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You are here: Home / blog & handmade advice / {5 easy challenges to grow your blog or shop.}

{5 easy challenges to grow your blog or shop.}

July 11, 2011 · 74 Comments
Filed Under: blog & handmade advice

A lot of the same questions make their way to my inbox ~ Can you give me some tips on how to grow my blog or shop?, so I thought it would be helpful to share some of my tips on setting challenges {goals} for your business through a blog post. Regardless of where you’re at, some times all you need is a fresh perspective to encourage you to run with your goal or idea.

STEP 1:
Set goals. Setting goals is super important, and doing so will help keep your business focused, will allow you to challenge yourself, and will encourage you to try new things. These three things will help you to take your business to the next level… which is so exciting! :]

STEP 2:
Follow through! Following through with your goals will encourage you to dream big! If you’re in a rut, set a few goals to work your way out of it. Use this time to do something new/get yourself back on track. I know you have a list of things you want to accomplish ~ we all do! Encourage yourself to be successful so you can become a leader in your field. Setting goals and following through will help you with this. I’ve often found mixing small & big goals is helpful for encouraging growth, but throwing in a super crazy/fun goal really challenges myself {and my business} in ways I couldn’t have imaged. And it’s OK if these goals don’t bring end results the same way you originally planned for ~ I bet the results they do bring are actually way better than that! :]

So, let’s set some challenges/goals together…

5 EASY CHALLENGES TO GROW YOUR BLOG OR SHOP:
1. Brainstorm {or refine} your business’ purpose. What do you dream your business to be? If you’re already established, are you on-track? How can you get where you want to be? What does all of this look like? Grab a sheet of paper and start doodling/making your list. Keeping a tight focus will be so helpful for your business’ growth.

2. Spend time daydreaming of a new product or idea, then follow through. What has been tugging at your creative side to make or share on your blog? Whatever comes to mind first, focus on that right now. Then take a look at your schedule to see when you can get started. Yay! :]

3. Schedule in weekly creative time. Make a list of what this looks like, keeping in mind achievable ideas and time frames. However, don’t confuse this goal with working on a new project {tip #2}. Use this time to find inspiration with creating a new project or blog post. Remember to use this creative time as an opportunity to recharge and regroup your thoughts. Also, what mediums will you be working with, and what kind of “things” can you do that are relative to that medium? For example: if you’re looking to write an encouraging blog post, read a book written by your favorite author; want to sew a new project? Plan a trip to a relative store/event to find inspiration {Sewing an apron? Visit a local outdoor garden for color inspiration. // Sewing a new home decor line? Take a trip to a flea market to nurture your base ideas.}

4. Pull some of your best projects or posts and compile a new blog post to highlight them. Or, share them with whatever platform you use to promote your work/spread the word. It’s always fun to revisit your archives ~ your community may follow up with this post in a way that supplies you with a new idea, or you may come up with a new idea all on your own. Either way, it’s good to revisit the things that brought you success in the past. What about that specific idea/project was fruitful, and how can you re-create that?

5. Reach out to someone you admire. If you want new doors to be opened, encourage them to be opened by believing in yourself and taking charge :]

I am not afraid of tomorrow, for I have seen yesterday and I love today.

~ William Allen White

PS. I love this —

photo credits 1, 2, 3, 4

I’d love for you to share your thoughts on this topic! Do you struggle with setting new goals, following through, or finding time for inspiration? What types of things do you succeed at? Share your thoughts ~ let’s discuss!
XO

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74 Comments
Filed Under: blog & handmade advice

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Comments

  1. SewTara says

    July 11, 2011 at 2:11 pm

    I like number 4. What a great way to take a few minutes and remind yourself how awesome you are. Plus you might have new-ish people to your blog who didn’t see those posts the first time around. Guess I’ll set a goal to do a post like that this week!

    Reply
  2. Stephanie says

    July 11, 2011 at 2:15 pm

    Thank you for this post. Really, I get so befuddled with life and being online, that I forget to just spend the time on the practical and what I love. I have never been a list girl . . . never . . . but I do know that when I make one, and follow through ~ IT FEELS like the GREATEST accomplishment!

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 2:47 pm

      yeow! make it happen, girl! XO

      Reply
  3. Southern Gal says

    July 11, 2011 at 2:16 pm

    Have you read Robin’s post today? http://www.pensieve.me/2011/07/signs-that-give-me-reason-to-think-.html
    Love those signs.

    Thanks for the tips. You should also include it doesn’t hurt to be cute, likeable and super excited about your product…Yeow! Hugs!

    Reply
  4. Krista says

    July 11, 2011 at 2:19 pm

    You’re my hero. Seriously. I was just telling a friend about you the other day. She had never heard of you, but I was telling her that as I am looking to start my own crafting business, I have been following you closely (not in a stalkerish way or anything) because I think you rock your business. Great job! :-D

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 2:48 pm

      oh gosh, thank you for sharing! :]
      i’m just passing around the love… xo

      Reply
  5. Skye says

    July 11, 2011 at 2:22 pm

    This was exactly what I needed to read today! Life is crazier than usual around here and I am really trying to discern what I am supposed to be doing and how I am supposed to figure that out… My brain and heart are literally upside down with indecision about where God is leading me. I am writing out a simple list of goals to get me started! Thanks for all your inspiration Maggie! :) Beautiful words, as usual!!

