On Writing Professionally

As we bid farewell to 2023 and step into the new year, I found myself immersed in a reflective journey through the pages of the magazine I write for. Armed with dedication and a spreadsheet, I meticulously tallied up the words I'd penned over the past 12 months. What I discovered left me pleasantly surprised and brimming with pride.

Initially setting my sights on a goal of 10,000 words, I couldn't have anticipated that the final tally would nearly double that figure. The process of revisiting each issue, reliving the stories, and quantifying the time and energy invested in my writing was both humbling and exhilarating.

I decided to streamline the process by creating a spreadsheet that efficiently cataloged my contributions, allowing me to witness the cumulative impact of my efforts. It's amazing how a simple copy-and-paste operation could transform a wealth of detail into a tangible testament to my commitment.

The reflection on my achievements served not only as a celebration but also as a source of motivation for the upcoming year. As 2024 unfolds before us, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. What worked well in 2023? How can I build on these triumphs? What new challenges and topics can I explore in my writing?

For anyone embarking on a similar journey, I encourage you to take stock of your accomplishments, no matter how big or small. Celebrate the dedication, the late nights, and the countless revisions that went into crafting your stories. Use this reflection as fuel for the year ahead, setting new, measurable goals to guide your writing journey.

Here's to a successful and fulfilling 2024, filled with inspiration, creativity, and the joy of seeing your words come to life on the page.

Happy writing!