If you’re anything like me, you can’t help but share the love when you discover a new savory recipe or life-hacking workout. You tell your friends. You tell your family. You tell anyone with two ears and an enthusiasm for health and wellness.
Starting a blog satisfies that need to share. And it’s really not as hard as most people think to set one up and get it going.
First: Choose a Hosting Package
I recommend going to Bluehost.com. They’ll give you a free domain with the purchase of a hosting package. The setup process is pretty simple. At the top of their homepage, just click the “get started now” button.
You’ll be taken to a plan selector, where you can choose the package that best fits your needs. Don’t be afraid to select the cheapest plan; you can always upgrade to a bigger one later.
After you’ve selected your preferred package, the next page will have you enter your blog’s URL. This goes hand-in-hand with choosing your brand’s name. The perfect name may come to you in an instant, or you might need a few days to brainstorm. Either way, choose a title that represents the tone of your brand…and have fun with it!
Don’t get too attached to a name until you’ve typed it in and checked its availability!
After selecting your domain, simply fill in your account information and pay close attention to the package section. Here you will choose the length of time you want to pay for and select any additional products you’re interested in.
The last step is to enter your billing information. Hit “next”, and you’re on your merry way!
Second: Install WordPress
WordPress is an easy-to-use site builder that will let you customize the the look and feel of your site without having to rely on a coder. It makes my life easier, and I promise you will love it too.
Once you’ve logged into your new Bluehost account, go to your dashboard and find the “install WordPress” button.
This will take you to MOJO Marketplace, which is where you’ll start the actual download process.
The very last step here is pretty straightforward. Enter the name of your blog, your preferred username, a secure password, and your email address. Click “Install Now”.
And then you’re golden! The installation will begin and end in no time.
Third: Choose your angle
Now that your website is live, figure out your niche. Is it primarily weight loss? Paleo recipes? Fitness tips? There’s no rule about focusing on a combination of these things, but you should figure out what is it you want to initially be known for. Figure out what angle you know most about and focus there so readers trust your voice of authority in other areas as well.
Fourth: Consider Your Audience
Take out a pen and paper and write down what you know about your future readers. What type of content are they looking for? What posts would be most helpful to them? Are they looking for minor tips or a complete life overhaul? This will help you develop a voice for your brand and a plan for your content.
Fifth: Make it Look Good
And now for the cherry on top. You probably have a gorgeous vision for your new website. Lucky for you, there are thousands of WordPress themes to choose from! Select the one that best captures your brand. Keep in mind that you’ll want to choose a theme that looks stunning and optimizes the functionality of your page. Once you’ve found the perfect theme, your beautiful blog will be ready for fascinating posts.
Congratulations! You’ve set up a gorgeous new website and are ready to enter the world of blogging and brand-building. Enjoy the journey!