I did say I was going to take the week off and think about my goals and aspirations for the New Year. I waffled on writing out resolutions - always concerned that I either a) break them or b) forget them. Not to mention that when I start writing, I always end up with way more than any normal human being can accomplish in a lifetime! That shows that either I'm a) indecisive (very true) or b) overly optimistic and enthusiastic. I've always had issues with high expectations - always disappointed when they are not met.
Anyway - I did some thinking and was all ready to list my resolutions with counter points (figured that way I had all my bases covered) when I logged back onto my blog site and was playing catch-up with those industrious people who didn't take time off over the holidays. Sara - of Dream Big - had a fabulous post about "The Word". She linked to 29 Black Street (Susan) who linked to Ali Edward's blog. Basically, it's a way to focus your energy for the year - one word! A mantra. Something that will always remind you of your goals, expectations, dreams.
I love the idea and have decided on the word Change for 2011! The inspirational quote I shared with you in December has continued to repeat over and over in my head. "Nothing changes if nothing changes". And Change encompasses all those resolutions I had planned on writing down.
Not only is the word perfect - it comes with a theme song!
It's believed the lyrics focused on the compulsive nature of the artist's reinvention. And I love the line: Everytime I thought I'd got it made/It seemed the taste was not so sweet - a good reminder for me to enjoy the journey!
So, People of Blogland, how was your New Year's celebrations? Have you made any resolutions? Have I enticed you to come up with a word for the year, if so, what word would it be?

Hm...don't know if it's just my puter, but David is covering some of your text.
ReplyDeleteWe had a quiet New Year celebration that involved only half a bottle of Proseco and some really silly Marx Bros. movies.
I resolved to not resolve, thereby not setting myself up for failure. But I have made a promise to myself, spurred on by a few conversations and readings. This is the year I query agents. I know! Such a grown-up move, hehe. I'll also get two novellas out the door, and finish my "witch" in time for a submission call by Liquid Silver. My historical became lost in the festive season, but I unearthed it this weekend.
Perhaps my word will be "promise".
Happy New Year, Lu! I don't seem to be having any problems here - but if anyone else is having the same problem as Lu, let me know and I'll ax David's video (I'm sure he won't mind).
ReplyDeleteSounds like you have a plan in place - and I love your word "promise". I'll watch for updates on your blog - and maybe we'll check in here every now and then, just to keep our words front and center throughout the year :)
I like your word Janet. Full of promise (Lu's word!)
ReplyDeleteHappy 2011!
Happy New Year, Janet
ReplyDeleteMy word for 2011: Courage
Hi Janet, Happy New Year! We spent New Year's Eve at my parents' place, gitting a little tipsy and playing a hilarious game of Aggravation. My word for 2011: GRATITUDE. With all my goals, writing and personal, I want to remember to be thankful for all the good things in my life.
ReplyDeleteHey, Sara - a Happy New Year to you, too.
ReplyDeleteThanks for bringing this concept to my attention - I love the idea. And you forgot to mention your word choice - Create! I almost picked that one :)
Great word, Anne - and I know from your blog that you'll really be working hard at overcoming some fears. BTW - great writing plan for the year (I'll get over there to comment soon).
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year :)
Wow, Jennie - I love your word. And I've been over to read your blogpost about your writing and personal goals, but haven't commented yet.
ReplyDeleteSounds like you had fabulous New Year's Eve! Happy 2011 to you :)