It would be great, now that TDOVS has been out for a bit, to have a deep dive into how you solved plotting challenges and tips for managing so many POVs in one book.
My word of the year is Consistency. I chose that word to encourage me to be consistent each day with my writing; eating healthy, drinking more water, having some me time, as well as being consistent with weekly and monthly goals. My goal is to write and publish book 1 of a new series and hoping to publish it in June; write a Christmas novella for publication in early December and edit/rewrite a time travel.
I have been thinking about a word of the year just the other day, and couldn't come up with anything. But consistency seems to be quite fitting for what I want - thank you so much for the inspiration!b🥰🙏💕
My word for the year is Balance. The year was off to a rough to the death of a dear friend but I’m finding my groove now - love your encouragement that I’m not too late to start my goals! ❤
I think I became a subscriber to Heart Breathings back in 2017 or 2018. I discovered it as a planning-related channel and it quickly became one of my favorite channels! My favorite thing is the Notebook Challenge! I’m not a writer but I get a lot of inspiration from this channel. I often re-watch your older videos and feel like you are my motivational speaker/life coach! Thank you! ♥️
I love all things from both of your channels. Not a writer, but discovered you as a favorite planner girly! I absolutely adore all of what you put out into this world. You’re a joy to watch, both the “good vibes” and human vibes. I too am ‘behind’ on the 2025 intentions as I’m 35 weeks pregnant (my daughter is 6.5 and I completely forgot how exhausting pregnancy is, especially at 40!) and you reminded me of one of my favorite words of all time, surrender. My WOTY is rooted, but this quarter I’m definitely leaning into surrender. 💜 thank you for the reminder!
I love your writing process videos. I like videos on plotting, planning, character development, world building etc. I also lovey our planning videos. Those are the videos that I subscribed for. My word of the year is mastery. I’m really trying to get better at all the things I love to do. I already love doing them so it’s just a matter of making the time to do it.
I LOVED your Writing Retreat Vlog. Like it's one of my favorite vlogs to date! Not just your vlogs, or writing vlogs, ALL VLOGS! It was so good and just right!
I’m so excited for this year. I signed up for your course bundle for HB90 and Publish & Thrive. I love you, your channel and your vibe. You are very calming for my anxiety, ADHD and Autism.
I can only speak for myself, but I have been a long-time subscriber because of you. Production would not make me subscribe or stay. Your writing related how-to videos have been so helpful. (I do love when we see the family 😊)💜
Love your energy! I seriously enjoyed the writing videos such as taking a raw idea and developing it, brainstorming, character development..ect. So helpful!
I found your channel a few months back, and now I am a fan. I have always wanted to be a writer but I never know what to write so I don't. I have even started a writing group at my library in hoping I can gain confidence and let go of fear. So far, it is not working out as I had hoped. I watch your channel in hopes of gathering ideas so I can be in service at my job while trying to become a writer. Thank you. I wish you could be my mentor.
I love all of your "How To" videos. Definitely keep thise coming! Would love more info on: 1) Serials 2) How to create solid subplot....I have tons of questions on how to do this 3) Research
I personally don't care if your videos are fancy with b-roll. Your Plot my Novel series, and How to Write a Scene series are so incredibly helpful to me. I watch them every few months and still catch new info! I also love how you keep us updated on your plans and how you're tackling them. I'll take anything you can give, but to share my preference, I love your explanations and applications of writing and planning your writing! ❤
My word of the year is - Smoothie - to remind me to make Medical Mediums Heavy Metal Detox Smoothies (so good!) And also the word - Smooth - is derived from it to remind me to go with the flow of life. To keep putting my focus back on happiness and joy. I have become more consistent and will continue on that path as well. Looking forward to the next round of Publish & Thrive. Thank you Sarra 🤗
good to see you back. I would love to see an updated "how to plot your novel" series- i know it was talked about in a few coffee chats so i wait with delight. other than that i hope for more friday coffee chats. heres to you all getting better soon and to there never being a dull day when you have spunky chickens!
