The start of a new year always feels like a quiet invitation to pause, reflect, and reset. January isn’t about dramatic resolutions for me. It’s about intention. It’s a chance to look at what worked, what didn’t, and what I’d like to carry forward both on the page and off.

Before I think about writing goals, I always start with personal goals. A healthy routine, mental clarity, and a little breathing room in the day make all the difference. When life feels balanced, creativity flows more naturally. Small changes in mindset and daily habits often support my work far better than strict promises ever could.

This year, my writing goals are less about deadlines and more about intention. I want to create space for deeper focus, allowing stories to unfold without rushing the process. Along with staying consistent, I’m setting goals to reconnect with the joy of drafting, trust my instincts more, and take creative risks when a story asks for it. I also hope to engage more with the writing community, because growth often happens through shared conversations and encouragement. These writing goals feel realistic, flexible, and aligned with the kind of writer I want to be as the year moves forward.

Of course, goal setting for writers should leave room for growth. Stories evolve, and so do we. Progress is rarely perfect, and that’s okay. As the year unfolds, I’m moving forward with clarity, motivation, and excitement. Wherever the work leads, I’m ready to follow..

Maria Cox