Find out what this Blogger said were her biggest mistakes

 

What makes being a blogger so interesting is that we get to talk with people from around the world everyday. I am so happy that today, I got a chance to talk with another freelancer and blogger  This time, we’re talking with Regina Lewis from Live and Work by Faith . If you enjoy her interview and want to see more of her work, give a shout out in the comments!

How long have you been blogging and how did you get started?

Thanks so much for the opportunity to speak with your readers.  I’ve been blogging off and on for almost five years, for myself and for clients.  I’ve always enjoyed writing and sharing what I know with others so blogging kind of seems natural rather than forced.  Most potential freelance clients who request blogging or social media content creation want to see your writing style and the best way to show them is through a blog.  I recently started my new blog (when I say new, I mean less than 60 days old)!  When I blogged before, I got so wrapped up in what other bloggers were doing and saying that I lost confidence and stopped blogging.  I belong to several online groups and I kept seeing something called “EBA 2.0” being promoted.  I signed up for the Elite Blog Academy in late February and launched the blog shortly after that.

Where does your inspiration for this newest venture come from?

I’ve worked from home since 2008 in some capacity, either full-or part-time and I get quite a few questions about that.  I took a break from my virtual assistant business in 2014.  Frankly, I was burned out and I felt I was compromising my spiritual beliefs in order to make a buck.  So, I began volunteering and reigniting my faith.  I truly needed to recharge.  By stepping away, I had to rely on my faith and not worry that the bills wouldn’t get paid.  That’s how the blog title was born:  Live and Work by Faith.  Faith has played such an important part in all aspects of my life and continues to do so.  I now work with faith-based bloggers and entrepreneurs, creating social media content and blog posts, as well as graphics work.

I see you just came back from a women’s conference – I attend conferences a few times a year and sometimes they’re hit or miss on if I feel I really got something out of it. Do you attend conferences often and what are some tips for readers who are on the fence for taking the leap and attending one?

Actually, the last conference I just came back from was the first one I’ve ever attended!  I’m an introvert by nature so going was definitely a stretch for me.  I had a wonderful time and fellowshipped with some beautiful people.  I definitely plan on attending another one!

What keeps you busiest during the day?

Well, now I work full-time at my church/neighborhood ministry.  I’ve worked for over 30 years in the corporate world so this job is definitely a change for me, albeit a very nice change.  I still hustle on the side.  Between work, taking care of three boys (my youngest son is autistic) and running a business, I don’t get much downtime.  At the end of the day, I like to unwind with an episode of “Keeping Up Appearances,” a British comedy, and relaxing in my favorite easy chair.  I also relax by pinning stuff to my Pinterest boards.

For people who are just starting out with their first online blog or online business, what has been your biggest road block you would like to advise people to avoid?

First off, be yourself.  Don’t compare yourself to others.  If you do, you’ll stop yourself in your tracks before you even get started.  Define your niche early and stick to it.  I actually wrote a blog post about my cringeworthy mistakes when I started out.

Image from liveandworkbyfaith.com

Do you monetize or will you monetize your blog?

Eventually, I do plan to monetize through sponsored posts but right now the main moneymaker is through virtual assistant work.  I may do some book reviews.  I also have some affiliates that I’ll be promoting to my readers very soon.

Inquiring new bloggers want to know! What are some of your favorite tools, resources, or tips you have used to grow your audience and following?

Ooh, perfect timing!  I just did a blog post today, sharing my favorite resources.  When it comes to growing an audience – I’ve found lots of success on Twitter.  I know lots of bloggers swear by Facebook but I do much better on Twitter when it comes to engagement.  I get a good amount of traffic from Pinterest as well.  If I don’t have time to pin content, I use Boardbooster.  Be personable and kind to others.  Keep it simple and authentic and you can’t go wrong.  Readers can spot a fake a mile away.

Image from Liveandworkbyfaith.com

Can you tell us something that people might not know about you but that you don’t mind sharing?

I’m almost officially middle-aged and I still sleep with some type of light on at night or at least the television on.  I can’t stand the quiet.

What does the future hold for you?

Lord only knows!  I’m just happy sharing my story with readers.  I do know that I’ll be creating some printables in the future.  I’m also working on a forgiveness journal.

Last question: What is your favorite blog or business to follow and why?

Oh wow!  That’s a pretty loaded question.  There are so many!  The blogging community is very kind and helpful to newbies like myself.  I follow Kristin at Believe in a Budget – she is so transparent and willing to share what works and doesn’t work in her business.  And you’ve been an absolute blessing, with your Facebook group and other resources, like stock photos.  Girl, you do some awesome work!  Thank you so much.

If you’ve loved hearing all about Regina, her journey, and her hustle, then show her some love and support! Check out her blog and business or follow her on twitter or Pinterest.