I say this on my channel too, a goal can be started at any time!! I’ve been called to work on a completely different goal, which is helping others go for their goals. I don’t know where it will lead but I’m following what is making me happy! 🎉💜
Great goals list!! Girl, you have really been through it lately. Glad to see yall are on the path to recovery/health. We had similar health ick/sickness situation since late xmas evening. I ended up with shingles (only in one of my eyes which is nuts) and we all ended up dealing with strep and then another coldy thing. Just back to back to back germs. I still need to work on my 2025 goals and I'm itching to get back to posting videos also. I too have had to slow all the way down and health and creating are both def at the top of my goals list also. Wishing you a great 2025! As far as what content, I am a fellow planner girlie (actually met you at GW Dallas at the EC Squad event) so I would say any planner related content and I am here 💛
Happy Anniversary!! In my experience with pneumonia, it can take a week of recovery for every day I am sick. Sometimes our bodies force us to "take it easy." I know my body well enough that I know how much rest I need, so during that rest time I think about my characters or my plot. Or I plan things I need to do with regard to my other Main Goals. And I too have fun things to do. Maybe I will get my TBR books cut down! Also, I miss your planner videos. The ones where we could see you using washi tape and stickers too!
My writing goal for this year is to complete draft one of my romantasy novel. I'm currently 30,000 words in and enjoying the process. My FT job is getting in the way lol! No worries about adding any extra production to your videos which takes away precious time for your own goals in 2025. For me, core learning is what is of interest. I personally come here for writing craft, so the videos I enjoy most are those that are focused on character development, plotting, world building, chapter structure, POVs, voice, and structure for series writing. Your success is inspirational and your info sharing and encouragement is so appreciated!
My New Year’s resolution was to not be so sick this year. I spent the last two weeks with pneumonia too. Steroids save lives . But I didn’t gain twenty pounds this time so I’m gonna call that a win.
Whew, I'm so sorry it knocked you down too. I had steroids the first week but I wonder if I should have gone back and asked for more support? Hope you are feeling much better!
Don't own your illness by saying: I have... Or my illness.... Instead say: I'm recovering from... Or the illness... It's a small difference but this change of thinking has helped me to get out of the unwell, victim thinking and embracing the recovery, warrior mindset and living in a different, more healthy way. 💕🌞🌵😷
The one thing that I am not really able to do is to treat a rough draft as rough. I always have the feeling that what I write is not detailed enough, but when I make it more detailed I get lost in one scene and I overthink every word. Maybe you can share how “rough” your first draft is. Like comparing word count rough vs. finished work. Or what does a scene look rough vs. finished.
I feel the year is just zooming past already😅 but I decided to review my lists of "want to accomplish" and "things to enjoy" and take a look at my schedule (that I need to revise because things will shift next week) to see what moments are accomplish vs enjoy time❤
Hi, Sarra! 🌸 I've been a follower for over a year and the type of content I enjoy the most is about writing, your projects (like Project Phoenix), productivity, goal setting and vlogs ☺️ I'm still deciding which goals I'm going to focus on. Starting the Q a little later, oops 😂
You talked about moving your body and tracking your mood, ect. But, consider 15 minutes outside, within 30 minutes of waking up (or as the the sunrises... I've been getting up before dawn). Getting direct sun light in your eyes will not only get your Vitamin D, but increase your mood and energy levels, but will adjust your circadian rhythm so that you can fall asleep easier at night. The early morning sun is also the most gentle on your skin (if your exposing it for Vitamin D production. Sunscreen reduces the process.) This is something you can do by yourself whilst you journal or just enjoy the sunrise with your favorite cuppa! Or certainly enjoy with your favorite person. 💕🌞🌵😷
For content you've done that I'd (personally) love to see more of, I'm always a huge fan of the notebook challenges! I also really like your How To (writing) videos, and the ones that you did in sort of a series, where it's a 4 or more parter where you go in depth on some things. A fun video idea that would be cool to see is maybe a watch react of some of your older content? Maybe pick one of your earliest RUclips videos and do a rewatch where you can sort of pause the old video and say things along the lines of "Oh! I learned so much from that, but now I do XYZ instead" to sort of show case your growth/learning/adaptations to your style that have to you over the years. ...this comment is way longer than it needed to be, I'm going back to the video now 😂😅
