January is a great time for jumping into new habits and starting new routines, but it can also be stressful for many people. It is easy to set yourself a laundry list of goals, only to become completely overwhelmed and end up forgetting about them by the time February rolls around.
If you’re looking to set your writing goals for 2024, we have some tips to hopefully set you on the right track!
Find a time that works best for your life:
Every day is different, but if you can set the same writing time aside each day or a few times a week, it becomes easier for it to become a part of your routine without even thinking. Whether it’s early morning, over lunch, or in the evening, whatever time creates consistency, is the best time to write.
Add your writing time to your calendar:
By putting your writing time into your daily planner or to-do list, it makes your routine feel a little more official. By scheduling it in like you would an appointment or event, you’re more likely to keep the appointment with your writing desk.
Set a word count goal:
Rather than having a single goal of writing a novel of 50,000+ words, break it down into smaller goals. What do you want to achieve daily, weekly, or monthly? Having a minimum word count for each week or writing session can motivate you to put pen to paper and feel good for meeting your goals.
Have a plan for writer’s block:
Writer’s block is common and can zap your motivation. These tactics may help you move forward. Take a walk, change your writing location, or work on a different hobby for a while to free up some brain space. If you prefer to work through a writer’s block, go back to your plot or character notes and see if you can develop your ideas more to by-pass the problem.
Join a writing group:
Whether you’re looking for inspiration or accountability on writing, a writer’s group is a great place to start. Join like-minded romance writers over on the Write for Harlequin Facebook Community!
One of the most important things about New Year’s resolutions is that you can change them! If you look back at your goals in 6 months and they don’t align to what you’re working on now or what your life looks like – make a change! Setting goals in meant to benefit you and your life, not to add extra pressure to something that should be enjoyable.
If you’ve set your goals and you’re looking for a challenge to start off the new year, check out our HEA Writing Week content. Try some of our challenges to kick off your new year with a bang!
From the Write for Harlequin team – Happy New Year and Happy Writing!
