Happy New Year, everyone! I took a break from my computer over the holidays to spend time with family—which was lots of fun—and to deal with technical issues—which were definitely NOT fun. But the time away was an important emotional rest and helped re-energize me for the coming year.
I love spending time with all of you and hope your holiday season was filled with joy and laughter, and that you’re excited about the possibilities the New Year brings. I know I am.
The past couple of years, instead of making resolutions—which I’ve usually broken by now—I started choosing a motto for the year.
I also set some practical goals, but let’s talk about that next week. This week is for thinking big and dreaming big dreams.
So, what’s Your motto for 2013?
I ask myself this question and let it simmer a while. I want a phrase that describes an attitude, a mindset and a direction I want to go and explore. I spend time thinking, praying, walking, reading and soul-searching.
Eventually, the answer comes, usually as a whisper. I’m often surprised initially, but then I get excited.
My motto for 2013 is simply this: BE BRAVE.
Those two words encompass so much. They call me to push out of my comfort zone–even though I’m tempted to do the same old things in the same old ways.
This year, I want to try new things and meet new people. I want to taste new foods, see new places and do things differently in my relationships, my writing, my life.
Instead of buying each other socks, tools or jewelry for Christmas, hubby and I bought each other new bicycles. We spent New Year’s Day riding them along Daytona Beach.
BE BRAVE this year!
I want to take risks. That means I’ll need courage. Guts. Determination. I’ll have to face my fear of failure—and fear of success—and take chances.
In big things or small, I don’t want to miss out because fear has a hold of my ankles. I don’t want to shrink back and make excuses when opportunity comes knocking.
I plan to take a deep breath and dive into life, full tilt. No hiding. No dipping my toe in from shore.
I’m ready to take the plunge.
How about you? What’s your motto for 2013?
Wonderful post. I think we’re in FHL together–though I don’t post much. I used to be their newsletter editor years ago.
I love your comment: “I plan to take a deep breath and dive into life, full tilt. No hiding. No dipping my toe in from shore.”
Over the holidays I was in a credit union and saw the phrase ‘Moving Forward.’ I knew immediately that would be my motto for 2013. In November, I took the plunge and published a short story in a Christmas anthology, accepted a speaking opportunity when a conference speaker had to cancel, and immediately after the conference, got the email that TWRP was offering a contract on my novella. All of these things are going to Move Me Forward, and like you, I plan to take a deep breath and dive into the writing life full tilt–no hiding! Wishing both of us THE BEST the new year has to offer.
Oh, and congrats on your sale to Abingdon!
Wow, Jessy, that’s wonderful news. Congrats on your novella, on taking advantage of a speaking opportunity and on getting a short story published! I’d say you are definitely ‘Moving Forward.’ How exciting.
I love being part of FHL and I so appreciate your sharing my joy on the sale of Angel Falls. March is coming quick and I can’t wait to share Brooks & Regina with the world.
All the best to you as you move forward this year. Keep me posted so I can celebrate with you!
My new motto for 2013 is Don’t Worry, Be Writing. I’m just going to work on writing and producing books.
Hi Jill~ I love it. What a great motto. And now I have the “don’t worry, be happy” song in my head, too! But it fits. Think I’ll be singing that along with you this year!
From your email I thought you were going to choose a different motto for every day which seemed a huge challenge – my misreading.
I think I’d probably fall back on the old Britishism – keep calm and carry on.
Maddy, you’ve got me grinning. What a great motto. Too often, I get rushed and frazzled and feel like I’m chasing my own tail. I’ll have to remember that one!
Not really a motto, but my compound word for 2013 is serene abundance.
Oooh, Jean. I like it. That phrase conjures up a great feeling and mood…
I like it! Be Brave! That will keep you moving, for sure. Which leads me to mine this year…
Don’t stop.
I am a girl of momentum. An object in motion stays in motion. I have worked up a pretty good writing schedule/habit. It’s when I stop that it is extremely difficult to get back into it again.
And so, I’m getting back to work right now! 😉
Hi Katy,
Another great motto! I like the way you think. I’m with you–staying in motion is much easier than starting! I hope you’ll keep me posted on how things are going…