Mid-year review
Substack sent me an email saying I haven’t posted in a while, and they know it can be hard, but if I feel blocked, they have some helpful tips!
Do I really need automated guilt in my inbox? But I have to admit, it worked.
Writing Goals
At the end of June, the #AmWriting podcast had a mid-year check-in episode where they reviewed their goals for the year and where they are now. I love me some goal-setting and evaluation, so I started thinking of my own.
My big-picture goals at the beginning of the year were to (1) finish my book and start querying, and (2) do more negotiation teaching, coaching, and writing.
Early on, I decided to defer #1 to 2023. I had a completed manuscript last year, but I’m spending this year overhauling it. Revised goal is to have a new completed draft by the end of the year.
For #2, I’ve taught two negotiation classes and done several coaching calls this year, plus added a negotiation section to my website. Goal for the second half of the year is to publish at least one freelance piece on negotiation, with an eye toward eventually writing a nonfiction book proposal.
Current enthusiasms
Black romance: My to-read list tripled after reading Black Love Matters, an essay collection about the importance of Black romance writing. First up, Seven Days in June by Tia Williams, which showcases the versatility of the genre — it’s got Creole history, complicated family relationships, a middle schooler with a therapy side hustle, and a fictional book series called “Cursed” with its own pointy-hat-wearing fandom. Lovely combination of fun and serious, but since it’s a romance, you can breathe easy knowing the characters are going to be better off at the end.
Mocktails: In summer I switch from giant steaming mugs of herbal tea to tall, cold, sparkling drinks. But just like I sadly cannot eat ice cream all day along, I also sadly should not be drunk all the time, so I’ve been mixing my own non-alcoholic concoctions. Some combination of juice, seltzer, kombucha, a squeeze of lime or lemon juice, bitters, maybe some maple syrup, and a few little pieces of fresh herbs, fruit, or cucumber, for a little afternoon boost.
Kayaking: I’ve never been a water person, but it’s so peaceful floating down the Charles River with the turtles and ducks. If you’re a fellow Bostonian, I highly recommend trying out PaddleBoston. They hand you an oar and a life jacket and send you on your way, no equipment or experience needed.
Are you re-evaluating your goals, enjoying cool drinks outside, or just trying to make it through the summer? Read anything good lately? Drop me a line and let me know.
Sending you joy amidst struggle,
Pia