Looking Ahead: My Plans for 2025
As 2024 comes to a close, I’ve been spending a lot of time reflecting on where I’ve been, where I am now, and where I want to go in the year ahead. If 2024 was about growth, 2025 will be about intention. Growth taught me so much—how to adapt, how to push through challenges, and how to balance the many facets of being an indie author and editor. Now, I’m ready to take those lessons and apply them with purpose to build the next chapter of my career.
Embracing Change: New Directions for "Chaos in the Margins"
As part of my commitment to focusing and refining my business model, you'll notice some exciting changes across my platforms, including a fresh new name for our community: Chaos in the Margins. These changes might take some time to fully implement, but they are absolutely in the works. This includes streamlining my platforms—my blog, YouTube, and possibly even my social media—to reflect this fresh direction.
Why the Change?
The new name, Chaos in the Margins, more accurately reflects the dynamic and sometimes chaotic journey of creativity and indie publishing. It captures the essence of what I do and how I approach my work—finding beauty and opportunity in the unexpected and the overlooked.
What to Expect?
I’ve mentioned before that I want to move toward selling my books directly, and I’m excited to incorporate Kickstarter into the launch of the Grand Mesa Men series. These steps are part of a larger plan to create a more intentional and sustainable business model, one that allows me to focus on what I love most: writing and connecting with readers.
Staying Consistent (Despite the Struggles)
Consistency has always been a challenge for me. As someone with ADHD and a self-admitted tendency to procrastinate, I know how hard it can be to stay on track. But I’ve also learned that it’s about finding what works for me. In 2025, one big change will be going completely digital with my planner. I’m hoping that having my planner on my laptop and phone—always within reach—will make it easier to stay organized and consistent.
I’m also continuing to focus on Facebook and Instagram, with a goal to post more on TikTok and YouTube. I’m working with a talented social media manager now, and I’m excited to see how we can grow my online presence together.
Finishing the Grand Mesa Men Series
My main goal for 2024 was to publish the Grand Mesa Men series. While I didn’t achieve that goal this year, I’m not upset about it. Editing jobs and other commitments took precedence, and I’m proud of the work I’ve done for my clients. That said, I’m making it a priority to wrap up the series in December, with plans to publish in early 2025—fingers crossed for January or February.
This decision is part of my intentional focus for 2025. Better scheduling will allow me to balance editing, writing, and publishing more effectively. It’s a constant learning process, but I’m committed to making progress.
What “Intentional” Means to Me
Choosing intentional as my word for 2025 means setting clear, specific goals and pushing toward them with purpose. It means being mindful of how I spend my time and energy, ensuring they align with the vision I have for my business and personal growth.
Some of these goals include:
Publishing the Grand Mesa Men series.
Growing my social media platforms with my manager’s help.
Refining my blog and YouTube into a more podcast-like format.
Finding systems that work for me to stay consistent and productive.
A Note to Fellow Dreamers
As I prepare to close out this year, I want to leave you with one thought: keep going. Whatever your goals or dreams, don’t stop chasing them. It’s not always fun, and it’s definitely not always easy, but if you love what you do—like I love writing—it’s worth it every single day.
Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm. It’s because of you, the Chaos Crew, that this journey is so rewarding. I look forward to continuing to evolve and thrive alongside each of you in our ever-expanding, wonderfully chaotic creative landscape.
