Dear Writers,
It’s that time of year! This week, many of us will make New Year’s Resolutions! (I LOVE LOVE LOVE setting goals. I evaluate them at least every 3-6 months.)
Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right. -Oprah Winfrey
Let our New Year’s resolution be this: we will be there for one another as fellow members of humanity, in the finest sense of the word.
-Goran Perrson
Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other.
-Abraham Lincoln
Here are my guidelines.
1. Make time for writing…even five minutes a day.
Do you have a full time job? Small kids at home? Other responsibilities? Then don’t make a resolution to write 5,000 words a day. That will only get you down. Instead: be realistic. Make a promise to write 2 pages a day. Or nine lines! Or for FIVE MINUTES. Commit to a time of day when you can realistically sit down and get some words on paper. You will be surprised how fast consistency pays off.
Don’t know what’s realistic?
Ask: WHO ARE YOU?
Look at your calendar! Take all your obligations into account.
2. Keep a journal. If you didn’t do it last year, try this year! I don’t mean a diary. Instead, keep a writing journal. This will help you know what works for you….and what doesn’t. Perhaps you write more after a walk. Or yoga. Or in a coffee shop. Or you hate noise. Or you can’t write until the dishes are done. The writing journal can help you know yourself. That is a priceless gift.
Still on the fence? Try COLLAGING. Or painting. Do something NEW to start your writing week.
Or
3. Try a new genre.
Tired of your manuscripts? Stuck shuffling words? Try a new genre. With lower expectations, a new genre can help you break free of writer’s block. I want to shout it so everyone can hear: DO NOT BE AFRAID!!!! THIS WORKED FOR ME!!!!!!!
4. TAKE A CLASS. With me!!!! I’d love it!!!! Or someone else! (I won’t be insulted!!!) There’s nothing better than talking about the craft. Plus: a new set of eyes will help you get a handle on a new revision.
5. The business of writing can be overwhelming, so take joy in your work. Be easier on yourself. Celebrate all your milestones. Thank yourself for accomplishing something that most people only talk about. Know that there are readers out there who need your stories. And if you need a pat on the back, know you are not alone. I have loved hearing from so many of you this year! It really helps my process to know that these posts are motivating.
If you haven’t read it yet, read BIG MAGIC!!!!
If you aren’t PLAYING yet….if you aren’t celebrating your own genius….GET BUSY.
REMEMBER: The goal
is
not
PERFECTION!
It is practice. And creativity. IT IS PROCESS; NOT PRODUCT.
This year, as you set your goals, STRETCH and make those resolutions! Make a commitment to your writing. If you did something spectacular this year, let me know! I’d love to share it! Or at some point this year, tell your family. Thank them for the support. Let them know what you plan to do this year.
2015 was the best year ever!
I can’t help but believe this will be another magical year.
Now…..Throw confetti!!!!!