Happy New Year!

By Debbie Herbert

Yes, we’re actually one week into 2014, but with the holidays and company, this Monday is my first full day ‘back at work.’ And by work, I mean a return to my writing routine.

I won’t lie; it’s tough to get back in the habit.  As my hands hover over the keyboard, my mind is wandering far from the task of my work; I wonder how my youngest is doing on his job search today, I chastise myself for not getting the holiday decorations in the attic yet, and gee . . . there is dirty laundry . . .

Suddenly those shiny New Year’s goals for writing projects, a healthier me, an organized office, a meditation practice, etc. appear overwhelming.

Deep breaths. It doesn’t have to be accomplished in a day or a week or even a month, I remind myself, trying not to feel like my own version of The Biggest Loser. Every day, I will do the best that I can, in an organized manner (when life doesn’t interfere) and chip away at the daily chores that, in time, will morph into Big Achievements.

And so, I’m tossing out now, for anyone to see, exactly what my goals are and how I hope to reach them.

1.      Finish book three of my Dark Sea series, under contract with Harlequin.  If I write 1,000 words a day, Monday – Friday, I will have 20K words a month. If I don’t complete my 5,000 words per week, weekends will be spent catching up.  So by May 1, the first draft shall be complete.  Another month will be spent in revising/polishing and the book will be ready to turn in by June 1.  For the next half of the year, depending on contract status, I will either begin a new novel and complete it by year’s end, or I will revise my unpublished works and/or write a couple of novellas.

2.      Exercise everyday and aim to eat more veggies and fruit.  Keeping this goal simple!

3.      For a more organized office and home, I will keep the house more clutter-free by not buying stuff that is not needed and daily awareness of what I am holding onto that can be donated.  The less stuff, the less to keep up with!

4.      As far as meditation practice, this is something I resolve to do every year and never accomplish. It should be easy – sit for a few minutes and deep breathe. What could be easier? I have a special place set up for this; I’ve read books on various techniques, so it is a merely a matter of sticking with it.  I usually feel like I am wasting my time when I sit doing ‘nothing,’ but this year I vow to give it a shot for at least three months.  If at that time, I don’t succeed or see any benefits, I can release this goal.

You know, I feel better already for having written this down.  I’m in it for the long haul, every single day.

I’d love to hear your goals and your game plan for making 2014 your best ever.

All best,

Debbie Herbert
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