I didn't expect to spend December this way


Hey Reader,

As we kick off 2026, I want to share something personal that I haven't shared on social media (or anywhere) yet.

On December 8th, I gave birth to my daughter and second child. She's been an incredible baby so far... basically being a textbook newborn. We feel so blessed that she arrived safely (at almost 2 weeks late).

What I didn't expect was spending the majority of December in recovery, including 2 weeks in hospital over the holidays.

I'm on the mend at home now... and just beginning to process what the last month showed me.

Beyond being grateful for my health, my kids, and the simple moments in life like being able to walk to a cafe and order an americano to enjoy in the sun...

I've thought a lot about this past year. It's taught me that I can't (and don't want to) do everything.

Between preparing for my second maternity leave and running a business on part-time hours, in 2025 I had to get crystal clear on what actually matters.

And here's what I've learned: it's not about doing more. It's about being more intentional.

For me, that means being a source of stability, comfort, and consistency for you and your business... showing up in a way that transparently takes you behind the scenes of what it's really like to run a business.

I'm guessing you're approaching 2026 with more intention, too.

Whether you set resolutions, goals, or chose "a word" for the year, the start of any year is a good time for new beginnings.

And if you're looking at 2026 feeling a bit overwhelmed about how to actually map out the nitty-gritty parts of your business – your promotions, emails, and content – I've got you.

​Planning Vault is my shockingly simple system for planning your next 3 months of promotions, emails, and reels in one sitting.

Inside you get:

  • My complete planning framework
  • An editable workbook and planning spreadsheet
  • Email and social content maps with examples for each launch phase
  • The exact process I use to plan six-figure quarters

This was filmed in the context of planning Q1 2025, but you can adapt it to ANY three months you're mapping out. (And rinse-and-repeat every quarter.)

​Get Planning Vault here.​

Thank you for being here. This connection we share through email is something I never take for granted. 🧑

Here’s to showing up, staying grounded, and making 2026 a year of meaningful growth – together.

~ Elise & Team

P.S. Have you set any goals for 2026?

Hit reply and tell me what your BIG (main focus) goal is for the year. I'd love to know.

Elise Darma, Online Educator For Small Business Owners

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