Each January I like to set goals for the weeks, months and year. Writing goals are tricky for me because my aspiration is to be published by the end of the year. But there are many aspects to being in print that are not under my control, so I have to establish my objectives differently.
For instance, I can set goals to attend writing workshops of my choice, read and study books on writing, attend critique groups and pen so many pages a week. But I can’t plan that illusive “being published” goal. Hopefully the goals I set will lead to that end.
What about you? What are your writing goals? I’d love your ideas and feedback.
I find sharing my ambitions with those around me helps keep me on task. It makes my commitment greater. I also like feedback from others. It helps me stay focused.
Here are some quotes I like to read often.
“Man is a goal seeking animal. His life only has meaning if he is reaching out and striving for his goals.” Aristotle
We are shaped by our thoughts. We become what we think. Buddha
(I think a lot about writing.)
Goals that are not written down are just wishes. Unknown
People with goals succeed because they know where they’re going. Earl Nightengale
How have you set goals in the past? What do you like about the way you set them? What would you like to change? Share with us.
Christy Monson
3 comments:
Great post - and good luck with meeting your goals. I can't set specific writing goals. Setting them in virtual stone is like the kiss of death for me. This year, I promised myself I would write more, but not with "pressure." Instead, I made up 365 pieces of paper hearts with mini goals and each morning, I draw from the vase beside my bed. I'll start with whatever is on the paper (ie: Spend an hour with the current WIP today) and if that inspires me to write longer, great. It's kind of a fun way for me to turn on the computer.
I have to set goals that are achievable to me, like how much I can actually write. Although I would love to have a contract by the end of this year, I have no control over that, so I worry about what I can control. I get pretty specific, too.
Good luck with your writing goals this year!
Dawn, I am so impressed that you thought of 365 mini goals. I would love to hear some of them. Could you pull out ten or so and then post them here for us to enjoy? Better still, each week post the seven that came up that week. I would love that. LG
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