$uccessful with Words
Writing Goals
by Maralyn D. Hill, Co-Author ‘$uccess,
Your Path to a Successful Book’

Ask yourself, how serious are you about your writing? Is it something you want as a hobby, an avocation or a vocation? Be honest with yourself, as any answer is the choice
that works for you.

If you want to submit articles or write a book, then you need to allocate time to crafting your skills. Now with the Internet, anyone can be published. But remember, once something is in print, your strengths and weaknesses are forever. Spelling matters and so does grammar.

Determine how much time you can devote to writing each day.  Whether it is 10 minutes or several hours, commit to making it happen. Usually, a particular time works better than winging it.  Those who consistently write during the same time period each day produce more finished work. Their time doesn’t “get away from them.” When I write first thing in the morning, before e-mail, I turn out more work. Many writers find working late at night is when they can squeeze in the time. Do what works for you. If you fall off track for a few days or a week, start again.

If you want others to take your writing seriously, you have to take it seriously.

Take time to read what others write. I personally try to have a fiction and non-fiction book going at the same time. It helps me learn on a technical basis as well as a relaxing basis. Plus, you learn more about hooks, character development, resolution and other writing techniques. Others are the best teachers. 

Do you want to write to record your thoughts or feelings? That is quite positive. Journaling is considered a great path to writing—whether for yourself or to lead into a more detailed article or book, months or years later when you may have the time, desire or inclination.