    Reply
  6. Albion Gould says

    July 11, 2011 at 2:42 pm

    I needed this today. You have a way of posting things at exactly the right time. :) I need to follow through. Daydreaming doesn’t cut it, and then it’s too late and I feel horrible because I let a great post idea go past a deadline. I’m going to make a schedule and stick to it. No excuses.

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 3:00 pm

      trust me, i know the feeling — you can totally make it happen! if you find yourself with a lot of “noise” around you — sneak away! calm your environment, quiet things. focus on your dreams and goals, set deadlines! i’m cheering for you :]

      Reply
  7. Tracey says

    July 11, 2011 at 2:44 pm

    Thanks for the “push”. Sometimes it’s hard to not feel like silly lil girl in way over my head.

    Reply
  8. Kelly (Seaux Southern) says

    July 11, 2011 at 2:46 pm

    I get so much inspiration from your blog! I started my own business almost 1 year ago and it has been more successful than I ever imagined but right now my head is so full of ideas of new things I want to make and new directions I want to take my business I just can’t focus on anything. You would think at my age (5?) I could stay focused but I am so excited and grateful for the success I have had that I think I am a little (or allot) overwhelmed. I need to make a list. A list is always a great way to start~~
    Thanks for sharing your knowledge
    I love how passionate you are about your business!

    Reply
  9. Erin @ {grace-filled} says

    July 11, 2011 at 2:48 pm

    I think I find it hard to believe in myself. I love what I’m doing, but I stop and think, “But will others love it too?” And I get discouraged. For some reason, I think that I’m the only one who likes the things I make. I have stalled a bit on opening my Etsy shop because of this. I think, “Eventually I would like my own brand tags to sew into the products…I would love to do this or that…” and because I can’t do it RIGHT NOW {finances, availability, etc.}, I feel discouraged that I will be selling products that aren’t exactly up to my vision quite yet. Argh! Stinkin worrying mind! ;)

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 2:58 pm

      what if you made a list of things to accomplish for when you find a little extra income or time? that way you won’t have to constantly remember these things, they’re written down. you can focus your current time on your day-to-day tasks and have your goals in sight?

      don’t doubt yourself, erin! you can totally do this!!!

      Reply
      • Erin @ {grace-filled} says

        July 12, 2011 at 7:56 am

        Thanks, girl! The encouragement was totally needed…making a list today. Another question, did you have your “Gussy” tags when you first started? I am slightly worried to not have tags and then people won’t know who made it just by looking. {Maybe I worry toooooo much!!}

        Thanks again…you’re such a sweetheart!! <3

        Reply
        • Gussy Sews says

          July 12, 2011 at 9:15 am

          no — i added the tags about 4 months after i started sewing. i taught myself in november 2008 and truly had no clue what i was doing. then after a few months i found my style, so in march 2009 i added the gussy tags.

          it’s OK if you don’t have everything figured out right now. it’ll only add to your story and make it super special :)

          Reply
  10. emma ball says

    July 11, 2011 at 2:52 pm

    O. M. Whoa! i haven’t even read this yet but I’m super excited! lol

    Reply
  11. Jessi says

    July 11, 2011 at 2:58 pm

    This is so encouraging to read. I like that these are do-able things. Not like, step 1- climb Mt Everest :) I can set goals and work toward them. I really like #2. I’ve had an idea for a few weeks now and just haven’t had time to pursue it yet. But this week I’m going to get started and go all in.
    Thanks!!

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 3:57 pm

      i think some times we’re all really good at making a situation way more difficult than it needs to be.

      take a deep breath.

      write down your end goal.

      write down 5 steps you need to take to accomplish it. make it easy on yourself — you deserve this success :]

      Reply
  12. Becky (hucklebuckles) says

    July 11, 2011 at 2:58 pm

    Wow! this is exactly what I needed to read right now! I am kind of unfocused right now and not sure which direction to take my business or how to get to the next step. This is very motiviating! I know I am the only one stopping myself from building my business into what I want it to be.

    Reply
  13. Molly @ A Bit O' Shine says

    July 11, 2011 at 3:02 pm

    These are great advice. I do find things running along better when I write lists and make plans. Last month I exceeded my goals and yet this month I’m completely stuck (it doesn’t help I’ve been house-sitting for a month). Motivation and inspiration seem to be key. I think a trip to my library is in order and we’ll call it remedial art lessons. :)

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 3:59 pm

      oh the library, i heart the library :) you can do this Molly!!! give yourself a little environmental break — it’ll do you wonders ♥.

