Here we are, at the end of another month. So that means it is time to check in and see how it went. Read on for a glimpse at my February 2019 Month in Review.
This little spot here:
I feel good about my blogging efforts this month. This will be my second post for the month, which means I hit my goal. I made a goal for my career that included posting two blog posts each month. I felt this was something I could handle as I got back to doing what I love.
Now, I often feel like I should be doing more, but I am working hard to stifle my need to compare. Comparison to another person often leads to disappointment. No one likes disappointment, so why set yourself up for failure. I had let my blog go dark for way too long. I was a bit depressed, but not writing did not help me. Looking back, I totally should have been writing anyway, it may have gotten me out on the other side a little sooner. I want to see what my readers want more of, so make sure you leave a comment to tell me just that.
Being a Wordsmith:
I don’t feel quite as good as I want to about this item. I have stopped going forward with my latest story, Camille, because I got stuck in the wheres and hows needed to move the story forward. In response to this, I have been on a month long journey to learn more about planning and plotting novels.
My idea was that I could plan, more fully, what I wanted to say in the book, then re-plot my original idea into a complete story. The re-plot would be a more detailed road map of where I was going and how I might get there. I still think this is a grand idea, unfortunately anxiety indecision has struck. Deciding on a plan has been hard. I just keep finding more and more websites and videos on how to do it.
There has also been no starting the re-plot because I can’t seem to land on a plotting scheme that fits. I am doing the same as with the planning. My anxiety often rears its head in my thoughts as I can’t get it right, because I don’t have enough information. I make copious notes on what I need to do, without doing much else. I endeavor to break this cycle next month.
On the other hand, some positive movement is happening with my finished manuscript. It is titled Life in Time, but I am pretty sure it won’t stick! Anyway, I have been researching developmental edits. In this type of edit the editor will look at your story, making sure it is a fully realized story, the characters are well rounded, the pace is good, etc. So, I have movement on that and a plan. It makes me happy.
Daily Efforts:
My habit tracker is looking good, mostly filled in. I hurt my leg late last month, so my goals for walking have been left in the dust. Hardly any walking was done this month. I also realized through my habit tracking, that I need a better cleaning system/schedule. I am leaving a lot of cleaning on the table, so to speak, as I go through my days. So, next month I “plan” to have a better plan. Hah!
Now, as far as journaling is concerned, nope! I really didn’t do well here. Very little mention of gratitude, very few entries as to my days. I don’t really know why this happened. Journaling and seeking daily gratitude are goals in my emotion category. I feel it not only helps me process my feelings, but I often look back on it and realize things weren’t half as bad as I thought.
What’s the March Plan?
This is a great question for the end of the month. Looking back to see what worked for you and what didn’t. Then you can tweak your plans and goals to get the results you desire.
I believe, my blogging goals are okay, for now. I am working on consistency first. Writing needs some work. I must buckle down and stop the endless educational loop I’m in. If I need to go back and revisit something, I will. But, I’m hoping to spend more time plotting in order to get back to the story. With habits and journaling, I am committing more time to actually journaling. Or at least, jot down a one sentence gratitude. These things make me feel better, more aware, and show me the positive when I have forgotten. I also plan to work on that cleaning schedule and get to work. Next month, I need to have a better report in that area.
Alright, I’ve shared my wobbly month, how about you? Did you make goals at the beginning of the month? Did you meet them, some of them? Let me know. And don’t forget to let me know what kinds of things you like to read about here.
Happily waiting,
Janshea
Hmmm…I always think you have it all nice and neat and hitting your mark most days. I’m a complete mess too. Thanks for the reminder of keep moving forward until you get it right.
Oops, looks like I replied to you in my head only! I’m glad I at least look like I have it together, hopefully that means I will actually be better at it.