Like Janus, the Roman god of beginnings and endings for whom this month was named, I'm looking both backward and forward this morning, asking myself what I most enjoyed doing last year and what I hope to accomplish in the coming one. Finishing my novel is at the top of my list.
To assist me in keeping focused, I've printed out and tacked to the wall next to my desk two quotes (see above), the first from Marc LeBlanc, a gifted speaker I had the pleasure of hearing last summer at the National Speakers' Convention in NYC, and the second by Michael Cunningham, author of The Hours.Although I don't agree with all of what Marc in particular says—scores of writers dream of winning the Pulitzer, for instance, but only a handful will do so over the course of a lifetime—I certainly believe that if I write six days a week, as is my plan, I will achieve my goal.
I hope that you, too, have a happy, healthy and productive 2009.
Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of speaking (I joined Toastmasters last year, okay, last month)and I also joined a new site http://www.speakersite.com - there are so many wonderful, professional speakers networking - I'm hoping to learn from them. You might be interested in checking it out.
Great quotes Prill and what a great idea posting them where you can see them. I wish the very best on the completion of your novel.
ReplyDeleteI just signed up for a Writer's Successful Group to complete two writing projects I hope to get done as well. Cynthia Morris is a writer's coach (www.originalimpulse.com) and is awesome! Her programs are great and very affordable. The Writer's group will meet monthly for two hours for the next four months via phone with group coaching and cheering each other on. I'm one who needs to be held accountable, so I think this will be good for me.
Here's to the success of our writing!! Wahoo!
Barbara
www.joyfulpaws.com
Welcome back, Prill -- those are great quotes! I too hope to get moving smoothly this year on my memoir. I've been critiquing pages for a friend (now writing her -- hmm, I think 12th novel, 11 of which are published), and she is burning up the place with her progress. Which is wonderful to see... I just wish it rubbed off!
ReplyDeleteHope you had a wonderful holiday.
Ahhh, yes, but printing out and posting takes time, too. That I even thought that tells me that I really, really need to slow down! Thank you Prill, for the inspiration!
ReplyDeleteBest,
Carolyn Howard-Johnson
Multi award-winning novelist, poet and author of the HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers
www.howtodoitfrugally.com
Also blogging at Writer's Digest 101 Best Web site www.sharingwithwriters.blogspot.com
Thanks, everyone!
ReplyDeleteBeth-- I joined Toastmasters a number of years ago when I was getting ready to go on my first book tour. It was very helpful. You might want to look into the Nat'l Speakers' Association as well. Their workshops and conventions are fabulous. Thanks for the tip about speakersite.com. I'll check it out.
Carolyn--You said it, not me. :-)
Patrice-- Look forward to seeing you soon and pow-wowing about our writing. (I'm feeling much better.)
Frankie-- Great idea to join a support group. I wish you all the best on your writing projects.