How to Start a Blog as a Side Hustle

The Complete Beginner’s Guide

Dreaming of launching your own blog but not sure where to start?

This is the 5th blog I have started. Let me tell you its fairly easy to get started.

You don’t need fancy skills or years of experience to get a blog online. This easy-to-follow guide will walk you through each step with clear instructions and plenty of pictures. In about 20 minutes, you’ll have your own blog ready for readers everywhere.

Disclosure: our content is reader-supported, which means we may earn commissions from links at no cost to you.

Why Blogging?

Blogging isn’t just for professional writers or tech experts. It’s for anyone with a story, an idea, or a passion to share. Whether you’re 9 or 70, you can create a blog and use it to connect, teach, and even earn money from home. Hopefully. this guide saves you time and helps you build your blog with less stress and more fun.

Bloggers don’t need to stick to one topic or be experts in what they write about. Some of the most popular cooking blogs, for example, are run by home cooks, not chefs or scientists. The key is to write about something you care about. Your excitement and honesty will draw people in.

Many people want to blog so they can:

Share their story or ideas
Make money online
Build a reputation in their field
Find a community of like-minded people

A blog lets you reach people across the globe. Whether you want to teach, entertain, sell, or just share your thoughts, your words can make a difference.

What is a Blog?

A blog is a type of website focused mainly on written content—what we call blog posts. You might think of news or celebrity blogs, but the truth is, you can blog about anything: cooking, travel, family, hobbies, or even your daily life.

Most bloggers write from their own point of view, connecting directly with readers. Many blogs also let visitors leave comments, which creates a conversation between you and your audience.

This connection is one of blogging’s biggest strengths. When readers trust you, they’ll listen to your advice, share your posts, and keep coming back for more. If you plan to earn money from your site, building trust is the first step.

Right now, more people than ever use the internet. That means more potential readers for you. There’s never been a better time to start.

Step 1: Choose a Name for Your Blog

Before you can build your blog, you need a name. This will also become your domain name—your blog’s web address, like MyFirstBlog.com. If you already have a name in mind, check if it’s available using a domain search tool. If not, here are some tips for finding the perfect blog name.

Picking Your Blog Topic

Not sure what to write about? Your blog can focus on almost anything, but here are some ideas to get you started:

Life experiences: Share wisdom from challenges or big moments—parenthood, overcoming illness, moving to a new city, or starting a new job.
Personal blog: Write about your daily life, travels, and thoughts. Variety is fine.
Hobbies or interests: Cooking, sports, DIY, cars, reading, art, and more. Even blogs about rare hobbies can attract loyal readers.

Once you know your topic, brainstorm names that let people know what your blog’s about. If your blog covers one area—like fitness, books, or parenting—try to include a related word in your blog name. But don’t stress over a single word. You could use “meals,” “recipes,” or “kitchen” for a food blog.

If your blog covers many topics or is mostly about you, try using your own name or a version of it, like janesmithblog.com or johndoeonline.com.

Domain Extensions

The most popular ending for a blog address is .com, but .net, .org, or .co are also fine. Remember, you can’t use spaces or most punctuation, but dashes are allowed.

If your first choice is taken:

Try a different extension (.net or .org)
Add small words like “my,” “the,” or “best”
Use dashes to separate words

Step 2: Get Your Blog Online

With a name picked out, it’s time to get your blog live on the web. Don’t worry, you don’t need to be a web developer. Just follow these steps.

To start your blog, you’ll need:

A domain name: This is your blog address.
Web hosting: A service that stores your blog files and makes them visible online.
Blogging software: The tool you use to write and manage your posts.

The most common setup uses WordPress as your blogging software. WordPress is easy, flexible, and powers millions of blogs. Many hosting providers offer WordPress and domain registration together in one package.

Bluehost is a popular choice for beginners, and you can special $1.99/mo pricing with our link.

Their hosting plans offer:

Free registration for your domain name
One-click WordPress installation
Reliable hosting with good customer service
24/7 support by phone or chat
A 30-day money-back promise

How to Set Up Hosting and WordPress

Visit Bluehost and choose your plan. The Basic plan is sufficient for new blogs.
Enter your chosen domain name to register it, or connect a name you already own.
Pick your hosting options. The core features are included by default, but you can skip add-ons like “Professional Email” if you don’t need them.
Fill in your information and set a password.
Log into your Bluehost dashboard.
Click “Edit site” or the WordPress icon to open your new blog’s admin panel.

Bluehost installs WordPress for you, so you can start customizing your blog right away.

Step 3: Make Your Blog Your Own

Now comes the creative part—making your blog look and feel the way you want. WordPress gives you all the tools you need to change your blog’s style with just a few clicks.

Logging In

If you’re not already logged in, go to Bluehost.com and click “Login.” Use your domain name and password. Inside your dashboard, click the WordPress button to access your site.

Selecting a Theme

Themes control how your blog looks. WordPress comes with several free themes like Twenty Twenty-Four and Twenty Twenty-Five. These are clean, modern, and work for almost any type of blog.

