Do you have an idea to explore or a desire to do something but still find yourself procrastinating? Then I challenge you to not only consider what you can accomplish in a year but actually take steps today to start on your way.
Life Zemplified is now one year old. When some get to this point, they call it a blog anniversary others refer to it as a birthday. I think it’s a bit of both. Because sometimes you feel like a new parent who missed receiving the instruction manual for raising a child. Other times you feel like you just got married and you’re navigating between the honeymoon period with your new spouse and a minefield.
There are moments you think you’ll never figure things out and moments when you’re so proud you did something right. Similar to the first year of parenting or marriage, I’ve learned and grown a lot this first year of blogging!
But before I get to specifics on blogging, I want to talk about you. I really want you to consider what a year of personal growth would look like for you. And I want to inspire you to achieve it.
What Can You Accomplish in a Year?
What have you been dreaming of doing? And how does that look? How will its achievement make you feel?
You know to achieve that dream you’ll be required to learn, develop, adapt, and transform right? In other words, it requires work to become a better version of yourself. Because let’s face it, you can’t expect a dream outcome if you aren’t willing to become a better you.
What got you here won’t get you there. ~ Marshall Goldsmith
Author, Marshall Goldsmith, believes the factors that brought you success and results in the past are not enough to help you get to the next level. Further growth requires new knowledge, skills, strategies, resources, plans, etc. Possibly even new motivations or mindsets.
Where to begin?
Here are a few questions and thoughts to help spark you towards a year of growth or change.
1) I want to ___________________________?
Start or become a better human being, writer, blogger, manager, coach, entrepreneur, marketer, leader, parent, financial expert or whatever is specific to you.
Describe your answer vividly. Include things like:
- what’s your mission, values, and purpose – what matters, what do you stand for, what problem will you solve
- what it will mean for you – why you do what you do
- who you will work with – partners, collaborators, team, other professionals
- who you will work for – individuals, businesses, youth, seniors, teams
- what services or products you will offer and how – physical, virtual, solutions-based
- where you will work – location(s) and environment
2) What’s standing in my way now __________________ ?
Is it you? Are you still searching for confidence?
Think long and hard about why you aren’t where you want to be.
3) What needs to happen for me to accomplish _________________ this year?
Consider the following:
- What you are willing to invest – time, money, effort
- What tools should you add to your existing toolbox
- How you can identify and learn necessary information
- Where and how you will accumulate your new knowledge
- What new skills you need to learn
- How you will increase your proficiency level on current skills
- If you will work alone or find a partner or team
- If you will hire assistance, and how you will find the right people for the right job
- What mindset is essential to your success
- What existing bad habits you need to remove and what new practices you will adopt
- The systems you need to generate the results you desire. Can you change or improve any existing ones?
- What additional resources you will need
- Where you’ll find support
- If you need a mentor or coach
4) What do I need to change?
Do you need to eliminate things that are currently draining you? How can you reduce or remove those things from your life that are consuming your time, energy and resources better spent on your goal?
Perhaps you can delegate, outsource or just get rid of duties, chores, or distractions that aren’t moving you forward.
What needs to change for you to accomplish your goal(s) this year?
5) What will I do today?
What small step or steps can you do today to start?
- Find motivation (The Retirement Manifesto)
- Write 100 words (Writing Through Life)
- Start learning SQL (Freedom Is Groovy)
- Ditch your middle-class mindset (Make Smarter Decisions)
- Start a winning $25k blog (ESI Money)
- Get your partner on board (Abandoned Cubicle, on Physician on Fire)
- Or lie to yourself (Think Save Retire)
I’d really love to hear from you and encourage your progress. Drop a comment below or send me a note on what you are going to do this year.
What I Accomplished this Year
Life Zemplified is my first blog. I didn’t have a clue what to expect when I jumped into the blogging world. I was a bit afraid of putting myself out there, and I procrastinated for a while. Okay, two years. But I eventually moved forward, telling myself it couldn’t be too complicated. I was wrong.
