I Challenge You!
Challenges. I adore them. Nothing gets me moving faster than when someone gives me a challenge. (Except when someone says “You can’t do this…” That phrase will prompt me into action faster than the Elf can throw a snowball.)
One thing I don’t do well with is New Year’s Resolutions. Maybe because a resolution is just an agreement with myself? There isn’t any accountability with anyone else? I decided several years ago to stop doing, or even attempting, New Year’s Resolutions. Instead, I like to do New Year’s Challenges. It sounds more exciting because it is more exciting!
A few years ago, my quilt guild issued a New Year’s Challenge to the entire guild, and it was fantastic. Life-changing, actually. I’m issuing it to all of you today. Get ready for some sewing fun!!!!
Pick Which Challenge You Like Best
I challenge you to pick one of the following this year:
- For every new sewing project that you start this year, pick one UFO (UnFinished Object) project from your stack (Yes! I know you have them!) and finish it.
- For every new sewing project that you start, pick one UFO that you have no desire to finish and either gift the entire unfinished object/stack of fabric to another sewist or pitch it. Yep. Get rid of it. If you are never going to finish it, make room for something that you do want to finish. (“Pitching it” can mean a trash can, a recycle bin, a resale shop, etc.)
- Do not start any new projects for an entire year. Simply work on what you have already started. I think you’ll be surprised how fast you get the old projects done, so that you can move on to new projects again.
Just One… Not All Three
Remember, you don’t have to do all three. Just pick the one that works best for you. If you have a sewing friend or a group of sewing friends, challenge them as well. If you don’t have friends that sew, follow along here on Nancy’s Notions. Keep me updated on your progress! I would love to hear about it and cheer you along. (You can always email me at beth@nancysnotions.com.)
Here’s To A Great Sewing Year!
Who’s ready for a successful year of sewing? (We are!) Who’s going to finish their UFO’s this year? (We are!) Who’s going to feel so proud of themselves? (We ARE!!!) GO TEAM!! And Happy New Year!
‘Til next time,
Beth
Really enjoy your writing. Keep it up!
I am not a fan of resolutions or challenges. One of the things I like best about retirement is less stress. However, your challenges caught my attention. My sewing area is a nightmare and it is next on my list of projects to tackle. I am looking forward to pulling everything out to see what I am dealing with. Then I will select a challenge. Thank you for helping me get excited about sewing again.
OMG! I needed this, a different outlook and way to tackle my slumps of just staring at piles of UFOs Thank you! I may do all three by years end!
I picked #1 but with a twist. I must finish three items from my stash before I can buy anything new. Thanks for your suggestions.
Am I a lunatic because I don’t quilt? I am not a follower. I wonder if there are still people who sew garments. I am fascinated by antique linens and heirloom sewing. Cleaning the sewing/doll making, sculpting, jewelry making room has to be my first challenge to me.