Author: Carrow Brown

Every week brings its own set of challenges, lessons, and victories—and last week was no exception. In this post, I’m taking time to reflect on where my time, energy, and efforts went, how it all unfolded, and what lessons I’m carrying with me into the week ahead.

Focus of the Week: Two Major Releases and a Secret Project

My main focus last week was clear from the start: successfully push two major releases across the finish line. One was scheduled for Monday, and the second for Friday. Between those two milestones, I had a secret project to complete, which quietly became one of my top priorities.

I’m happy to share that I finished the secret project on Thursday. It now just needs editing before it’s ready to go out into the world. That milestone alone felt like a major victory in a week packed with deadlines.

Of course, no week goes entirely according to plan. Some unexpected work-related issues cropped up—details I can’t share publicly—but they definitely impacted my afternoon schedule one day, derailing my best-laid plans. It was one of those moments where you realize how little control you sometimes have over the curveballs life throws.

Wins Worth Celebrating

Despite the disruptions, there were wins worth celebrating. The biggest? Finishing the secret project earlier than I thought I would. That early completion gave me something I haven’t felt I had in a long time: space to breathe and relax in the afternoons. Even a small window of downtime felt monumental.

Another small but deeply satisfying victory came when I went out for a run and managed to clock five miles—something I hadn’t done in over a year. That physical reminder of progress, strength, and persistence stuck with me all week.

More broadly, I’m proud of how many of my weekly goals I managed to cross off. Progress, even when it’s messy, still counts.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

Every win had its corresponding challenge. The biggest obstacle last week came in the form of a website project that didn’t transfer over correctly. I had spent significant time setting it up, only to realize it needed a scramble to fix.

It was frustrating—but also deeply educational. In a weird way, I’m grateful it happened. I learned more about the backend processes I work with, and next time, I’ll be better prepared.

If I could redo the week, one thing I would absolutely change would be not venturing out on a rainy day that turned a simple errand into a two-hour traffic nightmare. Sometimes, staying put and letting the weather win is the smarter call. Lesson learned.

Habit Check-In: The Good, the Bad, and the Focus for Next Week

A few habits stayed strong throughout the week. I kept up with my morning and night routines, which consistently set the tone for my days. A new habit—planning my next day the night before rather than in the morning—also proved to be a game-changer. Walking into a new day already knowing what needs to happen creates a momentum I hadn’t realized I was missing.

However, not everything went perfectly. One major habit that slipped was carving out consistent time for my personal writing. Obligations tied to client work and professional projects took center stage. Moving forward, I want to not just block out time for personal writing but also be more intentional about noting when and why it doesn’t happen.

Awareness is the first step to correction—and I’m committed to improving in this area.

Mindset and Emotions: Finding Focus Amidst Stress

Emotionally, last week was heavy. A close family member is nearing the end of their life, and I’m caught in the uncomfortable space of waiting—helpless to change anything, only able to be present when needed.

The weight of that situation carried into my days. Still, I found motivation in the community around me. Seeing readers excited for the releases reminded me why I do what I do. Their enthusiasm gave me energy when mine was running low.

When things felt overwhelming, I leaned hard into the strategy of focusing on “the next small task.” Big emotions can easily paralyze. Breaking everything down into simple, doable actions helped me keep moving forward when staying still would have been the easier, less productive choice.

Time Management: Improvements and Room to Grow

Overall, my time management was stronger this past week compared to previous ones. Planning the next day ahead of time (before shutting down work for the night) was a big factor. It gave me clarity each morning and prevented that feeling of floundering for what to do next.

That said, I did notice one habit that needs adjusting: doing my planning session in bed. What I thought would be a five-minute task often turned into a twenty-minute activity that ate into time I would rather spend reading or winding down.

Moving forward, I want to treat end-of-day planning with the respect it deserves: sit at my desk, map out the next day thoughtfully, then let the evening truly be mine to relax.

Another point of improvement: eliminating the “one quick video” temptation when I’m avoiding a less enjoyable task. It’s a classic procrastination tactic, and now that I see it more clearly, I can be more proactive in catching and correcting it.

Health and Wellness Check

Physically, I made an effort to be mindful of what I was eating, but I’m noticing a trend that concerns me: I’m often ending my days completely drained. I’m not fueling my body the right way to sustain the level of energy my workload demands.

I’m planning to pivot this week by adjusting my nutrition to support my energy levels better. Recovery and endurance are important, not just for physical health but for mental sharpness too.

On the fun side, I made time for games I enjoy—fast-paced games that keep my reflexes sharp and decision-making quick. These moments of play matter. They refill the creative well, even if it doesn’t always feel immediately “productive.”

That said, I did catch myself using YouTube as a distraction when I wasn’t feeling mentally great. It’s something to monitor more closely in the coming weeks.

Relationships and Social Connections

While much of the week was spent head-down in work, I did make time for a few important check-ins with family and friends. Being present, even for small conversations, matters—especially in a time when loved ones are facing hard seasons. Especially for my family while we are waiting to see what we will be doing in a few weeks.

Personal Growth and Professional Development

On a personal level, this week reinforced an important truth: not every lesson comes from books or mentors. Some of the most valuable lessons come from living through frustrating, imperfect, and messy situations—and staying the course anyway.