It’s Hard. Like you want to give up hard. Like that feeling when you’re only on your 9th rep of a 12 rep killer squat routine.
But it’s also gratifying.
I didn’t write down any expectations initially. And I wasn’t sure what I was doing or what I could accomplish in a year. I just knew I wanted to start a blog and get unstuck. I wanted to reach people in some way. Share some knowledge. Learn from others. Connect. And Grow.
I got that and so much more.
Friendships. A contest win. Knowledge. FinCon17. Business opportunities. Rockstar Features #1 and #2. New Skills. Named #6 on ‘The 30 fastest growing personal finance blogs of 2017.‘ Freelance writing gigs, CampFIRE features, collaborations, guest posts and more.
It’s been an incredible year, and I thank every one of you who read, shared, liked, followed, commented, supported and befriended me. I know that I couldn’t have done it without you and I appreciate you all from the bottom of my heart.
As I enter year two for Life Zemplified and begin a new venture with Vicki, from Make Smarter Decisions, I’m visiting these questions I’ve listed above. I strongly urge you to use them yourself to define the what, where, how, and why of your next adventure.
Taking the time now will save you more time later.
It’s Tough
I’ve had two previous businesses – a personal training studio and a cafe – and I believe blogging is like a business even if you don’t monetize it right away. And like any business, career move, or adventure, things can go right, or they go wrong.
We tend to think we know more, have more, and can initially accomplish more than we do or can. It’s just human nature. So we dive into things head first and wait too long to come up for air. Which often leads to exhaustion and burnout.
The Small Business Administration says 30% of new businesses fail during the initial two years of being open, 50% during the first five years and 66% during the first 10.
For blogs, the number of fails in the first year is estimated to be between 50% and 95%. Yes, that’s a huge gap. But as more and more people jump into blogging hoping to make it rich, the higher that number is going to be.
While I’m positive there is money to be made online (or in many businesses), not everyone will be successful at it. It takes a great deal of time, effort, motivation, consistency, faith, humility, and service.
Where You Can Go Wrong
Things will go wrong. Not all of these listed below happened to me, but the majority have. And while I’m talking about blogging below, you can certainly apply most of these to any business or project.
- You’ll spend too much money or not enough
- Your site might get hacked or crash
- You’ll miss a deadline (self-imposed and assigned)
- Someone will tell you no (or yes)
- Social media algorithms will change
- You’ll question your niche, categories, topics, etc.
- Free services you use will start charging
- Someone will steal or copy your content
- You won’t find your voice or tribe
- You’ll compare yourself to others
- You’ll get addicted to pageviews
- And then pageviews will fall before they go up again
- Links will break
- You’ll lose followers
- Blogging friends will disappear
- Your partner or family may feel neglected
- You’ll get burnout
This isn’t an exhaustive list, but you get the idea, shit happens. But you can get over it, recover and move on. Or at least you will if you want to be successful at it. It’s okay if you don’t though. Maybe what you’ve chosen isn’t right for you. If that’s the case, just stop.
Don’t waste your time trying to mold yourself into something that doesn’t feel right. There is no sense spending time or money on things that don’t elicit good emotions.
Quitting is okay. I sold my fitness studio because it took too much time away from my kids. I sold the cafe because I was burnt out to a crisp and my health was suffering. And I just quit my day job.
But I Love Blogging
I love the challenge. I love learning new things and building skills. And making connections and building relationships.
I’ve bought courses I’ve not yet finished. Spent time on things that didn’t pay off. And I lost sleep many nights worrying about perfecting a post. But I wouldn’t change a thing.
Because I believe things (mostly) happen for a reason and that all of our experiences shape us to be who we are today. But I also think we can control (mostly) what happens to us tomorrow.
So get started today on that thing that’s important to you!
If it happens to be blogging check out what Pete’s churning out at Do You Even Blog. He’s producing some excellent podcasts and blog posts because he believe’s in blogging.
What Can We Achieve in a Year?
