Summer Writing Goals — Setting Intentions for the New Season

How to make the most of your summer without compromising family fun.

It feels like summer (most of the time) now! The sun is shining, the days feel a little longer, and there’s a sense of possibility in the air. It’s the perfect time to refresh your writing practice and set some intentional goals that will keep you motivated and moving forward. Whether you’re a brand new writer or someone with years of experience, summer offers a unique chance to recalibrate and push your craft to new heights.

Why Setting Goals Matter

Let’s be real: without goals, it’s easy to drift. Writing can feel overwhelming without direction. But when you have clear, achievable goals, you create a sense of purpose and momentum. Goals help keep you focused, motivated, and consistent — whether you’re tackling your first draft or refining your prose. They give you something to work toward and help prevent burnout by ensuring your creative efforts don’t feel futile.

Creating Your Summer Writing Goals

• Beginners: If you’re just starting out, don’t worry about perfection — just write! Start small with goals like writing for 20 minutes a day, completing a short story, or trying a new writing exercise. The goal is to build consistency and get comfortable in your creative space.

• Experienced Writers: If you’ve been at this for a while, consider pushing your limits. Focus on refining or finishing a major project, like completing a manuscript or submitting work for publication. You might also want to set a goal to establish a sustainable writing routine, so your craft becomes part of your daily life, not just something you do when inspiration strikes.

Remember, the key to setting effective goals is making them specific, measurable, and realistic for where you are right now.

Pro Tips for Success

• Be kind to yourself. Life happens, and sometimes your goals may need adjusting. That’s okay! Just keep moving forward at a pace that works for you.

• Challenge yourself, but don’t overwhelm yourself. Writing is a long game, so remember to celebrate the small wins as much as the big ones. Every step forward is progress.

Summer is the perfect time to breathe new life into your writing practice. Whether you’re just starting or have been writing for years, setting clear goals helps you stay on track and motivated. So, make your goals something that energizes you, not stress you out. Let this season be the start of something beautiful in your writing journey!

A Special Note for Parents and Caregivers

For those of you juggling kids or grandkids this summer, finding quiet writing time can be a challenge. Don’t stress. Set goals that work around your family’s schedule. Try writing during naptime, while the kids are out with friends, or even involving them in creative activities that spark your writing ideas. Small bursts of writing can add up over time!