Mom. Blogger. One of those words I never pictured in my life. But here I am– a mom with a blog!
Six months ago, I launched this blog. Or I should say re-launched this blog. Brief and Balanced has been around for a couple years now. But in reality, it’s been a part of me for longer than that.
As a busy mom, some may wonder why I would take the time to blog. In this post I’ll not only be answering a couple frequently asked questions, but I’ll shine light on the six benefits of blogging.
In one of my first blog posts, you may recall that I tried to ditch this idea of a blog many times. But it’s been one of the strongest “nudges” in me and I am so glad I followed through. This space continues to be a place of personal growth, joy, and opportunity.
Brief and Balanced isn’t just a url, I’m realizing it’s my own personal charism that God has put on my heart on this motherhood journey. And when translated through a blog, I can share that passion of healthier living with other moms in hope to encourage, inspire and educate.
Okay, so what exactly is a blog?
I get this question a lot! Any typically I also am hearing the word “Instagram” or “influencer” before I can answer!
I actually appreciate this question because it gives me an opportunity to explain what a blog is, which in turn helps someone understand my purpose.
While the two may go hand in hand, social media isn’t part of the blog itself. And certainly, may not be why a person starts a blog…or be the sole reason why one blogs.
- a website that contains personal reflections, comments, hyperlinks, videos and photographs provided by the writer.
And the topics are endless. For example:
- Food
- Lifestyle
- News
- Affiliate/Review
- Business/Corporate use
While these all serve different purposes, they typically all include articles, or blog posts, that follow a standard structure (have you noticed my use of headers, lists, photos, etc?! There’s a purpose to that!)
Blogging refers to the process of managing the blog from idea creation, writing, posting and promotion–which may be the social media part.
What is the purpose of a blog?
A blog provides answers to questions that people (like you) go searching for. Therefore, this platform helps others learn a topic or gain information.
In my case, I relate it to the patient education I provided as a Nurse. At the bedside or over the phone, I would break down the necessary information into an easy to read/understand format that would empower or encourage the patient and family to carry out certain tasks.
Now, at my computer, I strive for the same concept for my readers!
Why did you choose blogging?
Okay so this question often comes across as “really? why? what are you trying to do with a blog?” And again, this is becoming a question I hope people ask. I’m increasingly becoming more and more confident in sharing this part of me with the world.
I chose blogging because
- I have a passion
- I feel a sense of mission to share and help others
… and okay, I’ll toss this in there too– I also thought why the heck not? I’m interested, I’ve got an idea and want to learn more, what do I have to lose?
I figured even if I found it wasn’t for me, I wanted the peace that I had tried.
What is Brief and Balanced?
Always a common question 🙂 I referred to the origin of my blog’s name in another early blog post. But one correction– I’m now realizing it’s not that silly. In fact, I kind of get goosebumps now that I think about it and talk about it more.
My blog promotes easy solutions to help achieve that balance we all so crave. However, it’s not about hastily getting through the daily tasks so we can throw the kids in bed and indulge on the couch.
No.
Rather, it’s about simplifying the dailyness that can be overwhelming or stressful (mealtime comes to my mind first) and adding in small, healthier steps. Therefore, you stay in the moment and see the true joy and purpose of your role.
In other words, less stress means more time to love the life we were called to– motherhood.
And when your heart is turned in the right direction, this is where true wellness and balance are found.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s see why one may like blogging.
6 Benefits of Blogging
There are so many benefits to blogging, especially for a busy mom. Take a look!
1. Space to Learn
From day one, the learning has drawn me in.
I laugh writing this because way back in the beginning I seriously thought I’d not only master blogging but also master creating a website on my own (including all things coding and HTML) along the way. If you’re a fellow blogger reading this, please laugh with me on this one 😉
While that “fun” idea only lasted a couple months, I’m still here for the learning.
The education piece feels professional. Familiar. And really fires me up!
Classes, courses, and continuing education/ attending seminars were the norm throughout my nursing career. Trial and error and areas of improvement were daily practices.
Blogging reignites that learning component.
And beyond the technical aspects, I’m enjoying learning more about myself along the way!
2. Form Community
Blogging opens doors to a community. Instantly you’re plugged into the world wide web where interactions are endless.
