Welcome to a community of coffee enthusiasts, introverted bookworms, and burnout survivors who seek mindset shifts and create a small space on the internet.
I’ve decided to post something different today. Looking around through something, I can see that many writers include the Welcome thread where their readers can introduce themselves. This way, we can get to know each other and discuss topics such as overwhelm, goals and plans, or non-fiction books.
It may seem silly to start a Welcome thread a year into my publication's humble existence, but I wanted to start this type of monthly both-sided support.
Think of it as talking around the water cooler or chatting over coffee during your break.
I’ve got some questions prepared; you can choose to answer all or only those that fit.
I will start the introduction as soon as I email today’s post.
There’s a big chance that I will fall flat on my face, and none of you will join in. (Please, don’t let me hang here; it’s stressing me out like crazy)
Now, take a break!
And tell me about yourself:
Where are you from?
What book you’re reading right now?
What’s one challenge you need to get a different perspective on?
Name your big goal for the next 12 months.
Remember to include the link to your publication if you are writing on Substack.
My name is Jana. I write from Swindon, UK. I was born in Slovakia and left when I was 21.
I always have three books on the go. So, this week, I have in progress:
Originals by Adam Grant
Everything is f*cked by Mark Manson
and Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon
This week, I struggled to discipline myself to sit down and read. There’s been too much going on. I’ll do better at the weekend.
The one challenge I am trying to gain a different perspective on is the 18-month apprenticeship program in coaching. I signed up a couple of years back and took a break while going through the burnout. Now it's time to get back to it; if I don't, they will kick me out of the course. The question is: do I have the time and energy for it? Do I still want to continue with my studies? Am I still interested in the topic? Will I regret it if I quit? I know I will regret it if I quit, but is that a good enough reason to continue?
Lastly, my big goal for the next 12 months is to maintain regular publishing schedule here on my publication whilst also read one non-fiction book per month so I get some quality rest. Achievable? I hope so.
I wanted to weigh in on your coaching program dilemma. As you know, I also trained to become a coach, and sat for the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches exam. It was a lot of work, but I really enjoyed it, and I'm glad I did it. I learned a lot that is beneficial to me in my day-to-day life, as well as for coaching. I also made some lifelong friends in my program. All that said, only you can decide whether it's worth it to you and whether you have the energy to complete the program with your other responsibilities. Two questions: How will you feel if you complete the program? How will you feel if you don't complete it? What feels better? (okay that was 3 questions). It sounds like you had reasons for starting the program, revisit those reasons and whether they are still valid. List your reasons for finishing it and your reasons for not finishing it. Are the pros of finishing greater than the cons? Are the cons of not finishing it greater than the pros? I wish you the best with your decision, and I'm confident you'll land on what is the best decision for you.
Thank you, Daria. Your reply and suggestions are genuinely valued, and they really started to form the ground for my decision. In particular, I like the two questions you provided me with (very coach-like 😊). The Substack has taken over my free time (free-willed); however, as the saying goes, you can't put all the eggs in the same basket. Also, it's unrealistic that every newsletter came to make sustainable full-time work out of regular publishing. So, coaching as a skill would be an additional benefit to me. Also, I wouldn't say I like to quit things I've invested time into.
I interviewed a friend for my Substack earlier this year who had also started a coaching programme, but since has also developed new takes on trying out different projects to explore what fits, which she shared here - in case helpful for your thinking! https://laurenkatepowell.substack.com/p/career-compass-2
You shoot away, Gary! Welcome. It is such a pleasure to have you here! We have something in common: not settling for one place but living in different locations over time.
Thank you for sharing your current read; it sounds interesting. Is it worth adding to my reading list?
I enjoy your writing very much, Gary. What could we do about your perspective on it? You share so much wisdom in a wonderful way.
Yes. “Hospicing Modernity:…….” worth adding to your list. I’ve shared it with many others here and elsewhere. It’s not an easy read but it’s an important, perhaps critical, perspective. It opens up some new ways of seeing and understanding where we are, how we got to this point and what lies ahead, especially as it relates to the environment and the planet. Sometimes I think it’s think globally, act globally, and that is one tough assignment. Thanks for the compliment on sharing wisdom. I stand on the shoulders of many who came before me, thus I am deeply and enormously grateful.
I am becoming a huge fan of your Substack, there is a lot of cross-over with your thinking and mine, hopefully we can give each other support in this journey. 😃
I'm an entrepreneurial empty-nester, enjoying a midlife gap year, based in Guildford, Surrey, UK.
During this year I have become more than a little obsessed with Substack, to the point now, where I wonder what I'd do without it. 😉
I now have three Substacks on go, each one supports the other, so instead of overwhelm, I actually feel like it's a balanced tripod.
Off on a Tangent – my humorous take on life: including life hacks and TV/Film reviews.
My goal for the next 12 months is to keep showing up and grow all three. I love this new lifestyle and am very prepared to put in the hours to try and prolong it for as long as possible.
That original 'gap year' may well stretch to two and beyond. 😉
Thank you, Kate, and welcome to CB! It's so nice to meet you virtually, and thank you for sharing.
I've never had a fan, so you're my first! Cross-over thinking sounds good to me. You have my full support. Let's stretch out the 'gap year' to beyond.😊
I could not agree with you more; over the past year, I've also grown quite obsessed with Substack. It's what I do outside of my full-time job (which I would drop in the instance for Substack... maybe one day). It's fascinating and such a rewarding online space.
You know, I've been enjoying your humorous take on life for a while. I don't know how you manage not one BUT 3 Substacks. I am dropping my imaginary hat! Your ability to juggle these is truly admirable. You must share this with all of us, maybe in the interview? Especially the 'balanced tripod' system you've got going on. 🤯
I'm adding Off on a Tangent and Substack Type Club to my recommendations. I know you're doing amazing with the first one and don't really need it, and the latter is new, but I have a hunch it's going to be a big one! ☺️
Unlike most people here I'm not trying to juggle a full-time job and children, so running three Substacks (one of which very much helps the others get written) is very manageable, and great fun, I love it!
Thank you so much for the recommendations, they really do help! 👏 😘
Hi, I'm Tim from Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, Canada
Right now I'm reading: Love, a brand new book by Substacker @Andee Scarantino (View From the Roof)
Challenge: Family responsibilities and elderly parents - My dad is 92, Mom is 87 and they are having trouble living on their own in the country but won't move or consider alternatives
Welcome, Tim. It's so lovely to meet you virtually.
Canada is beautiful (I judged based on the pictures; I've not visited yet), but Rocky Mountain sounds Mountainy! I love mountains and lakes; we have our fair share of them in Slovakia, too. The UK is a beautiful country, too. There is a lot of greenery for walks.
I hear you, parents can be stubborn sometimes. Hats off for their age, though!
I wonder, what do you need to make your big goal a reality?
Your Substack slipped the net for some reason, but I fixed it now. I've joined your community and look forward to reading and learning more about you.
I'm currently reading "The Nickel Boys", a novel by Colson Whitehead set in Florida during the burgeoning civil rights era. The movie adaptation will be released this fall, and early indications suggest that it could be fascinating. I'm looking forward to it.
I don't so much need a different perspective as I need to stay faithful to an evolving one, namely, that writing teaches you how to write. I know it's commonly said that if you want to write, you must write. True. But what isn't often stressed is that the doing is always a lesson. The English language is much bigger and older than you are. So, it's always true that the power of words lies in the words themselves and their possible interactions. You have to listen to the words you choose to hear how they'll actually arrive in the mind of a reader. By all means read your work aloud before you publish. I also need an editor.
For the next 12 months I want to keep doing what I've been doing for the past nearly three years of reviewing movies. To dig deeper into how and why movies work on me as they do, to set what their creators intended alongside what I think they're actually achieving as I sit in my seat watching and listening. Not unlike what I've said above, a movie teaches you how to watch it. I'm a cursed romantic writer. You don't tell the tale; the tale tells you.
It's a pleasure to finally connect with you. I can't believe I've missed out on your Substack until now, but I'm thrilled to be on board.
I've checked the movie reviews you have written so far. I love it.
I try to go on a cinema date with my one every other week, and he usually suggests movies.
No longer, now I've got a Sunday dish of movies and can start to impress him. 😊 Even though I think once he finds out about Movie Struck, he will join, too.
This part you wrote stood out to me:
"You have to listen to the words you choose to hear how they'll arrive in a reader's mind. By all means, read your work aloud before you publish. I also need an editor."
You're right. It's more challenging if your first language is not English but all can be taught. Well, that is my challenge.
I've heard many Substack writers work with editors, which definitely adds more flavour to writing. I hope you find someone suitable.
I've been reading your reviews this morning, and there's a lot I can learn from your writing.
Thank you for your incredible work and for sharing your 12-month goal. I'll see you in your comments.
Jana, Thank you so much for your thoughts. They're SO encouraging. You're the kind of open-minded, curious reader I'm always hoping to reach. True, I want to draw the movie experts, too, those who know far more about movies than I do. They're an interesting challenge. But what's most vital to me is inviting readers to think anew, freshly, even a bit scarily, about what they see when they watch a movie. I like to hope I can get to readers as they catch the wave of a movie, suddenly feel WHY it's washing over them and through them. The discovery or re-discovery of how movies aren't like any other art form is my true mission statement.
Also, to be clear, when I said I "need" an editor I was trying to make clear -- I may have failed -- that I already HAVE an editor. Two, in fact. They switch off, one edits me one week, the other edits me the following week. They're both steeped in decades of movie knowledge, so I trust them implicitly. I should have been bolder and said I think every writer needs an editor, but that would be argumentative, and each writer grows in his or her own fashion
I'm so pleased you believe you can learn from what I write. About yourself, uppermost, I hope. Movies are an immensely public art and at the same time they can be as personal as poetry in the way they tap on nerve endings you didn't necessarily know were there. Thanks again for hearing what I tried to get across.
I’m April and I live in my van. I have been nomadic for about five years and can’t figure out what I want: a stationary home or to keep traveling. I am also on a journey of devotion to my art and work as an artist (writing and photography) and in finding my people. It’s true what Carl Jung said (paraphrasing): that if you are diligent in your work you will find many heretofore unknown friends. My substack is called: The Ecstatic Wanderer. It’s about vanlife & soul searching and sometimes letter-esque and sometimes story-esque. I’m letting it run a little wild so it can figure out what it wants to be.
