I realize that a goal probably shouldn’t be based on an involuntary function that keeps us alive, but here we are. When I look at my goals over the past few years (2018, 2017, 2016, 2015), I can’t help but feel like I’m moving backwards. After writing two novels in 2017, then publishing them in 2018, I’m tired.

Exhausted.

Burned out.

But that doesn’t mean I’m stopping. My anxiety can quickly make me feel overwhelmed and out of control, and I’ve learned that when I start to feel that way, I need to take a step back and reprioritize. This book taught me that when my to-do list gets out of control, choose THREE things that must be done and start there.

Since reading it, I’ve applied that method to all aspects of my life, and when life starts spinning out of control, I decide what MUST be done, and what can wait. I put a lot of demands on myself and I’ve learned to press pause before I’m a quivering heap on the floor.

I started a new novel in November and it’s my most ambitious book to date. The idea first came to me when I was finishing The Slope Rules three years ago, but at the time I didn’t feel ready to write it. I knew I’d continue to grow as a writer and in 2016, I knew I wasn’t there yet. This draft is taking longer than past books, but it’s because I’m being more intentional with my writing. The complexity of the plot requires it. The characters deserve it. And you, my readers, deserve it.

So my goal for 2019 is to write my best book yet, but to allow myself to breathe. To stop the crazy spiral before it starts and enjoy hikes with my husband, make time for my friends, and cuddle with my puppy. Also—and I hesitate to share this, but what the heck—I’m going to try AGAIN to get an agent. Querying has become a casual sport that I’ve yet to win, but I believe in this book and think it has the most potential of anything I’ve written.

Before I go, here’s a quick list of the things I accomplished in 2018.

Published The Trail Rules
Published the short story The Friend Rules in a YA anthology, The Art of Taking Chances
Published The Edge Rules
Designed & wrote an amazing Annual Report for my day job
Started a monthly Author Interview series on my blog
Started The Other Me

And I met an amazing group of YA authors who I’m more grateful for every day.

The only goal I didn’t meet was to write my NA novel, but that’s on the list for later this year. Or the next. I have a couple other ideas up my sleeve and those may move ahead in the list. But either way, I’ll do what makes sense for me and doesn’t make me crazy.

I’d love to hear what you have planned for 2019. Do you have a special word? Tell me why it’s important to you!

Yes, that’s my tattoo in the image at the top. I’ve had this reminder since 2011 but clearly I don’t always listen to it.