FOR 2017...

Whether you desire to finish a novel, start a blog, or take your writing career to the next level, establishing clear goals is crucial to your success.

Your goals will determine your game plan, and ultimately serve as a navigational tool to help you to “work smarter, not harder.”

Accordingly, here are 8 timely tips to get you going and keep you moving forward for 2017!

1. Buy a pretty journal from your local Dollar Store or stationery shop. Or create a spreadsheet on your computer. There's really no right or wrong approach here; do what works best for you.
2. Brainstorm. Where would you like to be in 3 months? 6 months? 1 year?
3. Make a list and check it twice. Don’t worry about how grandiose or ridiculous it may appear initially on paper.
4. Divide your aspirations into short term and long term goals. For example, my short term goal would be to expand my client base for next year. My long term goal is to produce a book on creative writing with a traditional publisher. I'd say a short term goal would be anything that can be executed within six months or less.
5. Identify (and address) any needed resources or obstacles to achieving your goals.
6. Establish a deadline. Studies show that you’re three times more likely to achieve your goals if they’re written down, with a designated deadline.
7. Remember the S.M.A.R.T. Method. This means your goals should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time oriented.
8. Allow for flexibility. Shift happens. According to Moira Allen, author and Writing World editor, "The most delightful  thing about goals is that you can change them. They're not graven in stone."

ON A FINAL NOTE...

Remember to revisit your goals periodically—whether it's once a month or once a quarter, (to assess status). Modify as needed.  And stay encouraged!

Start setting your goals today, for a better writing future.

Image credit: Freedigitalphotos.net

Back to Write City Blog