My sister-in-law and I started a “clean-eating” plan on January 4th. Each day, I log everything I eat (and drink) into the app, and the smart little piece of technology lets me know if I’m meeting my calorie and exercise goals I input. Pretty cool, right?
I’m trying to carry this idea over to my writing as well. For the past two years, I’ve logged my word counts into an Excel spreadsheet, but I’ve been less inclined to set a firm year-long goal. Finish books, get them published–that’s been the plan. But this year, I want to be more mindful about not just my goals, but my long-term plan.
What’s my long-term plan, you ask? Why, being one of your favorite authors, of course! Writing has been my dream from the time I started reading in first grade. My teacher, Ms. Townsend, had a clawfoot tub full of pillows behind our desks, and if we finished our lessons, we could grab a book and lay in the tub until the next lesson started. I spent A LOT of time in the reading tub.
As I’ve matured, I’ve realized the importance of setting attainable goals. This year I want to publish four new books. Many Sounds of Silence came out on January 9th, so I have three more the complete by year-end. This may or may not be doable, but the important point is that I’ve set the goal–it’s ambitious–and let you know the plan.
Just like my new, better-than-ever clean-eating lifestyle, I need your support to make sure I attain my goal. So, I hope you’ll check in from time to time, and help me stay motivated.
Warmly,
Alexa