How To Create a Strong Password You’ll Actually Remember

by | Aug 8, 2025 | Uncategorized

Creating strong passwords doesn’t need to feel impossible — or like something only tech experts can do.

Let’s break it down step by step, with some clever memory tricks and simple tools anyone can use.

What Makes a Password Strong?

Good passwords are like strong doors. They’re hard to break, but easy for you to open.

A strong password should:

  • Be at least 12 characters long

  • Include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols

  • Avoid anything guessable like names, birthdays, or “12345”

❌ susan2023
✅ Gr@peLemon$ky43!

how to create a strong password| lock and key

Try This: A Sentence You Can Remember

Instead of a random string, turn a sentence into a password.

💡 Example:
“My dog barks at 7am every day!” → Mdb@7amED!

You remember the sentence — your password is strong, but personal.

Use a Password Manager

If you are still worried you’ll forget? Use a tool to store them safely.

I have used LastPass for years and would be lost without it.

It saves your passwords securely and even fills them in for you.

Most password managers work across devices and offer free versions. Great for beginners who don’t want to write everything down!

What NOT to Do

Avoid these common mistakes:

  • Don’t reuse the same password for everything

  • Don’t store passwords in plain text on your computer

  • Don’t use anything someone could guess from your social media

And Finally…

Creating a secure password doesn’t have to feel like solving a riddle.

Pick one of the tricks above and try it out for your most important account (like email). Once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll feel far more confident online.

Got a tip or question about passwords? Drop a comment — I’d love to hear what’s worked for you!

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.

How To Search Google With Confidence

by | Aug 6, 2025 | Uncategorized

If you’ve ever typed something into Google and felt overwhelmed by the results — you’re not alone. With billions of pages out there, it can be hard to know what’s worth clicking. But searching smarter (not harder) makes a big difference.  Let’s walk through some simple ways to learn how to search Google and make it work for you.

Start With Better Keywords

Most people search by typing how they’d say something. But Google works best when you use keywords instead.

So, instead of  “What’s the best laptop for someone starting a blog in 2025?”
Try “Best laptop beginner blogger 2025”

Try keeping it short and focused:

  • Remove extra words

  • Use nouns and topic-related terms

  • Think about what words a website would use to describe what you want

How To Search Google With Confidence| keywords

Use Quotation Marks to Find Exact Matches

If you’re looking for something very specific, put it in quotation marks.

For example:

“How to start a blog for beginners”


Google will only show results with that exact phrase. This is helpful if you’re searching for:

  • A book or course title

  • A name or brand

  • A specific quote or sentence

Add a Minus Sign to Remove Unwanted Results

Let’s say you want “apple” the fruit — not the tech company.
Just type:

apple -iphone -mac

That tells Google to exclude any pages that mention iPhone or Mac.

Find Trustworthy Websites

There’s a lot of information out there — but not all of it is helpful or safe.
Here’s how to spot reliable sources:

  • .gov and .edu sites are official (like government or schools)

  • Look for websites you recognise (like BBC, NHS, or well-known blogs)

  • Avoid sites with lots of ads, flashing banners, or hard-to-read layouts

  • If something feels “off,” trust your feeling. Close the tab!

how to search google with confidence| magnifying glass

Bonus Tricks

Try adding these to your search:

  • site:bbc.com (only shows results from the BBC)

  • filetype:pdf (only shows PDF downloads)

  • define:serif (asks Google to define a word)

Google has written this information which may help you if you need more help.  

And Finally…

With just a few small tricks, you can start searching smarter — and save a lot of time and stress.

Try one of these tips today and see how your results change.

What’s something you often search for online? Drop a comment below — maybe I can help you refine your search!

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.

How to Update an Old Blog Post

How to Update an Old Blog Post

by | Jul 18, 2025 | Uncategorized

Why Bother Updating Old Blog Posts?

Learning how to update an old blog post efficiently can really help with your visibility within the search engines but keeping your blog posts up to date isn’t just about winning the Google race (though it certainly helps!). It’s about showing your readers you care. When content feels fresh and relevant, it tells your visitors that you’re present, active, and reliable. No one wants to land on a dusty old post that reads like it’s from a forgotten internet era. Learning how to update old blog post efficiently can really help with your visibility within the search engines.

How to update an old blog post | Gardener trimming plant

Plus, search engines love updated content. From an SEO point of view, giving an old post a little TLC can do more good than publishing something brand new.  And for you? It’s a time-saver. You’re building on something you’ve already created. Like pruning a garden rather than planting from scratch.

