Wrote Down My Dream, Made It Come True

For years I'd taught writing classes and was always great at telling the adults in the classes that "writers write" and to "make time to write something for yourself or toward your goals everyday." It was great advice and I patted myself on the back every time I gave the would-be writers in my class these words of wisdom. 

I realized though, that I was a lot of talk, but not much action. True, I write for a living and earn my livelihood as a blogger and social media consultant but when it came to my own writing -- my romance novel, my ebook series, etc. -- they were always on the back burner because, 'I have clients to write for, I just don't have time for me." 

As I saw the 2011 winding down I realized that yet again I didn't practice what I was preaching. I still hadn't written or published a romance, I still hadn't written my ebook. I knew I didn't want to end the year with these two things still no crossed off my To-Do list. I'd had enough of carrying these two goals forward from one calendar year to the next. 

I'll admit it was hard to "steal" time from my clients to work on my own writing but I had to do it. In October I decided that I was going to take the first hour of every day and work on my own writing. Since I am usually up by 6 or 6:30 I'd be able to get my writing done, get breakfast, talk a walk with Henrietta and get into client work by 8 or 8:30. Not bad... very doable. Why the heck hadn't I thought of that before?

Bottom line from taking time for myself? I have my first ebook written, longhand in my notebook (Pet Blogging 101, in case you're wondering!) and my first romance story was released by Still Moments Publishing in its Christmas Treats Anthology. When I wrote the story, "Ghost of Christmas Presents" I had no idea I'd be in Santa's Naughty List(!) but there I am! Check out the book (yes, this is shameless self promotion!) and download your ecopy or leave a comment here or like and leave a comment on my Facebook Author page. Review copies are available as well. I'm doing a drawing for a free copy and a box of Godiva chocolate -- nothing better than a steamy romance and candy, right? 

What are you going to make happen in 2012? 

 

Comments

[Debra Stang]

Hi Robbi,

CONGRATULATIONS on getting your first ebook and you romance story published. What an exciting year!

Your post is very timely. I, too, have been struggling to balance client work with personal projects. Up until now the personal projects have lagged far behind, but you've inspired me. From now on, they get a priority!

Best,
Debra