"2025 will be the year of courage." I first said these words sometime in December, around a pub table in Bath, surrounded by my freelancer friends. This is not a usual occurrence, mind you, as we are remote friends first and foremost and none of us are based in Bath. As we went around sharing our intentions for the upcoming year, I had no idea how much impact these words would have on shaping my 2025.
Courage showed up in ways I couldn’t have predicted: in my work, my relationships, and the way I now define success. In the twelve months following, I found myself:
launching my online shop for premade covers, and book design booking page
buying my dream first home with my partner
letting go of a promising collaboration to protect my mental wellbeing
signing with an exciting new retainer client
attending my first online industry event as a speaker
getting engaged (!!)
starting counselling
parting ways with a retainer client who has been my safety net and support system from day one
It's been a big year, to say the least, one that I didn't necessarily plan for or predict. However, the word "courage" acted as a guiding compass through each and every month, through every thought and decision. Ironically, my most successful New Year’s resolution wasn’t a resolution at all, but a single word that seeped into everything I did.
I wouldn't describe myself as especially "courageous" compared to most, but I'm proud of how I showed up last year and what came from it. That got me thinking... what's my word for 2026?
With a new home to fill with things that spark joy, and more space, mentally and creatively, to dedicate to White Stone Pages and Asteria Press, my word for 2026 is growth. Growth in how I work, how I recharge, and the scope of projects I tackle.
Of course, growth doesn't just happen by itself. This year, I’m being far more intentional with my time and attention: stepping away from doom-scrolling, letting go of presenteeism, and making intentional choices in both work and rest.
What does "growth" look like for White Stone Pages in the coming year?
refining my services and packages so they are easier to navigate, personalise, and scale
offering a more tailored and meaningful design journey for my clients, where they feel supported every step of the way
designing with even more intention: creating books that feel thoughtful and aligned with the people they’re made for
protecting space for creativity while expanding my online shop through experimentation
prioritising productivity over busyness
broadening my portfolio across adult trade genres (more non-fiction please!)
and showing up more consistently online in ways that feel sustainable and values-led.
If you’re an author, publisher, or small business owner looking to bring something meaningful into the world in 2026, I’d love to be part of that journey. Here’s to a year of growing with purpose, curiosity, and care.
What's your vibes for 2026? Let me know your one-word manifesto for the upcoming year.
Hi! My name is Wendy. Based in the UK, I'm a book designer and typesetter with a Master's degree in Publishing and over 5 years of industry experience. I love helping indie publishers and authors bring to life their manuscripts through great cover and interior design. As a designer, I am curious, communicative, and continuously learning. When I’m not reading or designing books, you can catch me cosy-gaming, journaling, and obsessing over self-development!