I’m currently in between books! I just finished The Snow Child which I loved. Thinking about picking up Leigh Bardugo’s The Familiar next. I don’t normally read a lot of fiction but am gravitating more to pleasure reading these days.
My biggest challenge right now is how to find a new bridge income source that will balance well with my writing life as I develop that into a career. I work as a tech writer in healthcare and it is just too much writing to do that and then my creative work. Also just too much stress & time sitting.
And my goal for the next 12 months? Similar to Jana, I will stay on a consistent publishing schedule on substack. I will also write the first draft of my memoir.
Lovely to meet you all. Thanks for sharing, Jana. Looking forward to connecting more. 💗
Hi, April! Thank you for coming over. It's good to hear from you.
You know, you live the life I've been secretly dreaming about since last year. When the burnout hit hard, all I wanted to do is lock all my belongings into the storage box and move into the van. Travel the UK from the Swindon across all the way to Scotland, then do the whole cross Europe trip. All I really need is my dear boyfriend and macbook, and of course, internet connection for Substack.
Now, there are two mentions of The Snow Child, I take it as sign to add it to my Kindle. Thank you for sharing.
PS - I'm in a similar spot with my work ... trying to do more creative writing while keeping up with my 17-year freelance writing (content marketing). It's a lot for my poor, addled brain to juggle; and I'm wanting to save more of my "juice" for my own projects these days.😉
I really enjoyed both The Snow Child AND The Familiar! 💜 📖 I love reading fiction, but - sadly - haven't had much time lately. Thank goodness for audio books! 😉
Ah, The Snowchild is wonderful - I highly recommend Eowyn's next book, To The Bright Edge of the World. Very different 'tho beautifully written; I preferred it to The Snowchild - incredibly moving book
Thanks for starting this conversation, Jana. Such fun!
I'm from a little town north of Boston, MA called Ipswich. Our claim to fame is being the home of really good fried clams. It's not glamorous, but it IS tasty.
I'm currently reading two books - a hard copy of The Fair Folk by my friend Su Bristow, and the audio book of Kate Atkinson's short story collection, Normal Rules Don't Apply. Both are excellent.
The challenge that could benefit from a different perspective is reinventing how I earn my living. for the last 17 years I've been a freelance writer creating content for clients in a variety of industries, but - while I still need that work to pay my mortgage and my daughter's college tuition bills - I'm ready to transition to a different/more personally fulfilling path. (Hence the Substack.)
My big goal for the next 12 months (do I seriously have to pick just one?) is ... to see where this Substack takes me, giving it my all while at the same time figuring out how to find a healthy balance of work and play that fuels my creativity without burning me out.
Thank you for asking such great questions. This really got me thinking!
I really like this; my reading wish list has grown so much since starting this thread.
Even though it seems like a challenge, Substack was a very good choice.
Those who teach writing, or how to do writing for living seems to do very well on Substack.
I myself am a paid subscriber to Writing in the Dark and Mindful Writer, and of course, Sarah Fay sprinkles some writing lessons occasionally.
I'm not sure if that is something you're exploring.
I love your goal! And please, do share some tips if you can. It's very much what I am trying to do here: seek that balance between work and plan. Thank you for sharing.
I'm Daria. At this moment, I'm in the north Georgia mountains. I'm reading two books: "A Good Girl's Guide to Murder" and "Ageless Aging" by Maddy Dychtwald. My current challenge is deciding whether to retire at the end of the year to pursue my health and wellness coaching full time or to continue working as an attorney part time and pursuing my health and wellness coaching part time (which is essentially what I'm doing now.) Dilemma is money. Is the money from a job worth it to me to pursue my passion for health and wellness only part time. My big goal for the next 12 months is to guide as many people as possible on their journey to improved health and wellness so they can remain independent and vital as they age. The ultimate objective is for people to add life to their years. My Substack is part of this. I write Wellgevity Warrior with Daria Diaz http://dlbdiaz.substack.com
Hi Daria! Thank you for joining. It's so good to have you here at CB! Oh, and BBC has a TV series version of "A Good Girl's Guide to Murder." It's amazing. What are the chances?! The books are always better than TV series, but the title got me!
Money is a tough one. You want to pursue your passion but don't want to get yourself into a compromising situation. Health and wellness coaching could replace the current income.
I must admit. Thanks to your work, I have only cut the procrastination about going back to the gym and using COVID-19 as an excuse for pausing exercise for four years!
Daria, I can't thank you enough. Your Substack has truly changed my perspective on health and wellness.
Jana, I'm over the moon to hear that you're reclaiming your health and fitness! That's why I love doing this. If what I do makes even a small difference in someone's life, or helps them find a way to make a positive change, that's my objective. Thank you, Jana. You're an inspiration
My name is Brad. I'm writing at BradDidericksen.com from Salt Lake City, US.
I'm reading "Keep Going" by Austin Kleon and just finished "The Bullet Journal Method" by Ryder Carroll. "The Science of Storytelling" by Will Storr is up next.
I'm currently experimenting with how to stay-up-to-date with reading and commenting on Substack while still getting my own research and writing done.
My big hairy and audacious goal for the next 12 months is to earn an additional $36k/year so that I can better support my families endeavors.
You know your reading looks pretty close up, my alley! Keep Going" by Austin Kleon and "The Science of Storytelling" by Will Storr are both on my wish lists. Let's discuss takeaways in the near future. 🙂
Brad, I completely understand the challenge of staying up to date with reading, commenting, and supporting other writers while juggling our own work. I've been testing a few approaches that might be helpful, and I'm looking forward to sharing them with you soon. 🤞
Your "big and audacious" goal sounds so specific. I hope the Substack will help make it a reality. 🥳
Regarding the coaching I just want to say follow your energy. This is what I found to be true for me. Yes maybe I wanted to do something few years back, today I am moving with life..the thing remains special to me for x reasons but right now I 'feel' right in what I am currently occupied with.
Doesn't mean I don't value what I started, maybe I just don't have the time right now, whatever maybe your reason for having second thoughts, make a pick. Ask yourself what do you want most? Doing this or not doing this.
You know the answer, say it aloud.
Many times we know the answer but bcz our mind is having so many restricting thoughts, we don't want to say it.
Sorry maybe this is long..but hope it helps!
As for me:
I am from Pakistan, raised and living in the UAE.
I have many books and I am not near finishing any yet. Instead I read book summaries on this app called headway. Recently read Big Magic.
The biggest challenge that remains is moving with time. When the day ends, it ends. No need to do too many things. Try again tomorrow, rise and rest with the day.. trying to live by what I preach.
Goal will be specific and so far haven't had that space to plan things ahead. But as a starting point the first and most important goal is to remain consistent in my efforts and writing. Working things out on a weekly, monthly basis.
Welcome, Saima. You're most welcome! Thank you for coming over! It's so good to connect again.
You know, Saima. I love the energy you have about you; it comes through the way you write. Whenever I read anything from you, whether it is a post, note, or comment like this one, I feel so at ease and balanced. Keep that!
I like to see how the whole world is coming together here on CB.
Thank you for sharing. I've not heard of Headway, but it's being downloaded as I type my reply.
However, there are books I want to discuss, so full book reading will still have to happen. However, the app might help with other book interests, so thank you for that!
Your response to the challenge is incredibly powerful, Saima. It's exactly the kind of approach I need more of in my life, which is why I'm so glad to be your reader. Your unique perspective and energy are truly inspiring.
Thank you for sharing your goal.
Thank you for your advice, I do appreciate it. And it has a lot to do with energy; you're correct. I originally signed up for training to apply it to my management role, which is all part of improving and improving. That has taken 180 spins since the burnout; since then, I've been searching for the exit door. However, the money is what keeps me there for now. It'll be a while until my publication is at the level I feel appropriate to charge, but that's another massive topic.
There are elements within coaching that help me do what energises me: learning. Even if I've never converted coaching into work, I could benefit from some elements of it, even here on CB. With that said, I think you helped me decide. Thank you; that means a lot. This is the beauty of the community and threads: sharing ideas, wisdom, and prompts.
Thank you so much Jana for your kind words, really glad to find and connect with you! 😊✨
Regarding books yes you are right, reading in full is one thing and the summaries another. Reading on Headway ( there are some more apps like blinklist and short form but I havent tried them in full as they are costlier) helps me get a gist of the book in the limited time I have in my days. Hopefully when there is more time I can buy the full books!
For the work yes..it's so many things not easy to decide right away. Finding a balance btwn my realities ( things not in my control, things unavoidable and things I want to pursue/ spend time on) helps me manage my time and energy.
Thank you again for this post, more power to You 🔥 😊✨
Hi Jana and everyone! I'm near Portland, OR, where it's sunny, cool, and a little fall-like today.
The book I'm reading right now is actually the one I wrote! Well, a manuscript, anyway, that I'm on my fifth-ish round of edits with. I'm prepping it to share with beta readers by the end of this month, so I've been super busy reading and editing.
One challenge: get over the blocks I feel about sharing my marketing knowledge with others. I worked in corporate marketing for years, then had my own consulting business for a while, and now have a non-marketing day job. I can feel that it's time to move gradually back towards self-employment, but instead of consulting for tech startups (blech), I'd much rather advise creatives, writers, artists, and others carving non-traditional paths for themselves. I desperately don't want to become one of those "six figures in six months!" scammers who prey on creators' dreams with unrealistic promises, but I think my visceral desire to avoid taking advantage of others is also keeping me from being very upfront about how I can actually offer helpful marketing guidance to folx. The irony of a marketing person being afraid to talk about marketing isn't lost on me. 😅
Big goals for the next 12 months: land an agent for my manuscript, have at least 5 marketing consulting sessions with clients every week.
Robin, I'm truly honoured to have you join us! Your work in Creative Letters has always resonated with me, and I'm a huge fan of your writing.
It's very fall-like in the UK, too. 😊
Reading your own book must feel surreal. How awesome is that! I don't know how beta reading works, but I'd love to read your work by the end of the month.
Did I mention I am a fan?
When it comes to challenges you face, you have a 'gold nugget' in the easeful marketing publication. You know, the first time I landed on the publication, I knew this was not a "six figures in six months!" scammer. I also like the fun vibe of the publication!
