I finished my first novel last year, and my goal for 2025 is to publish that one and finish writing my second one. I belong to a writers' group that meets once a month. The encouragement, advice, and accountability I get there are all very helpful.
This felt reassuring and invigorating. I'm halfway through my first draft and it's my goal to finish it by the spring/summer. I feel lucky to have my kids as accountability partners, because I don't even have to ask them, they are constantly on me about writing.
I finished writing last winter. Still revising this year. I had no problem completing the first draft, but I must humbly admit that I was a fool with my writing skills. I definitely suffered from dunning-krueger. I thought my draft was good until I studied more. I think that the newest draft is acceptable. In the future, any other book I attempt will go smoother. I've learned many lessons that I won't have to relearn.
I spent forty years wishing I could write a book, but having no idea how to do that. Then I learned how to structure a story, and tried outlining my first novel. In 2023 I joined NaNoWriMo and wrote my first 50,001 words, finishing the first draft (60,000 words) in mid-December. I researched and wrote a second novel over the spring, followed by a third novel last November. I'll be retired in a couple of years, by which time I will have a backlog of projects I'll have the time to focus on. I expect my retirement years to be very busy.
3 goals: complete debut manuscript by Jan (after 14 months), secure an agent for debut, complete 50 percent of second manuscript (first draft) by year end. Stay at home mom here trying to set achievable goals
I have ADD/ADHD, so that getting started phase is my biggest challenge. Once started, I can go for hours but it's that first push that's hardest. I found outlining or bullet points help get past that first push. I've usually been thinking about the next section for most of the day or previous day, so I have ideas. While I'm still distracted with what music I want to listen to, I can type out the broad picture bullet point. Then a few sub points it will need. Then I need to grab some water (or other distraction), but I know the the tertiary points that need to fit in. By the 4th or 5th sub-sub-sub points, I'm writing out character lines or setting descriptions and ready to fill in the first paragraph. It works to trick my scattered mind into investing more and more thought into sitting and writing. I've drafted two books this way, and now I'm on the even more daunting task of editing. That's my 2025 task.
I have 2 chapters left in my draft 1. My writing goal is to complete draft , complete all subsequent drafts, andthe search for an agent/self publishing preparation by the end of the year.
My goal is to finish my first draft for my fantasy book that’s currently 60,000 words and rather than focus on word count, I’m going to try setting milestone goals to make sure I get this done! My inner perfectionist has halted me for too long lol and I’m going to set myself up for success!
I now set my goals through scenes. When I see them on a board, I get excited about writing them and end up finishing them in chunks. So even dates are set so that I'm always ahead, because I end up being faster than I ever thought possible just by getting excited.
I scrolled to like this video, was shocked to see only 449 on 2 days, your videos are honestly invaluable, I hope you get better appreciation. Please keep up the great work!
I finished writing my first book in July of last year. It's now out on the query-go-round. I did find that I work best by committing to one chapter a week. I've begun writing my second book with the same routine. Chapter a week with a half hour of coffee, pet care, news/sports, then writing from 6am to 1pm.
Fantastic video! I’m also aiming to finish my first draft by mid-2025. Your pieces of advice were inspiring and incredibly practical-thank you for sharing so much valuable insight! ❤
I finished my first draft of my second book last year, but it needs a major rewrite. I've begun rewriting my outline to make sure I keep myself headed in the right direction!
Thanks for the insights! I'm working on four books right now, two in editing, two more in the first draft, and a dozen more in the outline phase. I could use a good plan.
In November, I wrote down goals to complete by March. I also wrote goals to complete by the end of 2025. I also wrote goals to complete by 2030. Checking off goals as I complete them has been satisfying 😊 They include reaching certain writing milestones and reading certain books for research and inspiration. Goals help.
I love the idea you presented of not having to write in chronological order. I've been sitting on the draft of the third book in the trilogy I'm writing because I'm stuck on a scene. The ending is very clear in my brain but I haven't written it because I've been waiting to write the scene that just won't formulate. Now? I'm going to write the end and then go back to the middle. Thank you for these suggestions. They're sure to be extremely helpful. As for my writing goals this year: To publish the first book of the trilogy and finish the draft of the third book.
