David is the writer at Pimp Your Finances – a personal finance blog aimed at young adults, but full of information that everyone can use.
Just over five months ago, I did something I’ve never done before – started a blog. It’s been a lot of work, but it’s also been fun, and I’ve learned a lot. I’ve developed new skills, pushed my boundaries, and have worked hard on achieving goals.Here are 5 things I’ve learned about life from starting a blog. 
1. You win with people
This was a favorite saying of legendary Ohio State coach Woody Hayes, and it’s always been a favorite of mine too. He believed in doing the right thing, and treating those around you with respect – the way you want to be treated.I’ve found that even if you have great content, it doesn’t mean anything unless you get a little help from other people. By working with people in a way that’s respectful and mutually beneficial, I’ve accomplished more than I ever could by myself.If the people around me are a success, I’ll be a success too.
2. If you want to be successful like no one else, you’ve got to think like no one else
I could do the same thing as others, but it would be hard to make a name for myself. Instead, I’d rather blaze my own path. As proof of that, my most successful article so far is a Hobbit-centric take on personal finance. I think it really struck a chord with people because it was something they hadn’t seen before.I’ve never taken the beaten path with anything in life, and I think it pays off in the end.
I could do the same thing as others, but it would be hard to make a name for myself. Instead, I’d rather blaze my own path. As proof of that, my most successful article so far is a Hobbit-centric take on personal finance. I think it really struck a chord with people because it was something they hadn’t seen before.I’ve never taken the beaten path with anything in life, and I think it pays off in the end.
3. There’s no way to get rich quicklyNothing in life happens instantly. You can’t just say “I want it now!”, and expect it to magically occur. You’re going to have to work hard at your goals, often without any form of satisfaction or reward. Even if it seems unappreciated, the things you do today help you build towards something great in the future.I have to remember that when I invest in my 401K, even if it’s losing money. I have to remember that when I put a lot of time into an article, even it feels like no one cares.
4. You can’t give up on your goals when you hit setbacksVery few things in life ever go the way you hope or plan for. There will be times when you want to give up, but these are the times that you’ve got to try your hardest. If you give up on something every time you hit a snag, you’ll never get anywhere in life.
5. Any changes you make in life have to be sustainableAny time you try to improve yourself, you have to do it gradually and with balance. Money and food are a lot a like. You can set a crash budget or diet where you don’t spend/eat for days, but you’ll overcompensate by going even further in the wrong direction when you finally do give in.It’s best to be practical in life, and try to strike a balance in everything you do. It leads to changes that are more enjoyable and sustainable.
Like I said, it’s been a lot of hard work starting a blog. I set out to write about finance, but I’ve learned a lot about myself in the process.
Photo Credit: Mr. Kris & Paul Worthington
Laura Martinez