Updated October 24, 2024
The new year will be here before we know it, and it's only natural to look back at what we've done over the last year. As we see the past months in review, we often think about what we want to accomplish in the coming year. This is especially necessary as a writer. Now is the perfect time to take stock of writing goals: which ones you met, which are still valuable, and which ones you should set for the coming year.
Here, we offer some goals to consider adding to your list for 2025 to make the year even more successful.
Try a New Genre
“Write what you know” is definitely good advice, especially for writers who are just starting on their journey, but you need to expand your horizons. As you learn and strive to know more, you can use that knowledge to keep your writing from becoming boring.
- For one month, commit yourself to learning about and writing in a different genre than you have before. It doesn’t have to be so different that you feel completely out of your depth. It could be genre-adjacent, such as moving from fantasy to romantasy.
- Look at some successful examples of books in your chosen genre to see what you think works and what doesn't; incorporate this into your writing.
- If it makes you feel more comfortable, try writing in the new genre under a pseudonym. Many very famous authors have used a pseudonym when they experimented with a different genre or writing style.
Write for Your Author Blog Consistently
If you haven’t been consistently producing content for your blog on your author website, now is the perfect time to start.
- Commit to adding something new to your blog each week. In addition to aiding you in your marketing efforts, you can get more eyes on your website and show that you're knowledgeable and have value in the world of writing.
- This will also keep you writing even when you don’t feel like it. It’s a good way to engage with your readers and build community as well.
- Brainstorm and generate as many ideas as you can, and plan a blog schedule ahead of time to keep you on schedule and on task.
- Offer your blog readers a mix of information. In the midst of you personal articles and those about your writing, toss in a few fun, easy posts such as lists, opinion pieces, and resource compilations.
Step Outside Yourself
Your writing, and your life, will be better with other people involved.
- Find a local or online writing group to join. Let others read and comment on your work, while also sharing your insight with other writers. There is so much to be gained from writing with others: new perspectives, new experiences, new skills, and more.
- Network! Your fellow writing group members and/or peers could have connections to businesses that would be interested in your work. Be prepared for opportunity no matter where you are or what you're doing.
- Don't count out your family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances. As well as asking them for input on your work in its pre-pub stages, they can help spread the word about your book once it's published.
Convert Your Book into an Audiobook
If you've already self-published your book, why not turn it into an audiobook? It is work, but many people have enjoyed great success in creating an audio version of their book and found a whole new audience they hadn't yet reached.
- According to a 2024 survey by the Audio Publishers Association (APA), 52% of U.S. adults have listened to an audiobook, which is nearly 149 million people. The audience for audiobooks is huge!
- More than just a royalty generator—they can be a great resource to expand the reach of your book marketing efforts and create pathways to new audiences.
Whatever your goals may be, make them happen!
We wish you well!
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