It’s a journey: Celebrating the wins along the way

I had three personal goals this past month: submit my latest middle grade manuscript for a chance at a Varuna Residential Fellowship, promote my workplace in the leadup to the Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network Awards, and compete in the Sunshine Coast Marathon (10km event).

I approach my writing, fitness, and career goals in a similar way: a lot of hard work, considered juggling of family life/parenting, and fierce determination. As writers trying to break into the industry, (I believe it is unanimously agreed) we need an infinite amount of the latter.

Here’s a quick recap of my highlights…

A glittering Awards Gala – the perks of my corporate marketing day job

My highly-inspiring boss was named Corporate Business Woman of the Year at the Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network Awards. I help drive the marketing for the growing business, and am so proud of what we’ve achieved. Given the past few years and challenges small businesses in particular have faced, an opportunity to celebrate wins is truly amazing.

Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival (10km event)

I finished the 10km event as part of the Sunshine Coast Marathon without too many sore muscles. I am optimistically eyeing a 21km trail run early next year as I continue with my running and gym training. Similar to my children’s book writing, once I hit one goal, I am quick to set others. Just. Keep. Going.

Middle-grade manuscripts: an emerging voice on the Australian children’s book scene

On the emerging author front, I submitted my application for Varuna. As a busy mum balancing kids and a day job, this would be invaluable to me; a space to focus on my craft without so many distractions. Again, perseverance will play a key part here. If I don’t get accepted this time around, I’ll keep trying and keep writing. It’s all progress.

Now on the tail end of winter, I’m looking forward to more sunny days filled with writing, running, and quality family time. Here’s to kicking goals (and setting new ones!) in the months ahead.