Day One...

Why today is the greatest time to start

New starts are terrifying. And, if you’re like me, you put them off until the arbitrarily designated “right moment” because it gives you just a little more time. I returned to writing over a year ago, but I’ve been slow to share about it. Maybe I unconsciously crave anticipation. Or perhaps, it’s perfectionism at play. Whatever the reason, I’ve bonded with the delay. But today, I’m breaking that tie.

::cue Michael Jackson’s “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin”::

Writing essentials and inspiration surround my workspace, ready for a productive session.

Last week, a friend gifted me a “Motivation” candle from a fellow writer’s company. (If you’ve never heard of Wicking it Up, check them out: https://wickingitup.com/). In a moment, a simple act of kindness became the perfectly timed push I needed to get going and find my motivation mojo.

So, I’m trying something new here.

But, of course, one thing doesn’t feel like enough. That’s why I’m starting them all: First off is this Substack (bear with me as I clarify the vision). I also met with my agent late last week, and I’m starting our last set of edits to prepare for the beast that is the publication process. In addition, I’m taking a stab at content creation (I get by with a little help from my friends, lol). And, I’ve launched my artist IG account and website. Did I mention Bluesky?

It feels incredibly awkward, but there’s also something special about the beginning.

More important than every item on this long list, I’ve starting to believe my own hype and become more conscious of how I talk about my dreams. I’m giving airtime to heart’s desires with seemingly small changes like using “work” to refer to the endless effort I’m putting into writing rather than reserving it for more traditional corporate employment.

And, in taking seriously the power of my words, I’m seeing a shift, even already.

Don’t get me wrong, resolutions are great. And I love a top of the year goal-setting session. But I highly recommend the rush that comes from casting fear aside and taking that first step.

Join me and let’s see where we land.

Is there something on your heart that you’ve been putting off starting? Why not take the first step today? You just may shock yourself with the progress you make between now and the far fetched, far off “perfect” time to start.