Happy new years! We’re already a week into 2026. Is it too soon to say time is going fast?
You don’t need to have a strong social media presence to hear people talking about their New Year goals, aspirations, and/or resolutions. In my travels these past weeks, I’ve seen bumper stickers, billboards, and even chatted with the cashier at the checkout line about what 2026 might have in store.
I found myself thinking about what I wanted to achieve this year, what dreams I’d check off my list, whether I’d land an agent interested in my books, and if I would finally fix the plot holes keeping me up at night.
But when the new year began, I felt overwhelmed instead of inspired (maybe because I had a stomach bug, but that’s beside the point) and had a mini moment of panic.
What if this year goes by and all my boxes are still unchecked?
In writing, there are two main categories for how an author approaches a project. You’re either a plotter (you write everything down and outline your story exactly how you want it to go) or you’re a pantser (you have a vibe, themes, maybe a word, and then you run with it and see what happens).
Historically, I’m a plotter. Get everything down in distinguishable, actionable steps. If there’s a plan, at least I can say I’m prepared. I tried to make some steps I wanted to accomplish this year in my professional and personal life, but they all felt directionless. Maybe it’s because this past year has thrown a few curveballs, but I found myself completely lacking a plan for 2026. Cue panic moment.
So, I went back to the basics and decided to pick one word to focus on for the year ahead. For 2026, my word is: presence.
I fall into the trap of being physically in one place but mentally in another world (usually one I’m reading or writing). This year, my hope is to focus on the moments I’m in and be there fully. If I’m writing, I want to be zoned in. If I’m catching up with a friend, I’m all ears. When I’m unpacking all of our endless moving boxes, I want to be doing it with a grateful heart.
My hope is to find inspiration and peace in present moments so I can create authenticity in my writing and not let the stress of my boxes (metaphorically and literally) steal my joy for the year ahead.
A Book I’m loving.
The Shell Collector by Anthony Doerr is a quick, timeless, and immersive read. If you haven’t read anything by this author, I urge you to go to your nearest library or bookstore and pick up ANY of his books.
This is a collection of short stories exploring the human condition of change, grief, relationships, broken hearts. If you’re a fan of beauty in the simple parts of life and intrigued by the mysteries of nature, the Shell Collector is a must add to your list.
Thanks for reading along,
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