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Leveling Up Your Writing Game: Making Realistic New Year's Resolutions

As the new year begins, many writers feel a wave of excitement mixed with a desire for personal growth. This is the perfect time to reflect on what you’ve achieved and to set new writing goals. However, crafting resolutions that are realistic and achievable is key to your success. Let’s explore how to set impactful writing goals that will inspire and elevate your craft throughout the year.


The Importance of Setting Realistic Writing Resolutions


When we make writing resolutions, our aspirations can sometimes feel far and lofty. Many of us dream of publishing a novel, submitting to respected journals, or launching a popular blog. While these goals are commendable, aiming too high without a solid plan can lead to disappointment.


Realistic writing resolutions help you stay motivated and focused. For example, instead of committing to write a whole novel in a month, consider aiming for 1,000 words per week. This breaks down your goal into manageable chunks. Studies show that setting smaller, achievable targets can increase your chances of success by up to 65%.


Achieving these smaller goals boosts your confidence as a writer. Celebrating milestones—no matter how small—fosters a sense of accomplishment that can reignite your passion for writing. It’s essential to remember that progress is more important than perfection. Overly ambitious goals can overwhelm you, dampening your creativity instead of inspiring it.


Life can throw unexpected challenges our way, and having realistic goals allows for flexibility. When you make room for adjustments, you can maintain your creative flair, even amidst life's unpredictability.


Examples of Writing Resolutions for Different Writing Styles


Each writing style has unique goals that resonate best with its practitioners. Here are some specific resolutions tailored to different types of writing.


Fiction Writers


  • Complete a Short Story Every Month  

  Writing one short story per month allows you to explore different themes, characters, or genres without the lengthy commitment of a novel. This practice can sharpen your storytelling skills significantly.


  • Join a Writing Group  

  Engaging with a community of fellow writers provides both accountability and constructive feedback. For example, sharing work in a group can lead to vast improvements in your writing based on peer insights.


Non-Fiction Writers


  • Write One Blog Post a Week  

  Committing to weekly blog posts can help you refine your writing style and connect with readers interested in your topics. Over a year, that could lead to 52 thoughtful posts that engage your audience.


  • Read Two Non-Fiction Books per Month  

  By reading two non-fiction books every month, you expose yourself to new ideas and broaden your understanding. This can serve as valuable inspiration for your own writing.


Poets


  • Write a Poem Each Week  

  Challenge yourself to craft a poem every week, focusing on varying styles and subjects. Allocating just 30 minutes to this task can spark creativity without feeling overwhelming.


  • Attend a Poetry Workshop  

  Participating in workshops not only helps you generate fresh ideas but also allows you to connect with other poets who share your passion.


Feel free to customize these examples to suit your own voice and interests. The key is to push yourself while ensuring your resolutions create a sustainable writing routine.


Tips on How to Track and Measure Progress Toward Your Writing Goals


Once you’ve established your writing resolutions, tracking your progress becomes essential. Here are practical suggestions to stay on top of your goals.


Use a Journal or Planner  

Keeping a dedicated writing journal can make a huge difference. Document your writing sessions, reflecting on achievements and future aspirations. Tracking habits daily or weekly can motivate you by showing how far you've come.


Set Up a Reward System  

Celebrate your successes—big or small! Create a rewards system for reaching milestones. Whether it’s treating yourself to a night out or indulging in your favorite dessert, positive reinforcement can keep you eager to attain your goals.


Join Writing Challenges  


Regularly Review Your Goals  

Set aside time monthly or quarterly to review your resolutions. This allows you to adjust them based on your progress and ensure they remain relevant. Regular eParticipating in writing events or month-long writing prompts can promote community engagement and accountability. Tracking your daily output provides tangible proof of your progress.

valuations can refine your focus as your interests evolve.


Seek Feedback  

Discuss your resolutions with fellow writers or join online forums. This creates accountability and offers new perspectives on your journey. Sharing your goals can help solidify your commitment to achieving them.


Embrace the New Year With Your Writing Resolutions


As you venture into the new year, take the time to establish writing resolutions that are both meaningful and manageable. Embracing achievable goals sustains your passion and allows you to grow as a writer.


Remember, writing is a journey, not a sprint. By setting realistic resolutions, tracking your progress, and celebrating your achievements, the coming year can be a transformative experience for your writing career. Let the excitement of fresh beginnings propel you forward, and make this year your most fulfilling writing year yet!


-JN Prioleau


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