Narrowing down big ideas is not easy but can be done! Creating tiny goals to accomplish big ideas works for me. This works for kids too! It provides a clear path to reach their goals and helps them gain self-confidence and better decision making.

This month’s theme is mindfulness. I’m trying to be mindful of how I accomplish my goal of creating children’s picture books on wellness-related themes. I also would like my books to be traditionally published not self-published. Creating tiny goals to accomplish big ideas was an important first step. I knew I had to learn more about children’s publishing to become a traditionally published author. 

Learning from the Pros

First, I had to take a step back and learn how other successful children’s authors create their picture books. I joined a few writing groups and have taken over FORTY courses in the last few years from either Storyteller Academy, Children’s Society of Book Writers and Illustrators, or from other successful children’s authors. I also follow other authors on their social media sites to learn how they create and market their own books. Lastly, I purchase and study the children’s picture books that I like or that our grandkids enjoy.

Now What?

Creating a cute book takes time, research, and creativity. I’m learning what style of books I enjoy making for children and tested draft versions of these books with my own grandchildren. From spreading out books on a bed and letting them choose the covers that they liked most, I learned which style of book appealed to them the most. I also read them my manuscripts (with pictures). Fortunately, they are brutally honest about what they like and don’t like, and I make changes accordingly. Besides my grandchildren, I also share my manuscripts with critique groups and professional experts. My goal of creating stories that kids will enjoy is becoming true. Creating tiny goals to accomplish big ideas was key.

What’s Next?

Family and friends not familiar with the publishing process wonder what’s happening with my stories. Seven manuscripts and draft illustrations are being prepared for an agent’s eyes. You can see some of them on my Books page of my website, @Gracelynkeyskids.com/Books. I’m checking off my list of tiny goals after I accomplish each one. I’m hoping to realize my overall goal of becoming a successful children’s author with important wellness-related stories that children, parents, caregivers, and educators will enjoy!

Are you creating tiny goals to accomplish big ideas?

#wishingyouhealthandwellness