How the Writing Went in 2025
My writing did not go the way I had planned. For one thing, I got sick with chickenpox during my summer vacation. About 95% of all adults have already had it and now it was my turn. I was unwell for quite a long time. Around the same time, I found out that I was pregnant, and I felt very nauseous for quite a while. Recently, my oldest cat passed away, so there has been a lot going on in my personal life that has made it hard to focus. As a result, I am still on chapter 14.
Writing Goals for 2026
My book has 20 chapters, and I have seven left to write. With an intense year ahead, my goal is to complete about half of those—three chapters. The baby is due on March 19, so time is limited, and last year taught me the importance of setting realistic expectations. I’m not dictating right now; instead, I’m writing directly on the computer, which has actually been more enjoyable than I expected. On good days, the words flow easily. I plan to start designing the cover when I begin Chapter 15. I’m really looking forward to that, and the cover absolutely needs to be finished this year. If I end the year having completed Chapter 16 and finalized the cover, I’ll be very happy.
My Reward System
Each time I write, I add a wooden bead to a glass jar as a way to stay motivated and visually track my progress. This system has worked remarkably well. I haven’t tied the beads to any specific rewards, but I enjoy continuing the ritual of adding one after every writing session. The beads themselves are lovely to look at, which makes the process even more satisfying. Last year, I collected 69 beads. This year, I’m aiming to add even more.
How the Investments Went in 2025
It was a tough year—the toughest I’ve ever experienced in terms of losses. My performance last year was -10.20%. Since then, I’ve gotten rid of some bad investments and reduced my risk somewhat. Unfortunately, the investments have continued to decline over time, and I haven’t had the opportunity to add money. Instead, I’ve withdrawn some funds because my cat became ill. On top of that, my mother turned 70, and Christmas gifts had to be bought around the same time.
Investment Goals for 2026
I’m still aiming to reach 200,000 SEK, but I think that goal is more realistic for next year. Given the recent downturns, setting investment goals has become increasingly difficult. Since I don’t currently have a steady income, my ability to save is limited, and with a baby on the way, many expenses will naturally take priority. Hopefully the stock market will be in a better mood in 2026—we can only hope.
One Year Later: A Simpler Life
I’ve mentioned before my desire to move toward a simpler life. At the time, I shared that I had bought a five-year diary and intended to write in it every day. That habit took root quickly, and it’s already proven valuable to look back at previous months. I’ve come to see how much of life is unplanned and out of our hands, which has helped me step away from overplanning my days. The diary has become an important part of my personal growth.
Thoughts on Reduced Screen Time
I deleted my Instagram account a year ago, and I don’t regret it for a second. I had hoped that this would reduce my screen time, but it hasn’t been that simple. Still, I’ve come to realize that screen time isn’t inherently bad—it depends on what I’m doing in front of the screen. If a large part of my screen time goes toward writing, then that’s perfectly fine.
I’m Finally Reading More
I’ve been reading more lately, and it genuinely makes me happy. I read when I feel like it, which has turned into almost every day, or at least every other day. And when a book really grabs me, reading daily feels completely natural. I’ve reached a point where not having a book feels like something is missing, which tells me I’ve found my way back to reading in a way that feels familiar and right.
A Clear To-Do List Has Reduced Stress
To get a good overview of everything that needs to be done, I’ve gathered my to-do list in a notebook. It has helped me enormously to write everything down that I want to get done, because it also makes it easier to see what needs to be prioritized. I look through the notebook about once a week, and it feels reassuring to know that nothing is forgotten.
Changes to the Blog
I want this blog to be a happy and inspiring place for you to visit, so instead of writing every month just for the sake of it, I will only publish when something good has happened—a revelation, like a new routine that’s working really well, or a milestone I’ve reached, such as publishing my book or finishing the translation.
I’ll end with two photos from Revsand, just outside Kristinehamn. It’s a very calming place, and I’m looking forward to go there when the weather improves.
Wishing everyone a happy new year of writing and investing!
I just have to be clear that I’m not a licensed financial analyst so I’m not giving any advice. This blog post is just pure inspiration. Remember that you invest on your own risk!