Recap of a Wild Year in 2019.
2019 was an extraordinary year filled with accomplishments, challenges, and valuable lessons. As I reflect on the year, it’s clear that both personal growth and professional milestones played pivotal roles in shaping my journey.
What Went Well This Year.
One of the standout achievements of 2019 was the success of my book, *Atomic Habits*. After its launch in October 2018, the book sold over 1.3 million copies worldwide by December 2019. It maintained an impressive 12 consecutive months on the New York Times bestseller list, demonstrating its widespread appeal. The book has also garnered a remarkable 4.8/5 stars on Amazon, backed by more than 1, 800 reviews, and a similar rating on Audible with over 25, 000 ratings. I also launched the *3 – 2 – 1 newsletter*, which quickly became a weekly highlight for many readers. The newsletter format, consisting of three ideas from me, two quotes from others, and one question to ponder, resonated well and contributed to my audience growth. A significant metric to note is that I gained 353, 970 new email subscribers in 2019, bringing the total to 586, 638 by year – end. Traveling was another big part of my year, with 158 nights spent away from home, accounting for 43% of the year. This included visits to 18 states and 14 countries. ML adventures introduced me to incredible new restaurants, which I eagerly shared with my readers.
What Didn’t Go So Well This Year.
Despite the successes, 2019 wasn’t without its struggles. ML writing consistency took a hit as my focus shifted toward promoting *Atomic Habits*. I published only five new articles, the fewest in any year since I began writing. This decline in output highlighted the need to refocus on my writing in 2020, particularly if I plan on releasing another book. ML fitness routine also suffered due to extensive travel. I logged only 91 workouts throughout the year, averaging 7.6 sessions per month, which was a steep drop from previous years. ML lowest months coincided with heavy travel, underscoring the challenge of maintaining a workout regimen on the go. Additionally, my email response times became a running joke, often ranging anywhere from three minutes to three months. This inconsistency not only frustrated others but also caused missed opportunities.
What Did I Learn This Year.
Throughout the ups and downs of 2019, several key lessons emerged. First, I learned the importance of moving fast. By pushing the release date of *Atomic Habits* forward, I capitalized on holiday sales and New Year’s resolutions, resulting in nearly 500, 000 copies sold by the original launch date. I also realized that growing my business takes time. After years of navigating through a chaotic phase, I finally began to see a clearer strategy and direction for the future. This clarity is essential for sustainability and growth. Lastly, I learned the significance of prioritization. Focusing on what truly matters and learning to say no to the inessential became crucial for managing my time and energy effectively. As I wrap up this reflection on 2019, I am grateful for the experiences, both good and bad, that have shaped my journey. Here’s to a new year filled with possibility and growth!