I'm taking a cue from freelance writer Thursday Bram, who posted her bucket list last week and got me thinking about what I would put on my own list.
So I gave it some thought, and if I knew I was going to kick the bucket very very soon, these are the writing goals I would pursue, like, NOW:
1. Make my living as a full-time freelance writer. I’m working my fanny off at this one, but I’m still too chicken to make the leap and try it full-time. So instead, I send out queries and schedule interviews whenever possible, and fit in the actual writing whenever I get any free time whatsoever. Granted, it’s not the way I would choose to work, but having very little uninterrupted writing time has definitely helped me become more disciplined. Would this be the case if I did go full-time and had all day to complete articles and queries? I really can’t say for sure.
2. Break into larger consumer markets (particularly bridal). The wedding pubs are proving to be very difficult to break into. I finally sold an article to a regional wedding pub early last year, but I have a slew of other ideas I’d love to sell. I love weddings and writing about the wedding industry, so this would definitely be a dream market for me. But if I can’t crack the bridal pubs, I’d be happy to see my name in a well-known newsstand publication.
3. Land a book deal and get my first novel published. I did have a very encouraging agent appointment at one of my conferences this year, which went a long way toward boosting my confidence. Now to just get the editing done…I’d be one step closer to making a sale!
4. Teach creative writing. I’m getting there, since I’m teaching English already and trying to work in some assignments that take a little more creativity and imagination. I’d like to teach a straight-up creative writing or magazine writing course, though.
5. Promote the literary arts in my hometown. I’m working my fanny off at this one, too. My writer’s group is definitely gaining some good momentum, which is very exciting to experience. But for the most part, I don’t know how many of our members are actively writing, which goes to show that all of the education and resources in the world can’t make someone sit down and do it—that drive needs to come from within. But the growth has been awesome, so I’m just happy to be a part of the group and apply what I learn from our speakers and presentations to my own writing goals.
What about you? What would be on your writing bucket list?
Nice post. Your bucket list sounds great. By the way, I saw your article with Allison Winn Scotch over at WOW-Women On Writing. Way to go!
ReplyDeleteThanks on both counts, Sarah! :)
ReplyDeleteThose are some solid goals. Out of curiosity, are you thinking more that you'd like to teach writing in person or online? I know that a lot of different groups offer online creative writing courses, which can fit into schedules better than some in-person classes.
ReplyDeleteI'd be open to either. This year I taught freshman English in a face-to-face course. Personally, online courses haven't worked very well for me, but I know a lot of people like them because of the convenience factor. I think I could adjust to either.
ReplyDeleteAs one of the members of Sara's writer's group I do write weekly but often I spend more time looking at the markets which then distracts me from finishing my article or book. Aaarrgghh! Need to stay focused. Great post to keep me thinking.
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