Set Tiny, Realistic Writing Goals for 2007

The problem with New Year's resolutions is that we usually set large, expansive goals for ourselves. Although setting large writing goals is fun, it's also dangerous, because we can become intimidated, and blocked.

If you have trouble achieving goals, create tiny writing goals for 2007. For example, if you've never been published, aim to get published in one publication in 2007. On the other hand, if you are already being published, aim for a new publication one level above where you're publishing now.

Your beliefs control your results. Set a goal that you know you can accomplish. Ideally, you should have a little contempt for your goal - it should seem very easily achievable.

Perhaps your aim isn't publication. Maybe you want to write a family history, or your autobiography. If so, set a production goal (word count) each day. Make the word count low - 50 words per day is a fine goal that anyone can reach. Make a commitment to writing your 50 words every day. Don't decide that you will write 250 words at the end of the week, write 50 words every day. If you keep writing 50 words a day, I promise you that over time your daily word count will increase.

As you achieve your tiny writing goals, is set bigger writing goals.

For example, if your goal was to get published in one publication, set a fresh goal to be published in five publications. If you find that you're easily writing 200 words a day, set a new goal to write 250 words a day. However, be careful not to set the word count too high, make sure that you set a word count that you know that you can achieve even on your worst day.

My gift to you: Holiday Season Writer's Gift Pack - Santa's sleigh is packed with gifts for you, dear writer. I wish you and yours a joyous holiday, and your best writing year ever in 2007.

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