I've pledged my support and added you to my recommendations. I will try my best to spread the word about your work because it deserves it.
I'm crossing my fingers for landing the agent and getting consulting clients🤞
Jana, oh my gosh. I can't express how much it means to me to hear this. A series of recent conversations (including this one) are showing me that it's time to lean in here. Thank you.
As for my book, it's a middle-grade novel (ages 10-12) so you may not be the target audience, but if you'd like to read the adventures of a 12-year-girl and her magickal (with a 'k') orange cat, DM me! 😸
Hi Jana, it’s nice to find out more about you. I’m in a similar situation about getting back to a course I started at the start of last year but stopped after a few months when my mother-in-law died suddenly. I never went back then this week I looked at it again as I have to finish by December if I’m going to. But I don’t think I want to!
And I’m hoping you don’t mind me sticking around even though I’ve just given up coffee! 😊
Hi, Amanda! Thank you for coming over! I am sorry about your sudden loss. That's difficult and one of the hardest things to live through. From my experiences, I've also found that when you experience loss, priority shift. What once was important, interesting and worthy of time, can become obsolete and unnecessary. I am totally with you on that.
How will you decide?
You're most than welcome to stick around as a non-coffee drinker. In fact, English tea is my second favourite drink.
You all are writers; Amanda has a fantastic writing course on her Substack, The Mindful Writer.
Thanks Jana. I have decided not to do it. My energy can be put to better use doing the things I really want to. How will you decide? Appreciate the shout out for my course too. 😊🙏
You're most welcome. I think I will take the course to the finish line. I'd like to scale up my publication, which is a long-term goal, a very long-term goal, so having coaching skills makes sense. Thank you for asking. 😊
Hi, I’m Danielle in California. I’m an Author, Functional Movement Coach, and a Mom to 2 little under 5 years old.
I’m reading Shatter Me and enjoying how easy it is to read it with two kids running wild 😆
My biggest challenge is finding work life mom balance.
My goal for the year is to keep posting twice a month. To comment and engage more on Substack, when I can. And to start building a small and mighty group of people who love having goals and moving toward them. People who need encouragement to slow down, put the phone down, and have tools to prioritize mental and physical health above external goals.
Juggling everything with two little ones cannot be easy. But I must say, you're doing a great job! I especially love your one-line description: “Committed to a lifelong pursuit of shining my inner light against all odds.”
I have just one word—inspirational!
It’s most.
I love your goal so much.
I've subscribed and cannot wait to be inspired and read more from you.
Thank you so much for the encouragement. I really appreciate it and I’m excited to read your work too. It feels very aligned with what I’m working on right now.
Hi, I’m Laura from Adelaide, Australia. Yesterday I just started reading The Yield by Tara June Winch. I’ve had some challenges at work this year and made the intentional decision which has changed my outlook. It’s still an active decision I need to make everyday to maintain this outlook for the time being though. I have a goal to run a sold out Spring Yoga Retreat in September. It’s a new quarterly offering I’ve been working on and I’m really excited for it!
Would you be willing to share the challenges at work that have changed your outlook? I am interested in working closely with those who have experienced burnout— it's part of the big project. I'm planning for the end of this year and next year. Please let me know if you'd be open to a DM discussion without assuming too much.
Either way, it's great to meet you, and I'm looking forward to reading more from you 😊
I cross my fingers for the Yoga retreat, I hope it works out 👏🤞
Hi Jana, I’d be happy to. I have experienced burnout this year and not ready to share the full story in full but would be keen to DM. I’ll send you a message.
Hi hi hi ... so happy to see so many lovely comments already, I'd be delighted to share too!
∞ Where are you from? - hi, I'm Callie and I'm in sunny SW London, UK, home of the first eco-warriors (the Wombles). I moved to London from the Sussex coast in 2000
∞ What book you’re reading right now? - I'm actively reading three books at present: The League of Gentle Women Witches by India Holton (for my fantasy fiction book club); The Genie in your Genes by Dawson Church; re-reading The Great Work by Tiffany Lazic
∞ What’s one challenge you need to get a different perspective on? - I am taking my business in a new direction after a lifequake completely shifted my personal world: its exciting but also terrifyingly overwhelming, particularly as I am still healing from surgery that has had pretty severe complications and a completely unexpected cancer diagnosis. I know it needs space to evolve. I guess I'm giving myself a hard time for gifting me permission to take time out to heal. I've never ever gone this long without working.
∞ Name your big goal for the next 12 months - to publish 2 journalling books in a very specific niche (see above challenge) and set dates / book venues / secure contracts for 2 retreats to be held in 2025. Ah, as I type this, I suddenly remember that we're already nearly into September '24 and I'm not medically allowed to fly until Spring '25. OK, so 1 retreat date then :)
Hi Callie! Thank you for joining and your sweet introduction!
This won't help, but I'm sorry to hear about the recent diagnoses! ❤️
Seeing you read three books 📚 makes me feel less strange about myself—I do the same. One book isn't enough 😊 my interest changes daily. What a great big goals and I do like that you've planned them for 2025 and gave yourself time to recover.
🥂 Here’s to those “big-brave-girl pants”, now I'm off to read it 😊
Hellooooo Jana, thank you so much for your cheerleading 🥰 I really appreciate your re-stack ♥️
I have multiple piles of books everywhere throughout our home, it drives my husband crazy 🤪 I didn’t include the ones I’m simultaneously reading on Kindle! Happy to meet another eclectic reader who switches her reading material to match the mood / interests of the day 📚
I have lived in West Palm Beach, Prescott AZ, Tucson AZ, Santa Rosa CA, Berkeley CA, San Francisco CA, Austin, Texas, and now Llano Texas. Llano is my favorite because there are goats across the street and deer come into my yard every night. I love them!
I live in Bournemouth on the south coast of England. I’m currently reading Tom Cox’s Notebook, but I’m not doing very well at reading at the moment and need to put aside some time for it. It’s always good to see things from different perspectives but I am struggling to find time and energy to do all the things I want to and all the things I have to. I’d love to get away to a cabin somewhere quiet and simply write, read and walk for a while. And that may help achieve my goal (though the trip to the cabin won’t happen) which is to start earning something from my writing - which means writing more and getting organised.
My blog is Clearing Out and before the end of the year I plan to add a new section of more in depth explorations of some life experiences - name to be announced soon 💚
Oh, Leigh. Welcome, and thank you so much for stopping by. I don't know how I missed your publication; I joined the list after reading the "Metal and Family" post!!
I cannot wait to read more and get to know you and your writing. Getting away into a cabin sounds amazing, but what about the famous Bournemouth Beach?
If you look through my archive, you will find a lot of articles, tools, and tips on managing time and energy. I don't know if they are totally suitable for your circumstances, but you never know. You might find them worthwhile.
I am intrigued by a new section and look forward to the announcement.
Thank you Jana. Yes our beach is beautiful - but I’m not a lucky hut owner and the waiting list is loooong - like years long. I do go down there for dog walks (when it’s a bit cooler and there aren’t 500 million visitors ;) ) and that does help ease my brain.
I will have a look for those articles - I am not great and self organising, and need quiet to focus where my daughter needs noise 🤷🏼♀️
Hope you enjoy future posts and I now must be accountable and get on with my new section prep 💚
I'm on a Seth Godin kick right now, so I'm about to start reading LINCHPIN.
My challenge right now is figuring out how to get it all done - I'm getting certified for book coaching, taking Amy Porterfield classes for email and eventually digital course building. I'm trying to get my Convert Kit situation all set up, I'm developmental editing books, and writing a masterclass to teach at two writing conferences in September.
My goal for the next 12 months is to create digital courses for the masterclass.
Welcome, Renee! Thank you so much for stopping by.
There's a lot in common between us. I'm a massive fan of both Seth Godin and Amy Porterfield. I think I've been following Amy since she was part of Marie Forleo's B school's additional classes. Back then, she was more focused on marketing. I also have her book "Two Weeks Notice" which is sitting in front of me as inspiration; I can't wait to give my notice one day 😂
It seems you have a busy 12 months ahead of you. I am looking forward to your digital course. It sure will be a success with folks here on Substack.
I'm from South Wales, UK, but live in London - and like to think both sides are reflected in my Substack!
Currently reading:
- Like Love: Essays and Conversations, Maggie Nelson
- I Didn't Do the Thing Today, Madeleine Dore (also on Substack!)
- You Are Only Just Beginning, Morgan Harper Nichols
I am sure there are many challenges I could do with a different perspective one, but will share this in case anyone has some good nuggets ... where is the balance between living/acting with intention to work towards your dreams/goals etc., vs falling into hustle culture mentality that leads to burnout?
One goal (of many!) for the next 12 months... work towards being able to reduce my day job hours to 4 days a week, with new paid and creative opportunities and endeavors filling day 5!
Hi, Lauren! It's so good to connect again. Welcome!
I'm familiar with Madeleine Dore (book and Substack), which is so amazing. I will need to add the other books to my wish list. Thank you for sharing.
It's crazy that you mention the balance between working on dreams and a hustle culture. It's a topic I've been gravitating towards for the upcoming collaboration.
I absolutely love your goal; four days in a full-time job and a one-day treat for creative work sounds like perfection. I hope you can make it happen 🤞
Yay. I love that we are all finding our way on Substack and working out what works for us - and doesn't.
I'm Louise from near Cambridge in the UK. I'm currently reading No 23 Burlington Square by Jenni Keer for a summer readalong I'm doing. And I'm also reading Playing Big by Tara Mohr in a readalong hosted by Sarah Raad here.
My current challenge is staying consistent and focused during the holidays as we prepare for our youngest son to go to Uni. And from Sep I'll be spending a lot more time in an empty house. Not quite sure how I feel about that
My goal for the next 12 months is to develop an income from my writing and to devote more time to it now that I have no excuse (see above point) 🤣
Louise! Thank you so much for engaging and not letting me talk to myself here. You are so appreciated!
Oh, 100%, a lot of Substack is test and trial, test and trial.
I love that you have a couple books in progress. I shall check your reading, if it's not too late.
