NicoleToday, I’m going to show you how to set annual writing goals in a way that feels calm and aligned with your deeper mission as a writer.
In a world where we’re constantly pressured to cram our calendars, it’s easy to fall into the trap of overplanning. But what if I told you there’s a better way? A way to set goals that feels intentional and fulfilling—without the stress.
And here’s the twist: I nearly made a big mistake in my own annual planning last week. I’ll share what happened and how I avoided it. Plus, there’s a gift waiting for you at the end of this newsletter!
Why this matters now more than ever
Most writers approach annual goal-setting by creating a long list of unfinished projects, cramming deadlines into every available space, and expecting themselves to magically do it all.
Sound familiar?
But here’s the good news: You don’t have to start the year feeling bogged down.
In this newsletter, there’s no room for rigid plans or perfectionist traps. Instead, I’m sharing practical, thoughtful strategies—ones I’ve honed while coaching hundreds of writers—to help you step into 2025 with ease, clarity, and excitement.
Work From Your Future Self
Instead of starting with last year’s unfinished goals, first imagine your Future Self—the writer you want to become by the end of the year. Ask:
– What projects will my future self be proud to have completed?
– Which goals feel aligned with my deeper purpose as a writer?
– What expectations (from myself or others) can I let go of?
By working backward from your Future Self vision, you’ll prioritise what truly matters and release the pressure to complete unnecessary tasks.
My Biggest Mistake in Annual Planning (and How I Fixed It)
Leave intentional gaps in your annual plan for rest, reflection, and the unexpected. Trust me, I learned this the hard way.
At first, I had my entire year mapped out with back-to-back coaching programs—a poster on my wall proudly displaying every slot filled. But instead of feeling motivated, my body screamed dread and stress.
So, I did something radical: I grabbed an eraser and wiped most of my summer plans clean. Now, my year looks like this:
• June and August: Completely free.
• July: Just one week of coaching with the 7-Day Booster.
• Spring and Fall: My 90-Day Program runs only twice in 2025.
It was a bold move—and totally unlike me. I love my plans! But now, those months are wide open for possibilities.
But that new space over the summer… it feels like a breath of fresh air—and I’m more excited than ever for what’s to come.
Now, let me ask you:
• Where can you consciously schedule downtime in your calendar this year?
• Is there a voice telling you, “You can’t afford to do this”?
• Where does that voice come from, and how does it make you feel?
Your mindset shift for the new year
Through coaching hundreds of writers, I’ve learned that long-term success isn’t about doing more. It’s about aligning your work with your values and giving yourself permission to grow at your own pace.
This week, I almost forgot that myself. I caught the mistake just in time—and now I’m encouraging you to take a closer look at your own annual plan.
By working from your Future Self and leaving intentional space in your calendar, you can create a year that feels joyful, intentional, and aligned with your deeper purpose as a writer.
Ready to give this a try?
If this resonates with you, my new podcast The Write Habit will help you dive even deeper.
The first episode? An 8-minute guided Future Self meditation to help you start your writing year with clarity and calm – my gift to you to start the year right!
Subscribe to get all future episodes, and let’s step into 2025 with ease and intention together.
P.S. Mark Your Calendar for Your Best Writing Year Yet!
Here are my 2025 program dates to help you create your best writing year yet:
✨ PLAN YOUR 2025:
The Write Habit Planner is your ultimate roadmap for annual, quarterly, and monthly writing goals. Stick with it for 52 weeks of intentional progress!
📚 Available on Amazon in your country (e.g. UK | USA | Germany).
✨ WRITE TO FINISH:
The 90-Day Writing Accelerator is my flagship live coaching program to help you finish a crucial writing project in just 3 months. Build a long-term habit while making big progress.
📅 Spring Cohort: Feb 10–May 9 (Enrolment open to waitlist!)
📅 Fall Cohort: Sept 15–Dec 5, 2025
✨ KICKSTART YOUR 2025 HABIT:
The 7-Day Write Habit Booster is a quick, energising jumpstart! Get back into your writing groove with a 21-page workbook, 7 video trainings, and live co-writing in a supportive community.
📅 Cohort 1: Feb 6–12 (ongoing – enrolment closed)
📅 Cohort 2: July 7–13
📅 Cohort 3: Nov 3–9
💡 More exciting courses and ideas are in the works—stay tuned!
