Take a Break | My Substack Summer
What I read in Summer 2024
Most of us like backstage access, the sneaky look behind the scenes, and access to a little extra. We also like to measure whatever’s measurable, convert the goals into actionable steps on the spreadsheets, and ping the number values to view the process and upward trajectory.
There’s also something fascinating about checking out the stats and gaining that view of what you’ve been up to. At least, that’s how it works for me. During the day, I’m hooked onto an Apple watch that counts my steps and tells me when it’s time to stand up and move, it even tells me when it’s my time of the month. Then, I keep a nutrition check app to track what I eat daily–mainly to monitor my protein intake. (I use NutraCheck).
A lot about my daily existence is under my scrutiny—of my free will, I might add.
So when the Substack provided some insight into my Summer–it’s least to say–it was a welcomed surprise.
It also sparked the idea of quarterly update posts, where I share a personal update similar to this one at the end of each season. These updates will be less content-oriented and lean more into personal updates from my travels, self-care, and whatever else comes up.
I will let you see what Substack uncovered about my reading habits during the summer, and then I’ll add my commentary.
Highlights
☕ I read the most in the evening
💌 I subscribed to 161 new Substacks
🎧 I listened to 618 minutes of podcasts
📽️ I watched 2,418 minutes of video
❤️ I liked 274 posts
💬 I left 393 comments on posts
📜 I scrolled 818 meters in Notes
🕵️ I discovered 84 new posts via Notes
Top Substacks
Mind Of A Writer by
Steel your (writing) mind. My goal is to instill a first-class writing mindset in you so you can stay motivated and accomplish your writing dreams.
Top post this summer: The Real Reason Nobody Cares About Your Blog Posts
Substack Writers at Work membership by
The only all-in-one annual membership to grow your Substack: Expert guidance to build your platform, produce your best work, and earn the income you deserve 🔸
Top post this summer: How to Make Money on Substack. Period.
Sparkle on Substack by
A bespoke space to help you stay creative on Substack!🧚♂️ Twice monthly space holding (co-working, workshops, teaching). Weekly chats, podcast & ALL the tools to help enhance your journey to growth on Substack joyfully & sustainably! Top 15 Publication.
Top post this summer: 💬 Let's Chat Going Paid on your Substack ✨
What I have to say about the recap
None of the above reads surprised me. The only thing that saddened me is that Substack has selected the top three, which means that 388 of the publications I am reading can’t be mentioned and highlighted in the recap—or we’d be scrolling until next week.
It is clear that the summer for me was all about the Substack, but I’m happy to report that I also got to have some time out. Since I was tackling the tough decision of whether to continue with the training I signed up for over a year ago—and since my priorities and mindset changed significantly— I managed to get away and spend quality time on the beach, listening to the waves and enjoying the sun.
Midway through the summer, I stopped procrastinating and got on with a three-week exercise routine. To keep myself somewhat motivated, I chose the gym with nice perks: pool, sauna, and steam room. So when the exercise becomes more of a chore than a joy—and it is going to—I’ll bribe myself with some time in the pool or sauna. I’ve also been able to catch up with my sister and have the most delicious chicken/avocado salad.
That’s my summer recap–short and sweet. But in my defence, summer flew by, and I spent significant time glued to my phone and Substack app—how else would I be able to scroll 818 meters in Notes and discover 84 new posts.
Share your own Summer Recap in the comments section.
You can see your own summer recap in the Substack app.
I’d love to see what you’ve been reading, your holiday destinations or perhaps the routine you started this summer. What was your summer like?
PS: Ignore the fact we’re in October already
Great shares Jana! I'm happy to hear you had some quality you time--and it looks like a beautiful place! Use that sauna. It's not just a great way to relax, it has loads of health benefits. So even if you only go to the gym for the sauna on occasion, it's a worthwhile trip!
Our gym has a massage chair, so that is my bribe. ☺️
Loved the recap and the pics!