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How to Start a Blog That Actually Pays You Back

  • earngrowgo
  • Jun 12
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jun 13

If you’ve ever wondered how people make real money from blogging, you're not alone—and you're not late. Starting a blog that actually pays you back is 100% possible, even if you have no technical skills or online presence. The secret? Strategy > hustle. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to start a profitable blog from scratch, even if you're totally clueless.


Why Blogging is Still Worth It in 2025

Let’s bust a myth first: Blogging is not dead. In fact, with search engines, affiliate marketing, and niche communities growing stronger than ever, blogging is one of the best low-cost side hustles out there.


Step 1: Pick a Profitable Niche (Not Just One You Love)

Don’t just follow your passion—follow the money too.

Your niche should be:

  • Something you're interested in.

  • Something people search for on Google.

  • Something with monetization potential (think: affiliate links, digital products, services, or sponsored content).

Examples of profitable blog niches:

  • Personal finance for moms

  • Simple meal planning on a budget

  • DIY home decor hacks

  • Remote work tips for beginners

  • Side hustles and gig economy

Pro tip: Use tools like Google Trends or Ubersuggest to see if your niche has demand.


Step 2: Choose the Right Platform

You want full control if you're planning to monetize. That’s why self-hosted WordPress.org is the gold standard. Free options like Wix, Hubspot and Squarespace are great for when you're just starting out, though! You will have to pay to upgrade to plans that allow you to sell products, if that's your ultimate goal.

What you’ll need:

  • Domain name – Keep it short, catchy, and brandable.

  • Web hosting – Bluehost, SiteGround, and Hostinger are beginner-friendly and affordable.

  • WordPress theme – Start with a free theme like Astra or Kadence; you can upgrade later.


Step 3: Write Posts That People (and Google) Love

Google doesn’t pay you—but ranking on Google does.

Here's how to write blog posts that rank:

  • Use SEO-friendly titles like “5 Budget Meals for Busy Families” or “Beginner’s Guide to Investing in 2025”.

  • Answer common questions in your niche.

  • Use keywords naturally (tools: Google’s “People Also Ask”, AnswerThePublic, KeySearch).

  • Format for skimmers: headers, bullet points, short paragraphs.

🎯 Goal: Aim for 5–10 high-quality posts before you launch.


Step 4: Monetize Your Blog (Yes, Even from Day 1)

Here's how beginner bloggers start earning:

1. Affiliate Marketing

Recommend products you trust and earn commission. Join:

  • Amazon Associates

  • ShareASale

  • Impact

  • RewardStyle

2. Digital Products

Create and sell:

  • Printables (meal planners, checklists)

  • Ebooks or guides

  • Online courses

  • If you're not ready to pay to start selling directly from your website, you can always link your products to the website you're selling them on. Ex: you start your blog on Wix for free and link to your digital products listed on Etsy.

3. Display Ads

Once you have 10K+ monthly visits, apply to ad networks like:

  • Ezoic (starts small)

  • Mediavine (requires 50K sessions)

  • Raptive (formerly AdThrive)

4. Sponsored Posts

Brands will pay you to review or mention their products if your blog attracts a niche audience.


Step 5: Drive Traffic Like a Pro

No traffic = no income. Use these free strategies to get eyes on your blog:

  • Pinterest – Create eye-catching pins for each blog post. Use Canva and relevant keywords.

  • SEO – Learn the basics of search engine optimization and update your content regularly.

  • Email list – Offer a freebie (like a printable checklist) and grow a list of loyal readers.

  • Facebook groups – Share helpful blog posts in niche-relevant groups (not spammy promos!).


How Long Until You Make Money Blogging?

If you're consistent and strategic, most bloggers see their first $100 within 3–6 months. Scaling to $1,000/month can take 12–18 months—but it’s passive income that can grow for years. Don't worry if you're not making money immediately. It takes time to grow your audience and create trust with consumers.


Start your blog the right way—without spinning your wheels.


Grab your FREE copy of the Blog Launch Blueprint now and take the first step toward a blog that earns!


Final Thoughts: Treat Your Blog Like a Business

If you want your blog to pay you, treat it like a job you love—not a hobby you hope will work. Stay consistent. Solve real problems. Keep learning. And most importantly: don’t quit too soon!

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