so we are into 2026 and i suppose it is the time of year to make resolutions and set goals for yourself. to be honest last year wasn’t as good as i hoped. i didn’t achieve many of the things i set out to do. motivation was lacking a bit and i was finding it difficult to hit a consistent stride. it was all a bit stop start.

maybe it was partly down to not finding a satisfactory writing spot. i used to have a desk at home i could work at or preferably a local watering hole i would use. but the desk went and the watering hole changed. it no longer does coffee. a key requirement in the process. it was either find a new place or start drinking booze in the mornings.

i tried a few other places. but distance to some was an issue. others was interruptions. there just doesn’t seem to be anywhere local to me that fits the bill. im still searching but dont hold out much hope. and my requirements are not that difficult. a table and chair in a corner. coffee when i want it. i dont mind a bit of noise as i tend to wear headphones. and a power-point to charge from. you wouldn’t think it would be so difficult.

anyway. what didn’t i achieve last year:
1) completing WIP final draft and begin submitting;
2) complete editing poetry collection;
3) submit shorts & poetry to periodicals:
4) regularly post on blog and insta account

what i achieved:
1) completed first draft of wip-FR and sent out to BETA readers
2) submitted a short to an anthology
3) arranged a secret project
4) begun new wip-EX
5) reading more material

this year i intend to knuckle down and graft at my writing. make it more a priority. try to remain motivated and less distracted. so the goals are:
1) complete final draft of wip-FR and submit
2) complete edit of poetry
3) continue to work on wip-EX
4) find a new writing spot

i think 4 goals is realistic especially as some are big and time consuming. particularly number one and two as i loathe editing. its the part of the writing process i really dont enjoy. some writers love it. i just find it frustrating. i’ve tried to now put systems in place to make it easier but it is difficult. maybe i just a bit too close to the work and not distant enough to be ruthless. to wield my pen like a scalpel.

well, here’s to a new year of writing. go 2026.