I’m Blogging in Maui — Aloha!

Lori Ballen
4 min readAug 12, 2022

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These are the joys of being a full-time Blogger!

Photo Credit: Lori Ballen

One of the best things about being a blogger is that I can do it anywhere. So when it crossed my mind to take a mother-daughter trip to Hawaii, there was no hesitation. When away, I can play all day and always find a great spot in the morning to blog.

The air is warm, the sun is shining, and palm trees and flowers surround me. What could be better? I wake up early every day and find a great spot to sit and write. While I play more than I work, these early morning blogging sessions are part of my routine. Without them, I would feel like something was missing.

I’m grateful I can do what I love, even on vacation. It makes the trip even more special. So if you’re ever in Maui, look for me. I’ll be with my laptop, enjoying the view and writing away.

Photo Credit: Lori Ballen

Taking Your Writing On The Road

One of the best things about being a writer is that you can do it anywhere. So if you’re feeling antsy in your home office or local coffee shop, consider taking your work on the road. Here are a few of my tips for working while traveling.

Photo Credit: Lori Ballen

1. Find a place with good internet

This is important whether you’re working or just want to stay connected while you’re away. Make sure to find a spot with good Wi-Fi before settling in for the day. If I’m on a cruise ship or at a hotel, I find where the best ambiance and internet will be. It’s worth the upgrade to add a hot spot to your phone if you make a living blogging and enjoy traveling.

Photo Credit: Lori Ballen

2. Bring your charger

Again, this is important for both work and play. No one wants their laptop to die in the middle of the day, so bring your charger (or an extra battery). Finding a power source is hard when sitting out by the water. I buy a backup power source and keep it with me. I’ve used them many times on long flights as well.

Photo Credit: Lori Ballen

3. Prepare the night before

If you are an early bird like me, this one is key. I try to have everything ready to go before bed to avoid disturbing other guests in the room. My backpack is packed with a charged-up computer, phone, glasses, and sunscreen.

Photo Credit: Lori Ballen

4. Get there early

You’ll see other people doing the same thing when you get started early. It’s like the energy you get when you pull into the popular coffee shop where many have set up a workstation. The pools are still closed, and there is plenty of seating in the best viewing spots. I usually start around 6 AM. By 8 AM, the place is getting busy, with many distractions.

Photo Credit: Lori Ballen

4. Set a goal for the day

Since I’m on vacation, my goals are much different than at home. For instance, rather than writing a certain number of words, or blog posts, I might give myself a daily goal of writing and publishing one blog, so I can enjoy the rest of my day exploring and playing.

Photo Credit: Lori Ballen

5. Don’t forget where you are

While I’m focused while working, I’ll often be reminded of my location by the sounds of beach waves or a winged visitor. I’ll take a deep breath, take a moment of gratitude, and then get back to work. It’s important to remember that you’re on vacation, so be sure to take breaks and enjoy your surroundings.

I’m so grateful to take my work with me wherever I go. It allows me to travel and explore new places while supporting my family. So if you’re ever feeling stuck in your work, remember that you can always take your writing on the road. Who knows, you might just find your next great story in an unlikely place.

Mahalo!

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Lori Ballen

Lori's passion for blogging and commitment to empowering others is evident in her comprehensive, easy-to-follow articles.