by Chris Goff
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| Background image created by V.ivash – Freepik.com |
Every year people across the world celebrate the New Year by making resolutions. I’m no different, but this year I decided to keep it doable.
Gone are things like: Lose 200 pounds. In are things like: Join a Fitness Club and find one activity that you enjoy.
Done!
Not only did I join the club, but I found one activity I love and one I really hate. I may do both. The first is DEEP POOL, the second is BARRÉ. The first is exercise that is water-resistance weight and aerobic training. The second is 60 minutes of pure torture.
Gone are things like: Stop Volunteering. Learn to say “No.” In are things like: Choose carefully what you agree to do. Limit the number and scope.
Done!
For years I have taken on more “jobs” than I can effectively do. I sat on the Rocky Mountain Chapter of Mystery Writers of America’s (RMMWA) board for twenty years, helped or ran various conferences, judged numerous awards competitions. For a number of years, I’ve accepted every opportunity that’s come along to appear on panels, teach workshops, sign books and meet readers.
This year I’m committed to serving on two new boards. In October I began a four-year term on the Executive Council of the North American Chapter of the International Association of Crime Writers, and I just recently agreed to sit on the Education Committee of Sisters in Crime administering a new scholarship program for members. Both are exciting opportunities. And I’ve limited the number of conferences I plan to attend. Come say hello if you’re going to Left Coast Crime 2018 in Reno, ThrillerFest 2018 in New York City, and Bouchercon 2018 in St.Petersburg, FL. Otherwise, I’ve planned only a few local appearances spread out in the year.
Gone are the lists of things I must accomplish in 2018. In is one edict: Shoot for more balance in life, which means HAVE MORE FUN. Done!
This year I’ve already taken a spontaneous, impromptu trip to Hawaii to visit Daughter #4 and frolic in the sand with she and Daughter #3, who invited me along on her “sister visit.” We’ve been having a blast! Next up in the fun category, a three week trip to Sweden and a cruise on the Baltic Sea with the husband. Can’t wait!
And, finally, gone is the finish a book in “blank” number of days or months. In is: write your best book.
Done!
For most of my writing career (8 books), I have written on deadline. The one book I wrote on my own timeline, DARK WATERS, was the best received—nominated for three awards (a Colorado Book Award, a Colorado Author’s League Award and the Anthony for Best Crime Fiction Audiobook Award), published internationally, well-reviewed and sold to numerous book clubs. Currently I am out-of-contract. RED SKY was published in 2017, and received lots of critical acclaim. It’s too early to know if it’s been nominated for any awards or what may happen in the next year, but I am not finished with the Raisa Jordan series. Stay-tuned for book number three. Meanwhile, I’m working on a standalone thriller for my publisher at Crooked Lane Books. It’s in its baby stages, and I’m getting excited about it. Working title: BLACK ICE. I’m taking my time, because I want it to be my best book to date.
So far, 2018 is going well. I haven’t broken any of my resolutions, and I’ll let you hold me accountable. Here’s to making 2018 the best year ever!
What have you resolved to do this year? Keep it real.
Yay you for keeping your resolutions. And I'm excited to learn about book three in your Raisa Jordan series. Way to go.
Barre! Have one close by and been thinking of trying it out. Keep us posted on how you like it. Love the photo of you with your daughters and here's to having more fun!
Terrific list – though I have no idea how you are able to do SO many things and still write (and market) such great novels! Can't wait for the next Raisa story (loved the previous ones).
Kudos, Chris, for not trying to make yourself do more than anyone in the world can do! It's such a trap, and when one succeeds the gratitude and praise of others can carry one a long way — except they don't write our books for us. Darn! You are one smart writer to be making the resolutions you've made!
Chris, I love your translation of finding life balance—you’re absolutely right! That DOES mean have more fun! And simplifying that concept for me is a game-changer. Thank you!
Thanks, S.Lee.
Barre was grueling. A great workout, but I've got a ways to go! As to having more fun, I spent yesterday swimming at Salt Pond, working on my tan. Then we watched sunset at Polihole–whales breaching, Tiki glasses full of rum punch and two of my favorite girls. Paradise. But, the fun ends tomorrow night and then it's back to work–and barre. I'll let you know how it goes.
Actually, I've finally cut back enough that I have time to breathe. So excited about the Riasa story, but I have a different one in the works. I'm really excited about it. Want to be a Beta Reader?
Hey, I haven't succeeded yet, but there's no hope if there's no effort. From one woman who tries to do too much to another.
Here's to having more fun, Sonja!