Identifying Blog Posts That Need Updates

So, how do you know which posts deserve your attention? Here’s where your inner detective comes in:

  • Check your analytics: Which posts used to get traffic but have now slowed?

  • Read through with fresh eyes: Does the post still make sense today?

  • Review the comments: Have readers asked questions that you never got round to answering?

  • Check for outdated info: Tools, stats, or links that no longer serve your audience?

Once you’ve got your list, highlight the ones that are still relevant to your audience today. Prioritise those.

How to Update an Old Blog Post Strategically

Updating is more than a quick edit. Here’s how to do it with intention:

  1. Start with your headline – Is it still clear and engaging?

  2. Check your intro – Does it hook the reader quickly?

  3. Update outdated content – Replace old info with new stats, quotes, tools, or screenshots.

  4. Add value – Can you expand sections, add FAQs, or clarify points?

  5. Check for broken links – Swap them out with working, helpful sources.

  6. Improve readability – Break up long paragraphs, add headings and bullet points.

If your post has a new angle, update the publish date so readers know it’s fresh.

Optimise for SEO (Search Engine Optimisation)

Let’s get that content seen:

  • Revisit your focus keyword (like “How to Update an Old Blog Post”) and make sure it’s sprinkled naturally through your content.
  • Add or refresh your meta description.
  • Use headings (H2s and H3s) to guide the reader and help search engines understand your structure.
  • Add alt text to images.

Little updates can have a big impact.

Google Search Console

Promote Your Updated Content

Don’t let your updated post sit quietly!

  • Share it on your social media platforms
  • Add a note like “Updated for 2025” to show it’s fresh
  • Send it to your email list — it’s new to someone!
  • Mention it in other related blog posts to link it internally

And Finally...

Now you know how to update an old blog post in a way that’s meaningful — both for your readers and for search engines.

Have you got a post in mind that could use a bit of care? Or maybe you’ve just updated one and want to share it?

Let me know in the comments — or tag me when you post it. I’d love to see what you’re working on.

Wealthy Affiliate is where I first learned the power of content updates. They offer training, tools, and a community that truly supports beginners.

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.

Blogging Isn’t The Same As Writing Essays

Blogging Isn’t The Same As Writing Essays

by | Jul 16, 2025 | Uncategorized

Blogging and essay writing might sound like distant cousins — but really, blogging isn’t the same as writing essays, and if you’ve ever felt stuck thinking your blog post needs to read like a school assignment, let’s get rid of that mindset now.

Why Blogging Isn’t the Same as Writing Essays

The phrase “Blogging isn’t the same as writing essays” sums it up perfectly. Essays are formal, often rigid in tone, and designed for academic eyes. Blogging? It’s personal, flexible, and written for real people with real questions — not professors with red pens.

Essays expect you to prove a point, cite a dozen sources, and stick to a tight structure. Blogging invites you to tell a story, be relatable, and most of all — connect. When your audience reads your post, they’re usually skimming with coffee in hand, not preparing for a debate.

Blogging isn't the same as writing essays| blog vs essay

Structure with Flow: Blogs Have Freedom

Blogging isn’t the same as writing essays when it comes to structure, too. A traditional essay follows a strict format: introduction, argument, conclusion.

Blog posts, on the other hand, breathe a little easier. You might start with a personal story, drop in a list of tips, and wrap with a simple call to action.

Instead of paragraphs packed with heavy language, blog posts often use:

  • Short sentences

  • Bullet points

  • Subheadings

  • Real talk

This makes your content easier to scan and far more enjoyable for your audience — especially beginners just starting their online journey.

Tone and Personality Matter More Than Formality

One of the biggest differences? Voice. Blogging isn’t the same as writing essays because you get to be yourself. You can be calm, cheeky, warm, curious, or even a bit goofy. No footnotes required.

While an essay might say:

“One could argue the significance of this phenomenon…”

A blog post would simply say:

“Here’s why this really matters — and how it might help you.”

Let your personality show. That’s what makes blogs engaging — and makes people come back for more.

Blogging isn't the same as writing essays | happy blogger

The Reader Comes First: Creating Relatable Content

Blogging isn’t the same as writing essays because blogs put the reader at the centre. It’s not about proving what you know — it’s about helping someone else learn, laugh, or feel less alone.

That’s why clarity matters more than complexity. Forget long intros and confusing words. Your goal is to:

  • Solve a problem

  • Answer a question

  • Offer encouragement

This mindset shift makes writing easier and more effective.

Trust & Growth: Blogging With E-E-A-T in Mind

If you want your blog to grow and rank well on Google, it’s worth understanding a little thing called E-E-A-T: Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness.