Professionally, finishing the secret project, preparing for two releases, and moving into another client assignment stretched me in the best way. I’m reminded that momentum is built not by doing huge heroic sprints but by showing up every day and stacking small wins.

I’d like to be doing more in this area, but these opertunities at limited in some ways. Certificats cost as much as college classes when the material is free online. It’s a weird time we live in when people want to charge you for what you can access for free.

Financial Awareness

Financially, the week was stable. No major spending or saving milestones to report, but I stayed aware of my budget and mindful of expenses. I am a pretty bad stress spender so I am trying to not let myself buy things just because I can.

Spiritual Check-In

Spiritually, it was a quieter week. I didn’t have the bandwidth for deep reflection or study, but I found moments of grounding when I needed them most. A simple prayer here, a quiet walk there—it all added up. There are a few theology podcasts I listen to and I enjoy the introspection they offer.

Looking Ahead

The coming week is shaping up to be another busy one, but I feel a little more prepared after what I learned last week.

Top 3 goals for the upcoming week:

• Finish the draft of a new client project.
• Get one new short story up on the website.
• Start Week 1 of my boxing training routine.

I’m excited for the mix of physical, creative, and professional challenges ahead. Balance is key, and I’m determined to find it.

Final Reflection

If I had to sum up last week in one word, it would be intense.
The deadlines, the family circumstances, the unexpected work challenges—it all made for a pressure-cooker environment. But within that pressure, there was growth. There was movement.

If I could give myself advice heading into this next week, it would be simple but powerful:
Don’t sacrifice long-term peace for short-term comfort.
The moments when I knowingly lose time aren’t worth what they cost later. Every small choice matters. Every small action stacks up.

I’m proud of what I accomplished last week. I’m even more excited for what’s coming next.

This week was about recognizing my limits and choosing to honor them, even when everything in my schedule pushed against that. There’s a constant tension between what I want to get done and what I’m actually capable of doing—especially when launches, deadlines, and physical health all collide. But in the middle of all that noise, I’m learning to find a steadier rhythm.

Writing Progress

There’s always a lot on my creative plate, but this week the priority was finishing a secret project before diving into a new ghostwriting assignment. I didn’t get as far as I wanted, but the groundwork is there, and the ideas are still turning in my head even when I’m not actively typing. Progress doesn’t always look like a finished draft—it’s sometimes just holding the shape of the story in your mind long enough to understand where it needs to go next.

Workload and Launches

Work has been intense. We’re juggling multiple launches, and it feels like everything needs attention at the same time. That kind of pace is exhausting, even when you’re used to it. I’ve been trying to stay focused, prioritize tasks, and avoid getting caught in the overwhelm spiral. It hasn’t been perfect, but things are moving. I just have to keep pushing one item at a time across the finish line.

Fitness and Health

Last week, I was doing well with my fitness goals and pushing forward with consistency. But this week, my body made it clear that pushing any harder would come at too high a cost. I’ve been feeling inflamed and exhausted, and the results weren’t just slowing down—they were starting to backfire. So I made the choice to step back, rest more, and give my body time to recover. It’s hard to pause when you’re goal-oriented, but burnout helps no one, and I want to be strong long-term, not just this month.

Where Things Fell Apart

Easter threw a wrench into my schedule. I didn’t post the comic or story content I had planned, and that’s been bothering me more than I expected. I want to be more consistent with sharing those projects here, but this week reminded me that life doesn’t always line up neatly with creative intention. I’m not happy about it, but I’m also trying to be patient with myself. I can’t rewrite the week, but I can reset.

A Gentle Reminder

This week reinforced a simple but necessary truth: rest is not a reward—it’s a requirement. When I don’t give myself room to breathe, everything else suffers. Creativity becomes forced, productivity crashes, and even joy starts to feel like a task. I need to remember that sustainable success means building in space to rest, to reflect, and to simply exist without pressure.

Looking Ahead

My goal for the coming week is pretty straightforward: get through the launches and find moments of true rest where I can. That might mean sleeping in over the weekend or just taking a slower pace through the day, but whatever form it takes, I need to actually allow myself to relax. No guilt. Just recovery.

A Moment That Meant the World

Despite the heaviness of the week, one thing brought me a lot of joy—the response to RippaZine #3. The support, the kind words, the excitement from readers… it was humbling and deeply motivating. Sharing stories is personal, vulnerable work. Hearing that it connected with people the way it did reminded me why I do it, and why it’s worth the effort every time.

Weekly Accountability: Progress, Pressure, and Perspective

Another week down, and this one came with its own mix of wins, losses, and reminders that life doesn’t always wait for us to catch our breath.

Let’s dive in.

What Got Done

This week was about steady momentum. I made meaningful progress on a client project, knocked out another chapter of The Hanged Queen, and kept everything at work rolling like a well-oiled machine—mostly.

I hit every writing goal I set, which feels good to say. Still, there’s no denying that some of it felt rushed. I missed my usual “forced work blocks,” which I rely on to carve out deep focus time. Without those, I caught myself scrambling a bit more than I’d like. It’s a good reminder that structure isn’t just helpful for me—it’s crucial.

Still, I got it done. Not perfect, but progress.

