Well, the year is almost over. And 2008 was all about overcoming my fears and facing the writing world head-on. Here’s what I’ve learned this year:
- Writing isn’t some fantasy, whim or hobby. I love researching, writing and learning new things. Writing has become a part of my life. It’s something that I enjoy doing. In spite of all the difficulties I have encountered I still persevere.
- The market only appears to be saturated and impenetrable. My motto: “There’s always room for more.” I don’t try to emulate anyone else’s writing style. I have a unique voice, style of writing, and fresh ideas that I can offer to publications. The key is learning which markets are the best match for me and those are the places where I can thrive.
- I soak up information and feedback on my writing to improve and grow as a writer. I believe that constructive criticisms of my work have allowed me to grow vertically. I am open to criticisms because staying in my comfort zone hasn’t been all that productive. I’ve learned to become more professional and keep my emotions in check. When it comes to abrasive critiques I apply what I call the “mirror-effect”- it’s my belief that harsh feedback is not a reflection of me but of the person delivering the critique. So, I am able to quickly move on without absorbing that kind of negativity.
2008 has been a yo-yo year for me with all the ups and downs I’ve experienced. But, as I reflect on the past months and anticipate the New Year I see greater and better things in store for me.
The New Year is going to be my time to break into national magazines (I’ve targeted my wish list already), create monthly query submission goals, set a freelancing income objective, enroll in writing classes, and formulate a plan from start to finish for my novel.
I have bigger plans for 2009 and I don’t think it should be any other way. I’ve started writing and there’s no turning back now. My mind, heart and fingertips simply won’t allow it.
What are your writeResolutions?
I love that…”Staying in my comfort zone hasn’t been all that productive.” EXACTLY!!!
[...] I polish off my writeResolutions for 2009, I’ve decided to make tech-free hours a part of my goals. These hours are set to keep [...]
I am ready for a new year and some new changes too. I am definitely going to make writing and blogging part of my daily routine. I am also very happy now that I have gotten back in the flow
I am working on setting up a submission schedule/track and I am going to finish my NaNovel! I am excited about the future possibilities and I am excited for you too!
[...] I have definitely not kept up with that part of the game this year, which is certainly one of my Writeresolutions for Aught-Nine. I am making a submission schedule and plan on using a tracking program which should [...]