I'm with you on that, spending a lot more time in empty house can be draughting. On the plus side it sort of supports your 12 months goal. I am no expert in Substack, but I can keep you accountable to devoting more time to your writing and supporting your work 😊
My name is Terri-Lei. I'm from a small town near Galveston, Texas. I lived in California, Connecticut, North Carolina, and Virginia before returning to the same small town to reinvent myself.
I'm reading When the World Tips Over by Jandy Nelson, The Blood Mirror by Brent Weeks, and Still the Sun by Charlie Holmberg.
Thanks! I will focus on using Tarot cards to add depth and resonance to fiction writing. I'm starting with character development and diagnosing the reasons for writer's block. I'll branch out to using the Tarot for plot development eventually. My ultimate goal is to be the Ted Lasso of writing coaches. :)
Hi I'm from NYC (grew up in suburbs of Boston). I'm reading The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese. I feel like I need a new perspective on how irritated I feel by certain people who cannot even be bothered to read a post when these are people whose work I've supported for years (going to see their music/art etc.) I know this isn't a "fair" way to look at it, or perhaps even relevant - they don't have to have any interest in what I write - but it sort of gnaws at me.
Wow, that's interesting! Thank you for sharing. I wonder, would you like to explore this further? I'm curious: What makes you believe they don’t read your work? If you let go of expecting fairness, what could you focus on instead?
Ah, thank you. It took a couple of renames to get to CBN— I can thank my day job for it; it came to me during the coffee break as I started plotting my exit 😂 oh, Oxfordshire is near; I'm in Wiltshire. Welcome to CBN and Substack, I'm sure you'll love it 😊
One challenge I have is thinking is it ok to posting 2 posts in a month instead of 4. My posts are long and takes time to write. 2 posts a month seems doable.
Hi Femy, and welcome! It's so great to meet you. I love your specific goal of 100 subscribers.
It's often advised to post once a week, yet most of us can take or leave this advice. Everyone has different priorities, commitments, and writing practices. From a reader's perspective, I am okay with the writer posting less frequently. The work behind each post is enormous, so it's understandable.
Thank you for sharing. I am going to follow along your journey 😊
Hi Natasha, and welcome! How are you finding Lucy's book? It's on my reading list, too. I would love to explore perfectionism further with you, probably in DMs. I love your goal, and I hope you can save enough money to take your daughter for the sunny holidays soon.
Hello, Jana. I "met" you via Kate Darracot's newsletter. Here are my answers:
Where are you from? London, England.
What book you’re reading right now? Love Triangle, by Matt Parker. Contrary to what the title might suggest, it's about maths, not something else.
What’s one challenge you need to get a different perspective on? I'm trying to learn the saxophone. God knows what possessed me, I must be mad. Anyway, I've started to compare myself to how I USED tro sound rather than how I'd LIKE to sound, but every so often I lapse and think I should take up the triangle instead, which is a lot lighter for a start. So I need a strategy to be less hard on myself more of the time!
Name your big goal for the next 12 months. To be good enough at playing alto sax to feel confdident in taking my horn to an open mic club and/or joining a band (preferably a tone deaf one).
Hi, Terry. It's so great to meet you. As soon as I read the title, I thought of something else, so thank you for letting me know it's about math--it's never been my strength.
Saxophone and open mic. What an incredible 12-month goal. I love that. Tell me more: how are you planning to do so, how often do you practice, and what brought you to saxophone in the first place? Are you playing any other instruments? I used to have piano lessons in my childhood from 6-9. You'd think I am pretty good, but the contrary is true 😂
I live in Central Massachusetts. One of my boys left for college yesterday and the other starts his senior year in highschool next week.
I am between books right now. I read a 2 book YA series that I am still recovering from emotionally. The first was "If He Had Been With Me" and the second was "If Only I Had Told Her" both by Laura Nowlin. I read them both in one weekend. Up next is "Still Alice" by Lisa Genova. Apparently I need to cry.
I was severely burned out last November/December from promoting my yoga business on social media. I teach yoga online to active adults over 50, and I realized that how I was running my business wasn't serving me. I joined Substack in January, left IG in March or April, and found I love writing! I have always been a writer of sorts, blogging since 2010 or so, but this feels like home. I just finished writing my book on the first two limbs of yoga (yoga off the mat) and am exploring self publishing. I am struggling to sit down and actually figure out all the things, as I am also launching a new membership in my business and just got back from running a yoga retreat. Too many things happening at once, which is usually for me.
My goal in the next 12 months is to publish and promote my book, finish recording/filming a yoga course about all 8 limbs of yoga and how to live you yoga practice, all while teaching and seeing patients (I'm also an acupuncturist) spending time with my younger son, and having a life. Whew!
Such proud moments, college and senior years! That sounds like a call for celebration. 🎉
The fact you read both books in one weekend just pushed them to the top of my reading list; I'm intrigued.
I'm sorry to hear about your experience with burnout. I can fully relate, as I think we all experience it differently depending on what brought it on. I do wonder how you started to recover. I wrote about my experience earlier this year, but I do find it's still some sort of work in progress.
I love your goals. If you don't mind sharing, I wonder how you broke them down across 12 months so you still had time to rest.
My biggest problem is I am Type A with a million things going on simultaneously. What I was trying to do, however, was promoting my business as an extrovert when I am actually an introvert. That was what led to my burning out. Shifting off of Social media and into Substack allowed me to slow down and move at a calmer pace without screaming into the void. I was able to recover and go back to my Type A ways while honoring my need for quiet and restoration. Coming back to myself and my own wisdom has served me in the past and is serving me now.
Hello! I'm a new substacker (writing about the intersection of public speaking and personal flourishing at julieavisrogers.substack.com) and I'm glad I've stumbled across this beautiful little community! Here are some responses:
Where are you from? Boston, MA! (Going into our dreamy fall foliage season)
What book you’re reading right now? The Body Is Not an Apology by Sonya Renee Taylor--and trying to really dismantle lots of body-shaming messages that I carry around with me
What’s one challenge you need to get a different perspective on? Ooohhhh... that I'm starting a business and have no idea what I'm doing!
Name your big goal for the next 12 months: To be a good, kind *consistent* person to my loved ones.
Hey Jana, a friend of mine shared your wonderful newsletter and if ever there was a Venn diagram of interests, this is it! I'm based in London so not far from you.
I'm a Burnout Coach, Neuroscientist and Art-based Practitioner (just got my diploma in art- based coaching) but I'm still in a day job that has nothing to do with my coaching business. Talk about trying to balance not burning out with so many things on the go!
I too have many books in flight. Currently reading the Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest, The Entangled Brain by Luis Pessoa, and Your Brain On Art by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross.
I'm just kicking off paid subs on my Substack and that's an art! Let's see how it goes so trying to get ideas to make it valuable for folks.
My 12 month big goal is to shift from my career into more coaching business focus. Dreaming and doing are not the same.
Hi Sabrina, It's so nice to meet you! Thank you to your friend for sharing my newsletter with you. That has made my day.
Burnout coach-say no more! I love that. Let me know if you are ever interested in guest posting on the topic for my newsletter. Please. I am always looking for great tips on how to recover. Unfortunately, I am still going through it.
I love the title of your publication, and I just joined your list.
Good luck with paid subscriptions and an impressive 12-month goal. Let me know if I can support you in any way. Once again, thank you for sharing.
Thanks! Have loved dipping into your content. Would love to guest post - happy to chat topics in DMs. Same with any burnout questions or challenges you've got. It's never just one thing with burnout.
I describe it as death by a thousand cuts. I see so many influences so do reach out 💜
Oh, wow, how small is the world, Jo! I cannot believe I am meeting someone here on Substack who lived in Swindon. Thank you for stopping by. Oh, I love the challenge, and I can say for sure that if you stick around, I have a few posts coming out soon that might help you change your perspective. Thank you for sharing your big goal.
Hi,
My name is Jana. I write from Swindon, UK. I was born in Slovakia and left when I was 21.
I always have three books on the go. So, this week, I have in progress:
Originals by Adam Grant
Everything is f*cked by Mark Manson
and Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon
This week, I struggled to discipline myself to sit down and read. There’s been too much going on. I’ll do better at the weekend.
The one challenge I am trying to gain a different perspective on is the 18-month apprenticeship program in coaching. I signed up a couple of years back and took a break while going through the burnout. Now it's time to get back to it; if I don't, they will kick me out of the course. The question is: do I have the time and energy for it? Do I still want to continue with my studies? Am I still interested in the topic? Will I regret it if I quit? I know I will regret it if I quit, but is that a good enough reason to continue?
Lastly, my big goal for the next 12 months is to maintain regular publishing schedule here on my publication whilst also read one non-fiction book per month so I get some quality rest. Achievable? I hope so.
I wanted to weigh in on your coaching program dilemma. As you know, I also trained to become a coach, and sat for the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches exam. It was a lot of work, but I really enjoyed it, and I'm glad I did it. I learned a lot that is beneficial to me in my day-to-day life, as well as for coaching. I also made some lifelong friends in my program. All that said, only you can decide whether it's worth it to you and whether you have the energy to complete the program with your other responsibilities. Two questions: How will you feel if you complete the program? How will you feel if you don't complete it? What feels better? (okay that was 3 questions). It sounds like you had reasons for starting the program, revisit those reasons and whether they are still valid. List your reasons for finishing it and your reasons for not finishing it. Are the pros of finishing greater than the cons? Are the cons of not finishing it greater than the pros? I wish you the best with your decision, and I'm confident you'll land on what is the best decision for you.
Thank you, Daria. Your reply and suggestions are genuinely valued, and they really started to form the ground for my decision. In particular, I like the two questions you provided me with (very coach-like 😊). The Substack has taken over my free time (free-willed); however, as the saying goes, you can't put all the eggs in the same basket. Also, it's unrealistic that every newsletter came to make sustainable full-time work out of regular publishing. So, coaching as a skill would be an additional benefit to me. Also, I wouldn't say I like to quit things I've invested time into.
I interviewed a friend for my Substack earlier this year who had also started a coaching programme, but since has also developed new takes on trying out different projects to explore what fits, which she shared here - in case helpful for your thinking! https://laurenkatepowell.substack.com/p/career-compass-2
Thank you so much for sharing it; I will have a read.
You're welcome! hope you enjoy :)
This is such a common issue post burnout when you're managing your curiosity, goals for the future and trying to be wiser with energy management.
