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.
- 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.
- 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!
- 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.
- 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.
- 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! 🙂
