Blogging on Low Battery: Rebuilding Productivity (Without Overdoing It)

I’ve been quiet around here lately, and if I’m honest, it’s because my body forced me to take a massive pause. Following a recent stay in hospital to manage my multiple chronic conditions, I found myself slammed right into a creative brick wall.

Between recovering from the stay itself, adjusting to multiple medications, and enduring the absolute furnace of this Rome summer, my daily reality has looked less like "hustling blogger" and much more like "lying completely motionless in front of a fan, praying for a breeze."

When you have multiple chronic illnesses, a creative rut isn't just a mental block; it's a physical boundary. Your brain wants to write, reply to comments, and design graphics, but the physical energy simply isn’t there.

So, how do we get back to being productive when our battery is permanently sitting at 10%?

The "Slow-Mo" Re-entry Plan

The temptation when you start feeling even 5% better is to try and make up for lost time. You open twenty tabs, plan a month of content, and immediately trigger a flare-up that lands you right back where you started. Yes, I'm talking from experience. 

To avoid that vicious cycle, I am using a much gentler, step-by-step approach to rebuild my blogging routine.

Step 1: Lower the bar to floor-level

Forget about writing massive, 2,000-word guides right now. Your first goal is just to show up in the easiest way possible. If all you can manage is a quick 15-minute "Book Tag" post or updating an old image, celebrate that as a massive win.

Whilst I really want to get back to posting daily again I'm just not in a condition to that right now. I will try to post at least once or twice a week and slowly build up frequency again as my health improves. 

Step 2: Work in micro-bursts

Forget the standard 25-minute Pomodoro technique if that feels too long. Try working in 5 or 10-minute bursts from your phone whilst lying down. If the laptop feels too heavy or makes you too hot, use your phone's voice-to-text feature to dictate thoughts whilst resting.

I definitely can't deal with being on my computer for long periods of time at the moment. I am trying to keep up with emails and socials via the apps on my phone and logging on to my laptop for short amounts of time to work on drafts and graphics. 

Step 3: Categorise tasks by energy level

On high-brain-fog days, do "mindless" tasks like deleting spam comments or organising your Pinterest boards. Save writing or editing for the rare pockets of day when your medication has kicked in and the heat has dipped slightly.

I'm definitely counting scrolling Pinterest as productive blog related work. It's given me a lot of ideas for new posts to do once I'm up for it.

Step 4: Set a hard stop

Even if you feel a sudden burst of creative inspiration, force yourself to stop before you feel tired. Leaving a post half-finished gives you an easy starting point for tomorrow and preserves your precious physical reserves.

This is probably the hardest thing for me to do. I'm not good at stopping. I have the tendency to push myself when it would probably have been best to stop sooner. I am trying to work on that aspect though as I learn to deal with my health.

Surviving the Heat & the Healing Process

If you are also struggling with a chronic illness, a flare-up, or just the exhausting weight of summer, please remember that rest is productive. Your body is doing heavy internal work to heal you, and that requires energy.

I’m taking things one tiny, fan-cooled step at a time. The blog will still be here, the draft posts can wait, and our health must always come first. I promise I'll be back with loads of new content for you soon. 

Have you ever had to rebuild your routine after a health setback? How do you keep your creative spark alive when your body demands rest? Let me know in the comments below!

The 15-Minute Weekly Tech Audit: A Non-Techie’s Guide to a Healthy Blog

We’ve all been there. You started your blog because you love sharing—whether it’s a review of a book you couldn't put down, a new fitness routine, or a travel itinerary from your latest weekend away. But then, the "tech gremlins" move in. Suddenly, you’re hearing about algorithms, indexing, and site speed, and it feels like the joy of blogging is being buried under a mountain of jargon.

I’m a huge fan of a good audit. Over the years, I’ve shared plenty of blogging basics for beginners and even did a deep dive into how to do a full blog audit to help you get your strategy on track. But I know that sometimes, a full-scale audit feels like a massive project you just don't have time for.

