Writing is my avocation — and my vocation. Writing so much can some times take a bit of fuel from the fire, so to rekindle my spirit, I am making a few writing resolutions.

1. Write every day. Every writer knows that he’s supposed to do this, but we find a reason not to. Maybe you’re tired from work. Maybe you got a bad review. Maybe life is just hell. When these days happen (and they will) remember how much you love to write. Then do it. Even a few lines. Even if it isn’t your current project. Write something, and then smile, because you did something you love to do.
2. Post more often. From the time I started this website and blog, I had the idea that I needed to post things that everyone else would want to read. The fact is, like most things in my life, I overthought it. Screw that. This year, I will post more, and I’ll post more about what I’m doing. Maybe some readers and writers will find solace in knowing someone has the same thoughts and experiences!
3. Allow yourself to be surprised by life. In 2015, I had the opportunity to do something I know few people get a chance to. I traveled for six months. It was an eye-opening (if not always wonderful) experience. I learned to allow myself to be surprised. I had destinations in mind for which I had high expectations, and I was often deflated. But, the rolling hills of Nebraska surprised me with their quiet beauty. The sun setting behind Cheyenne, Wyoming, captivated me. I allowed myself to see beauty where I had not expected it.
4. Experiment, that’s how you grow. It’s easy to do the same thing you did yesterday; you already know how to do it. But I have to remember to try new things as a writer. I will try different exercises and styles this year. I may even try a new genre. It may be crap, but it may be brilliant. That’s the point of taking a chance.
5. Be kind to yourself. I am a total self defeatist, because I expect more out of myself than I do anyone else. For that reason, I can be my own worst enemy. This year, I will turn my worries and criticism into positive statements. Instead of saying, “I’m worried I won’t make my deadline.” I’m going to say, “Here’s my daily plan to reach my deadline.” If I falter along the way, I won’t abuse myself for that mis-step. I’m only human, and being hard on yourself wastes time, energy, and creativity.

These are my promises to myself for 2016. In December, we’ll see how it went! 🙂