Dec 28, 2012

Surviving in Style--2012 Reflections


Most of us are great at self-critiscm. I'm not talented, smart, productive, funny, thin enough. Good old January 1 has perfected the art of cashing in on our insecurities as we all plan how we can be BETTER in the new year. As artists--whether we write, draw, paint, build macaroni figurines--we strive for constant improvement. That elusive location of 'there', I'm almost there, I'll get there, one day... What about now? What about here? How about appreciating and celebrating all that you've already achieved?

Before I make my resolutions (and yes, I'm weak enough to give into the list of improvement) I like to reflect and review my past year. Here's my celebration list of 2012:
  • Survived an apocalypse--so that's kinda cool.
  • Moved from our country cottage in Yass to an inner-city suburb of Brisbane. Swapped views of cows and hills for trains and skylines. I've learned I can happily adapt to any environment and now love city-living as much as I loved country-living.
  • Joined the Queensland Writers Centre (bonus to the move).
  • Formed a writers group and we meet every week. Best thing I ever did for my writing!
  • Studied via writing courses and workshops. I couldn't even count how many writing classes/workshops I did this year!
  • Finished four first draft manuscripts.
  • Wrote flash fiction and short stories.
  • Increased my pool of online buddies.
  • Taught creative writing workshops for kids by volunteering at local schools.
  • Was invited to read My Zombie Dog with Year Six kids when they chose it as their class text (that was so awesome!).
Write your list and pat yourself on the back. Post your achievement list, after a few days offline, I'm itching to get around to your blogs. 2013 is looking pretty exciting!

12 comments:

  1. I'm currently thinking about my 2013 goals. May do a blog post on them.

    That is so cool that MY ZOMBIE DOG was chosen as a class text! : )

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  2. When you think about it, you achieved so much! 2013 has even more in store. Happy New Year!

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  3. Yay for you! That's a great list of accomplishments.

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  4. Hope this isn't duplicated - I lots the previous comment! Well done on your achievements, Charmaine. Joining a writing group was the best thing I did many years ago!

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  5. You accomplished a lot. As for me, I'm just glad to see 2012 go away. I think it hasn't been a great year.

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  6. You had an amazing year! I joined a local writer's group last year, and it truly was one of the best things I could've done for myself. I can't wait to see what 2013 brings from you! :)

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  7. Hi, Charmaine! Thanks for visiting my site. I'm following you now. You had a very productive year. Happy New Year!

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  8. Hi, Charmaine! Thanks for visiting my site. I'm following you now. You had a very productive year. Happy New Year!

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  9. Hi Charmaine!

    I'm in awe of all you achieved this year!

    Wishing you a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

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  10. Aloha,

    Very cool list and congrats for all your achievements, Charmaine.

    I need to get a writing club going here on Oahu... maybe Starbucks will give us a group discount :)

    Happy New Year :)

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  11. You did well Charmaine! Congrats!
    Happy New Year!

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  12. I love your goals. Mine are similar regarding the writing. Hope your wildest goal is realized soon.

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