A New Day, A New Year, A New Focus

This morning I pulled a few cards. I had questions, lots of them, but I narrowed it down to four. Although some of the answers weren't what I wanted, I understand they are what I needed to hear. In 2025, I was all over the place. Once again spreading myself too thin. I don't like saying no when an author needs my help and sometimes I back myself into a corner. Which often lands me scrambling for time with my own projects.

This year I decided to change that. Now this is not to say I won't help when I can, but I also have to put limitations on some things, and if you know me, you understand how difficult it is for me to do that. I remember what being new in the author world felt like, and I want to be sure I can help relieve the anxiety and bewilderment for everyone I meet. However, and this is a big one, it's taken me a long time to realize it's impossible. I can't be there every minute for everyone and still take care of myself. I've had many days of autoimmune flare-ups to prove this to myself, but the Capricorn in me kept shuffling it to the side.

So, for 2026 a new plan. Help when I can, don't neglect myself or my career goals, and find a way to be happy with this decision. The first change I'm making is ARC's. This is definitely one I can never say no to, and I've often stressed myself out trying to meet another authors goal and one of my own. Solutions—I've limited myself to five this year. It gives me more time to spend with the ARC and also it doesn't cut into my own deadlines. Honestly, just making this one decision has made me feel lighter.

That's it, my new beginning plan for 2026. Do you have one? If so, I'd love to hear it.

Also, if you live in Salem, Oregon, or find your way into the city on Saturday, January 10th, stop by and say hi! It's our first Salem authors group, Books & Brew event. I'm so excited!

P.S. My birthday is coming up soon, and my wish is kindness. Let's try to be kinder to each other and recognize that we're all in this together. Side by side, not single file. :)