2024 has had its ups and downs, and I’ve dealt with them in many different ways. I am pleased that my writing has progressed this far, and I can’t express how happy I am with the way things are going.
Here are the highlights for 2024.
BUSINESS
Productivity & Organization
- Developed a personalized productivity system (Filokasten), combining paper and digital tools. Focused on task tracking and better organization using apps like TickTick and Obsidian.
- Wrote, Edited, and Second Edits for Time Clones 2, reached 50k words, and began editing chapters. Managed writing progress using tools like Novelist and Scrivener.
Business Growth
- Completed taxes, did proofreading / editing courses, and joined a digital marketing course.
- Held multiple book signings, including one in a local charity shop. Updated book marketing strategies and managed my business with new tools like Payhip and ConvertKit.
Marketing & Social Media
- Built content for Instagram and Patreon. Created a new £1 Patreon tier, and focused on using Canva for social media content.
- Held a successful book signing at WHSmith, sold books in-store, and used professional signage and posters. Increased book prices by £1.
- Switched focus from ads to newsletters and worked on growing my presence on social media.
Podcasts & Writing Communities
- Listened to writing podcasts like Writer Roadmap Podcast and The Creative Penn Podcast. Joined writing groups on Discord, Reddit, and Zoom. Discovered new communities, like Activated Authors (now closed).
- Engaged in Zettelkasten and journaling groups on Reddit.
Reading & Learning
- Read books like Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Drawing Red. Took notes on Kindle and used Goodreads for reading goals.
Software & Tools
- Explored new apps and software for writing, including, Draftosaurus, and Self Control. Used NovelWriter, Scrivener, and Apple Notes for organizing writing projects.
Writing World & Industry
- Watched industry updates like Wide for the Win’s 5th anniversary. Joined the Writers Guild of Great Britain.
- Sold books in stores and moved newsletters from Substack to MailPoet after account issues.
Key Accomplishments
- Held a book signing at WHSmith, marking a major milestone in my writing career.
- Focused on productivity, writing progress, and personal growth despite personal challenges.
PERSONAL
Family
- Welcomed the 4th and 5th grandchild into the family.
Downtime
- Relaxed with Minecraft, board games, and TV shows like Suits and Reacher.
Health
- Faced lung infection, blood clot, was run over by a car, and had my first epileptic seizure after 11 years.
- Managed health with medication, physiotherapy and diet changes, and I’m still going 🙂
Personal Struggles
- Coping with the loss of my mother in April. Faced health challenges, including a seizure and recovery from Keppra side effects.
Conclusion 2024 was a year of growth despite personal and health challenges. Big achievements like the WHSmith signing and progress in writing and marketing set the stage for an even more focused 2025.
I am looking forward to 2025, with the chance to release Time Clones book 2 and I can’t wait to take you all with me. I want to say a massive thank you to you for all the support you have given me 🙂