      Reply
  14. Stacey says

    July 11, 2011 at 3:07 pm

    I’m not so much focused on promoting my blog or business, but I have to say that I find this inspiring and I look forward to applying it to my job search. I’m certified to teach and I haven’t had any luck finding a job just yet. You are always so inspiring and you’re always giving people the boost they need. Maybe I just need to look at things a little differently and set some realistic goals towards a teaching job.

    Thanks so much for sharing.. Some people wouldn’t want to share their ideas to help others succeed. You are always a breath of fresh air over here! :)

    -Stacey

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 4:04 pm

      hi stacey! :)

      can i share something a little bit tailored to your unique situation? if you’re finding yourself searching & searching & waiting & waiting for the perfect job, give yourself a break (truly) and spend some time doing something motivational for yourself. maybe you take an afternoon and read at the library. maybe you visit a museum or outdoor garden or a new exhibit somewhere or volunteer locally… do something for YOU that will help you see YOUR TALENTS in a more relaxing way.

      you’ve already put your feelers out there by sending your resume, now it’s time to make sure the time spent “waiting” is spent doing something equally great ~ don’t forget to take care of yourself :)

      XO, gussy

      Reply
      • Stacey says

        July 12, 2011 at 9:24 am

        That could be a good idea.. The last job I applied for is at a school that I sub at quite often. I know all the teachers and have always felt like I’d love to call that school home. And there’s another girl that actually works there as an aide and she’s always one step right ahead of me. I’m worried that this might be my only chance, and I’ve tried not to, but it’s ALL I’ve been thinking about. I’m trying to get it out of my head. Maybe I should just head to Barnes + Noble and hunker down with a hot chocolate and a stack of magazines. Thanks for the advice! I NEED to take it.

        Reply
  15. Gina_AcuteDesigns says

    July 11, 2011 at 3:28 pm

    Great tips – thanks!

    I tend to struggle more with the follow through part of the goals. I can dream big and get excited, but then I tend to lose steam. My best advice is to schedule out my day the night before. I schedule it down to the hour in order to ensure that I am not accidentally spending 5 hours reading blogs :).

    And, to keep myself motivated, I schedule in a bit of emailing friends/blog time. I also reward myself – chocolate, a new dress, etc.

    Reply
  16. SoHo Exchange says

    July 11, 2011 at 3:28 pm

    Wow! Just what I needed for the start of the week…Thanks Gussy! I struggle with the follow-through…so good reminder to make completion a priority! Gracias Sista!

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 4:06 pm

      ;D you got it!!!!

      Reply
  17. connie says

    July 11, 2011 at 3:29 pm

    Thanks for sharing your insights, Love that you focus so much on inspiration.

    Reply
  18. SarahF says

    July 11, 2011 at 4:01 pm

    Thanks for a very timely post!! I have been trying to figure out ways to promote my blog. I’m definitely going to use your ideas! Thanks!

    Reply
  19. Paula@Simply Sandwich says

    July 11, 2011 at 4:06 pm

    Just popped over from the Blog Sugar linky and was so happy to read this post! I agree that setting goals should be first and foremost and I thank you for reminding me that even if we are mid-stream, goals are essential! Looking forward to meeting you in September! :)

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 6:39 pm

      hey paula! i can’t wait to meet YOU!

      Reply
  20. Mindy Harris says

    July 11, 2011 at 4:24 pm

    you probably don’t already know this, but you are a huge inspiration in my goal toward growing my blog and shop to new heights. i’ve been blogging for 4+ years and have found it discouraging (lately) that newer blogs (say 1-6 months old) have over 1,000 followers and i’m still at 250. i am grateful for my 250. i have worked hard for them. but you know what i’ve realized? that number doesn’t define my success. and having “only” that many followers doesn’t mean i’m a failure. i’ve had a blast blogging and because of awesome entrepreneurs like you, i’ve delved into making headbands and letting go of some vintage housewares on etsy. it’s been a blast. i can’t wait until it becomes enough income to be able to travel some with my hubby, and buy the kids’ toms! (actually we need $ for preschool, diapers, etc still). love from mindy in kansas, where cool bloggers DO exist! :-) someday i’m gonna get me some gus!

    Reply
    • Leilani says

      July 11, 2011 at 7:02 pm

      Mindy, I’m so glad you reached out to me. I love your blog! I think it is fabulous. And honestly, your 250 readers probably are more dedicated than my 1200. I only got so many from doing giveaways.

      Reply
      • Gussy Sews says

        July 11, 2011 at 7:09 pm

        see — this is a perfect example of why it’s bad to assume something about a certain blog.

        everyone has a story as to how many people actually reply, how many read, how many read without ever commenting, to how they got their followers… just keep blogging and doing what you love and it *will* be good enough :)

        Reply
  21. Tempestt E. says

    July 11, 2011 at 4:25 pm

    I love this post! Thanks so much for all the fab tips! I just opened my etsy shop and I’m getting so frustrated about not having the time to do everything I want to….a million ideas and 2 babies and 2 dogs to keep up with. I make lists of all the things I want to make so I remember all my ideas. It gets hard keeping track of everything but it’s so rewarding to make things I love and get to share them! I plan on getting my blog up and running by the end of summer…thats my current big goal!

