Here we are again. The start of the year and time to set our writing (and other) goals . I find that setting yearly goals and monthly targets is a great way to ensure that I get things done. I can’t vouch for the quality of the work, but projects are completed

Where to start:

Some of you may have noticed that I have set up a resources page: Resources for Writers. During the year I will be adding various spreadsheets, check lists, links and information sheets, to help people like me with their writing journey (yes this is one of my goals). You will find a writers-goals-template on this page.

Things to consider when setting your goals:

What would you like to achieve this year in terms of:

• earning money from writing
• professional development (what courses, training, conferences and events would you like to attend)
• entering work in competitions
• submitting pieces to journals
• self publishing
• expanding social media/author profile
• securing an agent
• securing a traditional publishing contract (aim big)

Review you list of current projects, files and ideas and think about what you would like to do in 2017.

• What needs to be written/drafted?
• Which projects require a structural/format edit?
• Which projects require a external review (i.e. with a professional editor)?
• Which projects are ready to be pitched (to an agent or publisher) and require synopsis/blurbs/cover letters etc?
• Which projects need to be submitted ( to where/whom and by when)?
• What needs to be done to improve your author/social media profile?
• Do you need to market a published product or prepare a marketing plan for a new one?

What commitments do you have in other areas of your life.

• Work out how many hours you have for writing work each week (and then each day).
  • When are you free to write?
  • How much time do you need to commit to other income earning ventures?
  • Are you travelling? How long will you be away for on each occassion?
  • Are you responsible for the care of others? Factor in time to take care of your responsibilities.
• What other goals do you have for the year? Include everything from financial, health and fitness, educational goals (etc)

What next?

• Consider what you can realistically achieve in a year.
• Then break this down into what you would like to achieve every quarter.
• The break it down into a set of monthly targets.
• Prepare a goals document.
• Review the document at the start of every month and prepare a daily to-do list.
• Review you progress with your to-do list at the end of each day
• Review your goals list at the end of each month.

Good luck with your goal setting!