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I don’t know about you, but 2011 can’t go fast enough. There’s not one specific reason why this year roughed me up. Everything just hit me hard … much harder than I expected. 2012 is going to be different.

I haven’t spent a lot of time praying about it yet, but I know that I need to write this year. I’m not talking about the writing I’ve been doing – when I can squeeze it in here and there and write when the mood strikes. I need to push the boundaries in 2012. I need to let God guide me (and actually listen). There are some things that I know for sure.

1. I need to write sacrificially. What am I willing to give up to be a writer? As I work full time and write on the side, can I sacrifice my social life? Will I? Yes. I’m sorry in advance for the events that I’ll be missing, but I hope that my friends will give me this time to focus on what I must do (and it is a must – I tried to give up writing before and I can’t do it – I must write).

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2. I need to rewrite the classics. Songs, that is. Years ago I felt like God wanted me to rewrite some hymns. I didn’t think I had the talent or ability, so I let other people do it. What I noticed, however, were subtle changes to the songs, but not a real rewrite.

As I writer, I know what a rewrite really means – I don’t take my characters, put them in a different setting, and call it good. I have to tweak the people, places, and things. This year I’m not just going to play with the music, I’m going to tweak what’s already written. I don’t expect that anyone will recognize the songs when they’re done (because, well, I’ll have rewritten them). I do expect, however, that there will be new songs inspired by the classics. I’ve already finished “How Great Thou Art” – moving on.

3. It’s time to move on. I’ve been working on a novel for 2-3 years. I’ve rewritten it so much that it’s actually been three different stories. I’m done. I’m going to finish this edit, take my critique partners’ suggestions, and finish it. I don’t think the story has a very strong ending, but I can’t keep running around this mountain. It’s time to finish the story and start another one. I will write another novel this year.

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4. My health is not an option. I can’t do anything if I’m not healthy. That includes writing. I started snacking on Dec. 23 and haven’t really quit yet, but prior to that I went weeks without sugar. It wasn’t bad. I’ll be re-instituting that Monday. I’m also upping my number of workouts per week.

I spent most of 2011 battling colds, asthma, and other maladies. Not this year. I’m sick of being sick, and I’m sick of my husband being tired. We’re investing time and money to buy good food and supplements and to strengthen our bodies. No more sickies here.

5. Isaiah 12. That’s my chapter for the year. I’m going to hang it on my wall. 

It’s not technically the new year yet, but I’m ready to get started. How about you? What are your plans for 2012?