Your Writing Resolutions For This Year
Writing resolutions can get a bad rap, especially when writers FAIL at enacting them … but they can be super-useful at helping writers focus and get stuff done. I think the main problem with writing resolutions are …
- i) Writers go too big and get overwhelmed
- ii) Go too small and get bored
- iii) Or they go too vague and aren’t sure HOW to get them done
That’s why I’ve deliberately kept these resolutions focused, actionable and meaty enough to move the needle (but not so large they’ll freak you out). Ready?? Then let’s go!
1) Keep an appointment for writing
Open your diary and block out some time for writing. Keep it non-negotiable. (Notice how I don’t say ‘write every day’).
2) Finish one project before starting another
Look, if you can juggle projects successfully? Then you don’t need this advice. But many writers struggle because they split their focus too much. Ideas are cheap. Completion is the skill that changes careers.
3) Set CONCRETE goals, not outcome goals
Don’t be wishy-washy – get SPECIFIC! “500 words a day” beats “I want to get published or produced” every time.
4) Stop editing while drafting
I know it is tempting, believe me. But give yourself permission to write ugly, fast, and forward. Editing is a separate job.
5) Get proper feedback and ignore random opinions
Opinions are like a$$holes, everyone’s got one … and too often, feedback is just that. Choose 2–3 trusted readers or professionals and shut out the noise.
MORE: 5 Ways To Use Feedback Effectively On Your Screenplay Or Novel
6) Read (or watch!) like a writer at least once a week
Analyse structure, pacing, POV, and narrative choices – not just vibes. You want to work out WHY certain things work, even if you don’t care for the story itself. START HERE.
7) Learn one craft skill DEEPLY
Pick *one* (structure, dialogue, character arcs) and focus on it for three months. Can’t choose? Then analyse structure – Why Being An Expert At Structure Helps Your Writing
8) Track your writing
Log sessions, word counts, or time spent. What gets measured gets DONE.
9) Build a small but consistent writer platform
One place. One format. Once a week. That’s enough (seriously). Here’s the Top 5 Ways To Build Your Writer Platform This Year.
10) Treat writing like work, not a personality trait
Show up, do the job, clock off. Romanticising the struggle wastes time.
Good Luck Putting These Writing Resolutions Into Practice!
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