"I'm going to stay plugged into the Internet at large for a longer time, then I am going to have to be mindful of when the Orcs want to pop up, when I can have a cup of tea with the Dwarves and when I can just sit and chill and watch Wicked with my little selection box."

Hi Sparklers,

I hope 2024 wrapped up beautifully for you and you have some notes next to your reflections and thoughts about your directions?

As we usher in 2025, I'm thrilled to share some reflections, exciting plans, and a sprinkle of gratitude with you.

Reflecting on a Transformative 2024

2024 was a year packed with expansion, turbulence, and profound lessons. I felt like I was living in dual realities at times.

Whether it was supporting our vibrant Substack community, receiving heartwarming feedback, or navigating the nuances of online presence, the year was richly complex.

One invaluable lesson from 2024 for us all is the importance of protecting our peace amidst the fast-paced digital world. Let's carry this wisdom forward, ensuring our creative journeys are both fulfilling and balanced?

What's Sparkling for members in 2025?

✨ Goal Setting Session:

Members - we're kickstarting the year with our goal-setting session on Monday at 9:30 AM UK time. If you haven't yet downloaded the free Substack Planner here you go.

Print it out and bring it along—or simply grab some big pieces of paper. Excited to dive into my brilliant systems with you!

✨ Five-Year Visioning Plan:

Also in January - we'll embark on crafting our five-year vision, with Substack being a key component for many of us. Whether your Substack is a major part of your plan or a smaller element, all are welcome. Let's dream big together?

✨ Practical Workshops:

In February, we'll focus on deepening connections with our readers and building a robust community around our publication. We also have the brilliant Amanda B. Hinton popping in to talk with Diamond Members on data and how to use it to help inform our curation.

✨ Personalised Guidance:

The window is open in chat to submit your specific tutorial requests! Substack can change quickly, and I aim to stay responsive to your needs throughout the year.

✨ Community Hot Seats:

We'll be integrating more hot seat sessions during our calls, giving you the stage and fostering collaboration among our Sparklers. The Friday Writers’ Room on Slack will continue to be your imaginative sanctuary and space to chat about lunch. 🤣

FOR EVERYONE…

✨ Upcoming Events:

Mark your calendars! I'll be speaking at Alnwick Story Fest on March 3rd and the Writer MBA Conference in New Orleans later in March. In May I have a day long creative retreat in partnership with Tanya Lynch at Ease Retreats.

Shoutouts and Gratitude

A big thank you to Russell Nohelty for our incredible collaboration on "How to Build a World Class Substack" and to Beth Kempton for her inspiring mentorship. And, of course, endless gratitude to my husband for being my constant source of support—and tea. ☕️

To our wonderful Sparkle on Substack community, thank you for your unwavering enthusiasm and dedication. You are the heartbeat of this journey.

So, let’s step gently onto the Yellow Brick Road of 2025 with a heart full of dreams, a vision clear and expansive, and a community ready to sparkle brighter than ever.

📅 Event Recap:

Online

* Goal Setting Session:

Monday, 9:30 AM UK time

* Five-Year Visioning Plan:

In Person events this year…

Alnwick Story Fest , Northumberland, UK:

* Sunday 3rd March

Tickets - https://alnwickstoryfest.com/. You can also catch Emma Simpson and Juliet Thomas there. Should I organise an official Substack meet up again or does someone else want to? You get a mention from Substack if you do!

Writer MBA Conference, New Orleans, USA:

* 19-22 March.

Tickets here. https://writermba.com/

Substack with EASE Retreat

* Friday 9 May

More here https://www.easeretreats.com/retreats

Download the digital Sparkle on Substack Planner here and print your copy.

Here's to a year of joyful, sustainable growth and creativity. Let’s make 2025 our most magical year yet!

With love and sparkles,

Claire

P.S. - There’ll be less threads this year but feel free to reach out in the Substack chat with any questions, requests, or just to say hello. We're all here for you!

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