Thursday, December 8, 2011

Goals, Motivation, Writing

One of the things that I've learned as a writer is that patience and determination will eventually pay off...but having solid goals, finding motivation, and making time to write will move you closer to the end result.

I allowed myself to slack a bit this year with having to weather the storm of the last three rocky ones. My writing suffered but I still managed to have small releases. I really believe my positive thinking and affirmations have helped me overcome the rollercoaster emotions. The bottom line is that: WRITING IS HARD. If you keep telling yourself you're stuck, having writer's block, or simply can't find time...you have to ask yourself "Do I really want to be a writer?"

Okay, I know we all have it tough but sometimes you just have to bite the bullet and trudge forward. Even at a snail's pace, it's progress! I've learned a long time ago that your mind is a powerful tool and if you keep your eye on the target, you can just about overcome any obstacle. Most people may not know that I'm a good example of resilience and determination. Sixteen years ago I was in a car accident that affected me severely. I had neurological complications and health related issues stemming from the impact. Doctors told me that I would most likely never be "normal" again. I was basically considered disabled. Sure, I cried a bit and felt sorry for myself but when I snapped out of the funkyou bet I searched for ways to prove to my doctors that I wasn't going to settle for being helpless. Fast forward to 2011, anyone who ever met me now would never believe that I'd battled 16 years to be the person I am now. The sacrifices I've made, the rehabilitation, treatments...everything I endured was possible because of staying positive. It's overcoming my fears that I'd never be able to be physically and mentally healthy that gave me my drive.

Although it's been a tough journey as a writer, I'm a step closer to where I want to be and I'm not going to make excuses. I'll allow myself a sabbatical here and there but writing is like breathing for me. As 2012 approaches, I know what my goals are, I'm focused about my tasks, and I'm a few baby steps away from securing the full-time career that I was born to do!

How about you?

7 comments:

Wynter said...

I totally agree - it can be really tough at times and we must allow ourselves those times when all we can do is take baby steps. They are still steps.

Jax Cassidy said...

Agreed! Dara, you are a great example of someone who can put out 20+ books even though you've had your fill of turbulent moments. It's absolutely inspiring! :)

Katie Reus said...

Writing is such a tough career choice that positive thinking is sometimes the only way to stay sane. After having a baby this year it was a big adjustment, but I was writing 3 weeks after he was born. I can't imagine not doing this job even during the tough times.

Jax Cassidy said...

Katie, you know I admire how dedicated you are with your writing. You've made me feel guilty a time or two for not writing...but you're also great about cheering me on! LOL

Jina Bacarr said...

Your extraordinary journey is so inspiring! Thank you for sharing. Each of us follows a different road to publication--I used to write cartoons for kids TV--now I write erotic and historical. The bottom line is that we keep writing and never give up.

You are definitely proof of that!

Jax Cassidy said...

Jina--that is so cool that you wrote cartoons for kids TV! How awesome is that? I love it! I know I want to get back to screenwriting next year as part of my other goals. Whatever writing I do is still writing so I totally agree with you :)

Callie Croix said...

I'm trudging along right with you, if that helps. And I'm glad you've got such a positive attitude about life. Baby steps are still steps!