Creative Wins (Even If I Can’t Talk About Them)

I can’t spill the details just yet (thanks, NDAs), but I had two really exciting creative wins this week. These projects fell into my lap at just the right time—high-concept, high-potential, and right in my wheelhouse.

What I can say is that I’m incredibly grateful and energized by them. Getting to draft stories that challenge me and play to my strengths as a writer is a joy. I can’t wait until I can talk more openly about them and share what we’ve been building.

Sometimes, just knowing something awesome is coming is enough to refuel the tank.

What Didn’t Happen

I didn’t hit my workout goals, and while part of that was a disrupted sleep schedule and not feeling great physically, the other part was mindset.

There’s this tricky space between giving yourself grace and making excuses. I didn’t feel well, yes, but I also didn’t pivot or adjust. I just let the week slip in that regard, and I felt it.

Physical movement tends to power up my mental focus, so missing out on that affected my overall energy. Not beating myself up over it—but I want to do better.

Insights From the Week

This week reminded me of a frustrating truth: I can get a lot done when I want to do something—and absolutely nothing done when I let myself slide.

It’s not a new lesson, but it’s always a little jarring to run face-first into it again.

I also noticed how dependent my productivity becomes when I’m waiting on other people. I hate that. It throws sand in the gears and leaves me feeling frustrated and restless. If I had my way, everything would move faster, with less need for outside input—but that’s not always realistic. Especially in a collaborative space.

There was one quote that really hit this week:

“Run towards the struggle.”

That stayed with me. I wrote it down, underlined it, and let it echo every time I wanted to flake on a task. Not everything has to feel good to be valuable. Sometimes the hardest parts are the most necessary.

Personal Notes

A more somber note this week: I learned that a twi if of my friend’s children passed away.

I carried that sadness into my writing. Not in a way that derailed me entirely, but in the way where every word felt heavier. Writing is often my place to process emotion, but this time it felt like I was writing around it. I was trying to keep momentum without giving grief the spotlight.

Sometimes, all you can do is keep going, even if it’s messy.

Routine and Productivity

My routine mostly helped—until it didn’t.

I had solid momentum early in the week. I stuck to my blocks, kept tasks moving, and felt in control. But then Thursday hit. I let my structure slip, and instead of recovering, I wrote the day off.

That’s a pattern I want to break. A single misstep doesn’t have to undo the whole day, and I don’t want to give myself permission to coast just because things didn’t go to plan.

No new tools or workflows this week. Just me, my schedule, and my sticky notes.

Life Balance Check-In

The balance scale is a bit wobbly at the moment.

Work is steady, creative projects are lining up in exciting ways, and my writing is flowing when I sit down to do it. But my health took a bit of a hit with inconsistent sleep and skipped workouts. I don’t feel bad exactly—just a little off. A little frayed around the edges.

That’s something I want to fix. I don’t believe in total balance all the time, but I do believe in not burning out just to keep the wheel turning.

What’s Next?

Writing Goals for Next Week:

• ✅ Finish the draft of one ghostwriting project so I can clear space for the next.
• ✅ Draft another chapter of The Hanged Queen.
• ✅ Post another chapter of Roll D20 for Love.
• ✅ Publish the weekly short story.

I’m keeping it simple but solid. Each goal is measurable, realistic, and aligned with my long-term publishing plan. I know that when I hit these goals consistently, everything else starts to fall into place.

Mini-Challenge: Get Through the Week

I’m not setting a huge personal challenge this time. Just one simple intention: get through the week and get back on track.

Sometimes, survival is the win.

What Needs to Shift?

Truthfully, I don’t know yet.

I’m still processing the loss of my friend’s child, and that grief feels like it’s sitting in the middle of my schedule. I’m trying not to force a mindset shift until I’ve had space to actually feel what I’m feeling.

That said, I’ll be leaning on my habits to carry me forward. The routine is there for a reason—it works, even when I don’t feel like it.

And when in doubt?

“Run towards the struggle.”

What I’m Excited For

All the NDA projects!

Seriously—some of these ideas are already shaping into something special. I’m in the outlining and concept phase for one and drafting stages for another, and both have me buzzing. I wish I could say more. Just know that once the veil lifts, it’s going to be worth the wait.

Final Thoughts

Every week is a mixed bag. This one had momentum and grief, inspiration and fatigue, discipline and a bit of chaos.

But I showed up.

And that, more than anything else, is what this blog is about. Not perfection. Not performance. Just presence.

Next week, I’ll show up again. So will the words.

Let’s go.

Let’s start with the headline: I hit all my writing goals last week.

That alone feels worth celebrating. For those of you who’ve been following along, you know writing isn’t just a checkbox on my to-do list. It’s my work, my passion, my therapy, my playground. So to sit here at the end of the week and say I didn’t just show up—I delivered—feels really, really good.

So what got done?

Well, for starters, I finally posted the first part of Tiger Woman. That story has been quietly simmering on my hard drive for a while, and I kept putting off sharing it. Not because it wasn’t ready (it was) or because I didn’t believe in it (I do), but because of that classic creative pitfall: overthinking.