I’m continuing to focus on this blog and provide you greater content. I’ll also be starting a new website with Vicki, as I alluded to above, focused on educating and empowering women to take control of their finances. (Message me on Twitter if you are interested in learning about guest posting, interviews, linking, and collaboration opportunities.)
Personally, I’ve committed to less stuff and less waste this year with a few other bloggers, and to achieving 5,000,000 steps along with My Sons Father. While our financial savings will drop due to me escaping the cubicle, we should still hit the double comma club unless the market tanks. But my favorite goal this year is to be the best grandma I can be. 🙂
So how about you? What will you accomplish in a year? Whether it’s a personal or professional goal, I’d enjoy hearing about it and cheering for you. Please comment below!
Also, feel free to share any financial, fitness, blogging or other achievements you’ve had this year!
For those of you looking for the one-year blogging stats here you go.
etozier24 says
We underestimate what we can do in a year, but overestimate what we can do in a day.
Amazing post Amy – ideas are worthless, and actions are what put you on the path to success!
Amy says
Yes we do! 😉
Thanks Erik. I know you are proving that out very well!
DocG says
Wow, happy year. You have accomplished so much. My goal is to still be here in a year, get featured on Rockstar, and most of all…make a few friends!
Amy says
You are off to a great start DocG! There might be times you feel like stopping, but reach out to us friends then if you need support. This community is great. Very helpful and wanting each other to succeed.
Accidental FIRE says
Wow what a great post! I love the step by step guides to figuring out how to accomplish what you want to. I have numerous goals but realize I can’t put 100% into all of them, there’s just not enough time. My most important goal is to start meditation and becoming more mindful. Since I’ve semi-retired it seems my mind sometimes races faster than it did when I was working full time. I need to learn to cool the brain engine. The steps in this post will definitely help me lay it out!
Amy says
Thanks AF! It’s amazing how when we don’t need to think about work, how much more we can expand our minds! Good problem to have. But, yes, getting them focused and organized takes effort. I’d love to hear how the meditation goes for you. Good luck!
Tread Lightly, Retire Early says
Congratulations on one year and the latest RSF feature! You’re now in the top 5% of bloggers in terms of time! And you’re right – blogging is so much harder than everyone makes it out to be (but also more rewarding).
Amy says
Thank you, Angela! 🙂
kiwiandkeweenaw says
Great message here Amy! I have so many goals for this year personally and professionally, so I will definitely be referencing this. I mostly plan to take more risks and say no to wrong opportunities/paths.
Amy says
Learning to listen to our own intuitions is so key when facing opportunities. They really can help us learn to say no – or yes – to the right things. I’m doing better at listening to mine but I don’t always get it right. 😉 Thanks, Mrs. Kiwi!
Mr. Groovy says
Wow, Amy, I’m really impressed. I don’t know anyone who entered the blogging world and became such an integral part of the FI community so fast. But I guess I shouldn’t be surprised. Not when you keep pumping out great posts like this. Thank you for your inspiring words, Amy. And congratulations on saying goodbye to the 9-to-5 and on your one year anniversary. Can’t wait to see what you do with 2018. It’s going to be freakin’ awesome.
Amy says
Oh, Mr. G, you are so kind and always make me feel so good. Yes to 2018 –
Woohoo! So looking forward to meeting you and Mrs. Groovy at FinCon if not sooner. Thank you for stopping by and for the kind comments!
Mrs. Defined Sight says
Happy Birthday Life Zemplified!
It’s great celebrating wins and accomplishments!
For me this next year, focusing more on starting every day with gratitude…what I don’t get done today, I can to tomorrow. I’ll just give ‘er my best and forget the rest! <~ I'm sure those are somebody's quotes right there, but it sounds good at the moment!
Blogging has been awesome for our marriage. We started it with the intent of a side hustle, then life events happened annnd it was a way of getting through it all. Agree, monetizing or making money off the whole blog may not happen, but, we feel richer in so many more ways that are important to us. Great friends in the blogging community! It's keeping us accountable and better people to each other, and ourselves.
