ROW80-4 - goals
September 26, 2012
OK folks, break will soon be over, the next ROW80 starts October the 1st. Time to think about setting some long term goals and specific objectives.
Last session I had some general goals and a long list of SMART objectives. I did realize that I could not meet every objective every day, so used them as a target, a reminder of areas to not forget about. I think I did well with that approach, but would like to change my focus a bit.
I believe that if you want to 'be' something, then 'be' it. If you want to be a writer, then be a writer, act like one. Write, edit, imagine, explore, read, learn, publish - just be a writer for a while, every day, and voila, you'll look back and be amazed. I have found that, being self-employed, I have the choice to avoid schedules and fixed tasks, or to impose some structure on myself. I've been choosing the former, and having fun - except when I agonize over my lack of progress on writerly things. All to say, I think it will help if I start the day with time for those writerly things, like writing and editing. I'm sure things like reading fiction and commenting on Facebook posts will find a way to sneak in just fine later in the day.
My long term goal is to be more of a writer and author. I am a writer now, and have published one (1) Flash Fiction so far, but I want to continue to develop my skills as a writer, and publish more. Another goal is to stay healthy - physically and mentally. And a third is to keep on top of chores - cleaning, laundry, bills. etc.
So - breaking this down:
- Writer/author
- Editing - Due North, Due North 2
- Writing
- Flash Fiction stories
- NaNoWriMo - November (outline October)
- Publishing
- Short Stories - general as well as Fairy Tale Folk series - review, sort, edit, submit
- Learning/sharing
- Blogs - on writing, publishing, etc. Read and comment
- Facebook - ROW80 and other groups
- Podcasts - mostly on writing. Good while walking or cooking.
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- Reading - fiction and non-fiction
- Courses – finishing Fantasy and Science Fiction soon, Intro Astronomy starts end of November
- Health - walking, diet, visit friends and family, entertainment
- Chores - the boring stuff. Cleaning, laundry, shopping.
A big list. Still have to think about priorities and times - I want to add enough structure to get things done, without feeling over managed.
Your writing goals are admirably organized. This is my second round with ROW80, and I have been inspired by the many different ways writers persevere. Even the discipline of focusing on goals and priorities moves us forward. Write on!
Posted by: Beth Camp | October 01, 2012 at 10:19 AM
Some great goals there again.. Best of luck for round 4 X
Posted by: Shah Wharton | October 01, 2012 at 10:26 AM