Last year I wrote a blog post about my goals and hopes for 2022 (read it here). Then I pretty much forgot about it! So one year on, did I actually achieve any of the things I set out to do?
Well some of them were tasks that were constantly on my mind anyway. It's hard not to think about your growth when you run a business. Others were on my mind, but not achieved. Some of them I honestly forgot about! This year, Seán (my husband) and I have decided to stick our goals on the fridge. This way we're constantly reminded of them, and we can ask each other how it's going.
Getting Organised
In 2022 I said I wanted to get organised. Specifically, I wanted to have kits ready much further in advance, and therefore have more time for stitching other things. Well, as a world class procrastinator that didn't really happen. I'm still only completing kits the week they're due to be sent out. So that one's still on my list for 2023. I do feel I did a bit more stitching though, so I obviously managed my time better somehow!
Growth
This is a goal I'm not sure I set out too well in 2022.
My business has grown since this time last year, but the tasks I set myself in January 2022 weren't really measured properly. Sure, I did a lot of figuring things out. But now it's time to implement them. In 2023 I want to have measurable, achievable outcomes. First up, I want to double the amount of Needle Nerd subscriptions. I currently have 20 of you receiving kits every 2nd month - by this time next year I want it to be 40! I also want to streamline my online store. There's lots of products there that aren't selling, or are too much hassle to stock. It's time for an overhaul.
Kits and Classes
We had some exciting new techniques in Needle Nerd kits, as promised - I hope you enjoyed them! However I think having so many 'improver'
level kits this year may have put some potential new Needle Nerds off. They certainly didn't sell as well as the beginner kits at markets. So this year I'll be working to strike a better balance between keeping things interesting and accessible.
Classes also came back this year! We had a bit of trouble finding a venue, but the classes run at Rua Red in Tallaght have been a great success so far. I'll be working on addin other venues in other parts of Dublin in 2023.
I also signed up to teach a course at Inchicore College this term. If all goes well, I'd like to add more of these evening course in the September term - so keep an eye out for that!
Personal Goals
I think I'd also like to share some personal goals with you this year. Again, it keeps me slightly more accountable. 2023 will be the year I get back into reading. I've decided each morning, while having my breakfast, I'll read 1 chapter of a book. I may even share each book I complete on my Instagram stories to make sure I keep this up!
I also plan on changing my name this year. After getting married, I want to take my husband's surname. I know this isn't everyone's cup of tea, but I don't feel a particularly strong connection to my current one. Anyways, this'll have to wait until after our honeymoon in March because changing flights and passports would just be too much hassle. So it won't quite be New Year New Me - more like April New Me!
I hope you all had a wonderful 2022, and things get even better for 2023! If you have any goals you'd like to share, I'd love to read about them in the comments...