What would be fun and helpful would be a logline challenge. We could put our loglines in the chat. You could pick and read a few favorites. Maybe send your favorite a book. Then let the community give eachother feedback....❤
TDOVS is the best book EVER! I thought Witch’s Key was the best, but VS kicked it off the first place pedestal! Edit to add: I made 24 resolutions and then burned out. So now I have three. Just three for the next six months! 1. Write more 2. Eat good healthy foods 3. Don’t buy needless things
Hey Sarra, I'm fairly new to your channel (a few months ago) and new to writing vlogs on RUclips but I've been writing for most of my life. Since watching people like you I've been so motivated to write every week. I managed to write 2 books last year, and I'm aiming for 3 this year! However, I'm sending the written books to beta readers now, and I want to go down the traditional publishing route. So perhaps even getting an agent (pipe dream). I'm going to go easy on myself as I'll be working on beta reader feedback this year. 😊 Love your videos and I love how you take a holistic approach to health and writing. 💕 I also love your planning videos and LOVING my Sterling Ink planners. ✍
I know this will be a big commitment but I love the daily blogs done on nanowrimo days. I know now it's not sustainable.. but can you make a weekly writing blog? Like not every week but once bi-weekly? Just what is sustainable for you of course.
@HeartBreathings: I'm working in 2025 towards trad-publishing, and yes I know that you are solely a self-publishing author, but I may self-pub is a distant future depending on where my life is at that time. For now, I will do trad-pub for my mental health and it's free. LOL! Either way, I still will follow you in your journey with self-publishing. I don't know where my future writing endeavors will take me, yet I can only focus on trad-pub to get my foot in the door. I hope you and your family get better soon, along with you taking time to be easier on yourself. I very much appreciate this video. Take Care. 😁
I'm currently struggling to get through YPF & HB90 (the combo class)--nothing against the class, just the amount of time that I have to devote to it. How long will Publish & Thrive be open for enrollment? I'd like to at least finish with paying for YPF & HB90 before starting new payments for a new class, but I don't want to miss out and have to wait until next year to join P&T. Thank you for all you do!
I understand about the time issues! That's why I always give lifetime access just so you don't have the stress of trying to fit it in. Registration will be open this time until February 1 but I'll also be running it again late July/August this year if that's a better time!
I clicked this video so fast! You look like you're feeling better. Ths may be kinda niche, but I'd like to know how you balance 2 businesses. I have 2 business ideas that I can't forget about and I'm not sure how to launch them both.
Do you have any presentations that you have set up already to present on Zoom for RWA State Chapter associations? I'm the new president of the NH RWA Board and Chapter, and we are trying to get some presenters or presentations lined up for 2025. Your input on many topics would be invaluable. We are a tiny chapter with a minimal budget for speakers. I could discuss this with Renee. I also would like to discuss how I can present to the group about the April Rough Draft Challenge as a group event. Have any other groups inquired about how to set that up with you?
I hope your year is off to a good start! What are your goals or intentions for the new year ahead??
Thank you so much for your videos and inspiration. My goals for this year is to publish my book and start my self publishing career
It would be great, now that TDOVS has been out for a bit, to have a deep dive into how you solved plotting challenges and tips for managing so many POVs in one book.
My word of the year is Consistency. I chose that word to encourage me to be consistent each day with my writing; eating healthy, drinking more water, having some me time, as well as being consistent with weekly and monthly goals. My goal is to write and publish book 1 of a new series and hoping to publish it in June; write a Christmas novella for publication in early December and edit/rewrite a time travel.
I have been thinking about a word of the year just the other day, and couldn't come up with anything. But consistency seems to be quite fitting for what I want - thank you so much for the inspiration!b🥰🙏💕
I love this. My word is steady, so similar!
I love your writing-process videos, things like best craft books, etc.
My word for the year is Balance. The year was off to a rough to the death of a dear friend but I’m finding my groove now - love your encouragement that I’m not too late to start my goals! ❤
I think I became a subscriber to Heart Breathings back in 2017 or 2018. I discovered it as a planning-related channel and it quickly became one of my favorite channels! My favorite thing is the Notebook Challenge! I’m not a writer but I get a lot of inspiration from this channel. I often re-watch your older videos and feel like you are my motivational speaker/life coach! Thank you! ♥️
I started the channel February 2018! So excited to see you've been around since the beginning!
