How I Blog While Travelling (Yes, It’s Possible!)

How I Blog While Travelling (Yes, It’s Possible!)

by | Aug 4, 2025 | Online Business And Mindset

You might think being away from home means hitting pause on blogging — but actually, it’s a great opportunity to keep going in a relaxed, flexible way.

Whether you’re visiting family, away for a short break, or working from a cosy café somewhere new, it is still to blog while travelling. And no, you don’t need to lug around loads of tech or stress about Wi-Fi the whole time!

Let me walk you through how I do it, step-by-step — calmly and with intention.

What I Bring With Me

I keep it simple. Here’s what I pack:

  • My laptop – Nothing fancy, just something I’m used to using.

  • A notebook and pen – For ideas, to-do lists, and scribbles when the screen feels like too much.

  • My phone – For checking emails, taking photos, or light editing on the go.

  • Charger + portable Wi-Fi (optional) – Just in case I’m somewhere with flaky internet.  We go away in our motorhome so ‘flaky internet’ goes with the territory!

Bonus tip: I also save copies of drafts offline, so I can work without Wi-Fi if needed.

What I Focus On While Away

When I’m travelling, I don’t try to do everything. I choose just one or two small blogging tasks per day, like:

  • Writing a rough blog post outline

  • Editing a draft I already started

  • Checking or responding to blog comments

  • Sharing a post on social media

  • Reviewing one old post and making light SEO tweaks

These little tasks keep me moving forward without pressure.

How I Stay Calm & Organised

Even while travelling, I like to keep things structured (but not strict). Here’s how:

  • Morning moments – I set aside 30–60 minutes early in the day to write or edit

  • One post at a time – I don’t juggle five things at once. One post, one focus

  • Short check-ins – I’ll glance at emails or social media once a day, max

  • Forgive the rest – If I miss a task, that’s okay. The world won’t end (this has taken me some time to master but it is true)

Tools That Help Me Blog While Travelling

I keep my toolkit light and beginner-friendly:

  • Wealthy Affiliate – I like to keep up with the training so usually watch at least one video when I’m away.

  • Canva – To create or tweak blog images on the go

  • Grammarly – For light grammar checks when I’m writing tired

  • Google Drive – I use this constantly even if I don’t have Wi-Fi — then copy and paste

These tools are all free or have free versions.

A Quick Word on Expectations

Blogging while travelling isn’t about perfection — it’s about staying connected to what you’re building.

If I only publish one post instead of three, that’s still progress.
If I just write an outline today, that’s a win.

The important thing is: I’m still showing up — gently, in my own time, from wherever I am.  

And Finally...

Have you ever tried blogging away from home?

If you’re thinking about it, just remember: you don’t need a studio, a set schedule, or fast internet. You just need your voice, a bit of quiet time, and a way to capture your thoughts.

I’d love to hear how you stay connected to your blog during travel or breaks — pop a comment below or send me a message

My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

Am I Doing This All Wrong?

Am I Doing This All Wrong?

by | Jun 6, 2025 | Online Business And Mindset

Some days, my website feels like a quiet little space I’m tending with care. Other days? It feels like a 400-room house with the windows open, half the furniture missing, spiders in every crevice and an unexpected goat in the kitchen.

This week I found myself knee-deep in Google Drive folders, rewriting posts I wrote two years ago, creating new featured images, checking SEO settings, trying to remember what RankMath even wanted from me — and wondering, Am I doing this all wrong?

Lady thinking 'am i doing this all wrong'

If you’re building a website for the first time — especially in midlife or beyond — and finding yourself tangled up in plugins, image sizes, or too many tabs open at once, let me say this clearly:

You are not doing it wrong. You are doing it thoughtfully.

And that kind of building takes a little more time.

The Overload Is Real

When we set out to build something steady and lovingly online, we’re often met with more complexity than we expected.

