Today, we all know what a blog is. It’s hard to believe that just a decade ago, blogging was still a fairly new phenomenon and people were still trying to understand the concept. These days, the more common question has become: “Is it worth blogging anymore?”

The answer is an enthusiastic “yes!” True, it’s not as easy as it once was to stand out on the internet. But if you create compelling posts and promote your work, you can still build up a loyal audience for your content. Here are 5 great reasons to start blogging ASAP.

Blogging Can Help Relieve Stress 

Just about everyone has had a stressful year. If you haven’t got an outlet to help you relieve stress, then you might find yourself feeling run down, exhausted, and burned out. Lots of people turn to journaling to relieve stress, so why not blogging?

Blogging can be a great way to organize your thoughts and document your experiences. But you don’t have to get too personal on your blog to relieve stress. Simply using a blog as a creative outlet can help you to feel calmer and more in control of your mood.

Develop and Hone Your Writing Skills for Future Projects

Getting published or getting hired as a writer can be a challenge. You have to prove yourself with some great samples or submit work that can compete with the best of the best. Getting to that point takes a lot of practice! Just because we all learn to write in school, that doesn’t mean you’ve had enough practice to write a bestselling novel or a marketable screenplay.

The benefit of a blog is that there won’t be any gatekeeper telling you what you can and can’t publish. You can start writing today and gain experience that you’ll be able to transfer to future projects such as a business case. Then, when you’re ready to take your writing to the next level, you’ll be well-practiced and more skilled than ever.

Your Writing Could Help Inspire Others 

We take our own talents and knowledge for granted so much of the time. But you might not have realized that you have something extremely valuable to offer your readers! What you write could teach somebody or inspire them to follow their passions.

That’s why it’s so important to write about what you’re passionate about. People will see that passion come through in your writing and might be inspired to follow their own interests. Don’t underestimate your ability to help people through something as simple as a blog!

Develop Writing Connections & Network 

Blogging is all about community, and you might be surprised by the people you’ll meet in the world of blogging. Networking is extremely important in life, whether you want to work in a 9-5 or start your own business. Not only will you make new connections as a blogger, but you’ll be building your online portfolio and personal brand you can leverage in your professional life.

Networking isn’t all about work, though! You can also find new opportunities for learning and growth, such as advance access to courses and seminars, new tools, and collaborations. You might also find a whole new circle of friends to encourage you in your journey as a writer.

Build Your Thought Leadership & Authority 

Today, reputations are built online. You don’t have to wait for someone else to tell you that you’re an authority or a thought leader in your field. You can use your blog as a platform for your ideas and educate others! If you have your own business, a blog is a fantastic addition to your marketing efforts.

Many thought leaders started out as “ordinary people.” They didn’t go to Ivy League schools or work for the biggest companies. They simply had good ideas and shared them. It’s important to believe in yourself and to realize that what you have to say has value!

Don’t wait for someone to give you permission to express your opinion. It’s easy to start a blog, and there are all kinds of personal and professional benefits to doing so. You just need to be consistent and willing to put yourself out there—the rest will follow.