That’s why I’ve developed this 15-minute weekly tech audit. It’s simple, it’s clear, and I promise it won’t make your head spin. Think of it like a quick "house tidy" for your corner of the internet.

Why Bother with Tech?

If you’re trying to improve your blog SEO, Google needs to be able to "read" your site easily. If your "front door" is locked or your "hallways" are cluttered with broken links, Google will just move on to the next house.

Grab a cuppa, set a timer for 15 minutes, and let’s tick these off together.

1. The 5-Minute Link Sweep

Broken links are incredibly frustrating for readers. If someone clicks a link to see your favourite beauty product and hits a "404 Error" page, they’ll likely leave your site immediately.

• What to do: Use a free tool like Dr. Link Check or if you use WordPress, a simple plugin to find any "dead ends."

• The fix: Either update the link to a new, working URL or remove it entirely. It keeps the journey smooth for your readers.

2. The 3-Minute Speed Check

We live in a fast-paced world. If your site takes ages to load, people won't wait—especially if they’re browsing on their phones while on the go.

• What to do: Pop your URL into Google PageSpeed Insights.

• The fix: Don’t worry about the complex graphs. Just look for the stuff you can improve on. Usually, the culprit is a giant image. If you find one, make a note to resize your photos before uploading them next time. Small changes make a big difference!

3. The 4-Minute "Google Check-In"

Google Search Console sounds scary, but it’s actually just a way for Google to leave you a note about how your site is doing.

• What to do: Log in and look at the "Indexing" report.

• The fix: You’re looking for any bright red "Error" bars. Most of the time, everything is fine (grey and green are your friends!), but catching a red error early means you can fix it before it affects your traffic growth.

4. The 3-Minute Mobile Walkthrough

Since most of us are trying to grow our blogs without the overwhelm, we often forget to look at our own work the way our readers do: on a smartphone.

• What to do: Open your latest post on your phone.

• The fix: Can you read the text easily? Are the buttons too close together? If a pop-up is blocking your beautiful content, it might be time to tweak your settings.

Final Thoughts

Blogging should be about the things that make life better—learning, exploring, and enjoying the process. By spending just 15 minutes a week on these "techy" bits, you’re clearing the path so your content can actually reach the people who need to see it.

If you’re looking for more ways to polish your site, don’t forget to check out my previous posts on content strategy and simple growth tips. We’re all learning together, one step at a time!

Do you have a specific tech question that’s been holding you back? Drop it in the comments and let’s see if we can simplify it together.

Ready to grow your blog?

Whether you're looking for fresh post inspiration, SEO tips, or want to check out my annual Book Blogging Survey tracking realistic industry statistics, I have got you covered. Click a button below to explore!

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Blogging Basics: Everything You Need to Know About the Latest Google Updates

Google has been busy lately! If you’ve noticed your traffic wobbling or your stats looking a bit different, don't panic—it’s not just you. Between February and March 2026, Google rolled out some significant updates that are changing the game for bloggers. 

The good news? These updates actually favour the way we blog: with personality, real experience, and a focus on being helpful. 

Here is the simple, jargon-free breakdown of what’s happened and how to keep your blog growing.

The February 2026 "Discover" Update

In February, Google released a core update specifically for Google Discover (that feed of articles you see on your phone's Google app). 

What changed: Google is now prioritising "local" and "expert" content. 

What it means for you: If you’re a British blogger writing about things happening in the UK, you’re more likely to show up for UK readers. 

The "Anti-Clickbait" rule: They’ve cracked down on sensationalist headlines. If your title sounds like a tabloid "shocker," it might get hidden. Keep it honest and clear! 

The March 2026 "Information Gain" Core Update

This was a big one. The main theme for March was something called "Information Gain." 

What it is: Google is looking for new information. If you just rewrite what the top 10 results already say, Google might see your post as "extra noise." 

How to win: Add your own spin! If you’re reviewing a book, don't just summarise the plot—tell us how it made you feel or show us a photo of your dog reading it with you. If you’re sharing a recipe, tell us about the time you burnt the first batch. That first-hand experience is your SEO superpower. 

