PRODUCTIVITY

Welcome aboard!

I woke up this morning reading a newsletter from my ILLOGUILD colleague, Carla Hoffenberg and panic set in! Our monthly newsletters were due and I hadn’t even started mine!

I’d been up late finalizing the manuscript review for my picture book, CECELIA TAKES FLIGHT from the drawing board to the sky—page turns, text layout, last-minute tweaks before sending it off to my book designer. This time, I shifted a bit and I chose not to illustrate the book myself. I can’t wait to share more about the incredible artist bringing CECELIA’s world to life (but stay tuned for that next month) I was caught up in that creative energy, I’d neglected my own commitment—this newsletter.

Busting the myth behind feeling “Productive”

I had planned to dedicate a few hours this week to writing about productivity, yet ironically, I felt anything but “productive.” I even glanced at what AI would write for the prompt: “Write my monthly newsletter on productivity in my style!” LOL! I noticed it pulled up prompts from my previous newsletters! Not wanting to be classified a “cheat,” I sat my butt in the chair and started writing. Productivity isn’t about feeling ready. It’s about showing up—even if you don’t want to.

My Best Productivity Hack? Saying YES

Back in October 2023, I made a decision: I would write a monthly newsletter. No matter what. Over a year later, I haven’t missed a month. Yes, there have been many times I thought about not writing. But that commitment I made to myself has kept me in the game. Of course—saying YES to something meaningful often means saying no to distractions, doubts, and temporary comfort. But there’s something attractive about being productive.

One year ago today, I wrote a newsletter on Production. It became one of my most-read pieces. Why? Because there is something compelling about creating, building and moving forward. Even when our work feels rough, even when it’s unpolished—there’s power in simply beginning.

The Messy Middle

Looking back on my on my earliest newsletters and illustrations, I can see my own evolution—my drawings included wavering lines, untested color choices, tangent imperfections. What once felt like flaws now feel like proof: progress happens when we say YES and keep going. There’s no magic or fairy dust. It’s showing up, again and again.

I do encourage you readers to check out Carla Hoffenberg’s newsletter and you will notice that she does take her own advice! The new book she is working on is amazing.

Here’s a sneak preview from my current project, CECELIA’s Adventures (illustration credit: Nit Art)

Distractions drain energy and productivity, and I recognize how often I let them pull me away. When faced with the weight of starting a new chapter or illustration, my ADHD brain easily seeks escape—scrolling through social media, clicking from one article to another, losing time instead of creating.

I’m working on shifting that energy instead of letting distractions steal my momentum, to allowing my brain time to relax, meditate, create or focus on the things I want to change. Allowing time for a walk, or other reset opportunities leads to better focus when I regroup.

“Starve your distractions and feed your focus.”

Author Unknown

I would love to hear how you handle distractions. Please leave a comment. I learn so much from my colleagues and readers so I appreciate hearing from you.

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of attending the International Impact Awards in Phoenix, AZ, an event founded by Nim Stant to celebrate authors who are making a difference with their work. Nim, a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and advocate for creative voices, brings together writers from around the world through this initiative, offering a platform to amplify meaningful stories.

The conference was an inspiring day filled with connections, learning and conversations with like-minded authors and illustrators dedicated to crafting books that leave a lasting impact. I was honored to be part of this mission and to share my work among such passionate storytellers.

One exciting opportunity that came from this experience is that my picture book, CECELIA SAYS NO when Friendship and Boundaries Collide, is being considered for Children’s Picture Book of the Year. For an independent author, recognition like this helps bring visibility to a book, connecting it with more children, parents, and educators who might find value in its message.

Your support means the world to me. If you have a moment, I’d be so grateful for your vote. It’s quick and easy—just click the link below and type in, Noreen Anne and CECELIA SAYS NO. Every vote makes a difference.

https://internationalimpactbookawards.com/public-voting-form/

As an independent author, I deeply appreciate support and encouragement. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

I’m wishing you a creative month ahead however that looks like for you. May it be filled with joy, inspiration, taking time for the things you enjoy and the people you love.

Please join us for our monthly Podcast on March 17 where the Illoguild shares tips on being Productive.

ILLOGUILD: Making Time for Creativity - Productivity Strategies for...

Mark your calendars for our next Illoguild Live on Monday, March 17. We’ll dive into the topic of productivity and time management, specifically tailored for…

In gratitude,

Noreen Anne

“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.”

Proverbs 27:1

For additional tips on being productive check out my ILLOGUILD cohorts newsletter this month.