We'll jump on any cliche that will get our readers motivated to write, so we're set on backing the beginning of a new year as the PERFECT time to reflect on your writing journey and set goals that inspire and challenge you!
While it may be (definitely is) a cliche, but there's something that just makes psychological sense to make the most of such a momentous milestone... In saying this, there's no time like the present to think ahead, and we reserve the right to set goals at ANY time!
Setting meaningful writing goals isn’t just about productivity—it’s about growth, passion, and finding joy in the process. Whether you’re an experienced writer or just starting out, here’s a guide to help you create goals that will carry you through 2025.
1. Reflect on the Past Year
Before diving into goal-setting, take a moment to reflect on your writing in 2024:
What did you accomplish in your writing?
What challenges did you face?
What brought you joy in your writing process?
Understanding where you’ve been will give you clarity about where you want to go - but don't forget to allow yourself some grace if you didn't quite hit the mark you thought you would.
2. Define Your Writing Priorities
Ask yourself what truly matters to you as a writer:
Do you want to finish a particular project?
Experiment with a new genre?
Build consistency in your writing practice?
Your goals should align with your personal priorities, not solely someone else’s expectations (unless of course, you've committed to something like a book in deal - in which case, go you!)
3. Set SMART Goals
Make your goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example:
Vague Goal: “Write more this year.” 🙅🏼♀️
SMART Goal: “Write 500 words every weekday for three months.” 🙌🏼
SMART goals give you a clear roadmap and make it easier to track progress. Start by brainstorming your goals, then choosing 2-3 of your major focuses for the year to come... Keep the master list in your desk to return to once you've hit your prioritised targets!
4. Break Goals Into Bite-Sized Steps
Big goals can feel overwhelming for sure, so breaking them into smaller tasks makes them more manageable.
If your goal is to write a novel, for example, consider starting with something like:
1. Outlining your plot by the end of January.
2. Write 500 words a day (and by that we mean just write, and save the editing process for later!)
3. Completing the first draft by June.
5. Create a Writing Schedule
Consistency is key. Consistency is key. Consistency is key. We can't stress it enough. First, decide how much time you can realistically dedicate to writing each week.
Example: Block out 30 minutes every morning or two hours on weekends. Remember to factor in breaks too!
Remember, small, consistent efforts often yield better results than sporadic marathon sessions. You do not want to burn out before your journey has barely begun!
6. Build a Support System
Share your goals with friends, join a writing group, or find an accountability partner. Having others cheer you on—or gently nudge you when you’re slacking—can make a big difference... But proceed with caution: reflect on your history and usual approach, and carefully consider how much you will share, and who you will share it with. Fewer things can destroy confidence like sharing your vulnerabilities with the wrong people! Find your tribe, and thrive there.
7. Allow Room for Flexibility
Life happens, and it’s okay if things don’t go as planned. If you miss a day (or a week... Or month - been there!), don’t let guilt derail you. It happens to the best of us, whether in our exercise routine, work and assessment deadlines, or mindfulness habits, for example. Revisit your goals and adjust them if needed, but be sure to get back on the horse as quickly as possible if you do fall off. And as always, allow yourself grace, every day.
8. Track Your Progress
Keep a journal or use a digital tracker to log your writing sessions. We recommend an app that allows you to enter how many words per day you are writing, and ticks you off at the 500 (or whatever tally suits you) word count. Entering the word count can offer a tiny boost on the simple 'tick' to having written at least your goal - every word counts! Find ways to celebrate milestones, whether it’s finishing a chapter, reaching 10,000 words, or submitting a story.
9. Celebrate the Process, Not Just the Outcome
Writing is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Take time to enjoy the act of creating, even if the final product isn’t perfect. For example, you could journal about how writing makes you feel, or reward yourself for reaching small (and big!) milestones.
10. Dream Big, Start Small
Don’t be afraid to set ambitious goals, but remember that every big accomplishment starts with a single step. Dream about publishing that novel or completing a screenplay, but start by writing one scene, one chapter, or one paragraph - hell, even just the outline is a good way to begin!
Your Next Steps
Take a few minutes today to jot down your 2025 writing goals. Be honest with yourself about what you want to achieve, and don’t forget to make space for fun and creativity. The most important thing is to start, and keep going, going, going!
What are your writing goals for 2025? Share them in the comments below 👇🏼
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Cairns, Queensland AU
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