3 Simple Steps to Grow Right Now

Be Real (E-E-A-T): Google loves "Experience." Make sure your "About" page is up to date and that you use "I" and "me" in your posts. Show that a real human (with real opinions!) is behind the keyboard. 

Focus on Your Niche: Instead of writing about everything, try to go deep into your favourite topics. If you love budget beauty, write five connected posts about it. This builds "Topical Authority," which Google currently loves. 

Speed Up: Technical bits can be scary, but try to keep your images small so your site loads quickly. A fast site is a happy site in Google's eyes!

Final Thoughts: Keep it Real, Keep it You

At the end of the day, it’s easy to get bogged down in charts and algorithms, but these 2026 updates are actually a gentle nudge to get back to what we love most: connection. It’s a vital reminder that numbers aren't everything; the right readers matter more than just 'more' readers!

Building a community of people who actually value your voice is far more rewarding than chasing empty traffic stats. To help you stay on track without the stress, here is my top tips for navigating these changes:

The "Me" Factor

A robot can tell you that a face mask is "hydrating." But a robot can’t tell you that the mask made you look so much like a seal that your son couldn't stop laughing (like I shared in my recent review!). That laugh is your SEO advantage. It’s that unique, human spark that AI simply can't replicate, and it's exactly what will keep your readers coming back.

A Quick Pep Talk

SEO updates can feel like someone moved the goalposts while you were mid-kick. If you're feeling overwhelmed, ignore the technical jargon for today. Just pick one old post and add one personal story or a photo you took yourself. That’s a win in Google’s new book!

If you want ideas of ways you can update older posts click here.

Take it one step at a time, keep sharing your stories, and remember—you're doing great. Happy blogging!

Have you noticed a change in your blog traffic lately, or are you feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the "SEO talk"? Drop a comment below—I’d love to help you simplify things!

Ready to grow your blog?

Whether you're looking for fresh post inspiration, SEO tips, or want to check out my annual Book Blogging Survey tracking realistic industry statistics, I have got you covered. Click a button below to explore!

Blogging Tips & SEOBlog Post IdeasBlog Audit GuideBook Blogging Survey

A Beginner’s Guide to Evergreen Content

Do you ever feel like you’re on a bit of a treadmill with your blog? You spend six hours pouring your heart into a post, you hit publish, it gets a bit of love for 48 hours, and then… silence. It disappears into the archives, never to be seen again. I’ve been there, and frankly, it’s exhausting.

If that sounds familiar, let me introduce you to your new best friend: Evergreen Content.

I’m all about making blogging simple and enjoyable, and nothing makes life easier than creating content that does the hard work for you while you’re off exploring a new city, hitting the gym, or tucked up with a good book.

Quick Summary

Evergreen content is search-optimised content that remains continually relevant and "fresh" for readers over a long period. Unlike news or trending topics, it addresses "core" problems (e.g., "How to outline a novel" or "SEO tips for book bloggers") to drive consistent, long-term organic traffic.

What exactly is "Evergreen" Content?

In the gardening world, an evergreen tree stays green and healthy all year round, regardless of the season. Blogging operates on the same logic.

Evergreen content is a post that stays relevant, useful, and "fresh" for months—or even years—after you hit publish. It isn’t tied to a specific news event, a fleeting trend, or a seasonal sale. It’s the kind of information people will always be searching for.

Critical Distinction: Evergreen vs. Static 

Do not confuse "Evergreen" with "Static." If your guide to Rome's Metro mentions a ticket price of €1.50 and it rises to €2.00, your post is no longer evergreen—it’s a liability. True evergreen content requires maintenance once a year to keep the facts straight.

Why should you care?

• Steady Traffic: Instead of a big spike that disappears, these posts bring in a steady stream of readers every single day.

• Less Pressure: When you have a library of evergreen posts, you don't feel the frantic need to post every day to stay relevant.

• Better SEO: Google loves high-quality, helpful guides that stand the test of time.

