2025 New Year’s Resolutions

The start of a new year always feels like opening a blank page in a book, and for 2025, my resolution is to fill that page with the story I’ve been dreaming about for years. This year, I’m committing to writing a novel that not only entertains but also inspires—a project that combines my passion for storytelling with themes of resilience, love, and self-discovery.

The Vision

My 2025 creative project is a contemporary romance novel entitled "Seasons of the Heart." It will delve into the emotional journeys of two people as they struggle with loss, healing, and eventually find love in a small coastal town. The story reflects the seasons of life: spring symbolizes new beginnings, summer represents passion, autumn is about change, and winter is a time for reflection.

What motivates me is to tell a story that appears real, in which the readers can identify themselves. I want to create characters-flawed and resilient in some challenges that could be as close to messy real life as any of us knows.

Why This Project Matters

This story has been sitting in my heart for years, waiting for the right moment to be told. 2025 feels like that moment—a year to dive into my creativity and finally permit myself to give my dreams top priority. Writing this book is not just about something tangible; it is about honoring my passion and proving to myself that I can take an idea from concept to completion.

Besides, it matters because this project is personal. As a mother of three, a multitasking worker, and much more, I have often put myself last in line. This book means that finally, I have pledged to carve out a niche for my creative ambitions.

The Steps I'll Take

Dreams come true, one act at a time. Here's how I will bring "Seasons of the Heart" to life:

1.

January–March: Outlining and Research

•　Create an in-depth plot and character arcs outline.

　•　Research the setting involved and any specific themes to ensure verisimilitude.

2. April–June: Writing the First Draft

　•　Set up a word count per day of 1,000 words with the aim of reaching the first draft by June.

　•　Set aside either early morning or late evening to write without any disturbances.

3. July–September: Revisions and Editing

　•　Use beta readers and discuss feedback.

　•　Revision and editing of the manuscript, paying especial attention to pace, dialogue, and emotional depth.

4. October–December: Publishing Preparation

• Explore traditional and self-publishing options.

• Design a compelling cover and create a marketing plan.

The Challenges and How I’ll Overcome Them

Balancing writing with parenting and other responsibilities will undoubtedly be a challenge. To overcome this, I’ll establish a consistent routine and communicate my goals with my family for their support. There will be moments of self-doubt, but I’ll remind myself that perfection isn’t the goal—progress is.

I’m also joining a writing group to stay accountable and seek encouragement from others on similar journeys. Knowing I’m not alone in this will make the process more rewarding.

The End Goal

I want to have "Seasons of the Heart" in hand by the end of 2025 as a solid testimony of hard work and wit. More importantly, though, it should be in the hands of readers for them to enjoy and take this story home: no matter how painful the shift of the season is, with every change, life gives out beauty.

This New Year's resolution is more than about writing a book; it's about embracing who I am as a creator and setting an example for my children-that dreams are worth pursuing, no matter how big they seem.

Here's to 2025: the year I make my aspirations reality and finally bring life into the story that has been begging to be told. The Larger Picture

While "Seasons of the Heart" is my main creative preoccupation, in my mind this project is part of a journey. Writing this book represents the first step into a new phase of my life whereby I will truly live and work as a writer and storyteller.

I want this project to be a stepping stone toward building a community of readers who share a love for heartfelt, relatable stories. Beyond publishing, I hope to engage with my audience through blog posts, book club discussions, and perhaps even workshops to inspire others to tell their own stories.

My ultimate dream? To create a body of work that will leave a mark, showing even in the roughest of times, there's beauty, love, and resilience to be found.

What Drives Me

At the heart of this resolution is a deep sense of purpose. For me, writing isn't a hobby; it's a calling. It's how I make sense of the world and connect with others on a deeper level.

This project is, too, creating something for my kids. I would like them to observe their mom reaching for her goals with persistence and bravery, and maybe for them to go out and be the same later in life by following their desires.

Finally, I’m driven by the idea that stories have the power to heal. If even one reader finds comfort, hope, or a sense of belonging through “Seasons of the Heart,” then I’ll consider this project a success.

Reflecting on the Journey

Resolutions often come with a sense of pressure, but I’m choosing to approach this year with grace and flexibility. It’s not just about crossing the finish line—it’s about enjoying the process, learning, and growing along the way.

There will be days when the words flow effortlessly and others when I’ll struggle to string sentences together. But each moment, no matter how small, will bring me closer to fulfilling this dream.

2025 is a year to dream big, move out of comfort zones, and create something truly unique. This is the time to prove it to myself: my stories are significant enough and my voice will be heard.

Call to Action

So as we dive into the new year, let me encourage any reader to contemplate creative projects that have been put on hold. What is the dream that has quietly called you? What is the idea that sets your soul on fire?

Let 2025 be the year that says yes to those dreams. Take that first step, no matter how small. Believe in your capability to create something out of the ordinary. Together, let's make this the year we turn our aspirations into reality.

Here's to a year of creativity, growth, and courage!