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 7:12 pm

      not to scare you, but the to-do list never goes away! :) what you consider a MUST now won’t be later, but something else equally important will be. don’t get caught up in the little details, focus on how amazing you are to have opened a shop and to be working on it successfully!

      Reply
  22. Mindy Harris says

    July 11, 2011 at 4:26 pm

    such neat advice, gussy! you’re a cool girl. hope to run into you @ blogsugar. :-) i will try not to be a groupie.
    maybe.

    Reply
  23. Andi Teggart says

    July 11, 2011 at 4:31 pm

    Hi! I love, love, love this post. THank you for explaining so clearly and concisely how to set goals and MAKE THEM HAPPEN. With my blog, I’ve found that I need to set aside 30 minutes each day for “inspiration time” and I Have one day/night per week where I do a majority of my blogging. I especially appreciated your advice to reach out to someone you admire – recently I was thinking that I wanted to interview a life coach I look up to so I asked her and she was more than interested! I’ve learned that if you approach every opportunity as if the answer is already YES it makes pursuing the goal more worthwhile :)

    Thanks again! xo -Andi

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 7:13 pm

      yes ~ yes! you are awesome :]

      Reply
  24. Jennifer says

    July 11, 2011 at 4:42 pm

    Thank you for the post! Like others, I love how encouraging and supportive you are to all small business owners and just everyone. I have been working on my shop for a long time and have wanted to give up a lot, but one reason I haven’t is all the advice and help you share. One thing I struggle with is since I haven’t actually started selling is I feel like I don’t even know what goals to set. I want to be realistic since I know it usually takes a little time and a lot of effort to establish yourself, and I just don’t know what a realistic starting place is. I also struggle with feeling like I still have a million things to do to be ready so I don’t know where to start.

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 7:18 pm

      i would say… to set up a shop: figure out your branding (what do you want it to look like?), come up with a solid name (one that’s catchy but not too cutesy/tied to a very specific thing (like annie’s aprons, what if you decide you don’t want to make aprons one day?!), what does your target audience look like?, and then how will you market to your audience? facebook, blog, newsletter, giveaways, twitter.

      i encourage you to just get started :] once you have a few months of experience you’ll be able to better judge what should be next on your to-do list! xoxo

      Reply
      • Jennifer says

        July 11, 2011 at 10:56 pm

        Thank you so much for the response! I appreciate the specific help and direction. I will work on those while I wait for my last few deliveries of supplies. And then nothing can stop me, right? Thanks again!

        Reply
  25. Ebony says

    July 11, 2011 at 4:53 pm

    Thank you for the tips and encouragement . You must have read my mind. I am trying to grow both my blog and etsy shop. I will implement these tips and keep on going, stay foc used and most of all stay encouraged. Thanks

    Reply
  26. Zack says

    July 11, 2011 at 5:02 pm

    Great post kiddo. :)

    Reply
  27. Pamela Stein says

    July 11, 2011 at 5:38 pm

    Thank you so very much for sharing what you’ve learned with all of us. I’ve read your story and I’m very impressed with your determination to achieve your goals, your story is truly inspiring! Sometimes it gets discouraging when you envision something and the end product doesn’t look like your vision at all! Haha but this journey is teaching me lots of patience, and hard work for sure.
    Lots of love and smiley faces :) !!
    Xoxoxo
    Pame

    Reply
  28. Leilani says

    July 11, 2011 at 6:58 pm

    Such great advice! I always have so many ideas floating around in my head and I don’t follow through on 90% of them. I really just need to start jotting things down and checking them off my list. I think another key element to having a successful blog/shop is to *believe* that you will have a successful blog/shop. Have you ever read The Secret? Great book. The power of positive thinking is AMAZING! My husband was a little leery of me opening up an Etsy shop because he didn’t think it was going to be successful, but I just knew it would be. Here I am 3 months later and I’ve already switched over to Big Cartel and just had a super successful grand opening weekend! I’m so excited for things to come!

    Reply
  29. Leilani says

    July 11, 2011 at 7:00 pm

    Mindy, I’m so glad you reached out to me. I love your blog! I think it is fabulous. And honestly, your 250 readers probably are more dedicated than my 1200. I only got so many from doing giveaways.

    Reply
  30. Salinda says

    July 11, 2011 at 7:08 pm

    Wow! I just printed out this post and put if front and center in my shop notebook! I added one challenge to each of the next 5 days “very important tasks”. I can’t wait to get started!