But I have to say, there’s a unique community among bloggers. I guess one thing that has surprised me is how supportive everyone is.
Having community as a stay-at-home mom is crucial. I’ve always kept up with a mom’s group, church group, etc. because it’s important to walk the road with people who understand.
The coolest thing about the blogging community is that I form connections even beyond mom life. Regardless of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, when it comes to blogging, we all speak a similar language–it’s really unique!!
For a mom who may feel isolated at times just based on the demand of her household, this is such a fun way to meet like-minded people and be social as well.
3. Be a Voice
This right here. I think this actually is my number one reason I went into blogging.
I felt very compelled to raise up motherhood, fight through the stigmas of being “just” a mom and be a voice to this ministry. Everything from recipe sharing, preparing a nutritious meal, adding in small positive task, and sneaking in that quick workout matters.
We are shaping the next generation, serving our families and carrying out our God given roles. There is no shame here.
And I’ll say this again–just because the demands of motherhood are steep doesn’t mean moms can’t live a healthier, fulfilling life! I want to use my outdoor voice when it comes to preaching that 😉
Also, very important– I own my own content. This is one huge difference between a self-hosted blog like this and Instagram or Facebook. And was a huge priority for me.
As moms, we need to be shining the light on this profession. And blogging allows for moms to speak truth and hope without always worrying about algorithms, what’s trending, etc.!
4. Opportunity
Who doesn’t love opportunity?
This experience is:
- Opening doors
- Creating connections/experiences (for example–I got to be a guest on this podcast!)
- Paving a foundation for the future
Obviously, my number one priority right now is to be a mom, but blogging allows the opportunity for a hobby now and income down the road.
I’m starting to realize that I won’t always be swarming around in tantrums, stepping on legos and serving snacks. I love knowing that tomorrow I can wake up and chase blogging as a profession.
Another cool opportunity? I’m able to combine my nursing degree, motherhood experience and interests in one space.
For anyone who doesn’t desire the time clock, but still seeks opportunity, blogging can be a great solution!
5. Self Care
Are there moments in your day that just ooze peace? Maybe it’s turning on your diffuser, pouring that first cup of coffee or climbing into bed at night after kissing your sleeping baby.
For me, even logging into my blog elicits peace. It’s hard to describe and actually ironic, considering how many times I’ve overthought or scrutinized the small details of this space.
But really–I sign in and it makes me happy.
It’s exciting, fun, calm, and nurtures my potential allowing me to be me. We all need those things!
From a wellness standpoint, it checks many boxes. Some may fill their cups by:
- reading
- binging on Netflix
- online shopping
I blog.
And when I can sneak away to a coffee shop (aka Panera), or sit at my desk as the rain falls, I really recharge mentally and emotionally.
Yes, it’s work.
Sometimes it’s frustrating.
But when I remember my why and dive further in and learn something hard, it’s so rewarding.
Blogging is the ultimate form of self- care.
6. Creative Outlet
Creativity has always been very important to me. I think we all need to use our brains in ways allow us to release. Grow. Dream. I’ve always loved to creating things …especially out of the ordinary.
Blogging not only allows me to tap into my gifts and talents, but I can take it one step further. For example, some days I’m a photographer, some days I’m a graphic designer (thank you canva.com!)
With so many components to a blog, boredom does not exist!
More than a Mommy Blogger
What has really surprised me along this 6-month journey is the fact that other talents and passions are being unveiled. Even beyond having a blog.
For example, search engine optimization (SEO) is one area of blogging that can feel overwhelming and bland for bloggers. However, for me, it’s actually one of my favorite parts. I’m absolutely intrigued and eager to learn more. I can feel my wheels turning about future goals and projects.
Like anything in life, blogging has advantages and disadvantages. But whether you’re a business or “just” a mom like me, there’s importance to words in today’s world. Especially when there are so many benefits. Not only the readers, but the writer as well.
Yep, I’m a mom blogger.
More to Love
I’d love to know– have you ever thought about blogging? Did any of this surprise you or make you think differently about blogging?
If you have any questions or curious how I got started, please feel free to leave a comment or shoot me a message. Thanks!
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