Typically, I review my goals quarterly, but 2020 has given all of us a run for our money so far. Between the pandemic, a brief slow down in the real estate market, and the loss of my father-in-law to COVID-19, my goals got buried as I struggled to find a new normal. It’s time now, though, to stop the negativity and focus my attention on moving forward. Here is my list from January and an update on my progress:
Goal 1: Develop one of the ideas from my stash.
Progress: None, however I did float around to one of my publishers that I had more story ideas similar to two of the books that have already been published.
Goal 2: Decide which of my completed stories to submit next.
Progress: None, though that is because of Goal 3.
Goal 3: Edit The Sisterhood and submit to the agent I met at a conference.
Progress: The first draft of a full-length novel was completed before I ever wrote a children’s book. It simply has never seen the light of day. Even edited once or twice, it needed help. I had been reading it to my writing group, which provided some good feedback. I also pitched it last fall to an agent at a conference who expressed interest if some work was done to it. That work started a month ago. My sister/co-author and I are on Chapter 3 right now.
Goal 4: Finish additional material for the new version of A Christmas Kindness.
Progress: Done and in the hands of my publisher. I am waiting for word from the editor.
Goal 5: Acquire and edit three manuscripts for 4RV Publishing.
Progress: I have worked on one totally new manuscript this year, completed edits to the first novel I acquired for them, and hope one more comes to fruition in 2020.
Goal 6: Write for Guardian Angel Kids.
Progress: Sadly, this will remain an uncompleted goal. Guardian Angel Publishing announced that as a result of slow book sales thanks to the pandemic, it is closing its doors after 15 years. I am so grateful for the faith they had in bringing three of my books into the world. We don’t have word if Guardian Angel Kids will continue, but I don’t think so.
Goal 7: Write five chapters of Amelia’s Mission.
Progress: None. Since my focus has been on the additional material for A Christmas Kindness and The Sisterhood, I simply haven’t had time to think of poor Amelia. With my limited amount of time, I know I need to dedicate what I can to one project.
Did you set goals for 2020? Where are you at right now? I hope you’re happy with your progress.
The Children's and Teens' Book Connection 