Focus on One Word
I'm joining a group of creative souls who have chosen one word to concentrate on and see where it leads.
My one word for 2011 is.... FOCUS.
I've been wandering. Now wandering can be wonderful, indeed, but it can also lead to walking in circles and getting nowhere. I must admit, the last couple years I've been walking the same path, seeing the same sites, and feeling unproductive. I've made up my mind to focus. Focus on...writing and photography. I'm setting goals, short and long term. I must move beyond excited and into assertive.
Goal: 365
Even though I'm starting five days late, I'm still going to give 365 a whirl...take a photo every day for one year. I'll post the photo under the 365 page.
Goal: Get back on track with writing.
Yes, I've lost my focus on writing. It's time to organize my thoughts, step into the uncomfortable zone from time-to-time and take risks.
So many thoughts, plans, possibilities and aspirations for the new year...open an Etsy shop, search for new writing avenues, query, submit, and be brave. Let my 'babies' take flight and see where they land.
This morning while flipping through channels as I sipped on coffee and nibbled the edges of toast I lingered long enough to hear Robin Roberts say and I paraphrase, "Everyone has a story to tell. Please stop and listen." I loved that quote and it's so true. Each one of us has a story to tell that often is so much better than fiction.
One of my goals for the new year, is to also get back to my writing. Like you, I've lost my focus and I think it's because I have been putting off writing a particularly tricky part of my short story.
ReplyDeleteI hope that we can both get back into writing and good luck with your other exciting ideas!
I echo every single thing you said in your post.......
ReplyDeleteYes, we really do need to take time to be very quiet and undistracted.
Brenda Ueland (my 1930's guru) said:everyone has something interesting and important to say.
THIS IS TRUE indeed.
I'm going back to teaching creative writing a little in the spring.
All best wishes for a really creative 2011
Happy New Year, Spangle. I have to admit, I grew weary of writing the same sort of article and content over and over, so I took a break. The problem is, a break means less money in my pocket. OUCH! So I'm seeking new writing venues along with the tried and true. I would love to concentrate on fiction and be paid a tidy sum for it, but...well...I've yet to even submit any fiction to a publisher. It scares the heck out of me.
ReplyDeleteI am hoping to inspire and be inspired this year to aspire to greater heights in my creative pursuits. I wish much success with your creative process as wel.
Hello Elizabeth...I had to look up Brenda Ueland and now I want to read her book, If You Want to Write: A Book about Art, Independence and Spirit. Oh how wonderful that you're going to teach writing! One of my college profs once said, "I am the midwife to aspiring writers suffering through the pains of giving birth to a new book." I loved that analogy. May you find plenty of quiet and inspiration as you continue your creative journey.
ReplyDeleteGlad you are feeling better Teresa O!
ReplyDeleteAppreciate you choosing "Focus" for your word of the year! I worked for a Frenchman and when he thought he said "We must Focus" it came out "We must Fuckis". I always laugh when I think of this!
Glad you are doing the 365 challenge!
You Go Girl!
Happy Healthy 2011 !
xox
Constance
What an inspiration to us all for this new year. Thank you! As soon as I saw the photograph, I wanted to reach for my pen!
ReplyDeleteIn exploring your avenues, may you find the one that is waiting for you to explore further; deeper.
Dear Teresa, I love your photograph and your inspiring words! Wishing you a healthy and happy 2011! P x
ReplyDeleteyes,yes and yes!
ReplyDeleteFocus.
I love that and I am inspired by you and your word. How easy it is to get distracted, to spend hours, then days, then weeks at the things that don't matter then neglect the things that do.
I am so looking forward to seeing the fruits of your focus - reading your words, celebrating your photography!
I think you will have a wonderful year.
FOCUS... that should become my word for the year. I started illustrations for a new book way back last January and now, I must finish it. So, focusing is a major objective if I want things completed by early summer. There are so many distractions all around us, all the time. FOCUS!!!! Okay, enough of the computer, get over to that drawing board, right now!
ReplyDelete