plagiarism isn’t just for high-schoolers. There are also these things called copyright laws…

Go for a walk – Getting outside always inspires me. I love to be out in nature and I gain so much by being outside in the peace and quiet. It allows me to clear my head and think a little more clearly about my goals and ideas.

Grab your camera and take random photos – I have just recently started doing this. I love taking photos of random things. Sometimes they even spark a great story, tutorial or recipe idea!

Step away from your computer – This is HUGE for us bloggers! We are on our computer ALL the time. Writing, applying for sponsored posts, editing pictures, scheduling social media, participating in Facebook groups, and the list goes on and on. Sometimes, you (and definitely me) can get burned out really easily. It is healthy and smart to step away from it all sometimes.

Peruse Pinterest – I see so many great recipes, crafts, how-tos, etc on Pinterest that trigger an idea for me. Whether it is taking my own spin on How to Start a Blog, an OOTD, or a simple dinner recipe, I love checking out Pinterest regularly for inspiration.

Read a book – It is no secret that I love to read. It is my favorite form of “escaping.” Some people throw themselves into a job, some drink alcohol, I read. I love to get wrapped up in a good story. Even better? Books inspire me. They are constantly giving me ideas and keeping me focused and constantly examining my own life and keeping me on track to be where I want to be. Also, I can always type up a book review of my latest read when I need a post for a Tuesday.

Other bloggers – I will say it a million times. I love this community of bloggers. Everyone is so supportive of one another. For the most part everyone is kind and encouraging. I love feeding off of other bloggers. I also love doing round-up posts and sharing other bloggers work. Others have been so kind to share mine and I love doing the same for them. I love reading my favorite blogs and being encouraged and inspired by them. They help me set my next goals and help me succeed.

Where do you turn for inspiration? Which blogger most inspires you? Leave a link to their blog in the comments!

Decide what you want to write about. This is pretty important. Do you want to be a fashion blogger, lifestyle blogger, food blogger, craft blogger? I would say mine is a lifestyle blog. I like to share about my life as a mother as well as my fashion, recipes, book reviews, etc. It’s important to know what type of blogger you want to be so that you can have a clear vision of the topics you will write about.

Blogger vs. WordPress is and has been the biggest controversial topic amongst bloggers. Everyone has their opinion. I am on Blogger. I love it and haven’t really wanted to change because it is so easy to work with. A lot of bloggers will preach WordPress all the way, but I have been very happy with Blogger as well. The decision is ultimately yours. Do your research on both and make the decision based on what you want for your blog.

Picking a name for your blog is the next step. This is huge. My blog started out as Southern, Sunflowers and Coffee Beans, because those are two of my favorite things that also describe me. I am a southern girl who loves the outdoors and I’m always hyped up on coffee. I changed my blog name to Logan Can last year because I wanted a simpler, shorter and clearer name for my blog. Put a lot of thought into your name because it will definitely become your identity in blogland. Also, be conscious of social media handles. Make sure the handles are available for your blog before you begin.

Blog Design is also very important. You want your blog to be organized and look professional while also describing your personality. You might want to splurge and hire a designer to do this for you. It will be much easier and quicker than you trying to do it yourself. Most designers are very easy to work with and can help you creatively design your blog to fit your personality.

Write. And write some more. I try to write every day. Some days I just don’t have time, but I at least try  to jot down my ideas or an outline for a post. Always write about things that matter to you, current events that are important to you. Use holidays to your advantage to write holiday themed posts, or posts about your favorite shows or music/movie awards. Whatever the topic, make sure you’re always writing.

Write down every idea you have. I know this kind of goes along with my previous point, but I wanted to emphasize it. However insignificant, you will always wish you had written down your thoughts or ideas when you are having a bloggy brain fart – which happens OFTEN. Start writing blog posts immediately. Blog about anything and everything you want to, after all, it is your space.

Good luck on your new blogging adventure! Was this post helpful? What other tips would you add to this list?