You know the drill. You start wondering if it’s the right time, the right platform, the right vibe. Maybe it needs one more edit. Maybe you’ll post it after something else goes up first. And before you know it, a finished story just…sits. And sits. And then collects a fine layer of digital dust because it never made it out into the world.

But this week? I told that voice to take a hike. I hit publish. And I don’t regret it for a second.

And that’s not all.

I also released a new short story called “Fighter and the Fictionist,” which is a piece I wasn’t even planning to release this week. It sort of crept up on me. I was revisiting some older drafts, saw that one, and the spark hit me. A little polish here, a line break there, and suddenly I’m staring at something I knew deserved daylight. So I published that too.

The response so far has been solid, but more than anything, it just felt good to follow through.

That was kind of the theme of the week: follow through.

The One Thing I Didn’t Nail (And Why That’s Okay)

Of course, no week is perfect. I didn’t hit every goal, and the one that slipped was in the fitness department.

Specifically: my afternoon workouts. I started the week with the full intention of sticking to my routine. Morning cardio? No problem. Walking? Got my steps. But when it came time to hit those afternoon weights or resistance sets, I…just didn’t.

A few times I sat down to start and felt my body say, “Nope. Not today.” I was tired. Not sore, just drained. And I made the call to listen. That wasn’t always easy. The little voice in my head likes to whisper, “You’re slacking,” or, “You said you’d do this, so what’s your excuse?” But this time, I shut it down.

I didn’t want to hurt myself.

That might sound obvious, but when you’re chasing consistency and discipline, it can be easy to blur the line between pushing through and pushing too far. And I’m not about that burnout life. Rest is part of the plan, too. And the deeper I get into this journey—whether it’s writing, fitness, or just life in general—the more I realize that discipline isn’t about never missing a beat. It’s about knowing which beats matter the most and showing up for those no matter what.

So yeah, I missed a few workouts. But I stayed present with my body. I paid attention. And that’s a win too.

The Mind Game: Why This Week Was Different

Here’s the real heart of what I learned this week, though.

I made a decision early on to stop making excuses.

Now, I’m not talking about being cruel to myself or pretending everything’s fine when it’s not. I’m talking about calling myself out—gently, but firmly—when I start spinning reasons not to do the work I know I want to do.

And you know what? That mental shift changed everything.

I had one of those moments early in the week where I caught myself procrastinating. I was staring at my notes, thinking, “I’ll just work on this later.” And then I stopped and asked myself: Why not now? I had time. I wasn’t waiting on anything. The only thing in my way was…me.

So I got up. Sat down again. And started.

It was that simple.

That one moment snowballed into a series of small wins. The writing flowed. The edits happened. The publishing tasks I’d been putting off for no good reason? Done. And every time I felt that mental resistance rise up again, I reminded myself: Do the work. Don’t wait for the perfect mood. Just do it.

That mindset carried me all the way through the week, and it left me with this really clear insight: our minds can be our greatest obstacle—or our greatest asset.

I don’t say that lightly. I’ve had weeks where anxiety or burnout made it genuinely difficult to get anything done. But this week? The block wasn’t emotional. It wasn’t mental health. It was just habit. It was the old rhythm of putting things off out of comfort.

And once I realized that, it became so much easier to override the system.

Looking Ahead: Building a Publishing Schedule on the Fly

So what’s next?

This week is all about client work and getting more stories out into the world. I’ve been sitting on chapters for a few different projects—some finished, some close—and there’s no reason for them to keep waiting.

In fact, I’m putting together my new publishing schedule as you read this. No, seriously. I’m outlining what goes up when right here, right now. The goal is to get consistent. I want to build some rhythm into my releases—not just for the algorithm (although, sure, that helps), but for me and you, the reader.

I know what it feels like to follow someone’s work and get super invested, only for updates to dry up or happen at random. That’s not the kind of experience I want to offer. So I’m going to change that. If I’ve got stories ready—and I do—they’re going out. Period.

I’m also streamlining my workflow so I don’t get caught up in the tiny delays that steal time and energy. Things like:

• Over-revising instead of trusting the work.
• Waiting for the “right moment” to publish.
• Worrying if one story isn’t as strong as another.
• Thinking I have to launch something instead of just sharing it.

No more of that.

My new rule is: if it’s done, it goes live.

A Quick Shoutout to You

Before I close this out, I just want to say thank you to everyone who’s reading this—whether you’ve been following my work for a while or just stumbled across this post.

Accountability posts like these might seem a little self-indulgent on the surface, but they’re part of how I stay grounded. When I take the time to reflect, write it down, and share it publicly, I’m not just doing it for me. I’m doing it to create transparency. To show the real ups and downs of this creative journey.

It’s not always glamorous. It’s not always smooth. But it is always worth it.

So thanks for being here. For reading. For cheering me on—even silently. I see you. And I appreciate you more than you know.

Final Thoughts

Last week wasn’t perfect. But it was successful.

I showed up. I did the work. I stopped making excuses and just…got it done. And even though I missed a few fitness sessions, I gained something more important: insight into my mindset, and proof that I can trust myself to deliver.

That’s the kind of win that sticks with you.

Now I’m rolling into this week with clear goals, stronger energy, and a publishing plan that’s going to bring a lot more stories your way. So if you’ve been waiting for updates, buckle up—because they’re coming.

