As the New Year approaches, it’s the perfect time for authors to reflect on their writing journey and set new goals for the upcoming year. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, making resolutions can help you stay focused, motivated, and improve your craft. In this blog post, we’ll explore five New Year’s resolutions that every author should consider making.
1. Write Every Day
One of the most important resolutions for any author is to make writing a daily habit. Set aside a specific time each day, even if it’s just for 15 minutes, to sit down and write. Consistency is key when it comes to honing your writing skills and developing your unique voice. By committing to write every day, you’ll not only improve your writing abilities but also make significant progress on your current projects.
2. Read Widely and Often
Reading is the fuel that keeps a writer’s imagination alive. Make a resolution to read widely and often in the coming year. Explore different genres, authors, and writing styles. This will not only expose you to new ideas and perspectives but also help you expand your vocabulary and improve your storytelling techniques. Remember, the more you read, the better equipped you’ll be as a writer.
3. Join a Writing Community
Writing can sometimes be a solitary pursuit, but it doesn’t have to be. Consider joining a writing community or finding a writing buddy who shares your passion for storytelling. Engaging with other writers can provide valuable feedback, support, and inspiration. Whether it’s attending writing workshops, joining online writing groups, or participating in writing challenges, being part of a community can help you grow as an author and keep you motivated throughout the year.
4. Set Realistic Writing Goals
Setting realistic writing goals is essential for every author. While it’s great to dream big, it’s also important to break down those aspirations into smaller, achievable steps. Set specific, measurable, and time-bound goals for yourself. For example, you could aim to complete the first draft of your novel by a certain date or commit to submitting your work to a certain number of literary agents or publishers. By setting realistic goals, you’ll have a clear roadmap to follow and a sense of accomplishment as you tick off each milestone.
5. Embrace the Editing Process
Writing is rewriting, and every great piece of literature goes through multiple rounds of editing. Make a resolution to embrace the editing process in the coming year. Don’t be afraid to revise, refine, and polish your work. Seek feedback from trusted beta readers or hire a professional editor to help you identify areas for improvement. Remember, editing is an integral part of the writing journey, and by embracing it, you’ll be able to elevate your writing to new heights.
As we enter a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your writing journey and set new goals. By making these five resolutions – writing every day, reading widely, joining a writing community, setting realistic goals, and embracing the editing process – you’ll set yourself up for success as an author. Remember, the writing journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay committed, stay inspired, and most importantly, keep writing!