Writing in the New Year

Most of us aren’t sorry to see 2021 go. It was one hell of a trying year. On the other hand, some of those challenges brought new perspective, new life choices and new confidence as we rose to whatever occasion presented itself. Of course, I hope that 2022 is easier and even more rewarding. If that involves writing in the new year, then let’s make sure you set yourself up for success.

To help with that, here are highlights from a blog post I wrote some 18 months ago when the pandemic was just gathering steam:

• If you want to write this year, you have to focus on your writing and just do it. That starts by making writing a priority, scheduling it and honoring those time blocks.
• Making space for writing in your life doesn’t just involve the time element. You have to carve out your writing space and your writing routine.
• Get your head in the game through active reading and sloppy writing.
• Disempower your inner critic. Right now you just need to write. You’ll tap your inner critic later, when it’s time to edit.
• If your fingers won’t do the walking on your keyboard, move your bootie and do some real walking if you can or take a virtual walk. Either way, that trip through nature will reset your creative brain.
• Brainstorm with a writing coach or writing buddy to feed your ideas. Hopefully, they’ll also help on the accountability front.
• Don’t let fear get in your way as you write this new year.

Here’s to buckling up and trying something new. What would you attempt in 2022 if you knew you could not fail?