    Reply
  31. Rachel Greenhouse says

    July 11, 2011 at 7:10 pm

    Hi Maggie! Thanks for this awesome, generously-provided information! I’ll definitely be putting these tips to work in my business and in my blog. I–and many other women bloggers/business owners–find that it’s also very helpful to be a part of a supportive, goal-oriented group of women who can provide encouragement, accountability and celebrations along the way. Not to sound like an infomercial, but this is what the Magic Wand Collective is all about! (The first question we asked ourselves was “What would you do if you had a magic wand to wave over your business, yourselves and your community?”) Just like you, we embrace a value of abundance, i.e. we will freely share what we know with other women, because your success is also my success! If this type of collaboration would be of interest to you or to the other women reading your blog, just check out our events, here: http://www.magicwandevents.eventbrite.com or contact me through my blog. Thanks again, Maggie! xo

    Reply
  32. ~ Junkyard Jennifer says

    July 11, 2011 at 8:27 pm

    This post is so encouraging. In the past year, I’ve been totally slacking on my blog (and I had a decent readership before I slacked). I’m working on building it up again, slowly. But I need to start with doing regular posts again!

    I just came across your blog because of a photo someone had linked of yours on Pinterest.

    I grew up in Michigan and am also living in Minnesota. I lived in the twin cities for about a year (many years ago) — and then out in the Dassel/Cokato area for about 4 years. After moving back to Michigan for 3 years, my husband and I now live up in north/central Minnesota. I *love* Minnesota and feel like I was meant to be here. I grew up about a half hour south of Lansing. I was curious where abouts you lived as I saw that you came from the same area. :) Love the things you sew and all the pretty, bright colors.

    ~ Jennifer

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 11:45 pm

      hi jennifer! thank you so much for your comment!

      yes — zack and i are from michigan and our families are there currently. so crazy you are from mi, too! XO

      Reply
  33. aubrey says

    July 11, 2011 at 9:11 pm

    thank you.
    SOmetimes, it’s just nice to hear I’m not the only one who struggles or feels lost.
    Put your Big girl panties on and just do it ;)

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 11:46 pm

      girl! we are all in the same boat here. the only difference is some of us talk about it and others don’t/feel alone. i’m so glad you left a comment — “inspiration is all around you.”

      Reply
  34. Liz says

    July 11, 2011 at 9:14 pm

    Thanks for the tips and encouragement Gussy! My biggest issue right now is time. Working a full time and part time job PLUS trying to start my own business/blog is a lot, and I never know what things to spend time on with the little time that I have. Social networking? Creating new pieces? Improving my blog? :/
    Plus my husband wants attention too, hehe.
    BUT…I am quitting my full time job in August! I will be picking up another part time job but I will have SO much more time to work on stuff. I’m so excited to start scheduling out my days of the week. :)

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 11:48 pm

      hi liz! ohhhh, i hear you on the time. i would say all of these things are important ~ can you split your free time among them?! the great thing about blogging and social media is those things can auto-post for you, so you can do other things while they are being published. you can daydream about new pieces any time, too, so that’s helpful. just be conscious of your time… keep your goals in mind so you are always moving forward. you can totally do this!!!!!

      sending warm wishes your way :)

      Reply
  35. Lacey says

    July 11, 2011 at 10:05 pm

    Eeee!! I got teary-eyed and goosebumpy from reading the comments and your replies! Within the last month I’ve started my own blog, and I’m slowly starting to make my own wares for my etsy shop. You are such a huge huge huge inspiration. Really, Truly. Thank you for what you do, and for being a boost of energy. I get stuck in daydreamland, without a solid plan to put into place. I have all these ideas, but am befuddled as to the particulars, and when, where, how will they come to fruition. It’s overwhelming, and I get discouraged before I even start! I’m trying harder now to just take a deep breath and dive in. Again, thanks for being you and having such a positive voice.

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 11:53 pm

      hi lacey — :) you are right, it is overwhelming, but don’t let that be your end feeling. (do you know how long it can take me to write a post? i am not perfect, the truth is i’m just like you… overwhelmed at times over the littlest of things.) i hope you see that you are talented enough, you are smart enough, you are creative enough to get through the bumps. i’m cheering for you :)

      ps. thank you. xo

      Reply
  36. Bethany says

    July 11, 2011 at 10:28 pm

    This is such great bloggy chatter. I am in the middle of Liv Lane’s BBTL right now so my mind has really been on getting focused, creating a schedule, and SETTING GOALS. I haven’t blogged since I began bc I really want get my ducks in a row before I touch it again. I can’t wait read the comments above, as well.

    Reply
  37. Mabel Martinez says

    July 11, 2011 at 10:35 pm

    Really need these reminders today…I’m definitely a list person, have my goals and set my mind to it, but sometimes I pay to much attention to what I should not let distract me; mostly persons whom could care less about my goals. Soooo, with that being said need to stay on track and this took me back to where I should and need to me to continue focusing on reaching my happy place. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 11, 2011 at 11:53 pm

      ♥.

      Reply
  38. Kelly says

    July 12, 2011 at 7:48 am

    Thanks so much for this post! I’m in the early stages of blogging & dream of having a shop filled with my favorite projects. I see this being just the thing to help me get on the right track.

