Well, 2018 is now in the past, and 2019 is the present. I accomplished a lot last year. Not in individual stories, but in taking risks and putting myself out on the public stage. Let me tell you, that’s when you find out who your friends really are. The ones that will never read a word you write but are supportive of your craft and encourage you to keep working at it if you are enjoying yourself.
I completed my first two challenges, wrote rough drafts for two novel-length stories, and posted several shorts. I also took the plunge and created my first site to publish these stories. And that has been a considerable learning curve. I also made my first attempt at creating graphics/banners for the stories.
I’m thankful for all of the support in the community. I live in awe of the wealth of knowledge the that is freely shared. Whether that is through a personal chat, a Facebook post, or a literature/website recommendation. Thank you to all who give of your time and knowledge to help those of us who are starting this leg of our journey.
For 2019 I have my new list of resolutions, though some are probably better-termed goals:
1. Write daily.
I will write daily. This is a habit I want to build. I can stick to a deadline, like in a challenge. But I have a tendency to binge write instead of pacing myself. I’m not setting myself a word minimum, just focusing on the habit.
2. Read about my craft every month.
I will read about my craft every month. Whether a book, an article, or I might even include a video, I will devote time to learning everything I was never taught in school. I suppose that the English teachers who told me that I had the requisite skill to write a term paper and therefore shouldn’t attempt anything creative are to blame in part. A girl who liked math and science was a waste of their time. So it is up to me to seek knowledge.
3. Understand the tech.
I’ve taken the first steps at using the website, social media, and photo editing. I will focus some time on improving those skills. And, I just have to say that in a general way I really hate most of social media. While it allows people who would never meet to create a community that supports us as we stretch our wings, it also allows a lot of stupid to congregate and spread their contagion. So, while forcing myself to step out of my comfort zone, I hope to do so responsibly and with a great deal of patience.
4. Recharge and seek inspiration in the world around me.
I will take the time to step away from the computer and seek new experiences. I will take time to leave the digital world to relax in the physical. Sometimes, a little room to breath and reconnect with the world can open our mind to new possibilities.
5. Enjoy life.
I only get one shot at this life, so I need to take the time to enjoy it. I will spend time with family and friends, so I have no regrets. Go to the theater to see the big blockbuster in IMAX 3D with a group of friends. Camp out in medieval garb while watching stick jockeys bang each other senseless. Play a D&D campaign in a marathon session and see how many ways I can be killed. Just have fun.
6. Love myself.
I will take the time to take care of me. I am worth it, and I deserve to focus some of my time on my physical and mental health. Honestly, this entire list is about this. It’s about spending time on me this year. Last year, even with my personal writing goals, was spent in trying to keep everyone around me healthy. Family’s important, but so am I. So, 2019 is about enriching myself.