And I'm still thinking about quitting your cube life article! It's just so motivating to see someone cross that line…your time is yours now! I know you will make the most of it and looking forward to celebrating more birthdays!
Amy says
Love it – ” I’ll just give ‘er my best and forget the rest!” Thank you Mrs. DS!
Ms Zi You says
A great post Amy…. I think we often underestimate what we can achieve in a year. I’d love to be still engaged and enjoying blogging in a year, with a new set of skills to my name.
Amy says
It’s totally possible Ms. Zi You. Blogging can consume you if you let it so make sure you take breaks and reach out to others for help and support if you need it. It can teach you many skills for sure! Thanks for stopping by!
AdventureRich says
Amazing… you are certainly an inspiration, Amy! 🙂 Congratulations on the incredible year! Awesome blog, new grandbaby, quitting your job and new adventures! I can’t wait to see what the next few years bring!
Amy says
As are you Mrs. AR! 🙂 Thank you!
Tonya (Budget & the Beach) says
Great questions to ask yourself. I find myself answering similar questions about once a quarter because so much can change in a year which shift the dynamics of original goals set perhaps in January. Plus, like you said, obstacles. My issues has always been with competing goals. I want to side hustle more to up my income, but I also value health, rest, leisure, spending time with friends, etc. Those two sometimes come at odd with each other. But I’m working on it! 🙂 Congrats on a successful year!
Amy says
Thanks, Tonya! I like the idea of quarterly check-ins. I see more and more people planning in 12 week stints. Ah, yes, competing goals. That’s life right? Recognizing what’s important and doing just enough of each to keep you healthy is what it’s all about. Keep working it! 🙂 You do great stuff!
Susan @ FI Ideas says
I’m blown away by all that you have accomplished in a year, Amy. This post has so much wisdom. I appreciate you sharing the highlights of your journey and recommendations. Congratulations on a great first year.
Amy says
Thank you so much, Susan. I couldn’t have done it without such a great community and my awesome family. I’m a lucky lady!
Caroline says
Great post Amy:) And Congrats on the one year anniversary.
One of my goals is to make it to the one year blogging!
My other one is to figure out what I really want to do next year when I am no longer employed, so many options.
Amy says
Caroline, thank you! You are putting out great stuff so just don’t let yourself get burnt out and you’ve got this. And if you start to feel that way reach out to the community to get through it. I look forward to hearing about your ideas and plans!
Peerless Money Mentor says
Congratulations on your blogversary!!! ! Wow, what an inspirational post, Amy! I really enjoyed reading it.
I have been blogging four months and have learned a lot from the FI community.
Amy says
Thank you, Jerry! Such a great community. I’ll look forward to reading your one year post. 🙂
Vicki@MakeSmarterDecisions says
WOW – what an amazing year! It’s so important to do a “deep dive” and look into all you have really accomplished. Congratulations and thanks for sharing ideas on how others can take action. I think many people get bogged down in taking on more, instead of changing and giving some things up. I know that is something I need to do more of. Looking forward to the exciting things ahead this year!
Amy says
Thanks, Vicki, here’s to an awesome 2018!
RetirementManifesto (@RetireManifesto) says
Happy Blogoversary!! “I Love Blogging”, couldn’t say it any better, other than perhaps to say I Love Your Blogging! You’re a great writer, and I’m proud to call you “Friend”!
Amy says
Appreciate that so much, Fritz! I’m so glad I took that mountain road in Georgia. 🙂
laurie@thethreeyearexperiment.com says
Congratulations on so many accomplishments this year, Amy!! 🙂 I, too, have been blogging for about a year. And I’ve learned so much! I’ve grown my blog really slowly, on purpose, because I do have young kids and I did not want to make the mistake (like I’ve done in the past) of devoting so much time to my side gig that I ignored my main gig, my family. But one thing I’ve realized–I LOVE blogging! I love writing, organizing my thoughts, hearing what other people think, getting inspired, challenging myself to do more. And it’s been very cool to have the blog to help us celebrate our net worth increases that we’ve worked so hard at this year. I can’t wait to see what you and Vicki have cooked up on the new site!!! 🙂
Amy says
Thank you, Laurie! Crazy how fast this year went. Your love for writing and sharing shows in your posts and I really enjoy reading them. And, yes, so great to see your net worth grow. Happy for you guys! Thanks!