3 Simple Steps to Create Your First Evergreen Post

1. Pick a "Timeless" Topic

Think about the questions people always ask in your niche. Use a tool like AnswerThePublic or simply look at your "sent" folder in your email—what do you find yourself explaining over and over?

• Fitness Niche: Instead of "My Workout Today," try "5 Simple Stretches for People Who Sit at a Desk All Day."

• Travel Niche: Instead of "My Weekend in Rome," try "How to Use the Metro in Rome: A Step-by-Step Guide."

• Beauty Niche: Instead of "March Favourites," try "The Essential 3-Step Skincare Routine for Beginners."

• Writing Niche: Instead of "My Current WIP," try "7 Beat Sheets to Help You Structure Your Novel."

• Reading Niche: Instead of "June TBR Pile," try "A Beginner’s Guide to Categorising Book Genres."

• Blogging Niche: Instead of "A Day in the Life," try "How to Write a Book Review That Actually Helps Readers."

2. Focus on Being Helpful (Not Trendy)

Avoid using "time-sensitive" language. If you say "Earlier this morning" or "Last week when it was snowing," you date your post immediately. Aim for "The Ultimate Guide" or "How-To" style posts that provide a solution to a problem.

3. Make it Easy to Scan

Evergreen posts are often longer and more detailed. To keep it from being overwhelming, use those "signposts" we talked about in my post How to Write "Easy-to-Scan" Blog Posts:

• Use clear Headings.

• Use Bullet Points.

• Add a Summary at the end.

A Little "Evergreen" Inspiration

Not sure where to start? Here are three "Evergreen" titles you can adapt for your own blog right now:

1. The Beginner’s Guide to [Your Topic]: Everything You Need to Know.

2. X Common Mistakes People Make with [Your Topic] (And How to Fix Them).

3. My Top 5 Resources for [Your Topic] That I Still Use Every Single Day.

The Bottom Line

Blogging shouldn’t feel like a race against the clock. By mixing in a few evergreen posts, you’re building a library of value that helps people long after you’ve moved on to your next adventure. It’s the simplest way to grow your blog without the burn-out.

Ready to give it a go?

Take a look at your last three blog posts. Could any of them be tweaked to make them "evergreen"? Or better yet, do you have an idea for a "How-To" guide that your readers would find useful a year from now?

Drop your ideas in the comments below—I’d love to help you brainstorm a timeless title!

How to Write "Easy-to-Scan" Blog Posts

Have you ever clicked on a blog post that looked interesting, only to be met with a massive, never-ending wall of text? If you’re like most of us, you probably took one look, sighed, and hit the "back" button.

I’m a huge believer that learning should be simple. As bloggers, our job isn't just to share great information; it's to make that information as easy to digest as possible.

Disclosure: The FTC Disclosure Provision is a law that requires influencers to disclose when they are being paid to promote a product or service. So please know that if I'm not making money through affiliate links/sponsored content on the post you're currently reading, it's an oversight on my part and will be corrected soon. Read the full disclosure about all the legal stuff here.

If you want your readers to actually stay on your page (and come back for more), you need to make your posts "scannable." Here are three intentionally simple ways to do exactly that.

1. Use Clear Headings (Your Signposts)

Think of headings as the GPS for your blog post. They tell the reader exactly what is coming up next.

Why they work: Many readers will scroll through your post first to see if it answers their specific question. If they see a heading that says "3 Ways to Improve Your Fitness," they know exactly where to stop.

Tip: Use the H2 or H3 settings in your blog editor. It’s better for the reader’s eyes and brilliant for your SEO!

2. Embrace the Bullet Point

If you have a list of items, ideas, or tips, don't bury them in a long sentence separated by commas. Set them free!

• Bullet points break up the visual weight of a page.
• They make "dry" information feel much more manageable.
• They allow the reader to "cherry-pick" the bits that are most relevant to them.

3. Add a "Too Long; Didn't Read" Summary

We’re all busy. Sometimes, your reader just wants the "cliff notes" version of your advice.