    Lately I’ve been distracted by the “no fun” parts of life, which tend to keep me from making time to be creative. I’m trying to work on that though, because creating is my favorite thing & is one thing that can always make me happy (besides my husband & pups). I love making lists too, but tend to lose them in the mess of everything else. If I can just find a great way to not lose them, then I’ll be all set to get started!

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 12, 2011 at 9:32 am

      i know… but the truth is there will always be “no fun” parts, no matter what stage your business is in.

      so, to fix this, schedule in FUN things each day. when you are doing your “no fun” tasks, keep focus so you can finish them ASAP. same for your FUN things. don’t allow yourself to get distracted… relish in the fact that the time will go off soon and if you get this “no fun” task done now you won’t have to do again so soon. with the FUN things, if you aren’t thinking or distracted by the “no fun” things then you can really seriously totally enjoy this great thing :)

      xoxo.

      Reply
  39. Amy says

    July 12, 2011 at 10:07 am

    Thanks for some great tips. I have decided to take the summer to really think about my blog direction and to redo my blog design and hopefully open a shop. It is a lot to think about!

    Reply
  40. Kate @ Songs Kate Sang says

    July 12, 2011 at 12:01 pm

    Thank you, Maggie! Awesome advice as always! Love it!

    Reply
  41. Maureen S says

    July 12, 2011 at 12:46 pm

    I have to admit, I don’t have a shop or blog. But I do wear glasses and those glasses sitting on top of your checklist are SUPER CUTE. I’m due for some new frames. It’s been many years. Who’s the maker?

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      July 12, 2011 at 1:38 pm

      hi maureen — i’m not sure… there’s a link above to photo credit 1, that’s where i found the picture. sorry!!!! xoxo

      Reply
  42. {leah} says

    July 27, 2011 at 3:33 pm

    Great tips, girl!! Love the post! I’m actually in the process of several of these! ^_^

    Reply
  43. Jenn L @ Peas and Crayons says

    October 17, 2011 at 12:26 pm

    LOVING all your blog biz posts! i’ve been going through them all this afternoon [just found your blog and love it!!!]

    random question — how did you make your tab bar? was there a HTML code you used or a website that helped you set it up? I’ve been trying to get mind to do that forever and i keep running into walls with the codes! thanks for your help!!! <3 off to keep reading =)

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      October 17, 2011 at 4:39 pm

      hi jenn! my nav bar is included with having a WordPress blog — it’s something already written into the code. from there i can drag & drop/move things around so they are in the order i want them to be.

      THANK YOU for the comment! xoxo

      Reply
  44. Cassidy Robinson says

    October 26, 2011 at 10:15 am

    Thank you so much for these tips! I read your story over at Casey’s blog today and just have to say… way to go on pursuing your dream! It is definitely not easy to give up something more stable, and I believe there are so many gifted ladies out there who need freedom to exercise those gifts! So thanks for doing so! :) And although my “indie business” is a little different than most blogs out here (I’m a singer/songwriter) this is still very applicable to me!! :)

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      November 1, 2011 at 11:43 am

      hi cassidy! ahhh, thank you!!! do you have a link to your music?

      xoxo

      Reply
  45. Rebekah says

    October 26, 2011 at 12:55 pm

    I came over from your guest post at the Shine Project! I love this post! I’m trying to grow my blog right now, and these tips were so helpful! Thank you!!

    Rebekah
    headoverheels26.blogspot.com

    Reply
  46. Tracy says

    October 29, 2011 at 2:12 pm

    I just with I could HIRE YOU!!! ;) Thank you for the tips!
    I believe in my small biz, but lack focus sometimes. I have been the primary means of support for our family for the past three years (economy=hubby’s biz= :( ), which has been really exhausting. I think that, paired up with the fact I am a perfectionist, keeps the growth of my biz slow… IT is so frustrating at times. But I know The Lord gave me specific gifts to make it as far as I have, and I have faith that one day soon, I will no longer have the burden of being the primary breadwinner. Reading your blog keeps me railed, or “on track” I guess. You really do inspire me to continue, so thank you for that!! xo

    Reply
    • Gussy Sews says

      November 1, 2011 at 11:44 am

      i often dream about doing some consulting — maybe some day! thanks for the comment, remember to take it day-by-day!

      xoxoxo

      Reply

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ABOUT MAGGIE WHITLEY DESIGNS:
Maggie Whitley weaves her writings around joy in motherhood, homemaking, faith, and simple living. She homeschools her children, enjoys a quiet room while reading, and roars with laughter over the challenges & delights of motherhood. Maggie and her husband, along with their four young children, live in metro-Detroit. She has been writing online since 2008.
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recent posts:

  • On writing regular letters. January 19, 2021
  • The books I hope to read this year. January 12, 2021
  • Merry Christmas! Plus, adding a little warmth to my home. December 21, 2020
  • Life around here! December 15, 2020
  • 10 “field trips” ideas for your homeschoolers (Detroit & beyond) September 2, 2020
  • 7 books we are reading aloud this year August 19, 2020
  • A fall-themed homeschool resource! August 12, 2020
  • Studying the Bible July 30, 2020

