Reflections on 2023 & Aspirations for 2024
There were days throughout the past year when 2024 seemed like an eternity away and days when it felt like it was just around the corner. And now it is 2024 and here I am writing a fifth yearly wrap-up and setting goals for the new year. I started writing these yearly reflection posts back in 2019 and love that each post serves as a snapshot of a year in my life. If you would like to take a small journey back in time with me, check out my previous yearly recaps below.
1. Reflections on 2019 & Aspirations for 2020 2. Reflections on 2020 & Aspirations for 2021. 3. Reflections on 2021 & Aspirations for 2022 4. Reflections on 2022 & Aspirations for 2023.
2023 was a good year for me as it was packed with new experiences and opportunities for growth. I started and finished my third semester of college at the University of Arizona, furthered existing friendships, made new friends, and connected with new people in the literary universe.
After finishing my first year of college last spring, I headed back to Virginia for the summer. It was wonderful to be back home among friends and family. I loved being surrounded by vibrant green and finally met Legend, the new dog my family adopted after my dog, Clover, passed away in September of 2022 not long after I started college. I also went on a little trip to Charlotte, North Carolina with two of my siblings and spent a week sightseeing and eating good food.
After a relaxing summer in which I turned 21, I flew back to Tucson to start my sophomore year. My classes were incredible and I especially enjoyed my English analysis class and Intro to Poetry class, with the latter being a definite favorite. My professor was a learning poet herself and encouraged vulnerable writing in a space that the entire class worked to nurture into a safe space in which we could all be ourselves. As a result, I wrote a collection of poems I am desperately proud of and hope to publish in the near future.
In October, I took a week off and went to the beach in Mexico. The break was just what I needed to make it through midterms and finals and into my winter break. Now, during the final week of my winter break, I have time to share my reflections on 2023 and aspirations for 2024.
Reflections on 2023 and Aspirations for 2024: Writing Reflections
Here is a little round-up of highlight moments from my writing journey as it progressed over the course of the year.
14 pieces of my writing were published
In 2020, I had 43 pieces of writing published and in 2021 the number grew to 55. The number shrank to 22 in 2022 and this year, although the number is smaller still, I am grateful that my writing found homes at new magazines and journals, and I look forward to continuing to submit to new literary ventures in 2024, especially as my style of writing continues to evolve and change.
I was paid for my poetry
This continues to be a milestone for me! The payments I received for a couple of my poems was money well-earned and well-spent.
I attended a second writing workshop!
I attended my first writing workshop early in 2022 year and summed up my incredible experience in this post. Happily, I had a second opportunity to attend a writing workshop at the University of Arizona Poetry Center and loved the writerly conversations that arose around the table over the three hour meeting.
I translated and recited a poem in Persian
As part of my studies learning Persian as a second language, I translated a poem by Sohrab Sepehri, a contemporary Iranian poet, and read my English translation as well as the original poem in Persian at my end-of-semester Persian showcase. I shared my English translation on the blog, as it is truly a lovely poem.
Reflections on 2023 and Aspirations for 2024: Blogging Reflections
It has continued to be challenging to make time to write and share posts on the blog as I always fondly imagine I have more time than I do. One of my film classes just posted the syllabus and I am forced to realize that, much like last semester, I will not have as much time as I would like to be on the blog. This is a little disheartening, as I love being active and interacting with the amazing writing community here, so I will be looking to find a balance between college and life during the New Year.
I worked with brands and authors
This year I wrote four sponsored posts and three book reviews. It was a pleasure to have the opportunity to work with some of the authors I admire and, as a result, I reviewed three excellent poetry collections.
1. Book Review: Whistler of Petty Crimes by Eileen Ike West. 2. Book Review: In the Shadow of Rainbows by Selma Martin. 3. Book Review: Waking up to Thrutopia by Conny Borgelioen.
When it comes to the sponsored posts I worked on, I worked on a range of content, including a blogging guide and several gift guides.
1. How to Create the Perfect Weekend Morning Routine for Writers w/ Ulivary. 2. How to Promote Your Blog for Free: 5 Effective Strategies to Increase Blog Traffic. 3. 11 Best Gifts for Poets and Poetry Lovers in 2023. 4. 25 Creative Gift Ideas for Writers this Holiday Season.
I met you
Community is an important part of writing, especially given the often solitary nature of blogging and writing. I am delighted to connect with you, experience my writing anew through your readings, and ultimately grow from the stories you share. Thank you for sharing this journey with me.
Reflections on 2023 and aspirations for 2024: 2023’s Goals
I will grow
I can say with confidence that I have grown. Through new experiences and opportunities, friendships and relationships, conversations and readings, I have grown. I am not the same person I was last year and I am proud to be different.
I will reach 1000 Instagram followers
I love creating poetry videos and sharing snippets from my life on Instagram and posting more regularly definitely helped my growth on Instagram. I aimed for 1000 followers and ended the year with 920.