Maybe you’re feeling this too:

  • You’ve published dozens of blog posts, but now your fonts, headings, and images don’t match
  • You’re learning SEO terms, trying not to glaze over every time you hear “meta description”
  • You want your homepage to feel inviting, but can’t even remember which plugin controls the header
  • You have folders of half-finished freebies, course ideas, or Canva designs — and no idea where to begin

The result? That creeping sense that everyone else has figured this out and you’re still pushing buttons hoping they do what they say they will.

Am I Doing This All Wrong?

Let me reassure you: This phase is normal. In fact, it’s often the quiet middle part of a bigger shift. You’re not floundering — you’re growing.

And while the internet is full of bold promises and fast-talking tutorials, most people don’t talk about this part — the part where learning feels slow, messy, and not very photogenic. This is the work that happens behind the scenes, when no one is clapping. This is where your foundation is being shaped.

We tend to underestimate how much mental energy it takes to juggle multiple learning curves at once — design, writing, SEO, structure — especially when tech isn’t your native language.

But it’s not about knowing everything; it’s about giving yourself room to learn in the open.

That’s courage, not weakness.

What I’m Doing Now (In Case It Helps)

The last couple of weeks I seem to have been constantly asking myself “Am I doing this all wrong?”

As a child I had a teacher who said ‘Jacqueline is her own worst enemy’.  He was soooo right.  Taking a step back and concentrating on things on my website that matter to me (not necessarily to anyone else!) is important 

So I came to a decision; rather than trying to clean up every corner of my site at once to please the masses, I’m taking a slower, more structured approach. This week, my focus looks like this:

  • Refresh 10 older posts with updated featured images, improved clarity, and gentle SEO tweaks
  • Reorganise my Google Drive so I can actually find things again
  • Stick to my existing publishing rhythm (one new post, already drafted)
  • Leave the rest — videos, courses, tweaks — until I’ve made this part feel steady

This isn’t about giving up on the big picture — it’s about building the base strong enough to hold it.  

A Gentle Reminder (Just For You)

If your website has started to feel like a to-do list instead of a creative space, please know this:

  • You don’t have to do everything right now.
  • You don’t have to do it perfectly the first time.
  • And you are absolutely not too late or too lost.

Every time you edit a post, update an image, or simply open your site with intention — you’re moving forward.

If today all you manage is to fix one heading or name one folder, that is still progress.

Lady working out if she is doing this all wrong

And Finally...

You are not doing this all wrong. You are doing it with care. And in this space, that matters more than anything.

You are allowed to build slowly. You are allowed to rest. And you are allowed to find joy in the small moments — like when a heading finally aligns, or your homepage starts to feel like somewhere you’d want to visit.

Trust that the clarity will come, not all at once, but gradually — and that your readers don’t need perfect. They need you. Showing up, trying, refining. That’s what builds trust. That’s what builds something real. 

If you’d like to read more about the subject of ‘overwhelm’, here is another post that might help: Why successful creators are putting limits on themselves

I’d love to hear from you — truly.

Have you ever asked yourself, “Am I doing this all wrong?”

What part of the website-building process has surprised you, slowed you down, or maybe even made you proud?

Leave a comment below and share your thoughts. You’re not alone in this — and your voice might be the very encouragement someone else needs today.

The Benefits Of Pen And Paper

The Benefits Of Pen And Paper

by | May 19, 2025 | Online Business And Mindset

Calm, Focus, And A Creative Spark

There’s something comforting about sitting down with a cup of coffee and a blank page.

The benefits of pen and paper go far beyond nostalgia — they bring focus, calm, and creativity in a world full of digital noise.

It might sound a little old-fashioned in this age of apps and cloud storage, but handwriting still offers something deeply personal and meaningful. 

At least, it does to me.

Fountain Pen

The Benefits of Pen and Paper in a Digital World

There’s something undeniably charming about putting pen to paper. That tactile experience creates a connection that digital tools often lack. The feel of the pen as it glides over the page brings a simplicity and artistry you just can’t get from tapping on a screen.