I love your excitement for all you have intended for the year!! ❤❤ I can't wait to see the wonderful things that will radiate from you this year. 🎉❤🎉❤
I love all things from both of your channels. Not a writer, but discovered you as a favorite planner girly! I absolutely adore all of what you put out into this world. You’re a joy to watch, both the “good vibes” and human vibes. I too am ‘behind’ on the 2025 intentions as I’m 35 weeks pregnant (my daughter is 6.5 and I completely forgot how exhausting pregnancy is, especially at 40!) and you reminded me of one of my favorite words of all time, surrender. My WOTY is rooted, but this quarter I’m definitely leaning into surrender. 💜 thank you for the reminder!
Aww this is so sweet! Congratulations on your upcoming baby!
I love your writing process videos. I like videos on plotting, planning, character development, world building etc. I also lovey our planning videos. Those are the videos that I subscribed for.
My word of the year is mastery. I’m really trying to get better at all the things I love to do. I already love doing them so it’s just a matter of making the time to do it.
You motivate me so much!! You're so relatable and keep everything real and I can't tell you how helpful that is. You're doing such a fantastic job!! ❤
I LOVED your Writing Retreat Vlog. Like it's one of my favorite vlogs to date! Not just your vlogs, or writing vlogs, ALL VLOGS! It was so good and just right!
I’m so excited for this year. I signed up for your course bundle for HB90 and Publish & Thrive. I love you, your channel and your vibe. You are very calming for my anxiety, ADHD and Autism.
I'm so excited that you joined us!
I can only speak for myself, but I have been a long-time subscriber because of you. Production would not make me subscribe or stay. Your writing related how-to videos have been so helpful. (I do love when we see the family 😊)💜
Love your energy! I seriously enjoyed the writing videos such as taking a raw idea and developing it, brainstorming, character development..ect. So helpful!
My favorite videos are vlogs of your writing retreats!! I love them so much!
@@Charlotteapaige oooh yes!
I found your channel a few months back, and now I am a fan. I have always wanted to be a writer but I never know what to write so I don't. I have even started a writing group at my library in hoping I can gain confidence and let go of fear. So far, it is not working out as I had hoped. I watch your channel in hopes of gathering ideas so I can be in service at my job while trying to become a writer. Thank you. I wish you could be my mentor.
I hope you find inspiration this year! It sounds like you're taking steps in the right direction! Good luck!❤
I love all of your "How To" videos. Definitely keep thise coming! Would love more info on: 1) Serials 2) How to create solid subplot....I have tons of questions on how to do this
3) Research
I personally don't care if your videos are fancy with b-roll. Your Plot my Novel series, and How to Write a Scene series are so incredibly helpful to me. I watch them every few months and still catch new info! I also love how you keep us updated on your plans and how you're tackling them. I'll take anything you can give, but to share my preference, I love your explanations and applications of writing and planning your writing! ❤
My word of the year is - Smoothie - to remind me to make Medical Mediums Heavy Metal Detox Smoothies (so good!) And also the word - Smooth - is derived from it to remind me to go with the flow of life. To keep putting my focus back on happiness and joy. I have become more consistent and will continue on that path as well. Looking forward to the next round of Publish & Thrive. Thank you Sarra 🤗
good to see you back. I would love to see an updated "how to plot your novel" series- i know it was talked about in a few coffee chats so i wait with delight. other than that i hope for more friday coffee chats. heres to you all getting better soon and to there never being a dull day when you have spunky chickens!
I say this on my channel too, a goal can be started at any time!!
I’ve been called to work on a completely different goal, which is helping others go for their goals. I don’t know where it will lead but I’m following what is making me happy! 🎉💜
Great goals list!! Girl, you have really been through it lately. Glad to see yall are on the path to recovery/health. We had similar health ick/sickness situation since late xmas evening. I ended up with shingles (only in one of my eyes which is nuts) and we all ended up dealing with strep and then another coldy thing. Just back to back to back germs. I still need to work on my 2025 goals and I'm itching to get back to posting videos also. I too have had to slow all the way down and health and creating are both def at the top of my goals list also. Wishing you a great 2025!