I will maintain my academic excellency
Although there turned out to be one class last semester I enjoyed less and less as the weeks went on, I applied myself to learning and closed out the semester with knowledge and numbers I am proud of.
I will make at least $200 through future writing publications
Done! I am so pleased to have met this goal. It is so encouraging to know that my writing is worth purchasing.
I will make at least $300 through future brand collaborations
Also done! Between the gifted collaborations and sponsored posts I worked on this year, I met this goal as well.
I will post at least four posts a month on the blog
I started out the year making this goal but, as the weeks passed and I became more pinched for time, the numbers fell slightly and I averaged 2 posts a month so this is something I want to work on improving during the New Year.
Goals for the New Year
I love reading my Reflections on the year and Aspirations for the next year posts every New Year, so I am putting down a few goals to work towards in 2024. Several of these goals are upscaled versions of goals from previous years alongside completely fresh goals for the New Year!
I will
- go running at least twice a week
- reach 1500 Instagram followers
- maintain my academic excellency
- make at least $300 through future writing publications
- make at least $300 through future brand collaborations
- post at least 3 posts a month on the blog
- study abroad over the summer
May 2023 have treated you as well, if not better, as it has treated me. May 2024 flower and blossom for us together. Share a highlight from your 2023 with me in the comments below. May the words flow!
navasolanature
Have read Lets not muddy the water but tech glitch will not let me comment! It is a beautiful nature poem and with that rural wisdom about the reasons for not polluting our waterways, spiritual ones too. I love your translation as ‘muddying the waters’ is extends beyond the literal. Too much muddying these days of facts etc too. Thanks I will try and find this poet. I used to be able to read Urdu script years ago. Another poetic language and script close to Persian/ Farsi.
navasolanature
Congrats, you have done well and am sure you will keep being published. Will explore your Persian poet too.
Yelling Rosa
👍✍️
barbaraleaver
Congratulations on your wonderful work being published! I wish you all the best for 2024!
Jimmy Kindree
Hi Layla, it was fun reading your reflections and seeing your goals for the coming year–you are doing so much and it sounds like you are really inspired and motivated. That’s so wonderful. Cheers and thanks for sharing, and best wishes as we head into February.
Layla Todd
Thanks, Jimmy! Hoping you have a great year as well. 😊
Caroline
2023 sounds like a successful year for you Layla! I hope 2024 improves in your success, it is hard to juggle a blog and university/college! I had a bit of a dip in blog posts last year, particularly during exam season so I am going to try and post consistently this year 🙂
Layla Todd
Wishing you luck hitting your goals, Caroline! It definitely is tricky balancing blogging and college but we’ve got this! 🙂
Keep Calm & Drink Coffee
The very first thing I would like to tell you is that I love your pictures!!! A coffee mug is never missing and this is a very GOOD thing! 🙂 😉 😀
Layla, I have been reading you for a few years now and I can testify that your growth is constant, positive and an example for everyone, and that from year to year you teach more and more and spread your poetry as a true gift.
Layla Todd
Thank you ever so much, Claudia! It has been a pleasure to come to know you along my writing journey. 😀
Ka Malana - Fiestaestrellas.com
P.S. Likes are also not loading for me. I’m not sure why. I am using my PC (which is rare). Using my desktop computer usually alleviates many WP problems.
Ka Malana - Fiestaestrellas.com
This is absolutely delightful to read! This is where the rubber meets the road–as they say. I remember being 21, but not turning 21. I was traveling all around the world. I was recently reflecting on this age when I read your post. I’ve more than doubled my years (now 43). I’m about 100x more happy than I was then, but I wouldn’t say I’m reaching milestones and pinnacles anymore in the same way, nor with the same approach. So that’s not what’s made me happy/joy-filled.
Congratulations on your writing endeavors! I remember the first time I was commissioned to make a piece of art! I think I was still in my 21st year! I did a watercolor for a hospital President. It was such a fun journey and process. Blessings on your way, Layla. Keep the beautiful poetry growing and flowing. I completely understanding living through time constraints, being ambitious and having your heart and soul invested in your life beyond the digital one, while also loving blogging and community, and having it be a part of the experince! Way to go. I will keep cheering you on with deep happiness <3
Molly | Transatlantic Notes
I am wishing you all the best for your growth and goals for 2024! It sounded like you had a good year previously and made the most of the trips, writing and moments with family (the name Legend for the new dog is amazing)! I hope you have a happy year ahead!
Layla Todd
Thank you, Molly! Wishing you a wonderful new year as well. 😀
Miriam Costa
you did it girl. congratulations and keep believing in yourself.
D. Wallace Peach
A wonderful look at your progress last year and goals for 2024, Layla. I love hearing about your writing successes and my hope is that you surpass your dreams for the coming year. Have a happy, healthy, bountiful new year. <3
kevinashton
Hi Layla I hope you had a wonderful holiday season? Wishing a wonderful and creative New Year!
Best Wishes
Kevin 🙂
Dawn Pisturino
I hope 2024 will be your best year yet!
