A common challenge a writer can face is that there’s no one to tell them what to do, when to do it, how to do it, or even if they’ve done it well. That’s why setting writing goals to keep yourself accountable is so important. And with summer officially beginning this weekend, now’s the perfect time to set them.
Before we get started on tips for setting goals, it’s important to understand goals first. For example, while some may yearn to become a millionaire novelist, that’s not a goal — it’s a dream. And the only way you’ll achieve dreams is by setting goals followed by action plans to take you there.
Understanding Goals
To be effective, goals should be S.M.A.R.T. (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely). Meaning if you want to be a successful writer, you must define what it means to be successful in a S.M.A.R.T. way and create a realistic action plan to take you there.
To set attainable goals you must be honest with yourself about what you’re able to achieve at this stage in your writing career. For example, if you’ve never earned income from writing, it would be unrealistic to set a goal of becoming a self-supporting writer in a year. Similarly, if you’ve never been much of a writer before, it might be unrealistic to expect yourself to complete a 500-page novel in a matter of months.
Setting (and Meeting) Goals
Setting Goals
Unrealistic goals can be unachievable and overwhelming. Consider setting writing goals that you can accomplish one step at a time. Rather than burn yourself out early with overambitious expectations, the best thing you can do is create daily habits that will help you reach your goals. Here are some examples of smart writing goals:
- Write 1,000 words on your scheduled writing days.
- Spend two hours writing every day (or on your scheduled writing days) at a scheduled time.
- Write one chapter every week.
- Practice journaling; Whether it’s in the morning, on lunch breaks, or at night — finding the time that best works for you is key.
Tracking Goals
Writing goals will be easier to track if they have numeric values or deadlines associated with them. The easiest way to track your goals is to use a calendar. It’s essential to keep track of your progress. You may find that your goals were too ambitious, or maybe not ambitious enough–and it’s okay to adjust them!
Meeting Goals
Keep yourself motivated. Whether that’s through podcasts, finding inspiration in other books, or creating some sort of reward system for yourself. It’s important to remind yourself why you’re on this writing journey and find ways to ignite that initial excitement you had when you started.