Dave says
Great post Amy. It has been fun to follow your blog for the past 10 months. You have a great blend of topics that all connect. I cannot wait to see what year number two brings.
Amy says
I appreciate that Dave! And likewise it’s been great watching you start and grow your blog too. Fun times ahead!
mamafishsaves says
Congratulations! I had totally forgotten we started our blogs around the same time. I always think you’ve been around way longer than me! I can’t wait to see what you and Vicki have up your sleeves 🙂
This year I plan to continue to grind at my blog, grow my new freelance business, and reclaim my health. It’s going to be a big year!
Amy says
Thanks, Chelsea, and congrats to you too! I’ve know doubt we will continue to see great things out of you this year. Yes, get healthy, and enjoy your boys!
Lily @ The Frugal Gene says
I’ve lost friends! The first Millennial blogger I met disappeared one day. And remember Ava The Millennial?! Her sites gone too. I enjoyed her content, I hope she saved her writing for when she comes back.
But I don’t blame them for a second. Blogging is hard. That burn out is uhhhhhh!!!
Amy says
So sad when they just disappear…but yeah we can understand. Don’t you dare go disappearing on us though!! You are a spark in this community that we would all dearly miss.
t - Career Crisis Accountant says
Congrats on one year! I have a few goals I want to achieve this year! Making progress on them one tiny goal at a time 🙂
My Sons Father says
Congrats on the milestone. Fitting that you even beat me to the 1 year mark!
Amy says
How’s those steps coming? 🙂 Thanks, MSF!
Erin | Reaching for FI says
Woohoo, congrats on one year! I’m having a hard time believing I’ll be there myself in a month, wow!
A lot’s changed for me in the last year and I have a feeling this year is going to be similar, so these are some fantastic questions to ask myself.
Can’t wait to see the new blog you’re starting with Vicki!
Mrs Groovy says
Sorry I’m so late to the party! Happy birth-blog-a-versary!
I’m so glad you arrived on the scene. I feel like we’ve been friends a long time. In real life since we moved I don’t have too many girlfriends. But you, along with a few others like Vicki, Laurie, Kate (It’s a Kate Life) and Claudia have changed that.
P.S. Thanks for shouting out Mr. G!
Amy says
Thank you, Mrs. G! I too feel like we’ve known each other for some time. You and Mr. G are so welcoming and kind, it’s been great connecting with you and I hope to meet you both in person very soon.
Amy says
Thanks Erin, and early congrats to you too! I hope the questions help and I wish you an amazing year.
Cubert@abandonedcubicle.com says
Wow. I have some really great food for thought thanks to this post! In fact I spent most of this past weekend ruing that we live in the cold, bleak north. So easy to compare after spending a vacation in the desert southwest. Where it’s perfect during wintertime. We’ve thought of moving, maybe to Colorado, so who knows. Maybe I need to stop and think about what’s really standing in our way. What are the trade offs?
Amy says
That’s what I like to hear. Yes, sometimes it’s just ourselves 😉 Thanks, Cubert and good luck figuring it out!
Smile If You Dare says
Great idea to think about goals for the year!
In the past year…
I stopped working full-time (yay!)
Started my blog
Started learning to play the fiddle, practice daily (I have passed the torturing cats phase. yay!)
Started daily exercise
So by the year anniversaries of these:
I will still not be working full-time (yay!)
My blog will have many more readers
My fiddle playing will be much better
I will be healthier and more energetic
Amy says
Double yay on not working FT!
The fiddle isn’t something you hear everyday. Nice!
I look forward to hearing about all the success in a year.