Thank you! My goal is to finish this month-I’m so close! Your video has given me a pat on the back-I’m on track! Have been using tips like habit building and TK in the last few months and it’s working! Thank you so much for your advice. I’ve learned so much and felt so supported since discovering you about six months ago. 🥰
4:19 I am technically retired but as yet haven't finished work, When I do, I will work to an office routine i.e. 830--12-1pm then work till 430pm. So that's my routine. I will have to adapt to it and will have to use one day to market. I am a member of a writing group that not only provides feedback but also has accountability built in. I won't write on weekends because I have other things to do and I will need a break. I will set some goals but I simply don't yet know what I am capable of and I hope to up my productivity. I will have to give time to revise the book so obviously, it's not just about word count. I am currently on my second draft of my third novel and it's not easy to do. I will use the goals set on Atticus to motivate me when I start another book The difference is that I write Middle Grade an the wordcount isn't so large i.e. 35-45, 000 words, so not as much. My first draft is so far off that it's a total rewrite.
I have no doubt you'll meet your yard markers and publish your novel, Alyssa. I also finished my first novel in 2024. My goal for 2025 is to have a rough draft finished for the next one by the end of the year. In the meantime, I'm launching a digital magazine on Substack, a fancy way of saying "blog." My next novel is set in 1982. My blog will be devoted to history and analysis of the movies of 1982-1992.
Really straightforward and practical advice. I think you should write a self help book concerning organization and micromanagement because you honestly seem to excel at it. I know I would purchase it, beyond a shadow of a doubt. Do consider it, seriously.
I have written a book that I feel might make a good film. I've written poetry and short stories too. Now I want to try another form of art which I have always loved even more than writing. Good luck to all in the 2025 New Year. I hope you reach your goals!
I completed my first draft last year so my main goal for this year is to edit, revise, and query agents. I would really love to be in some part of the publishing process by the end of the year. My secondary goal is to complete at least a first draft for book number two.
My measuring stick is usually per scene. Not word counts or per chapter. That seems a natural unit of measure because each scene has a beginning, middle, and end. Anyway. Great advice.
Finishing my first revision this year and finding an agent would be enough. I already have a prequel of short stories and the rest of the trilogy to work on.
Great video. I actually created my first outlines for the year a few days ago. But the main thing that’s been tripping me up is the fact that I know how the book starts and how it ends, but I have no clue what comes in between lol. I’ve spent years outlining and brainstorming
Revising as you draft … I present scenes to my critique group. They are getting my first draft as I write it. And so, i do go over it once or twice before I share it with them. Otherwise, i would not revise it early, I don't think.
I wanted to finish my first protodraft by December 2024, I have been working on it for almost 2 years, its a short story/novella, I am 3 quarters of the way done, when I finish, I bought a video game I have been wanting to play, but I cant until the 1st protodraft is done! Thats my reward/restriction!
I manage to write nearly every day for a few hours or less. There are a few days I don't write due to writersblock or just need a break. Nearly done with reaching another 30k words of my current WIP and get it beta read. Once this is done and have addressed the issues being found, I continue with the next 30k, which should complete the book.
My goal is to finish the first draft of my gothic horror novel. I'm currently at 73,000 out of my 80,000 word goal. When that's done, my new goal is to write the first draft of a fantasy idea I've been planning in the meantime. For that I'm setting a goal of 90,000 words.
Hi Alyssa! I absolutely love your videos. I finished my book a few months ago, but after working on other projects, I noticed my writing style has changed a bit. Now I’m rewriting it, but even though I was super motivated the first time, I’m struggling to get it done this time. Do you have any tips for staying motivated through rewrites? Also, my book is part of a series. Do you have any advice on how to connect each book without making them feel repetitive?
my goal is to draft the remaining 2-3 stand alone pieces missing in my collection (1-3 months), do several rounds of revisions for the whole ms (~ 4-5 months), and query/sub on or before fall. Is this a realistic timeline?
Fantastic advice as always Alyssa! I have written written, revised, edited and shared my book with Beta Readers, and now I am working on book cover materials and copy. 2025 is the year I plan on releasing my first Novel and your videos have been a HUGE inspiration to me along my journey. Keep up the great work!
