People from all walks of life are forming a list of New Year’s Resolutions this week. Some will diligently pursue these goals; others will lay them aside by the middle of January. Every writer who wants to become successful should have these resolutions and keep them.

1. Have a set word Count: Decide on a word count you will do every day and stick to it.

2. Have a time set for writing: If you have a designated time for writing, your creativity will show up at that time. If you’re having a hard time finding time to write, click here.

3. Read: The more you read, the better writer you’ll become.

4. Study the Craft: Plan to go to writer’s conference. Read blogs of writers, publishers, and agents. Subscribe to a writer’s magazine. Read writing books. However you do it, plan to learn more about writing this year.

5. Exercise: Writing is a sedentary activity. Plan a time to exercise. You’ll feel better, and it will get your creative juices flowing.

6. Find a Critique Group: Every writer needs a small group of people to help critique his or her work.

7. Marketing: Learn more about marketing, and start a blog if you don’t have one. It’s an important part of a writing career.

8. Get Organized: It will help keep you from getting distracted. To organize your office area, click here. To organize your computer, click here.

9. Don’t Get Discouraged: Writing is a discouraging profession. This year, plan ways to encourage yourself so you don’t allow discouragement to take hold. For encouraging quotes, click here.

10. Dream Big: Click here to learn more about how to dream big.

During the month of January, I’ll share some helpful blog posts for writers to help you start your writing year out right. And I’ll have some writing tips for published authors who have become successful.

This year, may all your writing dreams come true.

Happy New Year!