Hi everyone!
This week I will reflect a bit on what happened during the year, not in the chess world, but more locally here on Say Chess. I will share some stats, some writing highlights of the year, and a little bit about my next big project.
The stats
On the 1st of January 2023 I had 15 paid subscribers today I have 88! I’m pretty sure when I say that I wouldn’t have written as much as I have if it were not for the supporters of this newsletter. Thank you!
In total, I started with 2,738 readers and ended with 4,198. I think it is positive to see that I have kept reaching new readers even with some challenges. A major hit this year was when Twitter/X changed its algorithm and now it is impossible to share links on that platform, as you might know, Twitter has been my main platform for years, so instead I have tried to write on the Lichess blog, but I have also seen growth through the Substack network.
Writing highlights from 2023
Here are some highlights from the last year in case you missed them that seem to have resonated.
Published Books
I published 4,088 chess puzzles combined in 3 books in 2023. Currently, The Tactics Ladder is selling the best and has been best received, so I should push myself to continue adding books to that series. Hopefully, I will find some time to do that in 2024.
My Next Project - The Chess Gym!
As mentioned in earlier newsletters I’m working hard on creating an online chess training community together with FM Nate Solon. We have already launched it and the first members have joined. The plan is to expand the circle and invite all of you to join at the beginning of January. More about it will follow soon!
It has been a productive year, and I hope you have enjoyed to follow along!
Happy New Year!
Martin
Amazing growth Martin, looking forward to see the content in 2024!
Awesome work Martin. I’d love to know how you freaking find the time. Maybe an article on time management in 2024 😀