A day of checking off items on lists, but not the one most essential to the next move. A little less than a month before my Bali Fashion Dream book extension. I had decided a few months back that the story ended too short, that there was more that should be included. I tend to place accountability markers that force me to show up. My submission deadline to my editor is January 31st.

I had written three chapters for the extension and thought to myself, well, the first book is just fine—do you really need to keep writing? I scanned the text and audio listened to the writing and found it rather inspiring. Odd, considering I had written it. But what I mean is this: I need to hear the story I am telling in this book, just as someone else might when it is finally complete.

The rain has been falling all day, yet I have decided—go on then, let’s finish what we started. The book, the fashion dream, and all the pretty dresses I will sew. Let’s do it all and live the life we feel is now very much within reach. It is time to believe and to build. I committed to writing one chapter today.

Get on the other side of the wall that keeps you from realizing your dreams. Scream, shout, and get the attention of the self that is not showing up in the way you know you can. Do not let yourself get away with the excuses only you know you are making. For if you keep ignoring your desires, you might forget what it means to strive.