2018 is still a few months away but November is the perfect month to start thinking about next year’s writing goals. If right now you’re wondering what writing goals, then I’m writing this especially for you.

Every writer (aspiring and published), needs to set themselves goals.

Think about it as a roadmap that will guide you throughout the year. Something you can refer to every week or month to track how well you’re doing, how you’re sticking to your plan and hopefully how successful you’ve been.

Remember you can’t get published unless you sit down and write. Having a specific goal set out can spur you on and give you the proper motivation.

So what should your goals look like?

My aim is always to get as specific as I can.

Instead of…In 2018 I’m going to write a novel.

Say something like…

In January I’ll research my novel, write my character outlines, and pen my synopsis.

In February I’ll write the first three chapters.

In March, the next three chapters and so on.

Maybe it will take you the whole of 2018 to get that first draft written but you’ll be able to see your progress and also know when you’re falling by the wayside.

Perhaps January and February went well but March wasn’t so productive. It could be that three chapters are too much and this way you can reevaluate your plan. Maybe you’ll write a chapter a month or perhaps you can write 6 chapters more. Either way revisit your goals at the end of each month and celebrate each tiny step that takes you one step closer to a completed novel.

I’d love to hear about your writing goals for 2018 so feel free to share them by leaving a comment.

Susan Palmquist is the author of 100 plus books including writing instruction, lifestyle, romances and mysteries. Under her pen name, Vanessa Devereaux, she writes erotic romances and erotica.

Since 2010 she’s been tutoring aspiring authors and offering workshops through various chapters of Romance Writers of America. She recently launched a mentoring/coaching service for both aspiring and established writers. You can learn more about Susan and her work at www.susanpalmquist.com www.vanessadevereaux.com and her writing blog at www.thiswriterslife.com

Contact Susan about her coaching/mentoring service at susanpalm2010@gmail.com