Soon, things will return to a bit more of a normalized schedule, but I expect work to pick up a bit. However, I will definitely be returning to my early to bed, early to rise schedule. I have some projects I want to finish early this year, so it's best for me to get some writing, blogging and networking done while everyone in my house is still sleeping.
Then, there is the new direction I want to go into with my blog. I think it will be awesome, but only if 1) YOU want it and 2) YOU can help me.
See... I think last year had some great moments on this blog where people stopped by to give and even ask advice. Which was so amazing for me. And it really got me thinking about what I want this blog to become.
As writing blogs go, this is a pretty big one and I'd like to think that it has added value to the readers who stopped by in the past. (THANK YOU!!!)
Now, I want to make it even bigger and better. I want to spend 2013 and the foreseeable future giving back to the amazing writing community. So what I have in mind is two-fold:
Awareness
I want to make people more aware of some awesome blogs out there that might or might not be off the beaten track. Also, I want to be made aware of those. Even if it's your own.
Also, whether I participate or not, I want to share any and all blogfests, competitions and or events happening. I'll be trying to get around as much as possible to find these events, BUT I am sadly not the Ninja Captain, so if you have something happening. Even if you think I should have found out already. PLEASE let me know.
Paying Forward
Once again, I am ready, willing and able to help with blog tours, interviews and guest posts. However, because of the fact that this is about us writing bloggers, content writers are STILL not welcome to submit.
Then there's something I'd really love to see coming off the ground, but that I'm terrified won't happen. I want to hold a monthly awards ceremony with a nomination and voting process. The awards, however, are the issue. I am going to give amazon vouchers every month (although the amounts may differ based on how much I have at the time), but will also be offering crits, blog analyses or anything within my skill-set that a writing blogger might find useful.
Here's the hard part: I want you guys to help me. I don't necessarily mean money. If you can donate time to help someone edit. Or help someone with a query letter and/or synopsis (cause heaven knows I CAN'T). Anything helpful or nice (and preferably open to all countries). From something small to something generous. Everything will be appreciated and best of all, it will brighten someone's day. I'm thinking that those of you who offer prizes (henceforth called the sponsors) will be listed among the most awesome of the most awesome on my blog.
Also, you will be welcome to take over for a day to plug your book, blog etc. to heart's content for a day (although I have found that it's usually better to disguise this in a helpful writing post). Heck, you can make a huge giveaway around your book.
I just think it will be amazing if this works, so I really hope you guys will find it helpful. And who knows, maybe there'll be a prize for the most generous blogger at the end of the year. The sky's the limit if we work together.
So... what do you say? Who's in? If you are, please contact me at mishagericke(AT)gmail(DOT)com with either AWARENESS or PAYING FORWARD as the subject. Comments are also welcome, but might be hard if I can't reach you by e-mail.
Have a WONDERFUL 2013!
I like that idea! No idea what else to do with it or how I could help you, but I'm willing.
ReplyDeleteGreat plans, Misha - Happy 2013!
This is similar to my plan for the new year. I'll volunteer to critique up to 500 words/month.
ReplyDeleteA terrific plan for the new year. I'm definitely not someone to help with queries or a synopsis but I'm always willing to help with beta reading and editing.
ReplyDeleteI could format for ebook one short novel.
ReplyDeleteWhat wonderful ideas for 2013! Thanks Misha, all great things you planned!
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year!
Nas
These are great plans!! I look forward in seeing all of your changes. I so far have a pretty heavy schedule, but maybe later in the year, I can help.
ReplyDeleteThose sound like awesome ideas! I'd love to contribute--I'd be happy to critique something or do a little graphic design/coding for a blog.
ReplyDeleteWhat a cool way to give back! I'm onboard. Later this week, I'm planning to post details on my own blog about crit opportunities, so feel free to send people my way for the "editing" portion of your Pay It Forward idea. I'll email you when that post goes live.
ReplyDeleteYou have a great plan. Best of luck and Happy 2013.
ReplyDeleteI will think on this and see if there's a unique way to assist here, especially as I enjoy popping in and seeing what's going on.
ReplyDeleteGreat ideas! It's awesome how much writers give and care about each other. It's definitely not a business where we all want to eat each other's heads off. Oh, and thanks for the crit offer. I'd love to have your input! (When I finish, that is. I wouldn't want to give you a reason to eat my head off.) ;)
ReplyDeleteVery interesting. Like Terry, let me ponder on what I can offer.
ReplyDeleteThese are all great ideas! I look forward to hearing more about your plans throughout the year!
ReplyDeleteJulie
Happy New Year, Misha! I think it's a fab idea! I will email you. :D
ReplyDeleteHi Misha
ReplyDeleteI already have a writing post on Mondays that can be tailored to any writing subject or challenge. I will offer that if you'd like plus crit. one chapter, once a month. I'm not advertising my email anymore since it is filled with spam so we will work on a system to contact winners. I'll email you.
Great idea for a New Year.
Nancy
I have been thinking along these lines with a pay it forward sort of thing for my blog as well. Just didn't know how to go about it. Sign me up to do a critique at the very least. Time will dictate if I can do more.
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year Misha!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful idea! I'll help in any way I can... just NOT tech thinggies. I'll mail you in the week!
Happy New Year! I love your ideas, Misha! I sent you an email! Can't wait for this to begin! I'll support you in any way I can! Awesome stuff! :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful Idea! I look forward to reading more. If i ever think of anything I WILL email you :)
ReplyDeleteGreat idea, Misha! Here's to seeing it through this year.
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year.
These sound like some wonderful ideas. I might be able to critique queries or first pages for any historical writers.
ReplyDeleteThis is a huge undertaking, Misha, but I bet you'll find it very rewarding. You can count me in as helping.
ReplyDeleteFab idea! If there's anything I can help with, let me know and I'll do my best - I'll give you a plug on my blog later too
ReplyDeleteLaura x
Hi, Misha,
ReplyDeleteI am In.... I can critique... I will email you...
What a GREAT way to start the new year! You are SOOO KIND!!!!!
If I think of anything I can help with, I'll let you know! I already see some awesome offers above.
ReplyDeleteShannon at The Warrior Muse
This sounds like a great idea, and I can imagine you having many successes with it! :)
ReplyDeleteyay for misha! paying it forward is a wonderful idea! call on me for help in any way =)
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for the support and everyone who volunteered to help so far!
ReplyDeleteAnyone else wanting to help this month is still welcome to offer until tomorrow.