Next Steps

2024 is wrapping up. It's time to reflect on what was achieved and look forward to what WILL be achieved.

Achieved: my 10th produced screenplay was finally aired. When I started getting work as a screenwriter (after 20 years of writing, learning, studying), I didn't think I would get more than one or two projects. But like they say, you have to be in the right place at the right time, and I was. At the same time, there was absolutely no work for me as a screenwriter this year. It was as if the entire world that I had belonged to for seven productive years evaporated. But it is in my nature to create things, so, I continued to develop pitches and also decided to return to my first love, music. I produced an EP of my original songs and two music (lyric) videos that I am extremely proud of ("Cry the Big Tears" and "Goodbye My Best Friend"). I also came up with a pitch for a Christmas movie (something I never thought I could do), and at last started on a script that has been calling to me for years. I cannot say that 2024 was a rewarding year financially, but I was able to flex my creative muscles, and in that way, I consider it successful. The odd thing about being creative for a living is that there is no guarantee that you can survive off your talents. So, work may come in; it may not. But, as I mentioned in a previous blog post this month, "be prepared," do not wait. For anyone. You want to write a screenplay, make a short film, make a proof of concept, find a mentor, study advanced writing techniques? Do it. Move forward. I know how easy it is to say that, and how difficult it can be to actually take steps in the direction you want to go. But finally, this year, I decided I had to find ways of achieving my goals, regardless of whether I have an agent or manager or the "right" contacts. So, here are some mantras that I intend to use, and that may benefit you as well: Move Forward Next Steps

Face Fears And my favorite: "I need... (amount) of money." All are quite basic. Nothing I'm saying is new. But it might be new to YOU. I always sold myself short. I never had a lot of faith in my talents or abilities. And then, one day, I don't know how to say it, I woke up. I found myself. I realized my worth. I decided I cared enough about myself and my gifts to pursue them to the best of my ability. Recognizing that is the biggest achievement of this year and I hope the guiding light for the next.

So move forward. Take those next steps. Face your fears. And get what you need. Wishing you an amazing '25.