Is there a way to break down the tasks each week or month so you feel at ease with what you can't get to? The latter is where the real focus is.
Definitely achievable.
Having just finished the first cup of coffee, and at "work" for over an hour (now 6:25 AM) I will take a shot at your 4 questions:
1 - I am from many places, originally southwestern Ohio, later lived in the Southwest U.S. Most recently "from" AZ and now, living in Mexico.
2 - Reading "Hospicing Modernity: Facing Humanity's Wrongs and the Implications for Social Activism" by Vanessa Machado de Oliveira
3 - One challenge needing a different perspective is writing and becoming a better writer.
4 - BHAG for the next 12 months - keep walking and extend it.
http://garygruber.substack.com
You shoot away, Gary! Welcome. It is such a pleasure to have you here! We have something in common: not settling for one place but living in different locations over time.
Thank you for sharing your current read; it sounds interesting. Is it worth adding to my reading list?
I enjoy your writing very much, Gary. What could we do about your perspective on it? You share so much wisdom in a wonderful way.
I love your goal!
Yes. “Hospicing Modernity:…….” worth adding to your list. I’ve shared it with many others here and elsewhere. It’s not an easy read but it’s an important, perhaps critical, perspective. It opens up some new ways of seeing and understanding where we are, how we got to this point and what lies ahead, especially as it relates to the environment and the planet. Sometimes I think it’s think globally, act globally, and that is one tough assignment. Thanks for the compliment on sharing wisdom. I stand on the shoulders of many who came before me, thus I am deeply and enormously grateful.
Hi Jana
I am becoming a huge fan of your Substack, there is a lot of cross-over with your thinking and mine, hopefully we can give each other support in this journey. 😃
I'm an entrepreneurial empty-nester, enjoying a midlife gap year, based in Guildford, Surrey, UK.
During this year I have become more than a little obsessed with Substack, to the point now, where I wonder what I'd do without it. 😉
I now have three Substacks on go, each one supports the other, so instead of overwhelm, I actually feel like it's a balanced tripod.
Off on a Tangent – my humorous take on life: including life hacks and TV/Film reviews.
https://katedarracott.substack.com/
Substack Type Club – a place where we can learn and grow on Substack together.
https://typeclub.substack.com/
Co-Work Corner – the portal for IRL co-working sessions across my local area.
https://coworkhub.substack.com/
My goal for the next 12 months is to keep showing up and grow all three. I love this new lifestyle and am very prepared to put in the hours to try and prolong it for as long as possible.
That original 'gap year' may well stretch to two and beyond. 😉
K8x
Thank you, Kate, and welcome to CB! It's so nice to meet you virtually, and thank you for sharing.
I've never had a fan, so you're my first! Cross-over thinking sounds good to me. You have my full support. Let's stretch out the 'gap year' to beyond.😊
I could not agree with you more; over the past year, I've also grown quite obsessed with Substack. It's what I do outside of my full-time job (which I would drop in the instance for Substack... maybe one day). It's fascinating and such a rewarding online space.
You know, I've been enjoying your humorous take on life for a while. I don't know how you manage not one BUT 3 Substacks. I am dropping my imaginary hat! Your ability to juggle these is truly admirable. You must share this with all of us, maybe in the interview? Especially the 'balanced tripod' system you've got going on. 🤯
I'm adding Off on a Tangent and Substack Type Club to my recommendations. I know you're doing amazing with the first one and don't really need it, and the latter is new, but I have a hunch it's going to be a big one! ☺️
Thank you so much Jana!
Unlike most people here I'm not trying to juggle a full-time job and children, so running three Substacks (one of which very much helps the others get written) is very manageable, and great fun, I love it!
Thank you so much for the recommendations, they really do help! 👏 😘
That's true, but full-time jobs and children are not the only demands on your time. Managing three subtasks simultaneously is a major achievement.
Hi, I'm Tim from Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, Canada
Right now I'm reading: Love, a brand new book by Substacker @Andee Scarantino (View From the Roof)
Challenge: Family responsibilities and elderly parents - My dad is 92, Mom is 87 and they are having trouble living on their own in the country but won't move or consider alternatives
Big Goal: Going pro as a writer and health coach
https://www.time2thrive.ca
Welcome, Tim. It's so lovely to meet you virtually.
Canada is beautiful (I judged based on the pictures; I've not visited yet), but Rocky Mountain sounds Mountainy! I love mountains and lakes; we have our fair share of them in Slovakia, too. The UK is a beautiful country, too. There is a lot of greenery for walks.
I hear you, parents can be stubborn sometimes. Hats off for their age, though!
I wonder, what do you need to make your big goal a reality?
Your Substack slipped the net for some reason, but I fixed it now. I've joined your community and look forward to reading and learning more about you.
My name is Ivan. I live in New York City. I review movies every Sunday on my Substack, MovieStruck:
https://moviestruck.substack.com/
I'm currently reading "The Nickel Boys", a novel by Colson Whitehead set in Florida during the burgeoning civil rights era. The movie adaptation will be released this fall, and early indications suggest that it could be fascinating. I'm looking forward to it.
I don't so much need a different perspective as I need to stay faithful to an evolving one, namely, that writing teaches you how to write. I know it's commonly said that if you want to write, you must write. True. But what isn't often stressed is that the doing is always a lesson. The English language is much bigger and older than you are. So, it's always true that the power of words lies in the words themselves and their possible interactions. You have to listen to the words you choose to hear how they'll actually arrive in the mind of a reader. By all means read your work aloud before you publish. I also need an editor.
For the next 12 months I want to keep doing what I've been doing for the past nearly three years of reviewing movies. To dig deeper into how and why movies work on me as they do, to set what their creators intended alongside what I think they're actually achieving as I sit in my seat watching and listening. Not unlike what I've said above, a movie teaches you how to watch it. I'm a cursed romantic writer. You don't tell the tale; the tale tells you.
Hi, Ivan!
It's a pleasure to finally connect with you. I can't believe I've missed out on your Substack until now, but I'm thrilled to be on board.
I've checked the movie reviews you have written so far. I love it.
I try to go on a cinema date with my one every other week, and he usually suggests movies.
No longer, now I've got a Sunday dish of movies and can start to impress him. 😊 Even though I think once he finds out about Movie Struck, he will join, too.
This part you wrote stood out to me:
"You have to listen to the words you choose to hear how they'll arrive in a reader's mind. By all means, read your work aloud before you publish. I also need an editor."
You're right. It's more challenging if your first language is not English but all can be taught. Well, that is my challenge.
I've heard many Substack writers work with editors, which definitely adds more flavour to writing. I hope you find someone suitable.
I've been reading your reviews this morning, and there's a lot I can learn from your writing.
Thank you for your incredible work and for sharing your 12-month goal. I'll see you in your comments.
Jana, Thank you so much for your thoughts. They're SO encouraging. You're the kind of open-minded, curious reader I'm always hoping to reach. True, I want to draw the movie experts, too, those who know far more about movies than I do. They're an interesting challenge. But what's most vital to me is inviting readers to think anew, freshly, even a bit scarily, about what they see when they watch a movie. I like to hope I can get to readers as they catch the wave of a movie, suddenly feel WHY it's washing over them and through them. The discovery or re-discovery of how movies aren't like any other art form is my true mission statement.
Also, to be clear, when I said I "need" an editor I was trying to make clear -- I may have failed -- that I already HAVE an editor. Two, in fact. They switch off, one edits me one week, the other edits me the following week. They're both steeped in decades of movie knowledge, so I trust them implicitly. I should have been bolder and said I think every writer needs an editor, but that would be argumentative, and each writer grows in his or her own fashion
I'm so pleased you believe you can learn from what I write. About yourself, uppermost, I hope. Movies are an immensely public art and at the same time they can be as personal as poetry in the way they tap on nerve endings you didn't necessarily know were there. Thanks again for hearing what I tried to get across.
Hi Jana and Friends!
I’m April and I live in my van. I have been nomadic for about five years and can’t figure out what I want: a stationary home or to keep traveling. I am also on a journey of devotion to my art and work as an artist (writing and photography) and in finding my people. It’s true what Carl Jung said (paraphrasing): that if you are diligent in your work you will find many heretofore unknown friends. My substack is called: The Ecstatic Wanderer. It’s about vanlife & soul searching and sometimes letter-esque and sometimes story-esque. I’m letting it run a little wild so it can figure out what it wants to be.
I’m currently in between books! I just finished The Snow Child which I loved. Thinking about picking up Leigh Bardugo’s The Familiar next. I don’t normally read a lot of fiction but am gravitating more to pleasure reading these days.
My biggest challenge right now is how to find a new bridge income source that will balance well with my writing life as I develop that into a career. I work as a tech writer in healthcare and it is just too much writing to do that and then my creative work. Also just too much stress & time sitting.
And my goal for the next 12 months? Similar to Jana, I will stay on a consistent publishing schedule on substack. I will also write the first draft of my memoir.
Lovely to meet you all. Thanks for sharing, Jana. Looking forward to connecting more. 💗
Hi, April! Thank you for coming over. It's good to hear from you.
You know, you live the life I've been secretly dreaming about since last year. When the burnout hit hard, all I wanted to do is lock all my belongings into the storage box and move into the van. Travel the UK from the Swindon across all the way to Scotland, then do the whole cross Europe trip. All I really need is my dear boyfriend and macbook, and of course, internet connection for Substack.
Now, there are two mentions of The Snow Child, I take it as sign to add it to my Kindle. Thank you for sharing.
PS - I'm in a similar spot with my work ... trying to do more creative writing while keeping up with my 17-year freelance writing (content marketing). It's a lot for my poor, addled brain to juggle; and I'm wanting to save more of my "juice" for my own projects these days.😉
I really enjoyed both The Snow Child AND The Familiar! 💜 📖 I love reading fiction, but - sadly - haven't had much time lately. Thank goodness for audio books! 😉
Ah, The Snowchild is wonderful - I highly recommend Eowyn's next book, To The Bright Edge of the World. Very different 'tho beautifully written; I preferred it to The Snowchild - incredibly moving book
Thanks for starting this conversation, Jana. Such fun!
I'm from a little town north of Boston, MA called Ipswich. Our claim to fame is being the home of really good fried clams. It's not glamorous, but it IS tasty.
