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Taking a Different Path: Unconventional New Year's Resolutions for Writers

Every January 1st, writers across the globe jot down their writerly New Year's resolutions.


Sound familiar? If so, you've probably also experienced the inevitable disappointment of not reaching your goal or giving up after a few days. If so, try to avoid cliche resolutions and instead make your goals more memorable. Look, we writers are creative people, right? Then why shouldn't our New Year's resolutions be creative, too?


Writing goals like “write every day” or “finish that novel” are common and worthwhile. And we can apply useful acronyms like SMART goals (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-oriented). However, unconventional resolutions that may elevate your writing journey in unexpected ways.


Embrace Imperfection


Fear of not being perfect often limits writers. This year, try embracing imperfection. Allow yourself to write rough drafts that may not shine at first glance. Heck, go all the way and let yourself write absolute garbage. Instead of chasing perfection, focus on the joy of completion. Write freely without worry. Leave your inner editor in the other room. In the end, you will surprise yourself with a collection of raw ideas that can be refined later. Or not. It doesn't matter. What DOES matter is simply writing. Creating. Putting words on paper. It's what we do.



Experiment with Genres


Many writers feel comfortable in familiar genres and hesitate to branch out. If you've always written fantasy, try your hand at writing horror or romance. Consider how many of our favorite authors successfully transition from writing fantasy to mystery to children's books. This year, make it a goal to write a short story in a genre you've never explored. Engaging with different styles can spark new ideas and deepen your understanding of your primary craft.


Prioritize Playfulness


When was the last time you wrote just for fun? In the quest to improve, it’s easy to forget the joy of writing. Set aside time each week to create playful pieces. Whether it's crafting silly poems or a ridiculous sci-fi epic, let your imagination roam. Challenge yourself with one of the many writing prompt apps and websites out there. Remember, writing isn’t just about the finished product; it’s also about enjoying the process of stringing words together.


Join a Writing Group


Writing can feel isolating, especially during creative slumps. This year, resolve to join a writing group, either locally or online. According to a survey by the Writer’s Association, writers who engage in groups report a 60% increase in motivation. Meeting regularly to share and discuss your work can not only help you receive valuable feedback but also reignite your passion for writing. Having a schedule creates a sense of accountability that can be incredibly motivating.


Eye-level view of a cozy reading nook with books on a wooden shelf

Ditch the “Rules”


Every writer has heard the rules that dictate how to write. Terms like “show, don’t tell” or “avoid adverbs” can create anxiety and limit your creativity. Consider making a resolution to (occasionally) ignore these rules. Challenge yourself to write in a way that feels natural and genuine. For example, if you find yourself using adverbs to enhance a verb, go ahead and keep them for now. Constantly reminding yourself of the rules can hinder your writerly flow.


Set Micro-Goals


Instead of feeling overwhelmed by one big resolution, think about setting micro-goals. These smaller, achievable goals may include “write 100 words a day” or “draft a poem each week.” Research indicates that setting small goals can improve productivity by up to 25%. Breaking your writing journey into manageable tasks can help you maintain steady progress without the fear of failure looming overhead.


To start, create a three-column table labelled short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals. Place your one big resolution in the final column and work backwards from there. What daily or weekly micro-goals will help you reach that big resolution by the end of the year?


Your Turn


As the New Year begins, consider writing resolutions that promote creativity, exploration, and most importantly, fun. Set yourself up for positive experiences rather than ones that make you miserable. Embracing imperfection, experimenting with genres, and prioritizing playfulness can help transform your writing practice into an enriching adventure. And isn't that what it's all about?

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