By Angela Castle

Goal setting is vital for any endeavour, as without a goal, it is difficult to hit a mark. It holds for writing too. However, simply setting goals is not enough. They need to be achievable and realistic. Your goal should be SMART - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Result-oriented and Time -bound

First, set a long-term goal as a writer. If you intend to become a professional novel writer, set your goal as a novelist with a library of books to your credit.

Next, you have to set achievable annual and monthly goals. In order to achieve your monthly goals you need short-term goals that are immediate, things that you can perform right now. This will bring you closer to your long-term goal.  It should be easily achievable like finishing one page of your novel every evening.

In order to make your goal achievable, it should be quantifiable. For example, write everyday is not a quantifiable goal. Instead, as an example, set your goal as 2 pages, or even a few hundred words per day. Your goal should be measurable Only then can you achieve it.

Making a schedule is a great way to achieve your goal. Get specific What time will you start and end? Write it down. It should be treated as an important appointment. At the end of the week, evaluate your actions. If you achieve your short-term goal, well and good. Compliment yourself. If not, don’t get disappointed, don’t get glum and think you’re failing. It means your initial goal is too high. Reset your goal, it is amazing what you can achieve, when you set your mind to it.

Try setting a new writing goal today. You will be surprised and pleased with the results.


Please visit Angela on the web at http://www.angelacastle.net/