I'm currently reading two books - a hard copy of The Fair Folk by my friend Su Bristow, and the audio book of Kate Atkinson's short story collection, Normal Rules Don't Apply. Both are excellent.
The challenge that could benefit from a different perspective is reinventing how I earn my living. for the last 17 years I've been a freelance writer creating content for clients in a variety of industries, but - while I still need that work to pay my mortgage and my daughter's college tuition bills - I'm ready to transition to a different/more personally fulfilling path. (Hence the Substack.)
My big goal for the next 12 months (do I seriously have to pick just one?) is ... to see where this Substack takes me, giving it my all while at the same time figuring out how to find a healthy balance of work and play that fuels my creativity without burning me out.
Thank you for asking such great questions. This really got me thinking!
Nice to see you here from far away Boston.
I really like this; my reading wish list has grown so much since starting this thread.
Even though it seems like a challenge, Substack was a very good choice.
Those who teach writing, or how to do writing for living seems to do very well on Substack.
I myself am a paid subscriber to Writing in the Dark and Mindful Writer, and of course, Sarah Fay sprinkles some writing lessons occasionally.
I'm not sure if that is something you're exploring.
I love your goal! And please, do share some tips if you can. It's very much what I am trying to do here: seek that balance between work and plan. Thank you for sharing.
I'm also in MA, but further west in Lancaster. Nice to meet you! And yes, Ipswich has great clams.
I'm Daria. At this moment, I'm in the north Georgia mountains. I'm reading two books: "A Good Girl's Guide to Murder" and "Ageless Aging" by Maddy Dychtwald. My current challenge is deciding whether to retire at the end of the year to pursue my health and wellness coaching full time or to continue working as an attorney part time and pursuing my health and wellness coaching part time (which is essentially what I'm doing now.) Dilemma is money. Is the money from a job worth it to me to pursue my passion for health and wellness only part time. My big goal for the next 12 months is to guide as many people as possible on their journey to improved health and wellness so they can remain independent and vital as they age. The ultimate objective is for people to add life to their years. My Substack is part of this. I write Wellgevity Warrior with Daria Diaz http://dlbdiaz.substack.com
Hi Daria! Thank you for joining. It's so good to have you here at CB! Oh, and BBC has a TV series version of "A Good Girl's Guide to Murder." It's amazing. What are the chances?! The books are always better than TV series, but the title got me!
Money is a tough one. You want to pursue your passion but don't want to get yourself into a compromising situation. Health and wellness coaching could replace the current income.
I must admit. Thanks to your work, I have only cut the procrastination about going back to the gym and using COVID-19 as an excuse for pausing exercise for four years!
Daria, I can't thank you enough. Your Substack has truly changed my perspective on health and wellness.
Jana, I'm over the moon to hear that you're reclaiming your health and fitness! That's why I love doing this. If what I do makes even a small difference in someone's life, or helps them find a way to make a positive change, that's my objective. Thank you, Jana. You're an inspiration
Hi Daria - sounds like an interesting time, and great goal!
I'm not sure if you know here, but Selina Barker has some good career change advice/guidance in case helpful :) - https://anotherwaywithselinabarker.substack.com/
Thank you! I'll take a look at Selina's Substack.
Howdy!
My name is Brad. I'm writing at BradDidericksen.com from Salt Lake City, US.
I'm reading "Keep Going" by Austin Kleon and just finished "The Bullet Journal Method" by Ryder Carroll. "The Science of Storytelling" by Will Storr is up next.
I'm currently experimenting with how to stay-up-to-date with reading and commenting on Substack while still getting my own research and writing done.
My big hairy and audacious goal for the next 12 months is to earn an additional $36k/year so that I can better support my families endeavors.
Hi, Brad!
Welcome, it's so lovely to see you here.
You know your reading looks pretty close up, my alley! Keep Going" by Austin Kleon and "The Science of Storytelling" by Will Storr are both on my wish lists. Let's discuss takeaways in the near future. 🙂
Brad, I completely understand the challenge of staying up to date with reading, commenting, and supporting other writers while juggling our own work. I've been testing a few approaches that might be helpful, and I'm looking forward to sharing them with you soon. 🤞
Your "big and audacious" goal sounds so specific. I hope the Substack will help make it a reality. 🥳
Hi Jana, thank you for this post!
Regarding the coaching I just want to say follow your energy. This is what I found to be true for me. Yes maybe I wanted to do something few years back, today I am moving with life..the thing remains special to me for x reasons but right now I 'feel' right in what I am currently occupied with.
Doesn't mean I don't value what I started, maybe I just don't have the time right now, whatever maybe your reason for having second thoughts, make a pick. Ask yourself what do you want most? Doing this or not doing this.
You know the answer, say it aloud.
Many times we know the answer but bcz our mind is having so many restricting thoughts, we don't want to say it.
Sorry maybe this is long..but hope it helps!
As for me:
I am from Pakistan, raised and living in the UAE.
I have many books and I am not near finishing any yet. Instead I read book summaries on this app called headway. Recently read Big Magic.
The biggest challenge that remains is moving with time. When the day ends, it ends. No need to do too many things. Try again tomorrow, rise and rest with the day.. trying to live by what I preach.
Goal will be specific and so far haven't had that space to plan things ahead. But as a starting point the first and most important goal is to remain consistent in my efforts and writing. Working things out on a weekly, monthly basis.
My Substack:
https://saimaahmed.substack.com/
Welcome, Saima. You're most welcome! Thank you for coming over! It's so good to connect again.
You know, Saima. I love the energy you have about you; it comes through the way you write. Whenever I read anything from you, whether it is a post, note, or comment like this one, I feel so at ease and balanced. Keep that!
I like to see how the whole world is coming together here on CB.
Thank you for sharing. I've not heard of Headway, but it's being downloaded as I type my reply.
However, there are books I want to discuss, so full book reading will still have to happen. However, the app might help with other book interests, so thank you for that!
Your response to the challenge is incredibly powerful, Saima. It's exactly the kind of approach I need more of in my life, which is why I'm so glad to be your reader. Your unique perspective and energy are truly inspiring.
Thank you for sharing your goal.
Thank you for your advice, I do appreciate it. And it has a lot to do with energy; you're correct. I originally signed up for training to apply it to my management role, which is all part of improving and improving. That has taken 180 spins since the burnout; since then, I've been searching for the exit door. However, the money is what keeps me there for now. It'll be a while until my publication is at the level I feel appropriate to charge, but that's another massive topic.
There are elements within coaching that help me do what energises me: learning. Even if I've never converted coaching into work, I could benefit from some elements of it, even here on CB. With that said, I think you helped me decide. Thank you; that means a lot. This is the beauty of the community and threads: sharing ideas, wisdom, and prompts.
Thank you so much Jana for your kind words, really glad to find and connect with you! 😊✨
Regarding books yes you are right, reading in full is one thing and the summaries another. Reading on Headway ( there are some more apps like blinklist and short form but I havent tried them in full as they are costlier) helps me get a gist of the book in the limited time I have in my days. Hopefully when there is more time I can buy the full books!
For the work yes..it's so many things not easy to decide right away. Finding a balance btwn my realities ( things not in my control, things unavoidable and things I want to pursue/ spend time on) helps me manage my time and energy.
Thank you again for this post, more power to You 🔥 😊✨
Hi Jana and everyone! I'm near Portland, OR, where it's sunny, cool, and a little fall-like today.
The book I'm reading right now is actually the one I wrote! Well, a manuscript, anyway, that I'm on my fifth-ish round of edits with. I'm prepping it to share with beta readers by the end of this month, so I've been super busy reading and editing.
One challenge: get over the blocks I feel about sharing my marketing knowledge with others. I worked in corporate marketing for years, then had my own consulting business for a while, and now have a non-marketing day job. I can feel that it's time to move gradually back towards self-employment, but instead of consulting for tech startups (blech), I'd much rather advise creatives, writers, artists, and others carving non-traditional paths for themselves. I desperately don't want to become one of those "six figures in six months!" scammers who prey on creators' dreams with unrealistic promises, but I think my visceral desire to avoid taking advantage of others is also keeping me from being very upfront about how I can actually offer helpful marketing guidance to folx. The irony of a marketing person being afraid to talk about marketing isn't lost on me. 😅
Big goals for the next 12 months: land an agent for my manuscript, have at least 5 marketing consulting sessions with clients every week.
My Substacks:
https://easefulmarketing.substack.com/ (the marketing one)
https://creativeletters.substack.com/ (the creative one)
Robin, I'm truly honoured to have you join us! Your work in Creative Letters has always resonated with me, and I'm a huge fan of your writing.
It's very fall-like in the UK, too. 😊
Reading your own book must feel surreal. How awesome is that! I don't know how beta reading works, but I'd love to read your work by the end of the month.
Did I mention I am a fan?
When it comes to challenges you face, you have a 'gold nugget' in the easeful marketing publication. You know, the first time I landed on the publication, I knew this was not a "six figures in six months!" scammer. I also like the fun vibe of the publication!
I've pledged my support and added you to my recommendations. I will try my best to spread the word about your work because it deserves it.
I'm crossing my fingers for landing the agent and getting consulting clients🤞
Jana, oh my gosh. I can't express how much it means to me to hear this. A series of recent conversations (including this one) are showing me that it's time to lean in here. Thank you.
As for my book, it's a middle-grade novel (ages 10-12) so you may not be the target audience, but if you'd like to read the adventures of a 12-year-girl and her magickal (with a 'k') orange cat, DM me! 😸
You’re most welcome. I look forward to reading and learning marketing in an enjoyable way.
You know, funny you say that, Robin. I have a ten-year-old niece. She loves to read books, she also writes. She’s my ten-year-old idol ❤️
Hi Jana, it’s nice to find out more about you. I’m in a similar situation about getting back to a course I started at the start of last year but stopped after a few months when my mother-in-law died suddenly. I never went back then this week I looked at it again as I have to finish by December if I’m going to. But I don’t think I want to!
And I’m hoping you don’t mind me sticking around even though I’ve just given up coffee! 😊
Hi, Amanda! Thank you for coming over! I am sorry about your sudden loss. That's difficult and one of the hardest things to live through. From my experiences, I've also found that when you experience loss, priority shift. What once was important, interesting and worthy of time, can become obsolete and unnecessary. I am totally with you on that.