To change your theme:

Go to the WordPress dashboard.
Click “Appearance” on the left menu, then “Themes.”
Hover over a theme and click “Activate.”

You can also browse thousands of free themes by clicking “Add New Theme.” Look through the “Popular” tab for inspiration. When you find one you like, click “Install” and then “Activate” to switch.

Themes can be changed anytime, so feel free to try different styles until you find the right fit.

Step 4: Write and Publish Your First Post

With your site set up and styled, you’re ready to share your ideas. Your first post is the start of your blogging journey.

Here’s how to write a new blog post:

In your WordPress dashboard, click “Posts” in the left menu.
Remove the default “Hello World” post by clicking “Trash.”
Click “Add New Post.”
Enter a title at the top and start writing in the main box.
To add pictures, click the + icon, select “Image,” and upload a photo from your computer.
Once you’re happy with your post, click “Publish” in the top right corner.

Now your first post is live for the world to see!

Essential Content for Your Blog

Your blog should have both regular posts and a few important pages. Some of these pages don’t change much and should be easy for visitors to find.

Must-Have Pages

Place these pages in your main menu at the top of your site.

About Me/Us: Tell readers who you are and why you started your blog. Share your story and what you hope to achieve.
Contact: Let people reach out to you. Include an email address or a contact form for privacy. Add links to your social media accounts.

And other important pages:

Disclaimer: If you plan to make money through ads or affiliate links, explain how you earn income.
Privacy Policy: Let visitors know how you handle data. Privacy pages are required by law if you collect information or use tools like Google Analytics.
Terms of Service: If you sell products or services, set out your terms, copyrights, and how your website content can be used.

A great tool for creating the legal pages is Termageddon. You can get 10% off with code DOTCOM.

Link these pages in your footer menu for easy access.

You can also add pages for advertising, resources, donations, or submitting ideas—whatever fits your blog’s purpose.

Creating Great Blog Content

Your main posts are the heart of your blog. Good content encourages readers to return and share your site.

Write often: Aim for a regular schedule, like one post each week, to build a loyal audience.
Catchy titles: Choose headlines that grab attention and make people want to read more.
Keep it clear: Write in short paragraphs and use headings, lists, and images to break up text.
Start strong: Use your opening lines to explain what your post is about and why it matters.
Engage your readers: Add a question or invite comments at the end of each post.
Be original: Always use your own words and ideas. Share your real experiences and opinions.
Add photos: Use your own pictures when possible. Personal photos add a unique touch.
Edit your work: Check for spelling and grammar mistakes. Clean writing builds trust.

Publishing Your Blog

When you’re ready to launch, click “Home” in the WordPress dashboard, then “Launch with confidence.” Tap the blue “Launch your site” button, and your blog will be live!

Congratulations! You’ve just started your own blog.

Step 5: Get People to Read Your Blog

A blog without visitors is like a story that goes unread. After you publish your first posts, focus on letting others know your blog exists.

Sharing with Your Network

Start by telling your friends, family, and coworkers about your new blog. Encourage them to check it out, subscribe, and share it with their own networks.

Using Social Media

Set up accounts on sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or Pinterest. Share links to your newest posts. Post updates, news, or fun links your readers will enjoy. Use hashtags to reach new people. Social media can help your content go viral if enough people share it.

Commenting on Other Blogs

Find other blogs that cover similar topics. Leave thoughtful comments and join conversations. Many blogs let you add a link to your site, which can attract curious readers.

Building Community

Respond to every comment on your blog. Thank readers for their feedback. Invite opinions and answer questions. When people feel welcome, they’ll return.

Working with Other Bloggers

Team up with other bloggers in your field. Write guest posts, promote each other’s sites, or interact on social media. Building relationships with other bloggers helps everyone grow.

Posting Regularly

Stick to a schedule so readers know when to expect new content. Being consistent builds trust and keeps your audience coming back.

Starting an Email List

Encourage visitors to subscribe to your newsletter. Use their email addresses (with permission) to send updates, links to new posts, and special content. An email list helps you stay connected with your readers and brings them back to your blog.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Make your blog easy to find on Google and other search engines. Here’s how:

Sign up for Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools to submit your site.
Use clear, descriptive titles and headings in your posts.
Organize your posts by category.
Set up “pretty” web addresses (permalinks) that use post names instead of numbers. In WordPress, go to Settings > Permalinks and choose “Post Name.”
Install a plugin like Yoast SEO to help optimize your blog.

SEO helps new readers discover your content over time.

Step 6: Ways to Earn Money from Your Blog

Once you’ve built up your blog and gained regular readers, you can start earning money. Don’t expect instant results. Earning income from a blog takes time and steady effort, but the rewards can be worth it.

Display Ads

When your blog attracts enough visitors, you can sell ad space. Google AdSense is the easiest way to get started. Place their ads on your site, and you’ll earn money whenever readers click.

Affiliate Marketing

Promote products or services from other companies. When readers click your links and make a purchase, you earn a commission. Always tell your readers when you use affiliate links to keep things honest.

Selling Your Own Products

As your audience grows, consider selling your own goods or services. These could be physical products, consultations, or workshops. Use your blog’s sidebar to highlight your shop.

