I have been very bad at keeping this blog updated this year! It’s been an odd year for me – I’ve had some fantastic opportunities, but there’s also been uncertainty and stress, which I think is true for a lot of us.
At the end of each year, I like to take some time to reflect on the last 12 months. It helps me take stock, celebrate my successes, and look ahead to the next year. I’ll get comfy on the sofa with a mug of coffee, my notebook on my lap, and jot down what comes to me. This can be so helpful for realising how good things have been, and what’s worked for me this year. I recommend taking some time out to do this yourself if you can.
This year, I’ve had some fantastic article commissions that I feel so lucky to have landed. It’s been a joy to write for the Guardian’s Stage section several times. I also loved writing a 16 page dossier for the October issue of Psychologies magazine, talking about my journey of building self confidence, and why it’s something so many of us struggle with. Landing a big commission like that was really exciting, especially for a magazine I love.
Throughout 2022 I’ve written a six part column for the Wellcome Collection, called ‘Writing Myself’, where I’ve explored the link between writing and disability. I’ve loved the challenge of creating a series of articles, and it’s been one of my highlights.
I’ve also enjoyed my PhD work. I can’t quite believe I’ve now entered the third year of my PhD! I have great supervisors, who reassure me I’m on track and it’s all going okay, even when the inevitable worries that accompany PhD life creep in. It’s exciting to see my project take shape.
I’m hoping that 2023 builds on some of the great things about this last year, and also brings new opportunities and successes. I’ve learnt a lot about myself as a writer – what kind of work I enjoy doing, what I like to focus on, what I hope to achieve.
I’ll be taking some time to relax and recharge over Christmas. I’m looking forward to eating lots of mince pies (I have already made a good start on this…), catching up with friends and family, and maybe curling up with a good book. I love Christmas, and I’m hoping that come January, I’ll be ready to embrace the next year.
Whatever you’re doing over the holidays, I hope you have a lovely time.
Caroline Butterwick 