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JOY in motherhood & homemaking 🧺🌿💓✨

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Another batch of “fun mail” is headed out tomo Another batch of “fun mail” is headed out tomorrow :) small celebrations like this are very life giving! PS. thinking of starting a zoom book club — I need more sisterhood in my life. 👏🏻📖
The house is quiet. The heat is on. The pages are The house is quiet. The heat is on. The pages are turning. The tea is calm. 🖤☕️🧺📖
Breakfast with Buzz! If only you could see his ful Breakfast with Buzz! If only you could see his full costume and laser blaster and of course the Buzz action figure he flys around 🌟💚💙💨someone has discovered a superhero crush! #joyinmotherhood #slowmornings #surprisedbymotherhood // Landon @ 2.5yo
Today on my blog I have a list of books I hope to Today on my blog I have a list of books I hope to read this year. Plus my reading goal for the year. And a few practicals ways I fit in reading as a mama of four young children & homeschooling them. Basically, all the good stuff ☺️💓📖 #maggiewhitleydotcom #readersofinstagram #read #readmorebooks
It was the perfect opportunity to rearrange the fu It was the perfect opportunity to rearrange the furniture as we took the tree down Tuesday midday. Def one of my fav things to do.🎄👋🏻 We made it through our first week back to school since mid-December! It was rough to begin but ended with high fives. ⭐️✏️This morning I zoomed with a mama friend and I’m impressed with the many topics we covered. Sisterhood is sooooo necessary! ☕️👩🏽‍🤝‍👩🏼

Just a few cheery memories from my week! How about you?
Book reading! One of my best “Maggie” activiti Book reading! One of my best “Maggie” activities. I finished my last book moments before 2020 ended, which brought my started list to a close. Small joys add up to big joys ;)

What are you reading this year? Currently?

How many books are you planning to read? What’s your goal?

I’ll share what’s on my list for 2021 soon as I received some nice titles at Christmas. 📖✨🤍
We’re driving home in the dark of the winter nig We’re driving home in the dark of the winter night after a beautiful, hard & intentional couple of days working on a project ✨I’m committed to work on this this year; 2021 is already great. 🤩🤐😘
Ohhhhh, this year. Ohhhh, specifically these last Ohhhhh, this year. Ohhhh, specifically these last 3 months. I’ve had more anxiety than ever, and it’s seriously putting me on my knees in prayer —almost daily. My mind and chest aren’t unfamiliar of the attacks, but the grip it’s had on me since September has been so strong. The attacks are painful. But... Worship music has been one of my main healers. 🎶I know God is close to the broken-hearted (Psalm 34:18), and singing this truth really soothes me. Social media has been a big trigger for anxiety for me. I don’t want to “miss out on my life”, which is why I’ve hugely stepped back in posting and scrolling. 

One song in particular comes to mind:

“We step into Freedom. 
We step into all you have for us.” -Bethel Music & Jenn Johnson

There IS freedom from the anxiety attacks. For me: music, scripture, eating healthy, vitamins, rest, crying, prayer, honesty — these things help tremendously. Also getting up and MOVING when my anxiety sits on me like a boulder, that helps too. 🖤

Another soothing truth is from the end of Psalm 34:19 — “many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the lord delivers him of them all.”

Seriously. Thank you lord. Thank you for music and for rest and for the words in your book. I need them. I need You. I need Your freedom. I trust you’ll deliver me.
Nearing the end of my “20 letters in 20 weeks” Nearing the end of my “20 letters in 20 weeks” challenge. Many stayed in Michigan, but mail was also sent to Colorado, Texas, California, Indiana, and Arizona. I loved this personal exercise! I have just one question: who will be my pen-pal for 2021? ✏️💌
We piled in the car this morning for a nature walk We piled in the car this morning for a nature walk. When I finally walked out and sat down, they shouted, “THE QUEEN! EVERYBODY CHEER FOR THE QUEEN!” (yes, they really call me that...☺️💓☺️)

I brought our basket of mittens and gloves and hats. The older two brought RC cars. Bauer the dog came along; we had a wonderful time on our walk.

The afternoon was harder, but overall the day was sandwiched between two really sweet time slots.

Bedtime tonight was wonderful. We read two chapters from our read aloud and Max lost another baby tooth.

This job I have, it really wears me down AND fills me up. It’s a constant take away AND fill up. Even when the moments feel so fitful, I know the story is rich. 

🕯🌙 Hello, sweet slumber. You’re carrying my babies away to a peaceful land. Goodnight, my children. Goodnight.