How will you decide?
You're most than welcome to stick around as a non-coffee drinker. In fact, English tea is my second favourite drink.
You all are writers; Amanda has a fantastic writing course on her Substack, The Mindful Writer.
Thanks Jana. I have decided not to do it. My energy can be put to better use doing the things I really want to. How will you decide? Appreciate the shout out for my course too. 😊🙏
You're most welcome. I think I will take the course to the finish line. I'd like to scale up my publication, which is a long-term goal, a very long-term goal, so having coaching skills makes sense. Thank you for asking. 😊
Hi, I’m Danielle in California. I’m an Author, Functional Movement Coach, and a Mom to 2 little under 5 years old.
I’m reading Shatter Me and enjoying how easy it is to read it with two kids running wild 😆
My biggest challenge is finding work life mom balance.
My goal for the year is to keep posting twice a month. To comment and engage more on Substack, when I can. And to start building a small and mighty group of people who love having goals and moving toward them. People who need encouragement to slow down, put the phone down, and have tools to prioritize mental and physical health above external goals.
Hi, Danielle! It’s so lovely to meet you!
Juggling everything with two little ones cannot be easy. But I must say, you're doing a great job! I especially love your one-line description: “Committed to a lifelong pursuit of shining my inner light against all odds.”
I have just one word—inspirational!
It’s most.
I love your goal so much.
I've subscribed and cannot wait to be inspired and read more from you.
Thank you so much for the encouragement. I really appreciate it and I’m excited to read your work too. It feels very aligned with what I’m working on right now.
❤️
Hi, I’m Laura from Adelaide, Australia. Yesterday I just started reading The Yield by Tara June Winch. I’ve had some challenges at work this year and made the intentional decision which has changed my outlook. It’s still an active decision I need to make everyday to maintain this outlook for the time being though. I have a goal to run a sold out Spring Yoga Retreat in September. It’s a new quarterly offering I’ve been working on and I’m really excited for it!
Hi Laura! I love your publication name☺️
Would you be willing to share the challenges at work that have changed your outlook? I am interested in working closely with those who have experienced burnout— it's part of the big project. I'm planning for the end of this year and next year. Please let me know if you'd be open to a DM discussion without assuming too much.
Either way, it's great to meet you, and I'm looking forward to reading more from you 😊
I cross my fingers for the Yoga retreat, I hope it works out 👏🤞
Hi Jana, I’d be happy to. I have experienced burnout this year and not ready to share the full story in full but would be keen to DM. I’ll send you a message.
And thank you, my partner actually came up with the name! He is great with clever words and phrasing like that.
Here is a link to my substack - https://open.substack.com/pub/laurahodgson?r=qrzpn&utm_medium=ios
Hi hi hi ... so happy to see so many lovely comments already, I'd be delighted to share too!
∞ Where are you from? - hi, I'm Callie and I'm in sunny SW London, UK, home of the first eco-warriors (the Wombles). I moved to London from the Sussex coast in 2000
∞ What book you’re reading right now? - I'm actively reading three books at present: The League of Gentle Women Witches by India Holton (for my fantasy fiction book club); The Genie in your Genes by Dawson Church; re-reading The Great Work by Tiffany Lazic
∞ What’s one challenge you need to get a different perspective on? - I am taking my business in a new direction after a lifequake completely shifted my personal world: its exciting but also terrifyingly overwhelming, particularly as I am still healing from surgery that has had pretty severe complications and a completely unexpected cancer diagnosis. I know it needs space to evolve. I guess I'm giving myself a hard time for gifting me permission to take time out to heal. I've never ever gone this long without working.
∞ Name your big goal for the next 12 months - to publish 2 journalling books in a very specific niche (see above challenge) and set dates / book venues / secure contracts for 2 retreats to be held in 2025. Ah, as I type this, I suddenly remember that we're already nearly into September '24 and I'm not medically allowed to fly until Spring '25. OK, so 1 retreat date then :)
I have put my big-brave-girl pants on and FINALLY started writing something on one of my Substacks this week: https://createavitystudio.substack.com/
Hi Callie! Thank you for joining and your sweet introduction!
This won't help, but I'm sorry to hear about the recent diagnoses! ❤️
Seeing you read three books 📚 makes me feel less strange about myself—I do the same. One book isn't enough 😊 my interest changes daily. What a great big goals and I do like that you've planned them for 2025 and gave yourself time to recover.
🥂 Here’s to those “big-brave-girl pants”, now I'm off to read it 😊
Hellooooo Jana, thank you so much for your cheerleading 🥰 I really appreciate your re-stack ♥️
I have multiple piles of books everywhere throughout our home, it drives my husband crazy 🤪 I didn’t include the ones I’m simultaneously reading on Kindle! Happy to meet another eclectic reader who switches her reading material to match the mood / interests of the day 📚
My name is Penny.
I'm from Detroit, Michigan, but currently live in Llano Texas
I'm reading "Everywhere I Look" by Ona Gritz
A challenge I need to get a different perspective on is my autistic son's ability to live independently.
My big goal for the next 12 months is to learn Spanish and become a better gardener.
I have lived in West Palm Beach, Prescott AZ, Tucson AZ, Santa Rosa CA, Berkeley CA, San Francisco CA, Austin, Texas, and now Llano Texas. Llano is my favorite because there are goats across the street and deer come into my yard every night. I love them!
Welcome, Penny! It’s so great to meet you.
Would you recommend “Everywhere I look”?
How are you getting on with the challenge you've mentioned?
Great goals, I like the combination of learning and nurture 💕
Hi Jana,
I live in Bournemouth on the south coast of England. I’m currently reading Tom Cox’s Notebook, but I’m not doing very well at reading at the moment and need to put aside some time for it. It’s always good to see things from different perspectives but I am struggling to find time and energy to do all the things I want to and all the things I have to. I’d love to get away to a cabin somewhere quiet and simply write, read and walk for a while. And that may help achieve my goal (though the trip to the cabin won’t happen) which is to start earning something from my writing - which means writing more and getting organised.
My blog is Clearing Out and before the end of the year I plan to add a new section of more in depth explorations of some life experiences - name to be announced soon 💚
Thank you for your thread Jana :)
Oh, Leigh. Welcome, and thank you so much for stopping by. I don't know how I missed your publication; I joined the list after reading the "Metal and Family" post!!
I cannot wait to read more and get to know you and your writing. Getting away into a cabin sounds amazing, but what about the famous Bournemouth Beach?
If you look through my archive, you will find a lot of articles, tools, and tips on managing time and energy. I don't know if they are totally suitable for your circumstances, but you never know. You might find them worthwhile.
I am intrigued by a new section and look forward to the announcement.
Thank you Jana. Yes our beach is beautiful - but I’m not a lucky hut owner and the waiting list is loooong - like years long. I do go down there for dog walks (when it’s a bit cooler and there aren’t 500 million visitors ;) ) and that does help ease my brain.
I will have a look for those articles - I am not great and self organising, and need quiet to focus where my daughter needs noise 🤷🏼♀️
Hope you enjoy future posts and I now must be accountable and get on with my new section prep 💚
Hi Jana,
I live in NYC.
I'm on a Seth Godin kick right now, so I'm about to start reading LINCHPIN.
My challenge right now is figuring out how to get it all done - I'm getting certified for book coaching, taking Amy Porterfield classes for email and eventually digital course building. I'm trying to get my Convert Kit situation all set up, I'm developmental editing books, and writing a masterclass to teach at two writing conferences in September.
My goal for the next 12 months is to create digital courses for the masterclass.
Welcome, Renee! Thank you so much for stopping by.
There's a lot in common between us. I'm a massive fan of both Seth Godin and Amy Porterfield. I think I've been following Amy since she was part of Marie Forleo's B school's additional classes. Back then, she was more focused on marketing. I also have her book "Two Weeks Notice" which is sitting in front of me as inspiration; I can't wait to give my notice one day 😂
It seems you have a busy 12 months ahead of you. I am looking forward to your digital course. It sure will be a success with folks here on Substack.
Hi all, lovely to be here!
I'm Lauren, and I write The Navigation on Substack - https://laurenkatepowell.substack.com/
I'm from South Wales, UK, but live in London - and like to think both sides are reflected in my Substack!
Currently reading:
- Like Love: Essays and Conversations, Maggie Nelson
- I Didn't Do the Thing Today, Madeleine Dore (also on Substack!)
- You Are Only Just Beginning, Morgan Harper Nichols
I am sure there are many challenges I could do with a different perspective one, but will share this in case anyone has some good nuggets ... where is the balance between living/acting with intention to work towards your dreams/goals etc., vs falling into hustle culture mentality that leads to burnout?
One goal (of many!) for the next 12 months... work towards being able to reduce my day job hours to 4 days a week, with new paid and creative opportunities and endeavors filling day 5!
Hi, Lauren! It's so good to connect again. Welcome!
I'm familiar with Madeleine Dore (book and Substack), which is so amazing. I will need to add the other books to my wish list. Thank you for sharing.
It's crazy that you mention the balance between working on dreams and a hustle culture. It's a topic I've been gravitating towards for the upcoming collaboration.
I absolutely love your goal; four days in a full-time job and a one-day treat for creative work sounds like perfection. I hope you can make it happen 🤞
Thank you! 🥰
Yes agreed - lots of great nuggets!
Oohh that sounds interesting, I look forward to reading more soon!
Thank you for the encouragement!! 🙌
Yay. I love that we are all finding our way on Substack and working out what works for us - and doesn't.
I'm Louise from near Cambridge in the UK. I'm currently reading No 23 Burlington Square by Jenni Keer for a summer readalong I'm doing. And I'm also reading Playing Big by Tara Mohr in a readalong hosted by Sarah Raad here.
My current challenge is staying consistent and focused during the holidays as we prepare for our youngest son to go to Uni. And from Sep I'll be spending a lot more time in an empty house. Not quite sure how I feel about that
My goal for the next 12 months is to develop an income from my writing and to devote more time to it now that I have no excuse (see above point) 🤣
Louise! Thank you so much for engaging and not letting me talk to myself here. You are so appreciated!
Oh, 100%, a lot of Substack is test and trial, test and trial.
