Writing in a new year
Got goals?
They say the longest word in the Spanish language is Goooaaalll!!! It only takes a few seconds to score in fútbol, but everything leading up to that glorious moment remains invisible—the grueling decades of practice on the field, the disappointments, injuries, and challenges. Every. Single. Day. It’s no wonder the wins are euphoric when they finally happen and the fans go bonkers.
Writers are no exception. Slogging through a novel takes endurance and motivation. Loving a project enough to crank it out it day after day and then read it a hundred more times in the editing process demands a stamina not unlike athletes endure in elite sport.
And with a new year, ’tis the season to put things into perspective. Something about the passage of 365 days brings reflections on progress made over the past 12 months and considerations on where to go next.
What should the author focus on with her precious little time? Editing a completed manuscript, dreaming up a new story, or maybe even trying on a different genre for a change? The choice really comes down to passion.
Ever seen the fans at a sporting event decked out with painted faces in the colors of their team and head-to-toe sports apparel, from jerseys and scarves to socks adorned with their mascot? Their zeal and fervor go unmatched.
There’s something to be learned there. Instead of setting writing goals for daily word counts, manuscript completion dates, editing page quotas, and the like, consider starting with what inspires. That energy and enthusiasm will be needed to carry through the long road in completing a manuscript.
After the creative sparks get rekindled, then logistical goals can be layered on top to provide the needed structure and discipline to make it to the finish line. The synthesis of insatiable drive and a concrete plan weaves together the magic and results in every writer’s dreams.
May this new year be filled with good health, generous opportunities and success, and an abundance of blessings along the way.