Here’s to the next seven days.

Let’s go make something great.

I didn’t realize how fast these past two weeks would fly by until I found myself blinking at my screen, wondering where the time had gone. Life has been busier than I expected—like, “what day is it again?” levels of busy—and while I kept most of the plates spinning, a few did wobble. One of those was my weekly accountability post, and I want to be honest about that.

To be completely transparent: the past couple of weeks took a toll on my mental health. Not in a crisis kind of way, but in that quiet, slow-burn sort of stress that builds up behind the scenes while you’re focused on doing All The Things. I kept pushing forward physically, but I wasn’t doing as much to manage the weight mentally. And that imbalance crept up on me. I think sometimes we expect ourselves to just handle everything—especially when we’re high-performing, goal-setting types. But brains need maintenance too. Rest. Reset. Grace.

So while I didn’t post last week’s accountability update, I’m showing up today because I’m feeling better. Not perfect, but stronger. And I’m committing to keeping my mental health just as much a priority as my physical health moving into this next quarter.

New Project, New Chapter

On the exciting side of things—because life is never all doom and gloom—I signed the paperwork on a brand-new project this morning! And no, I still can’t tell you the details just yet (I know, I know… I’m the worst), but what I can say is that it’s with a completely different publisher than my current projects. And this opportunity came out of left field in the best possible way.

It’s one of those moments where you step back and think, “Wow… this is actually happening.” I feel deeply honored that this publisher not only reached out to me, but has already been so supportive and collaborative. There’s something energizing about working with people who believe in what you do—and it’s a reminder that all the long hours, drafts, and rewrites do mean something. I’m so looking forward to seeing how this partnership grows. Honestly? I’m just grateful.

And yes, when I can say more, you’ll be the first to know.

Quarter Two: Reset, Reflect, Rebuild

Since we’re heading into a brand-new quarter (hello, Q2 of 2025), I spent some time this weekend looking over my Q1 goals and progress. It’s something I try to do consistently—not to beat myself up over what didn’t happen, but to recognize where I’ve been and realign with where I want to go.

Here’s what I asked myself:

• What worked?
• What didn’t?
• What felt right, even if it didn’t hit the goal marker?
• What drained me?
• What fueled me?

From there, I updated my self-improvement benchmarks for what I call my “Level-Up” plan—my ongoing effort to treat life like a real-life RPG. Because why not gamify personal growth? It makes the process more engaging and helps me track the little wins, not just the big milestones. Q1 taught me a few things about pace, pressure, and presence. Q2 is about balance, intention, and stronger follow-through.

My Q2 theme: Disciplined joy.

I want to show up, do the work, hit the targets—but also let myself enjoy the process. No more sizzle-sizzle burnout weekends. I need my brain firing on all cylinders for the creative ideas I’ve got coming.

Physical Progress: Strength Over Stress

On the physical side, I’m still on track and going strong. My workouts have been one of the biggest sources of consistency and clarity for me lately. Even when my brain’s foggy or my schedule’s chaotic, that time set aside to move and sweat has been a saving grace. It’s a reminder that I’m not just a mind—I’m a whole person. And I feel proud of the strength I’ve built so far.

I set a very specific physical goal for Q2: to be able to do a full pull-up by the end of the quarter. Just one. One good, clean, chin-over-bar pull-up. For some people, that might not sound like a huge deal. But for me? It’s symbolic. It’s proof that consistent effort leads to measurable strength. Right now, I’m working on negatives and assisted pull-ups and slowly building the muscle groups that make that movement possible. I can feel the difference already, and I’m determined to get there.

If you’ve ever struggled with physical goals before, let me just say: progress is never linear. It’s okay if your starting point feels a million miles away from your end goal. What matters is showing up, consistently, with intention. You don’t have to move fast—you just have to keep moving.

The Work-Story Balancing Act

Now, let’s talk about the writing—because you know I can’t stay away from the stories, even when life gets hectic.

I’ve got a handful of stories drafted and sitting patiently in my folders, waiting to be polished, posted, or further developed. The problem hasn’t been the ideas—it’s been the time management. My weekdays have gotten away from me a bit lately, and by the time the weekend rolls around, I find myself in full brain-fry mode. “Sizzle-sizzle,” as I’ve been calling it. All creative spark, no energy to wield it.

So here’s the plan for Q2: build a better weekday routine for writing.

That means carving out space during the week—not just waiting until Saturday or Sunday to “catch up.” Because let’s be real: if I’m already drained by then, I’m not doing my best work. And the stories deserve better. You deserve better.

Part of my new structure includes:

• Short, focused writing sprints on weekday mornings or lunch breaks.
• Keeping a running list of “next step” tasks so I don’t waste time deciding what to work on.
• Treating the act of writing as sacred, not just the result.

You know that quote, “Discipline equals freedom”? I’m leaning into that. Because the more structured I make my writing life, the more room I have for creativity, spontaneity, and joy.

Something Special is Brewing

And yes, while I’ve been quiet on the publishing front, that doesn’t mean nothing is coming. In fact, something special is in the works. It’s one of those pieces that feels different—like a shift, a new layer, a stretch into something bolder. I can’t wait to share it with you. It’s a story that has my full heart in it, and I’ve been taking my time to do it right.

