My Little Black Book

At this time of year, I always tend to think back over what I have accomplished. Specifically, for me, I like to look back and see what I have done in my writing ministry. But, do you know that I forget many things if I don't write them down? Relying only on my brain to remember what goals I can check off isn't quite efficient enough.

I also find that in those down times when I feel like I'm spinning my wheels or in those rejection moments, I can find a pick-me-up just by reading through what God has done through me.

So, what's a person to do to keep up with these accomplishments? I employ the use of a little black book. No, I don't keep addresses there. This is a lined blank journal in which I can record my thoughts.

First, I place the date at the top of a page. I label this first page: Updates. I list everything I can think of that I have done in regards to my writing since my last session of recording. I refer to my goals from the last session to see if any of those can be placed in the Updates section. Second, I label another page: Goals. I then proceed to list the goals for my writing for that next month or so.

After entering updates and goals, I put the book aside for a month or maybe even two. When I return the next time, I do the same as before.

When I need to feel encouraged or like I have accomplished something in my writing, I will pick that little black book up and start reading. It still surprises me to look through the entries, seeing what God has done.

Let me give you an example:

Updates
Finished edits on The Prayer Shawl
Submitted proposal to teach at a writing conference

Goals
Submit The Prayer Shawl for publication
Finish edits for first contracted author

The next few months after that when I returned to my book, I was able to write this:

Updates
Got contract for The Prayer Shawl
Set release date for first contracted author

Then, I proceeded to list the next goals.

This is a simple way to evaluate where you are and where you want to go as well as motivation to continue when you can see progress.

Let me warn you about something. When I return to my little black book and read through, seeing all God has done through me, I am humbled. But, I tend to also have a little praise session.

Try employing the use of a little black book for several months for some motivation and encouragement. Let God show you how He is working in and through you!