A Year End Moment of Reflection.
As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time for reflection. Running a small business like HeartStrings Journals is both rewarding and challenging. Some moments bring immense joy, like connecting with customers who resonate deeply with my journals, while others can feel discouraging—especially when events don’t go as planned. This year, I’ve noticed a trend that’s impacted not just me but many small business owners: fewer people are shopping with small businesses or attending vendor events. The competition from big box stores, offering major discounts during the holiday season and delivery right to your doorstop without leaving the house, is tough. But instead of dwelling on the challenges, I’ve decided to focus on how far I’ve come.
When I crunched the numbers, I was blown away. This year, I participated in over 30 vendor events across the state and sold over 300 journals. Did you read that? I sold 300 journals! Think about that for a moment—over 300 people are now using my journals to process grief, reflect on their lives, or spark gratitude. In the grand scheme of things, that’s incredible. Beyond the numbers, these milestones represent growth: I’ve built confidence in myself, my business, and what I have to offer. My product line has expanded to over 70 different journals, including exciting new additions like a dream journal and a gratitude journal. This year also marked the launch of my website and this very blog, creating new ways to connect with my audience.
HeartStrings Journals has evolved in beautiful ways. What started as a grief-centered project born from personal loss has transformed into a brand grounded in positivity, encouragement, and resilience. This evolution mirrors my own journey. I’ve found healing and purpose through HeartStrings, and I’m deeply grateful to be able to share that with others.
While it’s easy to let a few low-turnout events cloud the bigger picture, I’ve chosen to celebrate the wins—big and small. Each journal sold is a testament to the value of HeartStrings and the meaningful connection it fosters with people. These victories remind me why I started this journey and why I’ll continue to grow my business in the coming year.
As we enter a new year, I’d like to take a moment to highlight the importance of shopping with small businesses. Every purchase from a small business makes a real, tangible impact. For HeartStrings Journals, every sale supports not just my livelihood but also my mission to bring healing and positivity to others. When you shop small, you’re investing in a person’s dream, their family, and their community. You’re choosing uniqueness over mass production, and you’re saying yes to heart, quality, and creativity.
On the other hand, big box stores may offer tempting discounts, but they can’t replicate the connection and passion that small businesses pour into their products. Every journal I create is infused with love, care, and the hope that it will make a difference in someone’s life.
You can support HeartStrings Journals year-round in so many ways: by subscribing to my email list, liking and sharing my posts on social media, shopping on Amazon, and visiting local vendor events. Every small action makes a big difference and helps my business thrive.
As 2025 approaches, I’m filled with optimism. HeartStrings Journals has come so far, and I’m excited for what’s ahead. To everyone who has supported me this year—whether you bought a journal, shared a kind word, or cheered me on from afar—thank you. You’ve been a part of this journey, and I couldn’t have done it without you. Here’s to another year of growth, resilience, and connection!