You know me: I want every release to feel worth it—not just a filler between projects, but something that resonates. And this one? I think it will.

So if you’ve been waiting for something new to read, hang tight. I promise the wait will be worth it.

Gratitude, Growth, and Grace

As I move into Q2 with all of these plans, goals, and projects on the horizon, I just want to say: thank you. Thank you for sticking with me. For reading these updates. For celebrating the wins and giving grace when the schedule shifts. Being part of this community reminds me why I do what I do.

Writing can be isolating work—but having people cheering me on makes all the difference.

To recap:

• I missed an update, but I’m back and recommitted to balance and health (mental and physical).
• I signed a new project with a fantastic new publisher (can’t wait to share more).
• I reviewed Q1 and set clear, realistic, and exciting goals for Q2.
• My physical health is on track, and I’m working toward my first pull-up.
• I’m building a new writing routine to avoid the burnout loop.
• And something special is coming down the pipeline very soon.

Q2 is the chapter where things get intentional.

Here’s to showing up, leveling up, and giving ourselves the room to grow.

Let’s go.

This week threw me a curveball, and honestly, it was frustrating. One moment, I was feeling like a champion, hitting my boxing workouts with full force. The next, I had a hurt thumb, and suddenly, everything slowed down. My writing goals took a hit—literally. It’s crazy how one small injury can throw off an entire workflow. Typing at 92 WPM to struggling at 32 WPM is a whole different kind of pain, one that’s less about physical discomfort and more about patience.

Writing Challenges and Progress

The biggest impact of my injury has been on my weekly short story schedule. Falling behind by three stories isn’t exactly the progress I wanted. But instead of dwelling on the backlog, I’m shifting my focus. Writing is a long game, and minor setbacks don’t define the overall journey. I’ll get caught up, even if it takes a bit longer. The important thing is that I’m still moving forward.

On a brighter note, I’ve dived back into two books that are almost finished. Revisiting these stories has been a wild trip down memory lane. It’s like catching up with old friends—characters I know intimately but haven’t spent time with in a while. Reading through them has given me fresh motivation to get them done this year. I know how close I am, and that alone is pushing me forward.

It’s interesting to see how my writing has evolved. There are parts I love, moments that make me cringe, and sections where I just shake my head at past choices. But that’s the beauty of revising and finishing projects. There’s always an opportunity to refine, elevate, and bring out the best in a story.

Personal Productivity Wins

Despite my writing setback, I’ve been feeling a lot more in control of my personal productivity. I’ve been refining my workflow, staying on task, and experimenting with different tools to optimize how I track ideas and notes. One concept I’ve been playing with is the idea of a commonplace notebook. The problem? I don’t want to carry seven million notebooks with me everywhere I go. The solution? I haven’t quite figured it out yet.

I’m toying with digital alternatives, trying out a mix of apps that allow both typed and handwritten notes. There’s something about handwriting that makes information stick differently, but I also love the convenience of having everything searchable in a digital format. I have a feeling this will be one of those things I change my mind on a dozen times before I find a system that works. Maybe by next week, I’ll have thrown the whole idea out the window. We’ll see.

What I do know is that my ability to focus has improved dramatically. Whether it’s the structured daily planning or just being in a better headspace, I’m getting things done without feeling overwhelmed. That’s a huge win.

Fitness: Adapting to Injury

Fitness has been another major focus for me. Before hurting my thumb, I was absolutely crushing my workouts. It’s been one of the most rewarding parts of my routine—seeing progress, feeling stronger, and pushing past limits. Then, boom—setback.

It’s easy to get discouraged when an injury happens, especially when you’re in a solid rhythm. But instead of letting it derail me, I’m adjusting. Sure, I can’t go all out in boxing right now, and some exercises are off-limits, but that doesn’t mean progress stops. I’ve been modifying workouts, focusing on what I can do rather than what I can’t. That mindset shift makes all the difference.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from fitness (and life in general) is that consistency matters more than perfection. You don’t need to be at 100% every single day. You just need to show up, do what you can, and keep moving forward. And that’s exactly what I’m doing.

Looking Ahead

So, what’s next? Catching up on writing, continuing to refine my productivity systems, and staying consistent in fitness—injury or not. I know I won’t always have perfect weeks, but the important thing is that I don’t let setbacks turn into excuses. Progress is progress, no matter how slow it feels.

If anything, this week has been a reminder that adaptability is key. Plans don’t always go as expected, but adjusting and finding ways to keep moving forward is what makes the difference. I might be writing slower right now, but I’m still writing. My short stories may be behind schedule, but they’re not abandoned. My workouts have changed, but they haven’t stopped. And that’s what matters.

Here’s to another week of pushing forward—thumb injury and all.

How was your week? Did you hit any roadblocks, and how did you handle them? Let’s keep each other accountable!

This past week has been a whirlwind of productivity, discipline, and planning for the months ahead. It feels great to be back in a solid rhythm with my work, writing, and fitness. There’s a lot to update you on, so let’s dive in!

Project Milestone Reached: Now We Wait

I’m thrilled to share that I have officially completed my latest work project and submitted it for review! This was a huge undertaking, but I had a fantastic time working on it, and now, it’s in the capable hands of the editing team.

