The Space Between 2018 and 2019
This year has been complicated. In fact, right now, I’m waking up to the dawn of a new year in one time zone while it is still the previous year in the time zone where I actually live. I’m in between 2018 and 2019 and it’s an interesting time to look back and also to look forward, I think.
Matthew has been talking to me about what drives me. His perspective is valuable to me, not just because of who he is to me as a partner but also because he can observe objectively and provide shrewd insight.
We both agree that I am driven to continually accomplish and achieve, so much so that I run myself ragged. With every story, every deadline, I think if I can just finish this or hit that deadline, I’ll be happy. But then I immediately dive toward the next goal, writing the next story and hitting the next deadline. Where was the happy?
I agree with Matthew that I need to celebrate more. Savor. Be happy about what I’ve accomplished.
What did I do in 2018?
- Moved from Phoenix to Seattle
- released Total Bravery
- turned in Fierce Justice
- turned in Forever Strong
- released Siren’s Calling
- signed a 4 book deal with Sourcebooks
- recorded 20 Minute Delay with Gail Carriger
- featured author at Coastal Magic Convention
- survived pneumonia, again
- panelist at RWA national conference
- survived medical challenges
- instructor and staff on the Writing Excuses workshop and retreat cruise
- panelist at Emerald City Writers Conference
- featured author at Fresh Fiction Readers ‘n Rita’s
There’s more, though those are the highlights. Every book has an entire cycle of draft/edit/revision involved. Every convention or conference has preparation.
I also did all of this in parallel to my day job. I did this while Matthew was away on orders. I managed to keep Corbin and myself fed and in reasonably good health. I even improved both our physical fitness levels. I faced depression and anxiety, learned to recognize what they were doing to me, and am taking steps to navigate through.
That’s awesome. Looking back on 2018, it was a lot of accomplishments in the face of a number of challenges behind the scenes and I did some great things.
Looking forward?
I have hopes and dreams. I have ambition.
I want my writing career list to be more focused on actual writing.
I am exploring new genres.
I am trying to remember to celebrate with each accomplishment and enjoy each burst of happiness as I go.
WOW! What a wild year for you (again!). One of my highlights of 2018 was going to Daytona for CMCon and hanging out with you! I hope you find some peace and joy in 2019.
Thank you, Jen! I really enjoyed spending time with you at CMCon in 2018 too and appreciated your help SO MUCH. I hope we can hang out again soon.