The Bottom Line: Adding a short summary or a "Key Takeaways" box at the end of your post is a lovely way to be helpful.

Why it’s a winner: It reinforces what they’ve just learned and leaves them feeling like they’ve actually gained something useful from your site.

A Quick "Scannability" Checklist

Before you hit publish on your next post, give it the "The Three-Second Test":

1. Scroll through it quickly. Can you tell what the post is about without reading a single full sentence?

2. Check your paragraphs. Are they short? (Aim for 2-3 sentences max).

3. Look for "white space." Does the page feel "airy" and easy on the eyes?

The Bottom Line

Making your blog easy to scan isn't "dumbing down" your content; it’s being respectful of your reader’s time. When you make your posts simple to navigate, you make your expertise accessible to everyone.

Which of these tips are you going to try first? Maybe you have an old post that needs a bit of a "scannable" makeover?

Drop a link in the comments if you’ve updated an old post using these tips—I’d love to come and have a look!

Ready to grow your blog?

Whether you're looking for fresh post inspiration, SEO tips, or want to check out my annual Book Blogging Survey tracking realistic industry statistics, I have got you covered. Click a button below to explore!

Blogging Tips & SEOBlog Post IdeasBlog Audit GuideBook Blogging Survey

Blogging on a Budget: How to Grow Your Site Without Spending a Penny

I’ll be honest: when I first looked at "professional" blog setups, I almost quit before I even started. Every "guru" was telling me I needed a DSLR camera and a paid SEO suite that cost more than my monthly groceries.

Here’s the truth they don’t tell you: My most successful posts weren't made with fancy gear. They were written in my pyjamas, using free tools and a phone that was already two years old. Growth isn't about your bank balance; it’s about how well you show up for your readers.

I believe learning should be simple. You can absolutely create a high-quality blog using free resources that are often easier to use than the paid ones. Here is my "zero-budget" roadmap to growth.

1. Use Your Smartphone for Photos

You don’t need a €1,000 DSLR camera to have beautiful blog images. Most smartphones in 2026 have incredible cameras that are more than enough for beauty, travel, or book shots.

• The Simple Trick: Use natural light. Take your photos near a window or outside on an overcast day. It’s free, and it looks better than any expensive studio light.

• Free Tool: Use Canva (the free version) to add simple text to your images or create Pinterest pins. It’s a lifesaver for making your blog look polished and professional.

2. Master Free SEO Tools

You don't need a monthly subscription to an SEO dashboard to get noticed by Google.

• The Simple Trick: Use Google Search itself! Start typing your topic into the search bar and see what "Auto-complete" suggests. Those are the exact phrases people are searching for.

• Free Tool: Google Search Console. It’s a free service from Google that tells you which keywords are bringing people to your site. It’s a bit like having a free coach telling you what’s working.

3. Focus on "Organic" Promotion

You don’t need to pay for ads to get readers. The most loyal audiences are built through genuine connection.

• The Simple Trick: Be helpful in communities. If you're in a Facebook group for "Rome Day Trips" or a "Beginner Fitness" forum, answer people's questions and—where relevant—share your helpful blog post.

• Why it works: It builds trust. People will click through because you’ve already been helpful, not because they saw an ad.

4. Write "Evergreen" Content

When you’re on a budget, you want your work to go further.

• The Simple Trick: Write posts that don't "expire." A post about "How to start a fitness journey" will be just as useful in two years as it is today.

• Why it works: This is called Evergreen Content. It keeps bringing in new readers month after month, even when you aren't actively promoting it.

5. Keep Your Tech Simple

It’s easy to get sucked into buying "premium" plugins or themes that promise to make your site faster.

• The Simple Trick: Only use what you need. Too many fancy features actually slow your site down. A clean, simple, free theme is often much better for SEO and for your readers' experience.

The Bottom Line

Blogging isn't about how much money you throw at it; it’s about the value you give to your readers. If your posts are clear, helpful, and honest, people will keep coming back—whether you’re using a free template or a bespoke design.

You might also like: How to Promote Your Blog Posts