IN PREPARATION FOR 2012

Well, I can honestly say that most of 2011 has been a bit of a disappointment for me.  It was a pretty rough year emotionally, spiritually, physically, and vocationally but, by the end of the year signs of prosperity began to show themselves.  Like everyone else in the world who write "resolutions" I look forward to starting "anew".  I have learned (and sometimes RE-learned) a few things and look forward to carrying that knowledge into 2012 and making the best of the new year.  I also do not believe setting "new years resolutions" and bounding myself to tightly knit principals.  Everyone should always strive to better themselves no matter what the situation so instead of making "resolutions", I am opting to setting goals I would like to accomplish by this time next year.
Tentative Summer 2012.1.  Have every single work on my "in progress list" (which will be updated tonight to prepare for the new year) under contract and in print with a publishing company (not just ebook with the exception of my free reads and shorts).  Even if I have to do it myself.
2.  FINALLY apply and send off my applications for graduate schools to get my Doctorate.  (I am an overachiever, what can I say).
3.  Get back in PEAK physical condition (finish with surgeries and all).
4.  Become more financially indpendent and responsible.  (actually put money in my pathetic savings account).
5.  Spend more time with my children.  (Unfortunately mommy and daddy have been so busy, we havent taken time to enjoy our babies like we should and they are growing so fast).
6.  Spend more time on things of importance and less time on things not in my control.
7.  Write more.
8. Write more.
9.  Be happy.
That's a doable list dont ya think?  I mean, everyone says "lose ___# lbs. this year by so and so" the problem I have found is (through working as a Therapist) is that when you set your expectations too high, you become discouraged from completing your task when things dont go entirely the way you envision or except.  Therefore, you should set realistic goals that dont limit you onto one particular outcome and set you up for failure.  FAILURE is a hell of a de-motivater.    I think WRITERS should also take heed to this information and set realistic goals in 2012.  Not everyone is going to love your work...not every person is going to get published...and not everyone is going to be the next J.K. Rowling or Stephanie Meyer (except me *cough* lol).  I know I say it all of the time, but its something that I like to think about when I need help through those WONDERFUL rejection letters all writers get at some point...
"J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter was rejected TWELVE times before someone took a chance."
Things dont come easy in life.  You have to put for some effort and work, otherwise...how are you going to truly enjoy it?
Happy New Year everyone!!!
~S.K