Digital Downloads

Sell downloadable items like ebooks, video lessons, templates, or online courses. Digital products have little overhead and can be sold worldwide.

Memberships

Create a paid members-only area on your blog. Offer exclusive content, downloads, private forums, or coaching sessions. Memberships provide recurring income and reward your most loyal readers.

There are many ways to monetize. Choose the methods that match your blog’s focus and your personal goals.

Blogging FAQ

What helps a blog succeed?

You do. Your energy, ideas, and unique voice help your blog stand out. When you share content that teaches, entertains, or informs, you’ll draw in readers who want more. People come for information, but they stay for your perspective. Publish often and reply to comments. Build connections with your audience. If you keep your passion alive, you can reach any goal you set for your blog.

What do you need to start blogging as a writer?

You need time, enthusiasm, and a clear plan. Blogging isn’t a quick hobby if you want results. You’ll spend hours writing, editing, sharing posts, and building an audience. The best blogs come from writers who care deeply about the topic. You don’t have to be an expert. You do need to enjoy learning and talking about your subject. Set a goal for your blog, whether it’s sharing stories, building an audience, or earning an income. With a direction in mind, every step feels more focused.

What should I write about?

Think about your greatest interests. What do you read for fun? What topics fill your daydreams? What do you never tire of talking about, even if your friends tease you? If a subject keeps you curious, it’s a strong choice for your blog’s focus. You’ll never run out of ideas when you choose a topic you love. Once you start sharing, you’ll find others who are just as interested as you are.

How can I pick a profitable niche?

Start with your main topic, then narrow it down. A smaller niche means less competition and a greater chance to stand out. For example, instead of a general recipe blog, focus on plant-based meals for busy families. It’s easier to reach the right readers and find your spot in search results. A clear niche also helps you target ads, affiliate links, and sponsored content more effectively.

How do I name my blog?

Naming your blog can be a creative process. Begin by listing main words related to your topic. For example, if you cover custom pet gift baskets, jot down words like “pet,” “gift,” “basket,” “treat,” and “tail.” Look up synonyms. Add in adjectives or nouns that reflect your personality or style. Mix and match until something clicks. If you get stuck, try a blog name generator for a spark of inspiration.

What if the domain I want is already taken?

If your chosen domain is registered as your trademark, you may be able to claim it, though it can take time and legal help. If you don’t have a trademark, avoid settling for less popular endings like .info or .biz. Instead, try adding a simple word, using a dash, or changing the order of words. Sometimes domains are unused or parked, so it’s worth reaching out to the owner to see if they’re willing to sell.

Where should I create my blog?

The guide on this page shows you how to build your blog with Bluehost and WordPress.org. This self-hosted setup is reliable and flexible. Bluehost gives you a free domain when you sign up, and they’ll install WordPress for you.

However, there are other great hosting providers that are well suited for WordPress blogs, such as Namecheap. You can read our comparison article of some top hosting providers.

Can you make money as a blogger?

Yes, some bloggers earn a full-time income, and a few even make more. Success takes time and effort. Many bloggers quit early because they don’t see fast results. Patience pays off. If you stick with it, you’ll see your audience and income grow. Bloggers earn money in several ways:

Ads: Once your blog attracts regular visitors, you can add ads and get paid for displaying them.
Contextual Ads: Platforms like Google Adsense let you earn a share of ad revenue when readers click on ads on your site.
Affiliate Marketing: Promote products or services and earn commissions when your readers make purchases through your links.
Sponsored Posts: Companies may pay to feature their product in a post.

How do bloggers get paid?

Most bloggers receive payments from advertisers in a few standard ways:

CPC (Cost-Per-Click): You earn a small amount every time a reader clicks an ad on your site.
Flat Fees: Some advertisers will pay a set monthly fee for space on your blog, especially if your traffic is high.
Affiliate Commissions: When a reader makes a purchase using your affiliate link, you earn a percentage of the sale.

How often should I post on my blog?

If you want your blog to grow, aim for at least one post a week. Posting regularly helps you build an audience and improves your blog’s ranking in search engines. Quality matters more than quantity, so put effort into every post. Over time, steady posting becomes a habit, and you’ll find your writing improves as you go. New blogs take a while to appear in search results, but keep at it—each post is a step toward more readers.

Why do most blogs fail?

Many blogs don’t last. The biggest reason is giving up too soon. It can take months, sometimes years, to see steady growth in traffic or income. Some bloggers lose interest if results are slow, or they post so rarely that readers drift away. Others fill their sites with low-quality content or too many ads, driving visitors off. To avoid these mistakes, post consistently, keep your content useful, and make sure your blog is a place readers want to return to. Avoid filling your pages with ads, and focus on building real value for your audience.

Final Thoughts

You never know where blogging will take you or who you will meet because of it. It’s a way to share what matters to you, connect with others, and even build a new source of income. With the steps in this guide, you now have the knowledge and tools to launch your own blog—even if you’re brand new to the process.

Remember, everyone starts as a beginner. Learn as you go, stay true to yourself, and keep writing. Your blog’s journey starts with a single post.