In the past year, writing-wise, I had a few wonderful moments and accomplishments. For example, I started this blog and published my ebook, The Write Group. But many writers who I know had lots more wins than me. So, instead of feeling good about 2024, I felt like a failure.
Big mistake. Even if my successes are small, I should celebrate them because my work is worth it and I want to stay motivated to continue writing. (I think your work is worth it and you should keep at it, too!)
That's why I developed a brag sheet for authors.
Let's back up. What's a brag sheet? It's a simple tool used in lots of different venues but the purpose is the same whatever the circumstances: It helps a person list their accomplishments in one place to remind themselves of their wins.
That sounded like a good idea to me, so using my work during 2024, I designed an author brag sheet to help writers recognize their writing accomplishments.
I'd like to share it with you as my way of saying thank you for visiting me here and being a part of my small successes during the year.
If you click on the download link above, you'll get the FREE 2024 Author Brag Sheet. It's a Word document to help you think about whatever author stuff you’ve accomplished in the year. The brag sheet includes different categories of potential achievements, and the idea is for you to list what applies based on your personal experiences. So, you could list short stories completed, author newsletter launched, networking events attended, or milestones in your novel draft. If you track your writing time, you might even want to note something about your writing routine. What you achieved is not as important as the fact that you achieved!
Whatever you do, don't include outcomes. (An outcome could look like how many publications accepted your stories or how many agents asked for your manuscript.) Only include the achievements that were within your control. (In other words, focus on the things that you did.) Plus, avoid self-criticism and comparisons to others' successes. This is all about you, your growth, and your unique creative path. (Tip: Going through this brag sheet step will be useful to you if you plan to set writing goals for 2025.)
Once you have your list of accomplishments, celebrate! Pat yourself on the back! Treat yourself to something delightful! And if you like, share one of your accomplishments in the comments below, and I'll congratulate you, too!
I hope the brag sheet adds to your happy holidays!
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