It’s hard to believe, but 2023 WHIZZED by. It’s been a tough one for many of us, with strikes, rising cost of living and a whole host of other things.
So to help writers get their writing done in 2024, here are five essential things writers should consider …
1) Establish a Writing Routine
In 2024, it will be crucial for writers to establish a consistent writing routine that suits their lifestyle. Set aside dedicated time each day or week for writing and treat it as a priority. Whether it’s early mornings, late nights, or specific blocks of time during the day, having a routine will help maintain focus and make progress.
Note how I say you DON’T have to write every single day! I don’t — YES REALLY. Consistency is important, but that doesn’t have to mean writing every single day if that doesn’t work for you.
2) Set Clear Goals
Setting clear and achievable goals is a vital step towards completing writing projects in 2024. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks or milestones. This will allow writers to track progress, stay motivated, and celebrate successes along the way.
‘Bitesize chunks’ has always been my mantra … but just as importantly, we need to EVALUATE our progress and let go of goals or things that no longer serve us too!
3. Embrace Technology (or at least understand how it really works)
In the constantly evolving world of technology, writers need to embrace tools and software that can streamline their work process. By leveraging the right technology, writers can save time and focus more on their writing.
From writing and editing software to online research tools and productivity apps, there are numerous resources available to enhance efficiency and creativity. B2W likes to use Grammarly, Coschedule and Hemingway.
The hot topic for 2023 was A.I, which is both a threat AND an opportunity for creatives. As we saw in the recent US Writers’ Strike, it’s a good idea to understand how AI works and what constitutes unethical use, because AI is not going anywhere. By understanding what AI is and isn’t, we can protect our interests.
4. Find a Supportive Writing Community
Joining a writing community, whether online or in-person, can be immensely helpful for writers in 2024. Connecting with fellow writers provides opportunities for feedback, collaboration, and support.
Online platforms, forums, workshops, and writing groups can offer valuable insights, motivation, and networking opportunities, helping writers stay inspired and committed.
5. Practice Self-Care
Taking care of oneself is essential for writers to maintain both physical and mental well-being in 2024. Prioritise self-care activities like exercise, meditation, spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, and getting ample rest.
Balancing work and personal life is crucial for avoiding burnout, staying motivated, and nurturing creativity. If your brain is fried, your ability to write WILL be affected … so do whatever it takes to make sure yours is rested wherever possible. Writing can wait, it’s not going anywhere!
Happy New Year!
Lucy V. Hay is a script editor, author and blogger who helps writers. She’s been the script editor and advisor on numerous UK features and shorts & has also been a script reader for 20 years, providing coverage for indie prodcos, investors, screen agencies, producers, directors and individual writers. She’s also an author, publishing as both LV Hay and Lizzie Fry. Lizzie’s latest, a serial killer thriller titled The Good Mother is out now with Joffe Books, with her sixth thriller out in 2024. Lucy’s site at www.bang2write.com has appeared in Top 100 round-ups for Writer’s Digest & The Write Life, as well as a UK Blog Awards Finalist and Feedspot’s #1 Screenwriting blog in the UK (ninth in the world.). She is also the author of the bestselling non-fiction book, Writing & Selling Thriller Screenplays: From TV Pilot To Feature Film (Creative Essentials), which she updated for the streaming age for its tenth anniversary in 2023.
Very helpful and motivating.
Glad the post was useful, thanks for telling me. Have a fab holiday season!
Lucy, great tips to stay healthy and keep writing our stories. I use AI, chat.openai.com for historical questions. And I get great answers! It’s the free app. I’ve read other blog posts about AI and know the pros and cons. I paraphrase AI’s answers. Use the material to make it my own. It’s been a time saver. Also, Angela, I just received 2 more thesaurus: Negative Traits & Positive Traits. Have Emotion & Conflict. They are the most helpful books of all on the market out there. 📚🎶 Christine
Not heard of that AI, will check it out – thanks for the tip! Happy holidays
Thanks for the great advice to help us have an amazing and productive 2024, Lucy! Making goals has been a huge boost for me. And I honestly don’t know what I’d do without the supportive writing community. Not only do my critique groups help me improve my manuscripts…but they add deadlines to keep me on track.
Self-care is the biggest aspect I need to keep working on. I used to push myself way too hard (like writing the first draft of a middle grade novel in 11 days). And while it felt amazing to achieve that, I desperately needed to refuel myself afterward.
Here’s to an amazing 2024!
Omg a whole ass book in 11 days?? That’s amazing! But yes, self care is so important to avoid burnout. Hugs and here’s to 2024
Great advice, Lucy. I especially think it would be good for all writers to understand what AI is all about. I suspect many are just trying to keep doing what they are doing and work around it because it’s too big to contemplate, but this is a major disruptor and it is here to stay. The more we understand, the better we’ll be able to steer our careers and make informed choices.
Yup – it is a major disruptor for sure. It’s understandable that writers are intimidated by it but it’s soooooo important to understand what AI can and can’t do, because this knowledge helps us protect our interests. Happy Holiday season Andrea, have a great one!