2025 is closing out, and what better time to look back at the last twelve months in order to look forward to the next twelve.
I made a conscious effort to set specific goals for 2025 alongside other looking to 2027 and beyond. I am keen for my business to grow into something stable and sustainable for myself and for others I bring in. In case you missed it, these goals were:
- Increasing revenue with the hopes of turning a profit.
- Gain a better understanding of business finances.
- Balance prices to reflect the current market.
- Increase frontlist and publish six books in 2025.
- Set up a discord server for proofreaders to access my books.
- Join the SYP Wales committee.
- Attend events and markets.
Out of these seven goals, I achieved four and succeeded with one. Not a great performance on my part.
But I know where I went wrong; I took on too much. The new year brought its usual vigour and passion, and I was certain that with my new business plan and a different approach that I could make a difference to my business. I was overambitious.
Let’s break it down.
- My revenue did increase as I took on more freelance and service based work, but I didn’t achieve the growth I was hoping for. More projects and freelance work are in progress, so I won’t be seeing a drop as such, but taking a look at all aspects of the revenue streams I have to hand is key to ensure against another flop.
- I do have a better understanding of the business internal finances, but accounting aspects like taxes, National Insurance, and pensions elude me. Setting time aside to full understand them will help me better understand what steps need to be made for my business, as well as any future employees I take on.
- I adjusted a few of the unit prices for my books, and more market research will be needed to ensure I am competitive without putting myself out of business. It’s a difficult line to balance.
- I did increase my frontlist this year by four books, which all turned out amazing (but not without their challenges). Due to aforementioned vigour, I was unable to publish all six books I had planned. I did what I could at the time to reach the deadline, but it proved too much for me. The two remaining books will be published in due course and will be given the time and attention they deserve, meaning I don’t have a specific publication date for either. It is my hope that they will both be published in 2026.
- I did set up a discord server for anyone who wanted the opportunity to proofread my books in exchange for comments, criticisms, and reviews, but I don’t think I did enough to set up the server in an interesting and enticing way. I closed the server about six months ago, giving thanks to those who had helped me where they could. I’d like to set up a similar community in the future, but it isn’t something on my radar for the next year.
- I joined the SYP Wales committee and enjoyed joining the other members of the team in meetings and planning, but again, overambition got the better of me and I was unable to perform all the duties required of me. Naturally, I’ll be stepping down in the next selection period to let newer members try their hand at being a part of a great team. I can’t wait to see what they do in 2026.
- I attended two book fairs in 2025, both within a few months of one another. I thoroughly enjoyed both and hope to go back next year. I made some great connections and learnt a lot about publishing and other aspects of the book industry. NYALitFest had some great talks that I wish I could have attended, and Big Thinking Publishing’s first ever event went so well, I hope they do it again soon!
2026 will bring new challenges, and I want to set myself up for success by learning from the mistakes I made this year. Although it didn’t go quite they way I had hoped, all I can do is look forward and try my best.
See you in 2026!