And it’s not just about aesthetics. When you’re scribbling in a notebook, you’re less likely to be distracted by notifications or browser tabs. It’s like giving your brain a gentle shield — an anti-distraction superpower that helps you stay present.

On a cognitive level, handwriting may even help you retain more information. Studies suggest that writing things down engages the brain in deeper ways than typing. For many, it sparks creativity and helps with problem-solving — a quiet kind of thinking that screens don’t always allow space for.

And let’s not forget the emotional layer. Pen and paper carry stories. Whether it’s a note tucked into a keepsake box or the well-worn pages of an old diary, they hold a weight that text messages and digital files simply don’t.

Handwriting as a Gentle Daily Practice

Fountain pen and the benefits of pen and paper

In today’s fast-paced world, the benefits of pen and paper are more relevant than ever — especially when it comes to mental well-being. Journaling, for instance, isn’t just a passing trend. It’s a powerful tool for reflection, clarity, and self-care.

Even something like bullet journaling can be both grounding and creative. It’s more than just a to-do list — it’s a space for personal expression, tracking habits, and setting goals in a way that feels enjoyable rather than overwhelming.

For artists and creatives, sketching on paper allows ideas to flow freely. There’s no “undo” button or backspace key — and that can be wonderfully freeing. Whether you’re doodling, mind-mapping, or just scribbling thoughts, the page becomes a playground for imagination.

Everyday Ways to Embrace Pen and Paper

You don’t have to choose between analog and digital. In fact, blending the two can offer the best of both worlds. While apps are great for managing big tasks, the benefits of pen and paper come through in moments that call for focus, reflection, or a more human touch.

Here are a few easy ways to bring more handwriting into your life:

  • Choose stationery you love. A classic Moleskine or a cheerful planner can make writing feel like a treat, not a chore. Think of it like putting on your favourite cozy sweater.  The feel of a Moleskine journal is wonderful.
  • Create a writing nook. It could be a quiet corner of the dining table or a comfy chair by the window. Having a dedicated space can gently remind you to pause and write.
  • Start small. You don’t need to fill pages. Jot down a few thoughts from your day or a little gratitude list. These tiny rituals can bring surprising clarity and calm.
  • Brainstorm offline. I still reach for my notebook before writing blog posts — in fact, this one started on paper! There’s something about seeing your thoughts laid out that makes things click.

At Wealthy Affiliate, where I host all my websites, they encourage finding the tools that support your way of working. If that includes pen and paper, embrace it — your method is part of your magic.

And Finally...

If you’ve been feeling a little frazzled or digitally drained lately, maybe it’s time to go back to basics. The benefits of pen and paper might just surprise you — not only in what you get done, but in how grounded and refreshed you feel doing it.

Do you still use pen and paper?

Is there a favourite notebook or journaling ritual you swear by?
 I’d truly love to hear about it in the comments.

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

7 Questions About Starting an Online Business

7 Questions About Starting an Online Business

by | May 12, 2025 | Online Business And Mindset

(That You're Afraid To Ask!)

Let’s be honest—starting an online business for beginners can feel like walking into a room where everyone already seems to know what they’re doing. And that can be intimidating, especially if you’re stepping into the digital world later in life.  If you’ve ever wondered about starting an online business, but felt unsure where to begin, here are seven questions that might guide the way.

But here’s a little secret: everyone starts as a beginner.

Even the people who seem confident now once felt unsure about things like websites, email lists, and SEO.  For anyone starting an online business later in life, it’s important to ask thoughtful questions before diving in.

So today, I want to gently walk you through 7 of the most common questions people are too embarrassed to ask—but should! 

No jargon, no tech talk—just real, honest guidance to help you feel more at ease.

starting an online business

1. Am I Too Old for Starting An Online Business?

Absolutely not. In fact, many people in their 50s, 60s and beyond are launching thriving online businesses. You’ve got life experience, work ethic, and stories to tell—and all of that adds richness to your business that no social media trend can compete with.

