It’s about that time when we all reflect on 2011 and look forward to 2012. In short, 2011 has been an amazing year for me. I proposed to my future wife, I moved across the country, I got my first car, a new job, and my blogging has brought me success I never imagined could be had from a blog.
I don’t think I set any specific goals in 2011, and I’ll go over some 2012 goals in a few days, but when I look back, a whole lot has happened. And most of it was unexpected, so any goals I set would be irrelevant. Let’s look at my year in review:
Posts I’m Proud Of
I’ve written a lot of posts this year, but there are a few that I really liked (and a few others that were popular in the personal finance community):
Stable Government Jobs Promote Laziness
How to Be a Frugal iPhone Owner
Would You Ever Move Into Your In-Laws’ House?
It Pays More To Have a Side Gig If You Make More Money
A Nigerian Scam Could Be A Legitimate Transaction
Federal and State Estimated Quarterly Tax Payments are Due!
Blog Improvements
In addition to a new theme that was put into place around March, I also was able to increase readership dramatically. In December 2010, I had just over 5,500 people visit my site. In December 2011, the number is over 13,000 and growing rapidly. Compared to 2010, my traffic increased by over 130%. I’m pretty proud of myself in that area.
Side Income
Through this site, a related side venture with a partner, and various staff writing positions, I was able to increase my income dramatically, and in total I made about 300% more from my side business in 2011 than I made in 2010. It was great to have second and third sources of income, and that allowed me to become self-employed for a few months over the summer and relieved what would have otherwise been a lot of stress.
Thank You!
Finally, I want to thank you guys for reading. A blog is nothing without readers, and without knowing that people were reading, I would have stopped writing years ago. Please let me know if there is anything you want me to write about, I love suggestions!
This year has truly been amazing for me, personally and professionally. And yet, I won’t bask in any of my accomplishments for more than a few minutes this morning. I’m already looking forward to 2012, which I hope will be just as amazing.
Congratulations! 2011 was filled with highs and lows, but I try to focus on the progress. It is now a foundation for 2012.
@krantcents, Thanks! I love looking ahead, what happened happened and we can’t change it, but we can learn from our successes and failures!
Congratulations on your traffic increasing by 130%. That’s a phenomenal improvement in a year. Also, congrats on proposing to your new wife!
2011 was a great year for you. I’m sure 2012 will be just as great. Happy New Year!
Of course stable government jobs promote laziness — I would be happy if I could force others to pay my salary, too. ;)
Great list of posts, and congrats on all of the growth! I loved the Nigerian post, too.