#motherhood #motherhoodunplugged #motherhoodissanctifying #naturewalk #michigan
There’s a woman on Instagram I check on every co There’s a woman on Instagram I check on every couple of weeks because she is so sparkly & cheerful. She shares little pep talks, she wears fuchsia lipstick. She says, “like so, like that” when she’s explaining something. She’s a hoot. I love the joy that bursts from her eyes when she talks. In her own unique ways, her perspectives pull back the fog I often find myself in. I’m a weary mama, and her energy and gentleness feels nurturing, though I haven’t met her... I would love to meet her. 👩🏽‍🤝‍👩🏼I’m inspired by the snippets of life she shares online. Thank you, Tabitha for sharing your light. 🕯💓💄🌿@iamtabithabrown
What has kept you and your home busy as of late? F What has kept you and your home busy as of late? For us, it’s this…

The sound of Julia Robert’s calming voice is playing in the background of our playroom. Yesterday we finished another read aloud, Charlotte’s Web, so today my children are watching the movie. Knowing in-detail the lessons they are learning, along with reading books together, definitely adds to the joy of motherhood; the joy of teaching my children and being with them for so many hours each day. We experience so much together. Even when things feel chaotic at home, when I can’t call something by the correct name they still long to be near me and work alongside me. Tired has been a dear companion to me for the last seven years, but my children are gentle with their responses.

💞💬More on my blog! #maggiewhitleydotcom
It’s the season of perpetual hope. 🎄✨📖Of It’s the season of perpetual hope. 🎄✨📖Of books that shape our minds, of anticipation, of creative projects that mar our kiddos clothing (but morph our memories into beauty). Oh right! There are cookies cooling on the counter — gotta go! ✌🏻
Keeping my hands busy (making wooden bead garland Keeping my hands busy (making wooden bead garland for our tree; link posted to Stories) and my mind inspired (watching HGTV). I really enjoy the quiet of the evening after a full, rich day. God is so kind to give this to me today. What have you received today? 🎄💫📿
This guy is my steady; my Zack. This is a latergra This guy is my steady; my Zack. This is a latergram from October, from one of our many fall adventures with the kids. We had so many fun day trips, I don’t even remember where this was taken 👏🏻⭐️. I’m gonna guess Cranbrook Gardens.
This morning I sat on the front porch and read my This morning I sat on the front porch and read my book & drank coffee. The birds were with me, nearly a hundred of them. Fluttering from rooftop to treetop to hiding inside the bushes. So beautiful and calm. Mother culture... the path to joy in motherhood & homemaking.
Well kiddos, we had a great summer together! 🥳👏🏻🛴⛱🍦🤸🏼‍♀️🎨🎹🏊🏻‍♂️🧺🎠📚📺🍿🌿🌷☀️🚲

Thanks for coming along with me to the pool, nature trails, the park, hosting friends in our backyard, reading adventures, popcorn & movie night, art, planting flowers, planting a garden, bike rides, neighborhood walks, lake swimming, and supplying the ice cream truck w/ roughly $84 this summer. 

I loved our time together! 🥰🧒🏼👩🏻👧🏼🧒🏻

And the great news is this: we have autumn to enjoy together, too! 👏🏻🌾🍃🍂 so thankful.
Even if you don’t have students learning at home Even if you don’t have students learning at home, these ten “field trip” ideas will give your day a boost. 

When your mind feels foggy, step outside. When your home feels too small or too big, step outside. When the bickering is loud or your internal criticism is high, step outside. 

Give yourself (and your family) the joy of an adventure away from the home. 

🌾Visit my blog for the full post, link in profile or #maggiewhitleydotcom
It’s come to my realization there’s plenty of It’s come to my realization there’s plenty of time these days to craft a letter when I wash dishes, take my kids on a walk, or take care of our garden. All that silence, it makes my internal monologue even louder 🤣. 

Many times we are out & about in the neighborhood and I think, “oh the flowers surrounding your porch are lovely!” Or, “wow” (to the elderly man) “you have such a great smile, thanks for sharing it with us!” Wouldn’t it be great to jot that down in a card and send it through the mail as well?

We are always in need of community & kind words! 🌷💬

I remember many years ago, when nearly pregnant with another baby and our personal finances were THE PITS, my best friend came over with $500 cash. Just to bless us. She also included a personal note. Of course, I’ve always known how special personal notes are, but this card really meant so much.

And so I’ve decided as the year-end nears: wouldn’t it be nice to send a letter a week for the final 20 weeks we have left in 2020. Me thinks so 🙂. 

Community & kind words: I’m coming for you!

PS. wanna join me in sending 20 cards by Dec. 31?
🖤working on our school room, mid-process update 🖤working on our school room, mid-process update! this wall is inspired by @mygrandparentschair 👏🏻 

I saw her feature in a recent issue of “Better Homes & Gardens” and I was all 🤩🤩over her foyer. I’m using 1/2” black masking tape (mistake-making friendly) instead of paint, also renter friendly. 

Working on this project has been so good for my mental health. Doing > worrying.
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devotionals written by Maggie:

the (in)courage Devotional Bible:
Proverbs 14:1 and Lamentations 5
31 Days of Prayer for the Dreamer and Doer:
on Simplicity

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