Outtakes 129

Resolve

By Cait Collins

I like the power of the word resolve. “I resolve” is a commitment to a job, a partner, family, friends, and to faith. By making a resolution we give ourselves a goal to work toward. At this time of the year many people make resolutions. Some they will keep for a few days or a few weeks, but for the most part the commitment is made and quickly forgotten. Like many others, I don’t always fulfill my promises to myself. But this year I plan to do better.

These are some of my 2014 resolutions.

• I resolve to write something each day. It may be a detailed grocery list or a letter to a friend, but I will write every day.
• I will edit my memoir and my novel.
• I promise to submit an article, a memoir, a short story, or a novel to agents and editors.
• Before the end of the year, I will have a website and a fan page on Facebook.
• I resolve to seek out new authors and new genres. I need to expand my literary horizons.
• I will make time for family and friends. Writing is part of who I am, but I need others in my life for balance.
• I promise to go on a research trip. Maybe I will even go north for a few days.
• I will take a writing course or attend a workshop.
• I resolve to be thankful for the opportunities that come my way. I will celebrate the successes of my fellow writers.
• I will encourage a young writer.
• When the year ends, I will review my goals, celebrate my achievements, and renew my commitment to my craft.

I challenge all of us to set goals for the year and track our accomplishments. The goals will keep us focused and on track to make a sale in during this year. Good luck and good writing.