My apologies for posting two days late. I actually thought I'd never find the time to write December's Insecure Writer's Support Group post. I was not defeated, though!
This month's IWSG post is the last of 2016. Hard to believe we've nearly taken another trip around the Sun. Talking of trips, I spent a few days in the Lincolnshire countryside last month. Miles from anywhere, soaking up the stunning sunrises and sunsets, I had plenty of time to reflect on the last few months. One thing I realised was I hadn't talked about my writing insecurities in October's and November's IWSG posts, which is actually the point of the group. Mea culpa. I won't forget today.
As this year ends, and another peeks around the corner at me, I'm left feeling both elated and frustrated. 2016 has been a game changer for me. I started the year living alone and single, and I'm ending it living with my new partner. I couldn't be happier. It's been an amazing year, full of many happy memories, and I'm looking forward to what 2017 will bring.
What's the catch, I hear you say? While I did find some time to blog, write a few thousand words, and read a handful of books, it was a fraction of the time I'd normally spend on those activities. My writing really has been put on hold. As much as I've loved the last few months, the desire to write is still burning within me. I know I need to approach 2017 with a whole new attitude. Of course, I'm full of the usual doubts and insecurities about how I'm going to make it happen. How will I find the time when I sometimes blink and a week has passed without me even turning on my laptop? When I love spending time with my other half? Make time! I hear you say. You're right. My other half has spent enough time telling me the same thing.
As a first step on the road to making time in 2017, I've bought myself a Self Journal. If you've not heard of this Kickstarter funded, three month journal, visit the Kickstarter page or their website to learn more. I used a Self Journal in early 2016, and it really did make a massive difference in my productivity. It helped me to clarify larger goals, break them down into achievable steps, and prioritize time to work on my goals every day. The twice-daily journal entries kept me on track. For me, it was worth every penny. So, I'm starting 2017 in the same way.
Pebbles has promised to remind me to fill it in every day
Now for December's IWSG question:
In terms of your writing career, where do you see yourself five years from now, and what's your plan to get there?
I don't have the answers to either of these questions. However, I will by the end of January. One of my first goals for 2017 is to revisit and update my original writing plan. So, if it's okay with you, I'll be answering this question late January.
How about you? Do you have a writing career plan? What tools do you use to stay on track and boost producitivity?
No worries!
ReplyDeleteGlad you are happy now. A relationship does take a bite out of writing time, but they are so worth it. Now you just need to find a balance and be happy on all accounts.
Interesting idea behind that journal.
Thanks, Alex. You're so wise. Time to find that balance.
DeleteWriting sometimes needs to take a backseat to life, but I know you'll get back to writing too. To stay productive, using a timer when writing has helped me immensely. Even a little bit of time a day spent writing is worth it. Words do add up. Best of luck! And Pebbles is so cute!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the awesome advice, Cherie. I'll make use of the timer on my phone, though I'll have to avoid being distracted by those shiny app icons.
DeleteMy plan is to write. Stuff happens like my pet died and I broke my right humerus 12 weeks ago. Just now can sit at my computer and type without pain...and my bone still isn't healed. Need bone to grow in the fracture site.
ReplyDeleteOuch. Sounds like a long road to recovery. Pleased it isn't defeating you!
DeleteI had a plan a couple of years ago. Now it's kinda simplified to Write, Edit, Publish, Repeat. Given up on targets like x # of sales because I've concluded that side of things is more of a lottery than anything I feel I can meaningfully influence so I'm just trying to enjoy writing and putting stuff out there.
ReplyDeleteWriting for enjoyment yourself is the most important thing. Chasing sales or trends can be a downward spiral.
DeleteHi Ellie - wonderful to read you're happy and living life to the full ... that's great. The journal sounds interesting ... so here's to your future ...and what a happy thought to look forward to ...
ReplyDeleteLooks like both your live in partners ... two footed and four footed support you in your writing efforts - so here's to 2017 .. cheers Hilary
They do, Hilary. It's hard to find a balance between writing and making time for the non-writing life. Hopefully, I'll get it right in 2017.
DeleteYou're happy and in love. It's okay to spend time with him. But planning and goal setting will help you make time for everything.
ReplyDeleteYou're right. My Self Journal is kicking my backside every morning!
DeleteEllie, congratulations and best wishes for the coming year!
ReplyDeleteI left my job in November after a 35 year career. I can't say I made that decision specifically to concentrate on writing, but that's the practical effect. I'm nearly finished with the first draft of my latest project, Shredded (http://bit.ly/2gl7ieV) with the goal of making it available by April of next year. After that, my goal is to complete two books per year, as well as build my platform. Doing the math, that means in five years I'll have thirteen books to my name and I'll have put my million words of crap behind me.
Cheers,
Charles
Thank you, Charles. Congratulations on the upcoming release! It sounds like 2017 is going to be an amazing year for you.
DeleteI'm in the same spot as you: 2016 has had its ups and downs, with some writing to pat myself on the back about. The year has been pretty good for me though. I'm happy.
ReplyDeleteAnd pleased for your new relationship and happiness too. Looking forward is a good thing :)
Thanks, Dolorah. I'm glad 2016 had some high points for you. Here's to making 2016 an even better year!
DeleteIf your significant other is supportive and telling you to make time, then do it. One of the things that tends to hold me back is when I feel I'm disappointing my family by taking time away to write. When my wife tells me it's okay to spend a few hours writing, it's a liberating feeling and I get a lot of writing done. Make sure your plans are aggressive. It'll keep you focused. Happy holidays!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the superb advice, Ken.
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