To learn more about the FORGED series, visit the Table of Contents.
Saying goodbye to 2024
What is it about the end of the year that makes us reflect? My year-end wrap-up from Spotify told me that I was in the top 10% of listeners worldwide based on listening hours. Guess that means I’m getting my money’s worth out of my subscription…
So let’s do this. Let’s wrap up my Substack journey for 2024 by looking back and walking in the figurative circle one last time.
How it all began
I joined on April 8th, and—after trolling the ‘Stack for 3+ weeks—I sent out my first newsletter on May 2nd. I had no idea what day, what time, how often to send a newsletter, let alone what to write about, but I jumped in, and away I went!
So here it is…
The newsletter you may have missed. My inaugural attempt! Only one person received this newsletter in their inbox… ME! Though 50 people have viewed the post. If you haven’t had a gander, now is your chance. This will give you a glimpse into why I started a Substack newsletter.⤵️
When in doubt, walk in a circle.
Did your parental figure ever say, “If they jumped off the bridge, would you jump too?”
Then I realized something
In my first newsletter, I never answered why I chose the name of my publication, so my 2nd attempt satisfied that unfulfilled promise.1 (ADDED BONUS! You get to see an adorable photo of young me.)⤵️
When in Doubt, Walk in a Circle (part 2)
Let's try this again... Maybe I'll get to my point this time
By the numbers
In 2024, I sent out 38 newsletters in 35 weeks. (I had a couple of bonus newsletters here, here, and here when I sent out two in one week.)
I went from ZERO subscribers to 142 in 238 days—Thanks, everyone! You make a girl feel loved (even if you are a silent, non-heart-clicking, non-comment-making reader—I “see” you and appreciate you).
I have over 500 people following me on Substack (vs. 64 on Instagram, 14 on Facebook, and 6 on TikTok).
My publication is read across 31 US states and 19 countries!
Ten other publications are recommending me to their subscribers and followers. Thank you for your support
, , , , , , , , , and for the kind words and recommendation!Thank you to those who regularly comment or re-stack my work—you fill my heart with joy each time. I appreciate you!
My publication has had over 5,500 views in the 238 days.
I earned $60 from Substack subscriptions—Thank you, loyal family and friends!
Short of opening and manually adding up the number of words, I’m not positive about my word count in my newsletters for the year. Nor can I tell the number of notes I’ve posted. But I can say that 2024 was by far the year I spent the most time dedicated to the craft of writing. Ever!
Thanks for joining me on my journey here on Substack!
Now, here is a little bonus to cure your winter blues… the sun and warmth will return.
Note posted on 9/26/24.
Before you go
Did you enjoy this post? Click subscribe so you don’t miss future posts. Tap the heart to let me know. Restack your favorite quote. Share with your community. Recommend me to your followers. Leave a comment.
Questions
Did you get a year-end wrap-up from any platform? What stat surprised you most?
I’m still gathering topic ideas for next year. What do you want to know more about? Have any questions for me?
How many newsletters do you subscribe to? If you enjoy learning about the world of the FORGED Series, make sure you are subscribed! What does this button say? ⤵️ If it doesn’t say “✔️ Subscribed” click the button!
Don’t get too attached to the publication name. One of the updates to my publication in 2025 will be a NEW NAME and updated branding!
What a candid window into your first Substack year. Those 38 newsletters represent real dedication - consistency that matters more than any metric. Authentic writing finds its audience. Here's to more circles walked and stories shared in 2025. All the best :)
PS THANK YOU for the mention
Congrats on a great 2024. Here’s to another year of building worlds 🍾🥂