It’s never about age—it’s about curiosity, willingness to learn, and taking one step at a time.

Check out this story on Startups.co.uk of older entrepreneurs making waves online.

2. Do I Need to Be “Techy” to Do This?

Not at all.

If you can use email and browse the web, you’re already more tech-savvy than you think. Platforms like Wealthy Affiliate offer beginner-friendly tools, training, and support that walk you through everything—from choosing a website name to understanding how to get found on Google.

It’s not about knowing everything—it’s about knowing where to start (and where to ask for help!).

3. How Much Does It Cost to Start?

One of the perks of starting an online business for beginners is that it doesn’t have to cost the earth. You’ll need:

  • A domain name (around £10–£15 per year)
  • Website hosting (some platforms include it)
  • Optional: A training program like Wealthy Affiliate that includes hosting, support, and lessons in one place.  A Starter membership is free.

You can start small, test the waters, and grow gradually.

4. What If I Pick the Wrong Niche?

Choosing your niche (your website topic or focus) is one of the first big decisions—and yes, it can feel scary. But here’s the good news: you’re allowed to change your mind.

Start with something you’re passionate about or curious to learn. If it doesn’t feel quite right after a while, you can refine or pivot. Your first niche is not a life sentence—it’s a starting point.

Need help picking a niche? Try this free brainstorming tool at Ubersuggest or explore niche ideas inside Wealthy Affiliate.

5. What If I Don’t Know What to Write About?

This is one of the most common worries when starting an online business for beginners—but trust me, you have more to say than you think.

Here are a few content ideas to get you started:

  • Share your story (why you started)

  • Answer common questions in your niche

  • Review tools or products you’ve found helpful

  • Write “how-to” posts for beginners

Still stuck? I’ve written an article to help you: How To Come Up With Enough Content For Your Website

6. Do I Need Social Media to Succeed?

Not necessarily.

Social media can help you grow faster, but it’s not essential at the beginning. You can build a simple blog, learn SEO, and bring in traffic through Google without ever posting a dance on TikTok (promise!).

That said, platforms like Pinterest or Facebook can be great ways to reach your audience over time.

Start with one and build slowly.

starting an online business and social media

7. What If I Fail?

Ah, the F-word: failure.

It’s the fear that stops so many brilliant people before they’ve even begun.

But here’s the truth: failure is part of the process. You might try something that doesn’t work—but you’ll learn from it and come back stronger. Every step, even the wobbly ones, moves you forward.

Your first website won’t be perfect. Your first post might feel awkward. But the only real failure is giving up before you’ve had the chance to grow.

If you’re curious about starting your own online business, Wealthy Affiliate has supported me step by gentle step — you can explore beginner-friendly training here

And Finally...

Starting an online business can feel daunting at first—but I hope you can see now that most of the fear comes from not knowing what to expect.

You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to be willing to take one small step. Then another. And another.  Starting an online business doesn’t have to be rushed — especially if you’re taking a thoughtful, steady path.

If you’re looking for a supportive place to learn and grow, I highly recommend Wealthy Affiliate. It’s where I started, and it’s full of friendly faces who’ve felt exactly like you do right now.

What’s the one question you’ve been too afraid to ask about starting online? Drop it in the comments—I’ll answer every one, promise!

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

Affiliate Marketing Is Evolving – What You Need To Know

Affiliate Marketing Is Evolving – What You Need To Know

by | Apr 7, 2025 | Online Business And Mindset

Affiliate marketing has come a long way. Gone are the days of simply adding links to a blog and hoping for the best. With new laws, technology, and consumer expectations, staying ahead of the game is more important than ever.

If you’re completely new to affiliate marketing, don’t worry—I’ll break it down in plain English so you can understand what’s changing, why it matters, and how you can build a sustainable affiliate business.

