Strive toward realistic, attainable goals

Creative types seem to push themselves to do more, more, more.

I know. I've done that. Unfortunately, the results of my efforts were not up to my usual standards. 

So, if your novel writing takes a bit longer than other authors', then that's just the way it is. Be more concerned with outcome over process.

I recently ran across an article that I found quite encouraging, The Daily Word Counts of 39 Famous Authors.

Turns out I'm pretty normal. I write more than some famous authors and less than others.

Personally, I've been a lot happier when I don't push myself to create goals that my writer friends have for themselves. I've stepped off that treadmill of comparing myself to others, and I'm a better person for it.

Still, it's important to set a schedule. You need to find time to churn out words. One of my tricks when I seem to be slowing down is to set a timer for 15 minutes with the goal of writing 500 words. I've always met that goal.

I've come to a time in my life when I'm more deliberate and thoughtful of my efforts. Setting realistic goals is just one area that I work on.

Keep moving forward, friends. Slow and steady still finishes the race.

Be successful, and here's how . . .

Did that title catch your attention? 

I have a not-so-secret secret to share. If you want to be successful, you have to make it happen. Sure, it sounds like a tall order, but let me tell you, I've found some successes in my life, and they didn't happen by accident. 

To find success, you have to make a plan. You have to know where you are and where you want to go. When I decided to become a published novelist, I began by joining an online writing organization (ACFW). I joined an online critique group. I read books on the craft of writing novels. Then I got brave, and I went to my first writers conference. Then I wrote and wrote and wrote, and I entered contests, and I went to more conferences/seminars. Then I began to submit my work to agents and publishers.

Don't let me fool you, it wasn't as easy as it sounds. BUT, it wasn't impossible. If I attained one of my dreams (I still have plenty more!), then you should try to make your dream come true as well. 

I'm just now embarking on a new dream. I want to speak to and share a powerful message with others -- message that took me nearly 15 years to crystalize, a message that I never thought I could share with others because of the shame involved. But I took control of my life and my emotions, and I found my voice. I'm braver now. I've shared my message publicly, and I've helped others find their brave voice and claim control over their fragile hearts. I've seen a hopeless woman become hopeful again. And that's where it's at!

But first, I have to make it happen. I have a plan. I attended speakers conferences and seminars, I have honed my skills by speaking for free. Now I'm a part of a speakers mastermind group, I'm practicing before more audiences, I'm reading articles on speaking, and I'm attending seminars and webinars. I'm putting my plan into action. 

And if I can do it, then so can you!