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M. Holladay
As we approach the end of 2023, just like all the
years before, I am reminiscing about the items I’ve
knit and crocheted throughout the year.
I am also thinking a lot about the ones that I
started and that are still sitting on the needles or
spare yarn throughout my house, discarded for
newer and more interesting things. I’m terrible about
catching FOMO: the fear of missing out. I see a new
knit-along happening and of course I want to join in.
So, I buy the pattern and the yarn and quickly cast
on. Then, before that “along” is finished I see another
one and the first one gets put aside. I have the best
of intentions of going back to the first project, but
before I can, something else catches my eye. This
process goes on and on. Of course, I do finish some
things, but not all. Moving into a new year, I’m filled
with motivation to start fresh, set new goals, and just
maybe, finally get my ever-growing pile of WIPs
under control.
But this isn’t the first time I’ve set out with the best
of intentions. I’m sure I’ve said, “Going forward, I’ll
finish one thing before I start another. I won’t buy
yarn until I’ve made all the sweaters I already have
yarn for.” And so on. I’m sure I even meant those
things when I said them… then a pretty colorway or
unbeatable deal showed up in my inbox, and the rest
is history.
I have learned that I am a process knitter. Sure, I
love the pattern or I wouldn’t pick it to make, but I
love to learn a new construction, new technique, or
try a new yarn. Once I’ve mastered the technique or
see how the yarn is going to knit up, the mystery is
gone and I’m looking for the next new thing to learn.
How do we set new goals and be more successful
than in the past? I think having a group of people
who have similar goals and who will help keep you
accountable is a good start in creating a better outcome.
When you are only accountable to yourself it
is easy to make excuses on why this project or that
yarn is the exception to the rule. If instead of talking
yourself into the purchase or cast-on, we talk it out
with our similarly goal-oriented friends, I think it is
easier to keep on track. At one point or another we
are all going to struggle to achieve the goals we’ve
set, but keeping our goals in mind is much easier
when we have help.
I’m incredibly grateful for finding a group of crafters
who have piles of WIPs, just like me. We have
agreed to support each other and to encourage one
another in reaching our goals. In 2024, we’re tackling
WIPs. Who knows what we might accomplish in the
years to come?
I encourage you to find a group that can support
you in achieving your goals. Together you will succeed.
If you should falter, however, you’ll have someone
to help pick you back up and motivate you to
continue toward your goals.
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