Scattered “New” Thoughts

Here I sit at the dawn of the New Year (by the time you read this, the calendar will have already turned) wondering what to write about? Your guess is as good as mine.

The word “new” sums up a lot of things. New year, new pursuits, new goals. 2025 was good to me, with some writing successes and new “writer friendships” formed. I had some publications and felt pretty good about the progress.

What will 2026 bring?

Only time will tell. I don’t make resolutions anymore, as they tend to fade by March or sooner. A few times, I tried doing the “Word for the Year” so many people do. The last time I did it was 2020, and I thought my word was “connection.” So much for that! Instead, here’s some thoughts about the New Year:

1. I hope to be more intentional with relationships, whether it be family members, the aforementioned writer friends, or pals from different walks of life. This new year marks a big milestone with my college graduation anniversary, and hopefully I can celebrate that with my old chums. I enjoy writers conferences, as much for the relationships as for the writing instruction (which always good).
2. I hope to focus more on my goals for my writing, not just aimlessly jotting thoughts down here and there (as I am doing now).
3. I hope to spend more time on important things like faith and family. I realize how truly rich I am in these areas, and I don’t want to take them for granted.
4. I hope to get ahead in writing these posts!

I am praying 2026 will be a fruitful year for all of us. Here’s to a blessed New Year for one and all.

What’s on your mind for the New Year?

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.