I love that you have a couple books in progress. I shall check your reading, if it's not too late.
I'm with you on that, spending a lot more time in empty house can be draughting. On the plus side it sort of supports your 12 months goal. I am no expert in Substack, but I can keep you accountable to devoting more time to your writing and supporting your work 😊
Hey!
My name is Terri-Lei. I'm from a small town near Galveston, Texas. I lived in California, Connecticut, North Carolina, and Virginia before returning to the same small town to reinvent myself.
I'm reading When the World Tips Over by Jandy Nelson, The Blood Mirror by Brent Weeks, and Still the Sun by Charlie Holmberg.
I'm launching Write to be Read on Substack this Thursday! https://substack.com/@terrileiomalley
How's that for accountability?
Hi, Terri-Lei! And welcome!
Your publication sounds interesting. What’s going to be your focus, tell us more 😊
Thanks! I will focus on using Tarot cards to add depth and resonance to fiction writing. I'm starting with character development and diagnosing the reasons for writer's block. I'll branch out to using the Tarot for plot development eventually. My ultimate goal is to be the Ted Lasso of writing coaches. :)
Hi I'm from NYC (grew up in suburbs of Boston). I'm reading The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese. I feel like I need a new perspective on how irritated I feel by certain people who cannot even be bothered to read a post when these are people whose work I've supported for years (going to see their music/art etc.) I know this isn't a "fair" way to look at it, or perhaps even relevant - they don't have to have any interest in what I write - but it sort of gnaws at me.
Wow, that's interesting! Thank you for sharing. I wonder, would you like to explore this further? I'm curious: What makes you believe they don’t read your work? If you let go of expecting fairness, what could you focus on instead?
Great questions Jana! I will think about these!
Hi Jana (such a gorgeous name BTW),
I was born in Mumbai, India; live between London and Oxfordshire; and few other countries along the way.
I used to be a financial journalist, in now freelance and write about anything that catches an editor’s fancy.
I am excited to see how high the bar is on Substack but am sceptical a non-self-starter like me will make the most of it.
Looking forward to your weekly posts! x
Ah, thank you. It took a couple of renames to get to CBN— I can thank my day job for it; it came to me during the coffee break as I started plotting my exit 😂 oh, Oxfordshire is near; I'm in Wiltshire. Welcome to CBN and Substack, I'm sure you'll love it 😊
Hi. I’m femy. I am from California. I am reading pachinko. My goal for the next 12 months is to get 100 subscribers.
One challenge I have is thinking is it ok to posting 2 posts in a month instead of 4. My posts are long and takes time to write. 2 posts a month seems doable.
Hi Femy, and welcome! It's so great to meet you. I love your specific goal of 100 subscribers.
It's often advised to post once a week, yet most of us can take or leave this advice. Everyone has different priorities, commitments, and writing practices. From a reader's perspective, I am okay with the writer posting less frequently. The work behind each post is enormous, so it's understandable.
Thank you for sharing. I am going to follow along your journey 😊
I'm Natasha 👋🏻 A psychotherapist & mum from West Yorkshire
I'm currently reading Hype Yourself by Lucy Werner
One challenge I need perspective on is how to create content without perfectionism jumping in!
My 12 month goal is to save money from my private practice endeavours to take my daughter on a wonderful sunny holiday ☀️
Hi Natasha, and welcome! How are you finding Lucy's book? It's on my reading list, too. I would love to explore perfectionism further with you, probably in DMs. I love your goal, and I hope you can save enough money to take your daughter for the sunny holidays soon.
Thank you Jana! I’m really enjoying @Lucy Werner ‘s book. It’s really practical, I recommend having a notepad ready! :-)
My Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/natashascullane?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=2x1iun
Hello, Jana. I "met" you via Kate Darracot's newsletter. Here are my answers:
Where are you from? London, England.
What book you’re reading right now? Love Triangle, by Matt Parker. Contrary to what the title might suggest, it's about maths, not something else.
What’s one challenge you need to get a different perspective on? I'm trying to learn the saxophone. God knows what possessed me, I must be mad. Anyway, I've started to compare myself to how I USED tro sound rather than how I'd LIKE to sound, but every so often I lapse and think I should take up the triangle instead, which is a lot lighter for a start. So I need a strategy to be less hard on myself more of the time!
Name your big goal for the next 12 months. To be good enough at playing alto sax to feel confdident in taking my horn to an open mic club and/or joining a band (preferably a tone deaf one).
Hi, Terry. It's so great to meet you. As soon as I read the title, I thought of something else, so thank you for letting me know it's about math--it's never been my strength.
Saxophone and open mic. What an incredible 12-month goal. I love that. Tell me more: how are you planning to do so, how often do you practice, and what brought you to saxophone in the first place? Are you playing any other instruments? I used to have piano lessons in my childhood from 6-9. You'd think I am pretty good, but the contrary is true 😂
Maths was never MY strong point at school.
My goal: I am hoping that as I get better, opportunities will present themselves when the time is right.
Usually every day, but I had a tooth taken out a few days ago and havn't felt up to it.
Love the sound, especially in jazz funk, soul, disco!
Other instrumjents I play or have played are listed here: https://terryfreedman.substack.com/i/147928208/sax-chronicles
So over to you: are you going to take your music further?
Hi Jana,
I live in Central Massachusetts. One of my boys left for college yesterday and the other starts his senior year in highschool next week.
I am between books right now. I read a 2 book YA series that I am still recovering from emotionally. The first was "If He Had Been With Me" and the second was "If Only I Had Told Her" both by Laura Nowlin. I read them both in one weekend. Up next is "Still Alice" by Lisa Genova. Apparently I need to cry.
I was severely burned out last November/December from promoting my yoga business on social media. I teach yoga online to active adults over 50, and I realized that how I was running my business wasn't serving me. I joined Substack in January, left IG in March or April, and found I love writing! I have always been a writer of sorts, blogging since 2010 or so, but this feels like home. I just finished writing my book on the first two limbs of yoga (yoga off the mat) and am exploring self publishing. I am struggling to sit down and actually figure out all the things, as I am also launching a new membership in my business and just got back from running a yoga retreat. Too many things happening at once, which is usually for me.
My goal in the next 12 months is to publish and promote my book, finish recording/filming a yoga course about all 8 limbs of yoga and how to live you yoga practice, all while teaching and seeing patients (I'm also an acupuncturist) spending time with my younger son, and having a life. Whew!
Thank you for stopping by and sharing, Janine.
Whew, that is a lot you have going on.
Such proud moments, college and senior years! That sounds like a call for celebration. 🎉
The fact you read both books in one weekend just pushed them to the top of my reading list; I'm intrigued.
I'm sorry to hear about your experience with burnout. I can fully relate, as I think we all experience it differently depending on what brought it on. I do wonder how you started to recover. I wrote about my experience earlier this year, but I do find it's still some sort of work in progress.
I love your goals. If you don't mind sharing, I wonder how you broke them down across 12 months so you still had time to rest.
My biggest problem is I am Type A with a million things going on simultaneously. What I was trying to do, however, was promoting my business as an extrovert when I am actually an introvert. That was what led to my burning out. Shifting off of Social media and into Substack allowed me to slow down and move at a calmer pace without screaming into the void. I was able to recover and go back to my Type A ways while honoring my need for quiet and restoration. Coming back to myself and my own wisdom has served me in the past and is serving me now.
Hello! I'm a new substacker (writing about the intersection of public speaking and personal flourishing at julieavisrogers.substack.com) and I'm glad I've stumbled across this beautiful little community! Here are some responses:
Where are you from? Boston, MA! (Going into our dreamy fall foliage season)
What book you’re reading right now? The Body Is Not an Apology by Sonya Renee Taylor--and trying to really dismantle lots of body-shaming messages that I carry around with me
What’s one challenge you need to get a different perspective on? Ooohhhh... that I'm starting a business and have no idea what I'm doing!
Name your big goal for the next 12 months: To be a good, kind *consistent* person to my loved ones.
Hi, Julia! It's so good to meet you. Thank you for sharing. I absolutely love your big goal. ❤️
Hey Jana, a friend of mine shared your wonderful newsletter and if ever there was a Venn diagram of interests, this is it! I'm based in London so not far from you.
I'm a Burnout Coach, Neuroscientist and Art-based Practitioner (just got my diploma in art- based coaching) but I'm still in a day job that has nothing to do with my coaching business. Talk about trying to balance not burning out with so many things on the go!
I've been publishing weekly here for almost a year now on Build A Better Brain: https://articles.openintrovert.com/.
I too have many books in flight. Currently reading the Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest, The Entangled Brain by Luis Pessoa, and Your Brain On Art by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross.
I'm just kicking off paid subs on my Substack and that's an art! Let's see how it goes so trying to get ideas to make it valuable for folks.
My 12 month big goal is to shift from my career into more coaching business focus. Dreaming and doing are not the same.
Look forward to connecting!
Hi Sabrina, It's so nice to meet you! Thank you to your friend for sharing my newsletter with you. That has made my day.
Burnout coach-say no more! I love that. Let me know if you are ever interested in guest posting on the topic for my newsletter. Please. I am always looking for great tips on how to recover. Unfortunately, I am still going through it.
I love the title of your publication, and I just joined your list.
Good luck with paid subscriptions and an impressive 12-month goal. Let me know if I can support you in any way. Once again, thank you for sharing.
Thanks! Have loved dipping into your content. Would love to guest post - happy to chat topics in DMs. Same with any burnout questions or challenges you've got. It's never just one thing with burnout.
I describe it as death by a thousand cuts. I see so many influences so do reach out 💜
Hi Jana,
I’m originally from London, moved to New Zealand for 14 years, now live in Norwich PS I’ve lived in Swindon know it well
I’m reading Yellowface by Rebecca F Kuang on chapter 8 loving it so far
Ooh a challenge from a different perspective “Substack is not as scary as it seems”
My big goal is posting on Substack consistently and my publication is Notes from a dreamer
Cheering you on 📣
Jo x
Oh, wow, how small is the world, Jo! I cannot believe I am meeting someone here on Substack who lived in Swindon. Thank you for stopping by. Oh, I love the challenge, and I can say for sure that if you stick around, I have a few posts coming out soon that might help you change your perspective. Thank you for sharing your big goal.