My #1 New Year's Resolution and Five Ways to Keep It

The new year is approacting, and that means most people are making mile-long lists of resolutions that they want to keep, to make themselves better people in 2009. From weight loss to spending more time with one's family, the lists contain many goals, which are often forgotten by the end of January, when the holidays are over, and everyone goes back to the hustle and bustle of life. I, myself, usually don't make New Year's resolutions, because I know what kind of person I am-- the type I just described above. Sure, I have the drive at first, but then, life happens, and more important thoughts take the place of resolutions. However, I do have one New Year's resolution for 2009: write more.

Writing is my passion, and I am convinced that it's what I'm supposed to do for the rest of my life. My passion has been fostered more, since my friend, Tara Meacham, introduced me to Associated Content, back in March. However, I believe there's always room for improvement. The following are five ways, I believe, will help me keep this resolution. If your resolution is to write more, as well, please feel free to use these ideas to help you stay on track.

1. Write for at least half an hour a day. It doesn't matter what it is-- blog entries, Facebook notes, Associated Content articles, keeping a daily journal, a letter to a friend, a pen pal letter, etc. Just write a little something, even if you don't really feel like it. I believe it will keep your writing sharp, and you won't fall victim to laziness, and gaps between days you actually write.

2. Look for new opportunities. Ask your friends, check Craigslist, contact your local newspaper or your favorite website, etc. You never know where writing opportunities might show up. This keeps writing exciting, and breaks up the occasional monotony of writing-as-usual.

3. Look for paying gigs. Let's be honest-- if money is involved, it motivates you to do something. You don't have to write for a newspaper or magazine to get paid. Places like right here on Associated Content, pay at least something. If you're really good at writing, and feel like you're qualified, you can apply to write for AC Partners, and make, usually, between $15 and $25 an article. If this doesn't light a fire under you to write, I don't know what will!

4. Collaborate with other writers. If you're a writer, chances are, you have other friends who also write. If you're feeling creative, start your own website, and each write articles for it. If you're really good, plan out things really well and write a book-- any kind of book. Cross your fingers and toes-- you could get published someday! You don't have to be a pro to write with friends-- you can come up with lots of fun ideas and projects to do together.

5. Rant! If you breathe, chances are, there's something that pisses you off. From politics to parking, there's a pet peeve for everyone. If you find something really rant-worthy, write a letter to the editor, or an op-ed piece to your local paper. Just don't be obnoxious and submit something every week. If you're an intelligent ranter, you may have some people rally behind you for change.

These are just five of many ways you can keep up the good habit throughout the new year, and beyond. If ever I get discouraged, I will always revert back to this article, and remember that there are ways to keep the momentum going. If you're a writer, keep up the good work, and never give up!