As with any creative endeavor, there will undoubtedly be changes, revisions, and adjustments to be made before it reaches its final form. I expect the process to take some time, and realistically, I don’t think I’ll see this story in print until next year. That being said, I’m incredibly excited about it. Seeing a story grow from an idea into a full-fledged narrative ready for publication is one of the most rewarding parts of being a writer.

Unfortunately, I can’t share too many details just yet, but I promise that when the time is right, you’ll be among the first to know! I always appreciate the support and enthusiasm from those who follow my work, and I’m looking forward to sharing this journey with you as it unfolds.

Establishing a Sustainable Writing Routine

Last week, I focused on getting my routines in order—both for writing and for life in general. I’ve learned the hard way that discipline and structure are necessary if I want to keep up with my creative goals without burning out. Thankfully, I think I’ve finally settled into a system that works for me.

Going forward, I’m committed to keeping a steady publishing schedule. Roll D20 for Love will continue to have regular chapter updates here on my website. This story has been an absolute joy to write, and I love seeing how people connect with the characters and their journey. But beyond that, I’ve made a firm decision—it’s time to finally tackle the next book in my Ghost Walker Chronicles.

I’ve been talking about finishing this series for a while now, and the truth is, it won’t happen unless I sit down and actually write it. I have a draft tucked away somewhere, and my goal for the rest of the month is to unearth it, read through what I already have, and assess what needs to be filled in. I suspect that it will require a good amount of revision and expansion, but I’m ready for the challenge.

It’s a great feeling to finally have a structured plan. When you’re juggling multiple projects, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Having a roadmap makes all the difference.

A Short Story on the Horizon

Beyond my novel work, I’ve also been working on a new short story that is set to go live this Sunday. I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has been patient while I’ve been restructuring my approach to writing, posting, and dealing with the inevitable website issues that come with running my own platform.

Short stories have always been a great way for me to experiment with new ideas and writing techniques. They offer a refreshing break from long-form projects while still allowing me to tell compelling, self-contained narratives. If you enjoy my work, be sure to check back on Sunday for this latest piece!

Productivity Journey: Finding What Works

The most significant breakthrough I’ve had recently is that the setup I’ve been using is actually working. That might not sound like a big deal, but for anyone who has ever struggled with productivity, you know how rare and valuable that feeling is.

For a long time, I felt like I was constantly tweaking and changing my approach to productivity—trying new planners, digital tools, and workflow strategies. But I’ve finally found a rhythm that allows me to stay on top of my workload without feeling constantly behind or stretched too thin.

Here’s what has been working for me:

1. Time Blocking: I divide my day into distinct blocks dedicated to specific tasks—writing, editing, admin work, and so on. Having set times for everything reduces the mental burden of decision-making.
2. Prioritization: Each morning, I identify the three most important tasks for the day. If nothing else gets done, I know I’ve at least tackled the essentials.
3. Batching Tasks: I group similar tasks together to maximize efficiency. Instead of responding to emails sporadically throughout the day, I dedicate one or two chunks of time to clearing my inbox.
4. Accountability: Keeping this blog updated has been a great way to stay accountable for my progress. When I put my goals out into the world, I feel more motivated to follow through.
5. Rest and Recovery: Pushing through burnout never works in the long run. I’ve been scheduling regular breaks to keep my energy levels high and my creativity flowing.

For anyone who is struggling to get a handle on their own productivity, I highly recommend experimenting with different approaches until you find what clicks. It takes time, but once you figure it out, everything changes.

Fitness Update: Training for a Challenge

In addition to all the writing projects, I’m also embarking on a new fitness journey. I’ve just started a training program to prepare for a project with a friend that is happening in 13 weeks.

I can’t say too much about it just yet, but let’s just say it involves a lot of movement—fighting, jumping, agility work, and endurance training. It’s going to push me way outside my comfort zone, but that’s exactly why I’m so excited about it.

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that real growth only happens when you challenge yourself. Staying in your comfort zone might feel safe, but it rarely leads to meaningful progress. This new training regimen is going to be tough, but I’m looking forward to the challenge and to seeing how far I can push myself.

In terms of specifics, my plan includes:

• Strength training three times a week
• Cardio and agility drills four times a week
• Active recovery days with mobility work and stretching

I’m also making some dietary adjustments to support my training, ensuring that I have enough energy and recovery fuel for the intense workouts ahead. Hydration has been a big focus too—drinking a gallon of water a day has made a noticeable difference in my energy levels and recovery times.

Looking Ahead

With so many exciting things happening, I feel like I’m in a great place moving forward. Here’s a quick recap of my current goals:

1. Writing Goals:
   • Keep publishing Roll D20 for Love chapters regularly
   • Revisit and work on Ghost Walker Chronicles
   • Publish a new short story this Sunday
2. Productivity & Routine:
   • Stick to the system that’s been working for me
   • Maintain consistency in writing and admin work
3. Fitness & Training:
   • Train consistently for the next 13 weeks
   • Push myself beyond my usual limits
   • Stay accountable and track progress

I want to thank everyone for being part of this journey with me. Whether you’ve been following my writing, supporting my creative projects, or simply checking in on these updates, it means the world to me. Here’s to another week of progress, discipline, and creativity!