This isn’t scary — it just means showing you know your stuff, writing from real experience, and being honest with your readers. You don’t need a degree — you need to be helpful.

Wealthy Affiliate, for example, helped me understand how to build trust in my content, structure my posts, and build an online presence. It’s worth exploring if you want a structured path to growing your blog

Blogging in 2025: Creativity Wins

Finally, let’s talk future. Blogging isn’t the same as writing essays, and it never will be — because it keeps evolving.

  • Micro-blogging on social media

  • AI tools to help brainstorm and polish

  • Short-form videos or embedded tutorials

  • Interactive content like quizzes or polls

You don’t need to chase every trend, but knowing what’s possible opens up options. And the blog itself? Still the best place to share your voice in full.

And Finally…

Has this post changed how you see blogging?

I’d love to hear what feels different or clearer now that we’ve untangled it from essay writing.

Leave a comment below and share your biggest writing worry — or the thing you’re most excited to blog about.

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.

How I Plan Posts

How I Plan Posts

by | Jul 9, 2025 | Content & Blogging, Uncategorized

If you’ve ever opened your laptop with the best intentions to “write a blog post” and then sat there staring at the screen.  It made me feel so inadequate!  But you’re not alone.

Planning posts used to feel like guesswork to me — what to write, when to post it, how much was too much?

Over time, I’ve created a simple system that works — especially for beginners. So in this post, I’m walking you through how I plan posts, step by step, in a way that’s calm, focused, and beginner-friendly.

Step 1: I Start with My Reader in Mind

Before I write a single word, I ask myself:
 “What is one thing my reader might need help with right now?”

It might be something they’re stuck on, unsure about, or just curious to understand better. That becomes the seed of my post idea.

Tip: You don’t have to be an expert. Just be helpful.
 Write the kind of post you wish someone had written for you when you were starting out.

How I plan My posts | seedling

Step 2: I Keep a Simple Ideas List

I use a Google Doc (or even a notebook!) to jot down blog post ideas whenever they pop into my head. I don’t try to organize them at this stage — just collect.

Later, I pick one idea from the list that feels right for the week. You might even use a simple spreadsheet or Trello board if you like visuals.

🔹 Tip: Add a note or a sentence with each idea so you remember what inspired it.

Step 3: I Use a Repeatable Outline

Once I choose a topic, I don’t dive into writing right away — I build a little structure first. Here’s the basic outline I follow:

  1. Introduction – What the post is about and why it matters

  2. The How or What – Break down the steps, tips, or advice

  3. Extra Notes – Tools, examples, or your personal take

  4. Encouragement – A closing paragraph that invites conversation

  5. Call to Action – “Try this,” “Leave a comment,” or “Check out the next post”

Tip: I copy this outline into every new draft so I never start from scratch.

I have to admmit this doesn’t always work as the topic doesn’t lend itself to the structure but it is a start.

Step 4: I Plan My Posting Rhythm

I aim to publish three posts per week, but, to be honest, consistency matters more than frequency. If you can only post once every two weeks, that’s totally okay.

I used to think that you have to post every day.  I suppose if you are capable of doing this then that’s fine.  It didn’t work for me.  Three times a week works well for me and my schedule.

I use Google Calendar to give each post a soft deadline — just to stay on track. Nothing fancy. Just gentle structure.

Tip: If you’re part of Wealthy Affiliate, you can use SiteContent or your dashboard to track your blog goals too.

Step 5: I Create the Social Media Posts Straight Away

Before I publish the blog, I also prepare my  posts for social media. That way, I’m not scrambling later.

I include:

  • A short caption with 1–2 takeaways from the blog
  • A resized image (Canva is great for this)
  • A note to myself: “Add URL after blog is live”

Everything goes into a Google Drive folder marked with the blog post name — done and ready when it’s time to share.

How I plan My posts | social media scheduling

It’s taken a while to come up with this structure but it works for me.  Find you own best method so you can work efficiently.

Bonus Tip: I Keep It Realistic

Some weeks, life happens ( m0re times than I like!!)— and I don’t post. That’s okay. What matters is building a system that fits you, not rushing to keep up with someone else.

And Finally…

If you’ve been feeling unsure where to start with content planning, I hope this helped take some of the pressure off. You don’t need a fancy tool or complicated system. Just a notebook, a calendar, and a little rhythm that works for you.

How do you plan your posts (or how would you like to)?
 Leave a comment below — I’d love to hear what works for you or what’s been holding you back.

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.