Layla Todd
Thank you, Dawn! 🥰
Annika Perry
Layla, congratulations on an amazing year and wow, I am in awe of translating a poem from Persian! Wishing you a fabulous 2024 and I am sure you will achieve all of your wishes for the year. Happy Writing and Good Luck with all your studies as well! Annika
Layla Todd
Thank you, Annika! May the words flow. 🥰
Mike U.
This is incredibly inspiring, Layla. I’m truly happy for you and I’m sure you’ll not only reach but surpass your goals for 2024. Your writing is a gift, and I’m glad you share it with us here on your blog. Best of luck this year as you continue on your writing journey! 🙂
Layla Todd
Thank you, Mike! May the words flow. 🥰
Nicole Smith
You should be incredibly proud of yourself.
Michelle (Boomer Eco Crusader)
Happy New Year Layla! A highlight of 2023 for me was taking a trip to England with my mum to visit my sister. My mum is 90 and travelled so well! I hadn’t seen my sister in 9 years so it was a joyful reunion.
Layla Todd
Thanks for sharing a highlight, Michelle! Love that you had a memorable family reunion. 🥰
Resa
PS.
Likes aren’t loading right now for me. I’ll leave the page up a bit in case they come in!
Resa
You are amazing.
Your star is rising. Enjoy the ride!
Thank you for stopping by my blog and commenting.
You area most welcome guest!
All the best,
Resa
xo
Layla Todd
Thank you for coming by, Resa! 🥰
Pooja G
Congratulations on the amazing achievements in 2023. And I wish you the very best with your goals for 2024. I don’t know if you have an account with Intellifluence or HashtagPaid but both are great places to connect with brands looking to work with content creators. Especially Intellifluence. You can make a few hundred dollars on there easily.
Layla Todd
Thanks so much, Pooja! I’ll definitely check out Intellifluence. 🥰
Pooja G
You’re very welcome ☺️
Baydreamer - Lauren Scott
Congratulations on all of your achievements, Layla! You’re an inspiration by meeting your goals while in college. That’s wonderful about getting paid for your writing too. I don’t submit my work often due to the time it takes. But I did receive my first check 2 days ago, which was exciting! 🙂 I wish I had had the interest at your age, but I’m not the same person I was back then. So I began writing more seriously later in life. My highlight from last year was publishing my 4th book, Ever So Gently, and wonderful reviews are still coming in for which I am grateful and humbled. And this year, I’m working to publish my first children’s book. So Cheers to new goals and I wish you all the best in 2024! 💖
Layla Todd
Wishing you all the best in publishing your children’s book. If your poetry is anything to go by, I am sure it will be lovely! May the words flow. 🥰
Baydreamer - Lauren Scott
Thanks so much, Layla, but I’m in awe of all you’ve accomplished! And I look forward to reading more of your exquisite poetry. Yes, may the words flow. 💖
Eugi
You are inspiring, Layla! Congrats on your achievements and I wish you a productive and successful 2024. 💖
Layla Todd
Thank you, Eugi! Wishing you an amazing year as well. 🥰
Eugi
You’re welcome, Layla! 💖
Ingrid
It sounds like 2023 was a great year for you, Layla – you make me nostalgic for my student days! Enjoy 2024 and remember to build in a little flexibility so you can enjoy reaching all of those goals!
Layla Todd
Thank you for an awesome reminder, Ingrid! Something to keep in mind throughout the year. 🥰
Andrew McDowell
Congrats on all your accomplishments!
Aspen Hite
Such dedication! Congrats on an incredible 2023. Here’s to the merriest and brightest 2024!
Layla Todd
Thank you, Aspen! May the words flow. 🥰
Kym Gordon Moore
Kudos Layal! Always growing and learning! What an incredible year you had my dear! May 2024 be just as adventurous and productive. 🥰💖🤗
Layla Todd
Thank you deeply, Kym! Wishing you a fulfilling and productive 2024. 🥰
Kym Gordon Moore
Oh my dear Layla, you are always so very welcome. I too wish the same for you my friend. 🥳🌟😍🥂🥰 Cheers!
Cindy Georgakas
I love your reflections as well Layla and am so in aww of what you have done this year along with your studies. Kudos to you in following your aspirations and getting paid on your poetry to boot, YAY for you! so happy to hear that❣️ Congrats and continued success in 2024! I love it!
Layla Todd
Aww, thank you so much, Cindy! Wishing you a productive and incredible 2024. 🥰
Jacqui Murray
I have no idea how you got so much done while attending classes. I miss all that energy!
Layla Todd
😂 Sometimes I ask myself the same thing! Thank you for coming by, Jacqui. 🥰
satyam rastogi
Happy new year 🎂🎂 congratulations 🎉 on your achievements 2023🙏
Cassa Bassa
Congratulations on your achievements in 2023! 🎉🌟💚
Layla Todd
Thanks, Cassa! May the words flow. 🥰