This past week, I managed to draft a new short story called Witch & Were, which I originally intended to release in Wicked Whispers. Unfortunately, work demanded more of my time than expected, and by the time I had the opportunity to sit down with it again, I was too exhausted to dive into edits. The good news? The story is drafted, and my goal is to have it out this week.

Writing is a journey that often takes unexpected turns, and while I wish I could have gotten it out as planned, I’m also reminding myself that progress is still progress. Drafting is one of the hardest parts of the process, and now that the words are on the page, editing will be much more manageable. It’s important to acknowledge these moments rather than dwell on what didn’t get done. One of the things I’ve learned over time is that creative burnout happens more easily when I focus too much on what I didn’t accomplish rather than celebrating the work I did complete.

Beyond that, I have a secret project I’m working on, and I couldn’t be more excited! I’m deeply honored to be part of this, and while I can’t share details just yet, know that it’s something I’ve really wanted to do. This week, I’ll be wrapping it up and submitting it for approval—fingers crossed! I wish I could share more, but for now, all I can say is that it aligns perfectly with my passions, and I feel like this is a dream opportunity that came at the perfect time. Opportunities like this are rare, and I want to make sure I give it my all.

For those of you who haven’t yet checked out the Dirty Deeds trailer or campaign, time is running out! There are only a few more weeks left before it ends. It would mean so much if you took a look and shared your thoughts. I’m both nervous and excited for readers to experience this story. Launching a project like this comes with a mix of emotions—there’s excitement, anxiety, anticipation, and, of course, the ever-present fear of whether people will enjoy it. But I’m grateful for everyone who has supported Dirty Deeds so far, whether through purchasing a copy, sharing the campaign, or simply sending me words of encouragement. If you’re on the fence about checking it out, I’d love for you to take a moment to see what Dirty Deeds is all about. And for those who have already supported the project—you are the best!

Personal Productivity

I think I’ve finally settled into a system that works for me, and for the first time in a while, I feel on top of things. It’s still a bit of work, but any progress is better than slipping back into the overwhelm I felt in late January and early February.

Looking back, I think a big part of my struggle was feeling overloaded with too many moving parts. That feeling led to avoidant behavior, which in turn made me abandon the original method that had been working for me. I’ve recently been exploring the concept of ‘Monk Mode’—essentially, a hyper-focused period of self-improvement and goal achievement. While it has mixed opinions surrounding it, I’m willing to give it a shot if it helps me stay on track.

One of the key takeaways I’ve had from this process is that systems need to be adaptable. What worked for me a few months ago might not be what works for me now, and that’s okay. It’s about refining and adjusting until I find what helps me function at my best. One of the things I’ve incorporated into my routine is setting clearer boundaries between work, creative time, and rest. It sounds simple, but it makes a huge difference in how productive I feel.

A major part of my productivity reset has been focusing on intentional habits. Instead of trying to overhaul my entire workflow overnight, I’ve been working on making small, meaningful changes that add up over time. Things like prioritizing my most important tasks earlier in the day, tracking my progress in a way that feels rewarding, and setting designated focus blocks for deep work have all contributed to me feeling like I’m regaining control of my time.

Fitness Accountability

I’m finally back on track with my workouts and have even been posting my progress online for added accountability. Some days are tougher than others, but I can feel and see the progress, which is incredibly motivating. One major change I implemented was adding 30 assisted pull-ups to my daily routine. Let me tell you, I’m already noticing a difference in my arms. The guns are officially under construction!

One thing I’ve learned is that consistency beats intensity. I used to think I needed to push myself to the limit every single day, but that mindset only led to burnout. Now, I’m focused on sustainable progress—making sure that I show up for my workouts even when I don’t feel like it, rather than going all-in for a week and then crashing.

Fitness is as much about mindset as it is about physical progress. There have been days when I didn’t feel like working out, but I reminded myself that discipline is what will get me where I want to be. Every workout, no matter how small, is a step forward. Even on days when I don’t feel my best, I make it a point to do something active, even if it’s just stretching or going for a walk.

Other Updates

Website issues. Ugh. I noticed that all my scheduled posts haven’t been going up as planned, which means I now have to go in and manually publish everything. It’s frustrating and time-consuming, but I’ll get it figured out. If you were waiting for a story post and didn’t receive it, I sincerely apologize! I’m working on getting everything back on track.

This has made me reconsider how I handle my online content. I love having a structured schedule for posting, but when technology fails, it throws everything off. One of the things I’ll be doing moving forward is having a backup system in place—checking scheduled posts more frequently and keeping a manual posting log so that I can ensure everything is going up as expected.

If you’ve ever dealt with website glitches, you know how frustrating they can be. It’s a reminder that no matter how well we plan, sometimes things are out of our control. What matters is how we adapt to those challenges. In the meantime, I appreciate everyone’s patience as I work through this!

That’s it for this week’s update! If you’re on a similar journey—whether it’s writing, productivity, or fitness—let me know how it’s going for you. We’re all in this together!

Reflecting on the week, I realize how important it is to celebrate small wins. Whether it’s making progress on a writing project, sticking to a productivity system, or showing up for workouts, every step forward counts. Here’s to another week of progress, learning, and growth!