Trying is always worth it.

Published: Thu, 05/28/15

Hi. Hey. Tja! (that's Swedish for "Hello!" if you're greeting an exceptionally cool person in an informal fashion. I think you are very cool, and who needs formality? So... Tja! to YOU.)

I have a big list of small (and hopefully inspiring) things to share with you.

Read on if you like. Delete if you're tired. Or save this note for... later-ish.

Diving right in...


New pieces of writing (in order of new-ness):

- Keep writing the damn alphabet. [If you're on the verge of giving up on something that matters to you... read this.]

- Trying is always worth it. [I never really believed this... until recently.]

- I’m not lying. It’s just that the truth has changed. [If you've ever felt "guilty" for changing your mind, your business model, your profession, how you choose to define your sexual orientation, or anything-ever, these words are for you.]

- Tell me everything. [Ten questions to ask someone you love. You might learn something you never expected...]

- Whatever it takes. [My new philosophy: Whatever it takes... is whatever it takes.]

- How to cleanse your calendar: part one and part two. [A good duo if you're feeling frazzled and overbooked, or never seem to have enough time for your personal projects and dreams...]


Special dealios:

- Dr. Suzanne Gelb interviewed me about my recent injury. We talked about dealing with pain, cultivating patience, and how a catastrophic experience can often be a catalyst for growth. You know. Cool spiritual stuff.

- Ellen invited me to contribute my thoughts to her advice column. The question we tackled: "How can I stop being such a flake??"

- The lovely folks at Raspberry Magazine have asked me to be a "cover girl" for an upcoming issue. (Quietly freaking out with excitement... more info on that, soon). It's a beautiful publication and you can get a free issue here.

- I haven't used social media for about a year. But... I am on Instagram now. Like everything, it's an experiment. I might use it forever. Or not. But for now, it feels fun. Here I am: @alx.franzen


Music I love:

You guys seem to enjoy my music playlists and selections, so...

- This song is my world right now.

- Here's a new playlist I made for working out (or anytime you need an energy-jolt).

- I love throbbing, grinding techno-electro-pop. Obviously. But... I also love country.

- My uber-talented older brother, Ben, has a new project called The Seasons. In his own words: "12 original pieces dedicated to 12 musicians I deeply admire, released over 12 months." If you love jazz, classical music, or enjoy witnessing simple things done with great mastery, watch The Seasons here.


One more workshop (yay!):

Several people have asked me, "Will you be doing any more writing workshops this year?" At first, my answer was: "Maybe." Now the answer is: "Yes!"

I have added one more Make A Tiny Book workshop to the calendar. July 18, 2015. One day. In my home. Portland, Oregon. Come and map out your book concept, write, chat with lovely people, listen to stories, and eat homemade donuts with lemon-vanilla dipping sauce prepared by my in-house pastry chef / boyfriend. It's a good time. 5 seats remain. Get your ticket here.


Big winners:

Alison Chino, Jenny Sjolund and Hayley Carr...

You three ladies purchased my e-course, Unstoppable, earlier this year (thank you tremendously!).

I randomly selected three customers to receive a special bonus gift. Those three people... are YOU.

Check your email for a personal note from me. I'm excited for us to play together. :)

Annnnd I reckon that's quite enough for today!

Final words of wisdom:

"It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop." Confucius

Whatever you are doing today  writing, blogging, serving clients, collaborating with colleagues at the office, tidying up your home, or mailing a letter to someone you love  I am wishing you a happy, productive day.

Keep marching. Don't quit yet.

-Alex