As far as what content, I am a fellow planner girlie (actually met you at GW Dallas at the EC Squad event) so I would say any planner related content and I am here 💛
Happy Anniversary!! In my experience with pneumonia, it can take a week of recovery for every day I am sick. Sometimes our bodies force us to "take it easy." I know my body well enough that I know how much rest I need, so during that rest time I think about my characters or my plot. Or I plan things I need to do with regard to my other Main Goals. And I too have fun things to do. Maybe I will get my TBR books cut down! Also, I miss your planner videos. The ones where we could see you using washi tape and stickers too!
Now that the disappearance of Vanessa shaw is out, would you be able to walk us through your plotting notes showing how you plotted the mystery etc? ❤
🎉 I came here to say the same thing!! @sarra is so good at breaking down the scary big projects!
My writing goal for this year is to complete draft one of my romantasy novel. I'm currently 30,000 words in and enjoying the process. My FT job is getting in the way lol! No worries about adding any extra production to your videos which takes away precious time for your own goals in 2025. For me, core learning is what is of interest. I personally come here for writing craft, so the videos I enjoy most are those that are focused on character development, plotting, world building, chapter structure, POVs, voice, and structure for series writing. Your success is inspirational and your info sharing and encouragement is so appreciated!
Thank you for your comments on starting goals. 90 day goals a great Idea! I'm going to change my goals to follow that.
I would love updated how to plot videos
My New Year’s resolution was to not be so sick this year. I spent the last two weeks with pneumonia too. Steroids save lives . But I didn’t gain twenty pounds this time so I’m gonna call that a win.
Whew, I'm so sorry it knocked you down too. I had steroids the first week but I wonder if I should have gone back and asked for more support? Hope you are feeling much better!
@ I had to have two steroid shots and two weeks worth of pills. The shots help get it started.
I theme days based on my goals (aka my pen names) and that has really helped for mindset!
Don't own your illness by saying: I have... Or my illness....
Instead say: I'm recovering from... Or the illness...
It's a small difference but this change of thinking has helped me to get out of the unwell, victim thinking and embracing the recovery, warrior mindset and living in a different, more healthy way. 💕🌞🌵😷
I’m excited about the audiobooks!
The one thing that I am not really able to do is to treat a rough draft as rough. I always have the feeling that what I write is not detailed enough, but when I make it more detailed I get lost in one scene and I overthink every word.
Maybe you can share how “rough” your first draft is. Like comparing word count rough vs. finished work. Or what does a scene look rough vs. finished.
This is a great idea!
I feel the year is just zooming past already😅 but I decided to review my lists of "want to accomplish" and "things to enjoy" and take a look at my schedule (that I need to revise because things will shift next week) to see what moments are accomplish vs enjoy time❤
You got your rings back! ❤ Gorgeous!
Hi, Sarra! 🌸
I've been a follower for over a year and the type of content I enjoy the most is about writing, your projects (like Project Phoenix), productivity, goal setting and vlogs ☺️
I'm still deciding which goals I'm going to focus on. Starting the Q a little later, oops 😂
You talked about moving your body and tracking your mood, ect. But, consider 15 minutes outside, within 30 minutes of waking up (or as the the sunrises... I've been getting up before dawn). Getting direct sun light in your eyes will not only get your Vitamin D, but increase your mood and energy levels, but will adjust your circadian rhythm so that you can fall asleep easier at night. The early morning sun is also the most gentle on your skin (if your exposing it for Vitamin D production. Sunscreen reduces the process.) This is something you can do by yourself whilst you journal or just enjoy the sunrise with your favorite cuppa! Or certainly enjoy with your favorite person. 💕🌞🌵😷
For content you've done that I'd (personally) love to see more of, I'm always a huge fan of the notebook challenges! I also really like your How To (writing) videos, and the ones that you did in sort of a series, where it's a 4 or more parter where you go in depth on some things.
