# Simon Willison's Blogging Tips How to blog effectively without falling into perfectionism traps - **Source:** [Daring Fireball](https://brifing.si/source/bbc604d1-4212-4e70-9dbd-e291115f1f22) - **Published:** 2026-08-07 - **Topic:** [Career Growth](https://brifing.si/c/growth) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/81532034-cac2-4fe0-bd31-49e3f7278bfa ## The perfectionism trap Simon Willison emphasizes that perfectionism is the biggest mistake in blogging. He recommends publishing even when you're not completely satisfied with your writing, as the alternative is a folder of perpetually delayed drafts. He notes that readers don't see flaws in your writing the way you do. This approach resembles professional musicians' live performance mindset - focusing on flow rather than hitting every note perfectly. ## Simple rules to start Willison says the basic rule for beginners is 'just start'. Instead of getting stuck on blog design or perfect content plans, he emphasizes that every dated post with a permanent URL counts as a blog. He states technical details like RSS feeds shouldn't be initial obstacles, as they can be added later. What matters is continuing to write consistently over time. ## Audience reality check Willison argues that worrying about no one reading your blog is unfounded. While organic discovery is difficult, he stresses that quality of readers matters more than quantity. For example, even if just one employer reads it and offers you a job, that would more than justify your blogging efforts. He believes quality audiences will come with time if you persist. ## Virtual audience psychology Willison compares blogging to playing music in an empty room. He acknowledges it's hard to take seriously and focus without a real audience. But he suggests writing for an imaginary audience because if you maintain consistency, that audience will become real. 'All blogs eventually get the audience they deserve,' he claims, emphasizing the power of persistence. ## Professional approach Willison likens blogging to live performance rather than jamming in a garage. He aims to be careful and concentrated, hitting every note on time. But this shouldn't prevent flowing from song to song. He recommends a professional yet flexible approach, stressing that imperfect but regular content creation proves more valuable long-term than sporadic perfection. ## Career opportunities Willison highlights blogging's importance for career development. He notes your posts are the best way to showcase skills to potential employers. Even a single blog post could open new opportunities. Particularly in tech, he argues personal blogs are more effective than portfolios. Sharing your thoughts professionally enhances your reputation, he adds. ## Content strategy Willison advocates writing 'for the audience you want' principle. He suggests targeting not your current but your desired audience, believing this will attract the right readers over time. For topics, he recommends focusing on your expertise rather than chasing trends. Deep, authentic posts create more lasting impact than superficial content, he notes. ## Long-term perspective Willison emphasizes blogging is a marathon. He advises starting by accepting your early posts might be poor, as your writing will improve with practice. Consistency matters most, he stresses - weekly small posts grow into valuable archives over years. Your blog evolves with you, he reminds, becoming a living record of your professional journey and growth. ## Sources covering this story - https://writethatblog.substack.com/p/simon-willison-on-technical-blogging — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._