Staying on the Right Side of the Law

Before we dive into exciting tech and strategies, let’s talk about the rules. The last thing you want is to build a promising affiliate marketing business only to get caught out by new regulations.

  • Privacy laws matter. Laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) exist to protect user data. If your website collects emails or tracks visitors, you need to be transparent about how you use that data.
  • Honest marketing is key. Overselling or making false claims will not only damage your reputation but could also get you in trouble. Consumers are savvy—they expect honesty, so always be upfront about what you’re promoting.
  • Ad regulations apply to affiliate marketing. If you’re using paid ads, platforms like Google and Facebook have strict rules on transparency and claims. Ignoring them can get your ads shut down or even your account banned.
Friendly Policeman for affiliate marketing legal matters

Staying informed on legal requirements isn’t just about compliance—it’s about maintaining credibility and ensuring your audience trusts you.

The Role of Data and AI in Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is becoming smarter thanks to data and artificial intelligence (AI). These tools help marketers understand their audience better and create content that actually resonates. But how does this impact beginners?

  • Better Targeting: AI can analyse behaviour to predict what customers are likely to buy. 
  • Automated Assistance: Chatbots and AI-driven emails can improve engagement without extra work. 
  • Performance Tracking: Data analytics tools show what’s working and what’s not, so you can tweak your approach.

That said, technology should support, not replace, human connection. People trust people, not robots! Keep your content personal and relatable while using AI to make your strategy more effective.

Building Trust and Authority in a Crowded Market

Affiliate marketing is competitive, but you can stand out by building trust and credibility. Here’s how:

  • Be authentic. People can spot fake enthusiasm a mile away. If you promote something, make sure you genuinely believe in it.
  • Create a community. Encourage interaction through blog comments, social media, or an email list. A loyal audience is more valuable than quick sales. 
  • Use social proof. Reviews, testimonials, and case studies boost trust and help new visitors feel confident in your recommendations.
Crowded market

One of the best ways to build a long-term affiliate business is through platforms like Wealthy Affiliate, which teaches how to grow a trustworthy website using free, organic traffic rather than relying on paid ads.

Emerging Trends in Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing isn’t standing still. New technologies are reshaping the landscape, and if you want to stay ahead, it’s worth paying attention.

Voice Search & AI Assistants

  • More people are using smart speakers and voice assistants to find information.
  • Optimising your content for natural, conversational keywords can help you stay visible.

Virtual & Augmented Reality (VR/AR)

  • Some brands are already using VR and AR to showcase products interactively.
  • As the tech becomes more accessible, expect more immersive affiliate marketing opportunities.

Blockchain & Transparency

  • Blockchain technology is helping reduce fraud in affiliate tracking and payments.
  • Expect more secure, transparent transactions in the future.

These aren’t just futuristic ideas—they’re shaping the way affiliate marketers connect with their audience today.

And Finally...

Affiliate marketing is evolving fast, but the core principles remain the same:

  • Follow ethical and legal best practices. 
  • Use data and AI wisely, but don’t lose the human touch. 
  • Build trust and authority for long-term success. 
  • Stay open to new technology, but focus on what works for you.

If you’re serious about learning affiliate marketing the right way, Wealthy Affiliate is a great place to start. It offers step-by-step training and a community that helps you grow a real, long-term business.

No matter where you are in your journey, take your time, stay informed, and keep adapting—affiliate marketing success is all about consistent learning and improvement.

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

AI for Beginners: How It Can Boost Your Online Business

AI for Beginners: How It Can Boost Your Online Business

by | Mar 26, 2025 | Online Business And Mindset

The term Artificial Intelligence (AI) might sound complex, but at its core, it’s simply about machines learning to think and make decisions like humans.

AI can help your online business by automating tasks, improving customer experience, and making your marketing efforts more effective.

Let’s break it down into simple, practical steps that you can use to grow your online presence.

A Quick Look at AI: Then and Now

AI isn’t new.

It started as an idea in the 1950s, but today, it’s a real game-changer in business. What was once a futuristic dream is now something businesses of all sizes can use.

