by B.J. Bassett
One year Jack London received 400 rejections. With that many rejections he was bound to have received some acceptances.
I look forward to the beginning of a new year with a fresh slate to record my goals. Since I began setting goals, I’ve written and published more.
I set monthly goals. Others set daily, weekly, yearly, short and long term, word count, a certain number of pages, etc. I find setting monthly goals works best for me. When I achieve each goal, I put the date beside it, and the following month I set new goals. Instead of monthly goals, what may work for you is a 1 year, 5 year or a 10 year plan.
What is it you want to attain? Set realistic and motivational writing goals.
Suggested Goals
• Write 1,000 words a day.
• Submit one piece every week.
• Devote one year to work on a book.
• Take a writing class
• Join a critique group
• Subscribe to at least one writer’s magazine and read it.
• List goals and accomplish them.
• Spend one day a week marketing
• Spend one day a week promoting my book
• Create a platform
Periodically review where you’ve been and where you plan to go.
Goals don’t only refer to your writing. Consider your family, responsibilities and activities while setting goals. I knew my family would be coming home for Christmas, so one of my December goals was to enjoy family.
Be flexible. When I receive a new assignment, it becomes my number one priority. And always include new possibilities as well. Don’t be afraid to dream big.
4 Steps to Reach Your Goal
1. Think about your goal. Be realistic. (If it takes you two weeks to write a chapter, it would be foolish to set a goal of a chapter a day.)
2. Visualize your goal. (If you want file cabinets, see them in your writing area.) Cut out a picture of them and post it where you can see it.
3. Write your goal on paper and put it where you’ll see it (near your computer, bathroom mirror, or refrigerator).
4. Take steps to accomplish your goal. (If you have trouble with punctuation for instance, enroll in a class. If television is keeping you from writing, give it up.)
If you know your goals, you’ll be amazed at the opportunities you’ll have to accomplish them.
A goal without a plan is only a wish-so plan by setting goals. Believe and invest in yourself and see yourself as successful.
Stretch Yourself
Someday I want to set the goal of receiving 400 rejections in a year, like Jack London. With all those rejections I’m bound to receive some acceptances. It’s probably not a realistic goal, but it sure is a gutsy one. Is anyone willing to join me?
B. J. Bassett is an author, teacher and speaker. Her books include Lily, A Touch of Grace-The G.R.A.C.E. Ministries Story and co-author of My Time with God with over 55,000 copies sold. She invites you to visit her website at www.bjbassett.com.