It’s the 10th of January and, thanks to a migraine yesterday, I’m only just easing back into work. I still haven’t written that inspiring ‘new year’ post, finished the short story that I began in December, or pitched for any new journalism.
I’ve also realised that the book I was working on before Christmas is dead in the water. I’m feeling a bit rubbish about it, but am telling myself that it was useful to attempt the rewrite. Truly, those hours of work are not wasted. At least I can finally lay that particular book to rest, but it’s also disconcerting to find myself, suddenly, without a WIP.
So. Onwards. I’m planning a couple of weeks of free-writing and brainstorming in the hopes that a clear winner emerges from the various half-projects and new ideas I have slopping around in my brain. I want to just dive in (and usually do) as I hate being in-between books. I feel lost and grumpy, but I’m going to force myself to take the time to research, explore and dream.
This new year post from Neil Gaiman might help… His wish for 2012 is that we “Make New Mistakes. Make glorious amazing mistakes.” If you’re making mistakes it means you’re trying something new and, most importantly, you’re Doing Something.
Amen.
[Image notes. I’ve vowed to create more stuff this year. Not just with writing but with craft, art, home-making, and food, too. My best friend got married on the weekend and I made this card for her and her lovely husband. I’m pretty pleased with the way it turned out and am so glad I hauled out my paper supplies rather than buying something mass-produced.]