Author Goals - 2021

It's usually this time of year that we start thinking about New Year's Resolutions.

For 2021, it's a bit difficult - with no idea what the year ahead might look like or what might be possible, it's hard to know what to focus on.

So I've decided to focus my attention on my writing - and everything that comes with it. Because during the year I have learnt so much about authoring, both the good way and the hard way.

Balance

There's no point writing a brilliant book if nobody gets to hear about it. And equally no point raising your profile as an author if you leave yourself no time to write.

This is something I've probably struggled with most of all during my debut year. I did very little self-promotion before the book came out (partly due to coronavirus and lockdown), then probably went a little overboard in the second half of the year - I say 'overboard' not because I was spamming my followers or taking part in wild publicity stunts, but because I was leaving myself very little time to actually write.

I'm part of a great group of debut authors on Facebook and one thing we've all struggled with is how to get word out online that we've got a book out, whilst remaining true to ourselves.

This year, I hope to spend the majority of my 'writing time' doing just that. And while I've got a few panels and Twitter events lined up, I'm only choosing to do things that are FUN in their own right too.

Outreach

In some of my worst moments (the kind where you question what you're doing, or whether you have what it takes) other authors, readers and writerly folk have really made a difference. Whether by simply reading and raving about my book, offering me advice privately or taking part in an event I'm running. These are all people I didn't know in 2019, but who decided to help me out anyway.

In 2021, I'm hoping to be that person for others - if I can help someone who's looking to get into writing, or debuting this year with help or advice I'm going to seize the opportunity to 'give back.'

Love

Let's get back to basics - I write because I love to write. And there were moments this year where I felt completely disconnected from myself as a writer. What did I want? What was I trying to achieve? I will forever be grateful that I was plucked from the publication slush pile and given a chance to shine. But equally I mustn't forget what got me scribbling in the first place.

I love writing. End of. And I'm determined in 2021 not to lose sight of that.

There will be other lessons to learn no doubt in 2021. For a start, I hope to have my first REAL WORLD LAUNCH in May when my second novel comes out. With champagne. And actual people. And books you can hold in your hand... No doubt I'll find out what to do (and what NOT to do) for the next one.

I expect I'll make mistakes again, beat myself up about things, find reasons to regret things I do, or don't do.

But I hope for the main part, focusing on my three writerly goals will keep me on the straight and narrow.

Wish me luck!

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