I set many goals at the beginning of 2020, completely unaware of what the year had in store for our world. Even with COVID-19 shutdowns, I’ve made good progress on my professional genealogy journey:
2020 Goal | Result |
Improve my evidence analysis and writing skills by studying National Genealogical Society Quarterly articles and Mastering Genealogical Proof by Tom Jones. | I joined an NGSQ Study Group led by Cari Taplin and completed 9 of 11 articles for discussion. I missed two months due to my children’s virtual schooling. I’ve learned so much about how to structure formal proof arguments! I read two chapters and did their exercises in Mastering Genealogical Proof and realized I do much better with peer review and an accountability group. |
Complete quarterly research projects for my challenging ancestors using the Research Like a Pro methodology and blog about the process. | I completed two quarterly research projects and blogged about them. Library shutdowns really hindered me here, along with prioritizing ProGen assignments (more on that below). |
Begin ProGen Study when called off the waiting list. | I got called up from the waiting list and began ProGen 48 in May. I’m now halfway through the 14-month program. It has been the most enriching experience so far on my professional journey. I’m learning so much from my mentor and peers about research and client/business procedures. I’m also serving as a chat day discussion group leader for my co-hort. |
Write two articles for Stirpes and submit at least two pieces to publications outside Texas. | I had three articles published in Stirpes this year. I also wrote one for Houston Genealogical Forum’s Record. Nothing outside of Texas yet. I’ve had a couple leads that may result in Louisiana publications next year. |
Enter an article in the TxSGS Awards Program in Category III: Manuscripts by a Non-Professional. | The 2020 TxSGS Awards Program was cancelled due to COVID-19. |
Submit at least one DAR supplemental application. | I completed a supplemental for John Hendry but have not mailed it in. |
Complete research and prepare DAR application for my cousin Debra. | Debra decided to enter DAR on a paternal line (not our shared ancestor on her maternal side) and had help from her local chapter in Ohio. |
Complete research and submit my application for the General Society of Mayflower Descendants. | I completed a proof argument for the one generation I anticipate will be problematic. I made inquiries about membership but have not submitted an application yet. |
Log at least 100 volunteer hours at Clayton Library. | I volunteered approximately 20 hours before COVID-19 shut down the library and about 70 hours co-hosting and administering Genealogy Face2Face, a weekly virtual Zoom hangout for Clayton Library patrons presented by Clayton Library Friends. |
Have at least one volunteer speaking engagement to a group other than children. | I gave two virtual presentations to adults: one to my DAR chapter about my ancestor Thomas Hendry and his sons, and another about using Fold3 at Genealogy Face2Face. |
Finish transcription of the 1845 Alexander Rose Hendry letter. | I am about 85% complete on the transcription. There are still some challenging areas, so I return to it every few months with a fresh perspective. |
I’m unsure what 2021 will hold, so I’m keeping my goals simple:
- Complete ProGen 48.
- Participate in at least 10 of 12 months of NGSQ Study Group.
- Complete Certification Discussion Group winter series.
- Submit an article for publication outside of Texas.
- Complete 2021 education plan. (Lots of detailed webinars/conferences to attend and books/articles to read; compiled as a ProGen assignment.)
Here’s to a successful — but most importantly, healthy — 2021.
You inspire me with your sound approach to setting goals and reviewing them!
You are also being named as a Daughter who brought another (me) into the DAR. THANK YOU!!
Impressive goals and accomplishments-wish I could be as focused as you are ! Proud of you !