Oh and yes, I do take a lot of photographs – in fact I think that might be the key to all the rest of the creative work.

Having focused on this project, I have neglected my own writing, and my soul aches to be able to express who I am; I have many suppressed fiction, non-fiction, blogging longings. So many, in fact, that I feel overwhelmed by them, and had concluded that I could not do them all in 2010. Yet, I can not release any yet either; each has waited so long for expression.

What I thought was a problem—too many desires, too many goals—now appears doable through your example. I was amazed when you stated that you published a book, published a website with a related ebook, wrote poems and essays, taught journaling, and still had an exceptional blog (grats!). I would be surprised if you didn’t also take photographs on your walks, or perhaps keep a nature journal with sketches.

Thank you again for your gift of hope.

Cath I think if you set out goals it’s worth looking back – actually that the confidence comes not just from noticing the good things but also being able to learn from the bits that didn’t work out. That’s harder… but still worth doing. Hope you’ve had a quiet weekend by the way!

Ralph writing with a passion, and with an intention to connect are worthy goals. I wish you all the best for them in 2010

Carla I know that you’ve had some blogging tussles over the last year so it’s great to hear you’re in a blogging flow and are proud of what you’re producing, writing and editing. I love to hear when people are proud of their writing… it’s such a good feeling! Best wishes for 2010 x

It’s all too easy to start writing next years goals without thinking. But it gives you more confidence to keep going, if you congratulate yourself on your achievements.

In regards to writing, I wanted to start a blog. I succeeded and love it, though I wish I hand’t lost what I had written for nine months. It almost feels like losing a part of myself.

I also wanted to submit. I had some lofty goals and once I got in the swing of it, I cut back on them. I learned that there is much more personal success in mindful submissions than on the sheer quantity. Some writers may disagree and that’s fine, but in the end, I feel better about targeted and purposeful submissions rather than bulk mailings.

It may take me longer to accomplish my goals of publication, but that’s okay. I’m willing to wait it out in exchange for not overloading and overworking editors and agents with the wrong types of submissions.
.-= Cat Woods´s last blog ..Tales from Technology =-.

Brad, you’re right, there is an element of discomfort, but I felt more comfortable having written it It helps to keep my relationship with you wonderful folk on solid ground

Karen that’s such an important point about keeping an eye on the bigger picture. I read once about river people vs goals people – river people being more interested in the general direction & flow rather than goal specific focus – and I think that captures somem of what you mean, that it’s a direction and a journey, and we should celebrate what’s contributing to the forward momentum rather than beating ourselves up about the specifics (as I would be liable to do!). Glad to have helped … as ever your feedback helps me x

–Deb well, there’s something in doing what works for you. Finite goals do drive some people forward, but they’re not universally motivating. Or, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!

Eric thank you. Well done on achieving your own goals. I’m going to include submitting some of my writing externally in my 2010 list too.