“We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year’s Day.” – Edith Lovejoy Pierce
New Year’s Eve is for me a momentous occasion. Tonight I will celebrate that 2013 was a great year. High points were:
- The many walks I took with my daughter and a friend
- Seeing several fun shows – musicals, Blue Man Group, bands during the summer
- A good relationship with my husband and family
- The fun of interacting with you, my blog readers
- A fantastic family vacation to Spain and France.
However, I’m also celebrating because 2013 is over. Tomorrow begins a New Year–another chance to get it right. Even though 2013 was a good year, I yearn for something more. I dream of writing a book and earning an income from writing.
My idol, Agatha Christie http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a4/Agatha_Christie_plaque_-Torre_Abbey.jpg
Writing a book and earning some income were two of my most important resolutions last year, and I did not achieve them. It is apparent that I need to do more than make resolutions to achieve my goals. Here is my action plan for 2014:
- I will adhere to a daily routine which I have posted by my computer. This plan includes “butt in chair” time for writing.
- I have signed up for a video course of “The Artist’s Way” taught by Julia Cameron. This should free up my creativity.
- I am putting my writing in God’s hands this year and trusting that He will help me.
- I will spend more time reflecting and stop looking for answers elsewhere.
- I must and will say “No” more often.
2013 is over, but I’ve got another chance in 2014. So do you. Happy New Year!
Are you celebrating because 2013 is over or are you celebrating because it was a good year? What are your hopes for 2014? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Women Making Strides 
Susan, best wishes as you forge ahead in the New Year! May your dreams come true in 2014! 🙂
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In 2014 I plan to continue to follow the whispers of my heart and see where they take me. I know that doesn’t sound very structured but structure only seems to lock me in. Being open has allowed me to be surprised and sometimes amazed with the path I’m on as a writer and illustrator.
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Sue, I’m glad that works for you. Your artwork is beautiful.
I’ve had a lack of structure since I left paid employment 21 months ago, and I haven’t accomplished as much as I’d like. I guess we’re all wired differently and I need more structure.
I wish you continued success and a Happy New Year!
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Love that you have an action plan rather than resolutions! I tried this method last year for my goals and many of them did actually happen. Resolutions are the old way…and I like this new way much better. Out with the old and in with the new! 🙂 May 2014 bring you much to celebrate!
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My 2013 was similar to yours Susan. Sometimes I need structure and other times I need the free reign of doing whatever when the mood strikes. I still work a 40 hour week job that I like, yet I yearn for more and am working on goal setting in 2014. Happy New Year Everyone!
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