MakeErinOver 1st Birthday Giveaway!

So MakeErinOver has officially turned a year old, and I almost forgot #badblogger.

I thought I would share with you the 5 biggest things I have learned since starting blogging, as I feel I have come a long way in a year :)






1. You get out what you put in. Blogging isn't something you can do for an hour a week, it is one hell of a commitment if you want to actually achieve anything other than nothing. You need to interact, follow, build relationships, its constant thinking about it. Growing a blog naturally is HARD.

2. People can be jerks. 99% of bloggers are amazing, kind, lovely people. I have good relationships with other bloggers and consider most friends - even if I don't know them in real life. BUT there is people who want things to be quick and easy, who will follow thousands then unfollow them all to seem more popular, some will even pay for follows. You will also get people spamming your blog. These people are everywhere, and you are better off without. This is why apps were created to keep track of them *mwhahaha* but seriously, pay no attention to them, they are not worth your trouble.

3.  Be kind, polite, approachable and understanding. Got something negative to say about someone? don't bother. Be nice. The internet can be a cruel place, so don't be negative when you don't need to be, be nice, smile. Be the person everyone is happy to know. Someone comments on your blog? Go comment on theirs! Read the post, comment thoughtfully. Had inspiration from another blog? link it and share in yours! there is never any harm in showing people where you had your ideas, and they will never hate you for it, most will be glad to see it has encouraged and helped.

4. You don't need to be rich to blog. Yes it helps to have money, but you really don't need it. I can honestly say my blogging platform, template and domain has come to less than £10 for the full year. You don't need a big fancy camera, an expensive layout. You also don't need a huge makeup collection or all the money in the world, as long as you are passionate about what you are writing - that is the main thing.

5. People can take it way too Seriously. Yes it is a lot of people's goals to be a "full time blogger" but a lot of us don't. This is a hobby to a lot of us, we have jobs, lives and families. Don't ever think anyone owes you a post, but also don't think you cant take a break if you need to, blogging is not your life, there are more important things. Life should always take priority even if you are a full time blogger. Do not at any point think you are trapped, don't think you cant escape for as long as you need to. There is always a way out.. if you want to stop STOP! Your blog, you are the one in control - do not let it control you.

What things have you learned blogging? Can you relate to any of the above? 

Now onto the fun part! So to celebrate I have decided to do a little giveaway, I know it isnt huge, but dang I am poor! haha so I hope you all still love it!

The competition is open to UK residents only (Sorry world, but shipping is expensive) and will end 30th April 2016. I will choose a winner and contact via Twitter. I will also be checking all the options, so no cheating :)