New Year, New Goals: Reflect, Strategise, and Laugh Along the Way!

As we shake off the glitter from New Year’s Eve and return to work with resolutions in tow, many of us reflect on 2024. What went well? What flopped? And what do we want to carry into 2025? Personally, I’m kicking off the year with a mix of lessons learned and big ambitions—because what’s a new year without a few stretch goals?

One of my top priorities? Creating a mailing list and launching a newsletter to share my expertise (and hopefully not bore people to sleep in the process). But before I dive into my grand plans for 2025, let’s take a quick look back at 2024—the good, the bad, and the downright hilarious.

2024 Reflections: Wins, Wobbles, and Wisdom

Last year was an adventure, to say the least. Some highlights? Landing new clients, hosting successful events, and navigating the wild world of business growth.

But let’s not forget the “oops” moments. Like the time I sent a carefully crafted proposal to the wrong email address. (Thank you to the kind stranger who replied, “Wrong person, but good luck!”)

And then there was my overzealous attempt to tackle everything in January, only to realise by February that pacing myself might be smarter. Lesson learned: even the best intentions need a solid plan.

2025: The Year of Growth and Connection

This year, my big focus is on building a community through a mailing list and launching a newsletter. I want it to be more than just a monthly email—I envision it as a space to connect, share valuable insights, and maybe even spark a few laughs along the way.

Here’s the plan:

Provide Value: Share practical tips, industry insights, and behind-the-scenes stories that readers can relate to and benefit from.
Make It Engaging: No one wants another dry email in their inbox, so I’ll keep it lively, personal, and useful.
Grow Authentically: I’m aiming to attract people who genuinely connect with my work, ensuring the newsletter feels like a two-way conversation, not a one-sided broadcast.

SMART and Stretch Goals: A Recipe for Success

When it comes to turning this idea into reality, I’m combining two powerful approaches: SMART goals to stay grounded and stretch goals to aim high.

SMART Goals: Building the Foundation

Specific: Create a monthly newsletter sharing practical advice, success stories, and expert tips for professionals looking to streamline their work.
Measurable: Build an initial mailing list of 150 subscribers by the launch date in May.
Achievable: Use my network, social media, and a free resource (like a downloadable guide) to encourage sign-ups.
Relevant: Align the newsletter with my expertise as a virtual assistant and event organiser, making it a natural extension of my work.
Time-bound: Launch the first edition by May 2025.

Stretch Goals: Thinking Bigger

Stretch Goal 1: Grow the mailing list to 500 subscribers by the end of 2025, leveraging collaborations and guest features.
Stretch Goal 2: Achieve a 40% open rate and a 10% click-through rate, ensuring the content resonates with readers.
Stretch Goal 3: Generate three new client leads through the newsletter within the first six months.

Why Both SMART and Stretch Goals Matter

SMART goals keep me focused and ensure the project is actionable, while stretch goals add excitement and ambition. The combination of both allows for structured progress while leaving room for creativity and unexpected successes.

For instance, if I hit my SMART goal of 150 subscribers, I’ll already have a solid foundation. But aiming for 500 means thinking outside the box—trying new marketing strategies, collaborating with like-minded professionals, and maybe even running a few creative campaigns to draw people in.

Bringing the Plan to Life

Launching the newsletter isn’t just about setting goals; it’s about taking consistent steps to achieve them:

Engage My Network: I’ll start by inviting current clients, colleagues, and friends to join the mailing list.
Offer Value: Creating a free resource, like a quick-start guide or checklist, will give people a reason to subscribe.
Promote Widely: From social media posts to networking events, I’ll use every opportunity to spread the word.
Focus on Connection: This newsletter isn’t just about me—it’s about creating a community where ideas, tips, and success stories are shared freely.

Here’s to 2025: A Year of Connection and Success

As I dive into this new project, I’m reminded that the journey is just as important as the destination. Whether I’m hitting subscriber milestones or refining the newsletter format, I’m excited to learn, grow, and connect with my readers.

Want to be part of this journey? Sign up for my newsletter to receive practical tips, engaging stories, and insights designed to help you streamline your work and achieve your goals.

📩 Click here to subscribe and be the first to know when the first edition launches!

Here’s to making 2025 a year of bold ideas, meaningful connections, and plenty of laughs along the way. Cheers!

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