AI is no longer just for tech giants – it’s available in tools you can start using today to make running your business easier and more efficient.

AI Then and now

How AI Can Improve Customer Experience

One of the biggest advantages of AI is its ability to improve the way customers interact with your business. Here are a few ways AI can make a difference:

  • Personalised Recommendations – AI analyses customer data to suggest products or content based on their preferences. This means customers see things that are actually relevant to them, making them more likely to buy.
  • AI-Powered Chatbots – These virtual assistants can answer customer questions 24/7, giving instant replies and freeing up your time.
  • Predicting Customer Needs – AI studies customer behaviour and helps businesses anticipate what people want before they even realise it themselves.

Making Business Operations Smoother with AI

AI isn’t just about customer experience – it can also help behind the scenes, making your business more efficient.

  • Automating Repetitive Tasks – AI tools can handle things like scheduling social media posts, sending emails, or managing stock levels, saving you hours of manual work.
  • Smarter Inventory Management – AI can predict which products will be popular and help ensure you don’t run out or overstock items.
  • Better Decision-Making – AI analyses large amounts of data and provides insights to help you make smarter business choices without relying on guesswork.
AI streamlining

AI-Driven Marketing Strategies

If you want to reach the right people with your marketing, AI can help.

  • Targeted Ads – AI ensures your ads reach the people most likely to be interested in your products or services, meaning better results for less money.
  • Predicting Trends – AI can spot patterns in customer behaviour, helping you stay ahead of market trends rather than just reacting to them.
  • Real-Time Analytics – AI collects and analyses data instantly, so you can adjust your marketing campaigns quickly if needed.

AI Tools You Can Use Today

If you’re wondering where to start, here are some beginner-friendly AI tools that can help with different aspects of your business:

  • ChatGPT – Great for content creation, customer service support, and automating responses.
  • Grammarly – Helps improve writing quality by checking grammar, spelling, and tone.
  • Shopify AI – Perfect for e-commerce businesses looking for smart product recommendations and inventory management.
  • Google Analytics AI – Helps track and analyse website visitor behaviour to improve engagement and conversions.

How to Get Started with AI

Not sure where to begin? Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

  1. Identify what you need help with – Do you need better marketing, improved customer service, or help managing stock? Start by focusing on one area.
  2. Choose an AI tool – Look for a free or affordable AI tool that fits your needs (see the list above for ideas).
  3. Test it out – Start small and experiment with the AI tool to see how it works for your business.
  4. Keep the human touch – AI is a great assistant, but personal engagement is still key to building trust with your customers.

Addressing Common AI Myths

There are a few common misconceptions about AI that might make people hesitant to use it. Let’s clear them up:

  • “AI will take over my business” – AI is here to help, not replace you. It’s a tool to assist, not run everything on its own.
  • “AI is too expensive” – Many AI tools are free or offer budget-friendly plans for small businesses.
  • “AI is complicated” – Most modern AI tools are designed to be user-friendly and easy to set up, even for beginners.
AI MYTHS

The Challenges of Using AI

While AI offers many benefits, it’s important to be aware of some challenges:

  • Privacy Concerns – Customers want to know their data is safe. If you use AI, be transparent about how you’re collecting and using information.
  • Bias in AI Systems – AI can sometimes reflect biases in the data it learns from, leading to unfair results. Businesses need to check that AI tools are being used fairly and ethically.
  • Keeping a Human Touch – AI can automate many processes, but customers still appreciate genuine human interaction. The key is to use AI to support your business, not replace the personal connections that build trust.

And Finally...

AI isn’t just a flashy new technology – it’s a powerful tool that can make running your online business easier and more successful.

Whether it’s automating tasks, improving customer service, or refining your marketing strategy, AI offers practical benefits that anyone can use, even if you’re just starting out.

Take your time to explore AI tools that fit your needs, and you’ll soon see how they can help your business grow.

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.