A new year is here, and it’s the perfect time to set fresh goals. For lovers of English, the new year might mean new goals for reading or writing. If you’re anything like me, simply saying “write more” doesn’t get you very far. Vague goals like these can fall apart quickly. It’s easy to aim too high or focus on quantity over quality, which can turn writing into a chore instead of a passion. This year, why not set goals that actually excite you? Whether it’s finishing that novel, trying a new genre, or simply writing consistently, creating goals that push you while leaving room for creativity can help make 2025 your best writing year yet.
Types of Writing Goals
When creating your goal for the year, the most important thing is to figure out what part of your writing you want to improve on. If you struggle getting started or procrastinate too much on writing, setting a weekly goal of writing could be for you. If you already write somewhat consistently but are struggling with burnout, switching things up could work for you instead. Check out this list below to get some inspiration!
Consistent Writing:
One of the most popular resolutions is to write daily or weekly. Even if inspiration doesn’t strike every day, getting pen to paper or hands to the keyboard can help generate ideas. For those who struggle with procrastination or self-doubt, it’s easy to say you’ll write “later” but never follow through. You won’t love everything you write every day—but giving yourself the time and opportunity to simply try opens doors to works you didn’t expect. The important part of writing consistently is finding ways to keep it sustainable and interesting. Burnout is a real issue, and some days writing a simple haiku might be enough.
Explore a New Style or Genre
If you already write a lot, consider experimenting with different styles or genres to keep things fresh and dive into something that you may not be as naturally drawn to. Try various poetic forms or challenge yourself to write a short story in a random genre. One way to approach a writing goal is to find a new type every week or month and stick to that form until time is up. You might discover you really like something new or simply gain a new appreciation for the type of writing others do.
Finish One Big Project
Have you been thinking about a short story, novel, or poetry collection but never committed to it? Give yourself the year to complete it. Break the project into manageable chunks, such as completing a chapter or poem each month, and focus on finishing it. Concentrating on one major project allows you to refine your skills and create something meaningful.
Seek Feedback and Revise
If this year you are looking at diving deeper into the quality of your writing rather than quantity, consider making this the year you seek feedback or focus on revising your work. Join a writing group or find a writing partner to swap pieces with. Revising with constructive feedback in mind can sharpen your skills and lead to stronger finished works.
Tips for Setting Writing Goals
Be Specific
Instead of vague goals like “write more,” set measurable ones like “write 1,000 words every Saturday.” If you’re exploring different genres or styles, create a calendar that outlines your plan and stick to it.
Keep It Realistic
Ambitious goals can be inspiring, but they can also lead to burnout. Consider how much you wrote last year and find a way to push yourself while still keeping other life commitments in mind.
Track Your Progress
Use a journal, calendar, or app to document your writing sessions and monitor your progress. Tracking your work not only keeps you accountable but also shows how far you’ve come.
Make It Fun!
You’re more likely to stick to your goals if you enjoy the process. Build in celebrations for milestones or schedule occasional break days to recharge. Consider making it a group activity with family or friends to create a supportive, encouraging environment.
A Creative Year Ahead
Setting thoughtful writing goals can transform your creative journey. You don’t have to use one of the examples above, but finding a goal that fits what you want to work on and sticking to it will make this year great for you! Whether you’re drafting your first story, completing a novel, or simply journaling for yourself, every word you write contributes to your growth as a writer.
Love this.