My Journey to Become a Writer 01/12/2024 Post #12

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What Did I Accomplish Today to Be a Writer?

I don’t know whether it was the weather, or what; but I hit a wall today as far as having energy to focus on significant writing.  Plus, I went to the funeral home, and then had a friend come to town – and I’m still waiting on Wi-Fi, since my phone data is out – so, it wasn’t a normal day. 

After lunch, I came home, made some hot chocolate to compensate for the sleet, took a sip and then fell asleep before finishing the rest.  I’m so thankful for insulated cups, because it was still piping hot when I woke back up.

Part of the problem was that my mind started the workday at 2:45 in the morning, and I couldn’t convince it to go back to sleep. It led a mutiny against the rest of my body.

I did do Day 12 of the 100 Words a Day Writing Challenge 2024 through LA Writer’s Lab.  

What Am I Afraid of Doing Next in My Journey as a Writer?

I’m afraid I somehow left this question out of a lot of posts – probably all but the first few. 

I don’t know what happened; but that brings me back to one of my big fears – bobbling details.  I feel like I’m always dropping something, and it’s hard to feel like much has been accomplished when there’s always “one more thing – or many” that I haven’t completed.

I’ve messed up my links, don’t know about Alt Text, can’t figure out what’s going on with Facebook – I’m so scared of offending somebody due to my ignorance of social media – especially with friend requests, when I have no idea who the person is, or if they are even real.

Stuff I find myself saying:  “And that ye study to be quiet, and do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we have commanded you”

– I Thessalonians 4:11 (although I wind up with more of a summarized version)

How Am I Balancing the Different Aspects of Being a Writer?

Giving myself grace to take a nap.  I needed that today. 

What I’m Doing About Building a Body of Work as a Writer

In the exercise program that I do, there are “active recovery days” that are a little different than “rest days” – I feel like this writing day fell into that category. I didn’t totally rest; but I didn’t go after my task goals like I usually would.

What I’m Doing to Complete My Manuscripts as a Writer

Last night I spoke to a woman who leads a group of writers for the purpose of helping them complete their goals.  She had some ideas about sending excerpts from my memoir to magazines as a way to get them noticed.  I’m planning to start working with her in a couple of weeks on my current writing projects. 

What I’m Doing to Grow My Website as a Writer

I still want to look into the “Alt text features on images” this evening – maybe once I publish this post.

What I’m Doing to Build My Blog as a Writer

I don’t know if this exactly counts; but I ran into someone today who I hardly know, who said she’d been reading some of my posts.  That surprised me, made me blush, and helped me think maybe this isn’t a total waste of time.

What I’m Doing About Networking as a Writer

I took some time to look through the website of someone I’m hoping to work with on a collaboration and sought advice from a good friend who is skilled in some areas where I could use some growth.

What I’m Doing About Monetization as a Writer

This section is starting to get monotonous – not making much of anything.  Simply spending and trying to be wise about what will be a good return on investment.  There are so many opportunities, it’s sometimes hard to pick and choose what should be a priority, and what should be bypassed.

Trivia Question:  Do you know who the woman in Daniel 11:17 from the Bible is? 

He shall also set his face to enter with the strength of his whole kingdom, and upright ones with him; thus shall he do: and he shall give him the daughter of women, corrupting her: but she shall not stand on his side, neither be for him.

– Daniel 11:17

I was asked that question and had no clue, so I looked it up – and now, ever since I learned the answer, I’ve had this country song in my head. 

The reason I’m including it here, is because I’ve always thought these lyrics were rather clever. 

I think based on the words you will guess the answer to the trivia question.

Did you get the answer right?  Let me know in the comments down below.

What I’m Doing About Social Media as a Writer

Today I checked into the Facebook group where my article about dealing with my mom’s dementia in an honoring way was posted by the moderator.  There were some comments that I replied to.  My heart went out to the people whose relatives were suffering with memory loss, and I hope my words were an encouragement. I’m still not used to this way of interacting with total strangers. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/C18J18qpxhj/

I stuck this up on Instagram the other day. I just don’t think this is my medium for creativity – it doesn’t at all flow like words when I type.

What I’m Doing About Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a Writer

Trying to complete the task of learning about Alt Text for images, so that my posts can be accessible to people with visual impairments.  The more I stare at this screen, the more I think I will be needing that assistance myself someday.  

What I’m Doing to Stay Organized as a Writer

For quite a while, this website has felt like an unruly yard that I haven’t had time or strength to maintain.  Setting a schedule and some boundaries has been a bit like planting a pretty, little hedge along the perimeter, so that the space is slowly on its way to being somewhat manicured, after lots of weeding, lopping and daily care – if people passing by on the sidewalk don’t look too close.

There is quite a bit of determination that goes into saying, “I’m going to do this” and then actually following through, because it’s so easy to get side-tracked.  It seems like anytime I do set a boundary, I’m immediately given an opportunity to prove whether or not I will protect it.

Looking Back at My Writing Journey

I’m only twelve days in; but that’s twelve posts I wouldn’t have done, if I hadn’t dared myself to say I would.

My efforts have been like a bunch of little water drops that don’t seem to matter much; but every drop counts, when trying to fill a bucket.  

Any Other Thoughts on Becoming a Writer, Random Rants, Tales, or Trials…

I’m too tired to tell. 

Thanks for reading what I’m writing, Jody Susan