I always had an interest in having my own business. In college I studied Communication Arts and Marketing, and one of my favorite classes was Entrepreneurship. The business themed tv shows The Profit, Undercover Boss, and Shark Tank were also influential. Something about small businesses fascinated me. But I never really knew what I wanted to do.

The Beginning

RLS Photogenic Productions, L.L.C. was formed in October 2015. I started with freelance photography and videography while working part time jobs. I enjoyed the work but not the inconsistent schedule and income.

Related Article: Business Milestone

Career Time

During September of 2017 I started my first full time Marketing position in the Healthcare Industry and have been there 5 years now. But RLS Photogenic was always in the back of my mind.

Then in August 2021 I decided to launch a new website. I set up an account to sell my photography and started writing occasionally but didn’t really stick with it. Then thanks to other influencers I thought of blogging but I had no idea what it all entailed or how to use programs properly! This began my blogging journey.

Shifting Gears, Personal Note

In the Spring of 2022 my family went through some sad changes.

My grandmother’s health declined and she transitioned to a nursing home. Shortly after, my grandfather passed away. I’m very close with my grandparents and not being able to call them every afternoon was very difficult for me.

I needed something to occupy my mind in the evenings after work. I decided to blog more! So I dived in to researching, trying to learn everything I could to blog better. Focusing on building a new project and connecting with other bloggers helped me tremendously.

Related Article: Cleaning a Loved Ones House

One Step at a Time

Over the past 5 months I poured myself into YouTube tutorials, podcasts, articles, and blog groups. At times it was hard to turn my brain off from all this excitement and ambition.

I highly recommend a designated notebook just for ideas, and keep one with you too for any random thoughts. A planner helps too for keeping track of articles, social posting, and goals.

Most importantly, I am so thankful for each and every person who reads my blog and connects with me on social media.

Setting Goals: I have included resource links for services and products.

• Create a content theme and build website (Bluehost)
• Pick two social media platforms to focus on (I enjoy Pinterest)
• Write and add articles
• Increase website views
• Apply / Approval of Google AdSense
• Apply / Approval of Affiliate Programs (Amazon Associate Program) (ShareASale)
• Create digital products (Etsy Shop)
• Get a PO Box for address regulations on emails (USPS)
• Launch an email marketing program (ConvertKit

Some helpful quick tips!

Make sure your site looks good on both computers and mobile devices. Try to have advertisements and affiliate programs from the start so your readers are used to the design layout of your website. Many people don’t realize bloggers have ads for financial income, it isn’t a lot at the beginning but it’s better than $0! Email marketing is a great way to build contacts with readers, especially when social media is unpredictable. Another important note is, be sure to research policy and privacy information and have the appropriate notices on your website.

Journal Prompt:

I always like to add in some journaling questions for readers to preserve memories of small and big moments of their life:

• What is something you have always wanted to do?
• Have you tried it or accomplished the goal?
• If not, what is holding you back?
• What would you like friends/family to remember about this important project/idea?

Is there anything myself or others could help with? Comment below or send me a message!

Helpful Blog Resources:

Podcast: Thrive Blogger Podcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaStansberry and https://www.youtube.com/c/CathrinManning

Facebook Community Groups: Thrive Blogging Community