A fun video idea that would be cool to see is maybe a watch react of some of your older content? Maybe pick one of your earliest RUclips videos and do a rewatch where you can sort of pause the old video and say things along the lines of "Oh! I learned so much from that, but now I do XYZ instead" to sort of show case your growth/learning/adaptations to your style that have to you over the years.
...this comment is way longer than it needed to be, I'm going back to the video now 😂😅
The idea of going through old advice is so fun! Love that. thank you!
Same as usual. Publish. Also, get my body strong. 💪🏽 Consistency on YT.
I survived the flu the second half of December.
What would be fun and helpful would be a logline challenge. We could put our loglines in the chat. You could pick and read a few favorites. Maybe send your favorite a book. Then let the community give eachother feedback....❤
Ahh love this!
You know me, I’m all about the vlogs on heart breathings! 😂❤
TDOVS is the best book EVER! I thought Witch’s Key was the best, but VS kicked it off the first place pedestal!
Edit to add: I made 24 resolutions and then burned out. So now I have three. Just three for the next six months! 1. Write more 2. Eat good healthy foods 3. Don’t buy needless things
Thank you so much!!
Hey Sarra, I'm fairly new to your channel (a few months ago) and new to writing vlogs on RUclips but I've been writing for most of my life. Since watching people like you I've been so motivated to write every week. I managed to write 2 books last year, and I'm aiming for 3 this year! However, I'm sending the written books to beta readers now, and I want to go down the traditional publishing route. So perhaps even getting an agent (pipe dream). I'm going to go easy on myself as I'll be working on beta reader feedback this year. 😊 Love your videos and I love how you take a holistic approach to health and writing. 💕 I also love your planning videos and LOVING my Sterling Ink planners. ✍
That's so exciting! I am wishing you the BEST on your agent search!
January is a practice month. 2025 starts in February! :D
I laugh every time you have a rooster shock moment!
I know this will be a big commitment but I love the daily blogs done on nanowrimo days. I know now it's not sustainable.. but can you make a weekly writing blog? Like not every week but once bi-weekly? Just what is sustainable for you of course.
@HeartBreathings:
I'm working in 2025 towards trad-publishing, and yes I know that you are solely a self-publishing author, but I may self-pub is a distant future depending on where my life is at that time. For now, I will do trad-pub for my mental health and it's free. LOL! Either way, I still will follow you in your journey with self-publishing. I don't know where my future writing endeavors will take me, yet I can only focus on trad-pub to get my foot in the door. I hope you and your family get better soon, along with you taking time to be easier on yourself.
I very much appreciate this video. Take Care. 😁
I'm currently struggling to get through YPF & HB90 (the combo class)--nothing against the class, just the amount of time that I have to devote to it. How long will Publish & Thrive be open for enrollment? I'd like to at least finish with paying for YPF & HB90 before starting new payments for a new class, but I don't want to miss out and have to wait until next year to join P&T. Thank you for all you do!
I understand about the time issues! That's why I always give lifetime access just so you don't have the stress of trying to fit it in. Registration will be open this time until February 1 but I'll also be running it again late July/August this year if that's a better time!
I clicked this video so fast! You look like you're feeling better. Ths may be kinda niche, but I'd like to know how you balance 2 businesses. I have 2 business ideas that I can't forget about and I'm not sure how to launch them both.
How do I plan for it
Do you have any presentations that you have set up already to present on Zoom for RWA State Chapter associations? I'm the new president of the NH RWA Board and Chapter, and we are trying to get some presenters or presentations lined up for 2025. Your input on many topics would be invaluable. We are a tiny chapter with a minimal budget for speakers. I could discuss this with Renee. I also would like to discuss how I can present to the group about the April Rough Draft Challenge as a group event. Have any other groups inquired about how to set that up with you?
23:20 CHICKENGATE 🐓
😭😁😁
@@HeartBreathingsdon’t be embarrassed! Personally, I love chickengate! Made my whole day
I prefer less production. I am just here for you want what you have to say! So don’t need a fancy production really x
@HeartBreathings, Commit to yourself just as much as you commit to your business and fans.