I hear what you say, and I believe you this works for you, but I can't be systematic and disciplined and make plans and schedules while the story is simmering inside, waiting to come out like a butterfly crawling out of its chrysalis. It's an organic process for me, and while I know exactly where the story is headed, eventually, every new scene is an adventure to write as I make myself available for its staging and creation. Ironically, this is my sixth novel, and, I can see now, also my best one. My previous work (deservedly unpublished) was vying to dazzle, puzzle, entertain and contemplate. This one will tug at anyone's heartstrings from start to finish, because I can feel it while I'm writing. What a difference. Really hope this one makes it to an audience. Anyway, thanks for all your good advice. Your videos have been very helpful.
I finished my first draft last November. Best piece of advice I can give is don’t edit while you write. If you want to make changes make notes of your ideas then keep going. Your first draft are going to be messy. That’s okay. The story is told in the edits. It’s okay to put all your ideas in your draft. Think of writing a book like an illustrator. When they start a new artwork they use guide lines and references and a ton of tools to help them form their work. Once they have that done they add large details and move smaller and smaller until they have a completed piece. My first chapter was 7k words after edits it’s closer to 3k. You will improve as a writer more when you are writing. The end of the book will be easier to write than the beginning. The best part is once you’re done you get to go over the book as the improved writer. You will then catch a bunch of stuff that you wouldn’t have known when you started. Biggest thing is just write.
I finished my first novel last year, and my goal for 2025 is to publish that one and finish writing my second one. I belong to a writers' group that meets once a month. The encouragement, advice, and accountability I get there are all very helpful.
How did you find that group? I feel pretty lonely as new author and want the extra guidance or social support.
My manuscript is currently with the formatter and I will be self-publishishing my first book this month.
Congratulations!
This felt reassuring and invigorating. I'm halfway through my first draft and it's my goal to finish it by the spring/summer. I feel lucky to have my kids as accountability partners, because I don't even have to ask them, they are constantly on me about writing.
They have their homework, you have yours. 😁
I finished writing last winter. Still revising this year.
I had no problem completing the first draft, but I must humbly admit that I was a fool with my writing skills.
I definitely suffered from dunning-krueger. I thought my draft was good until I studied more. I think that the newest draft is acceptable.
In the future, any other book I attempt will go smoother. I've learned many lessons that I won't have to relearn.
I’m writing at least 400 words per day, aiming for 2800 words a week. I’m on my 8th day.
I spent forty years wishing I could write a book, but having no idea how to do that.
Then I learned how to structure a story, and tried outlining my first novel. In 2023 I joined NaNoWriMo and wrote my first 50,001 words, finishing the first draft (60,000 words) in mid-December.
I researched and wrote a second novel over the spring, followed by a third novel last November.
I'll be retired in a couple of years, by which time I will have a backlog of projects I'll have the time to focus on. I expect my retirement years to be very busy.
3 goals: complete debut manuscript by Jan (after 14 months), secure an agent for debut, complete 50 percent of second manuscript (first draft) by year end. Stay at home mom here trying to set achievable goals
I just finished my first book. Now i am going to read another one
I have ADD/ADHD, so that getting started phase is my biggest challenge. Once started, I can go for hours but it's that first push that's hardest.
I found outlining or bullet points help get past that first push. I've usually been thinking about the next section for most of the day or previous day, so I have ideas. While I'm still distracted with what music I want to listen to, I can type out the broad picture bullet point. Then a few sub points it will need. Then I need to grab some water (or other distraction), but I know the the tertiary points that need to fit in. By the 4th or 5th sub-sub-sub points, I'm writing out character lines or setting descriptions and ready to fill in the first paragraph.
It works to trick my scattered mind into investing more and more thought into sitting and writing.
I've drafted two books this way, and now I'm on the even more daunting task of editing. That's my 2025 task.
I’m happy to realize I’m already implementing all of these strategies in my writing this year!
I have 2 chapters left in my draft 1. My writing goal is to complete draft , complete all subsequent drafts, andthe search for an agent/self publishing preparation by the end of the year.
My first book is done and I'm submitting it to agents. Plan to have my first draft of my second book by April
My goal is to finish my first draft for my fantasy book that’s currently 60,000 words and rather than focus on word count, I’m going to try setting milestone goals to make sure I get this done! My inner perfectionist has halted me for too long lol and I’m going to set myself up for success!
Scene sketching I never heard of that. I’ll be doing it!
I now set my goals through scenes. When I see them on a board, I get excited about writing them and end up finishing them in chunks. So even dates are set so that I'm always ahead, because I end up being faster than I ever thought possible just by getting excited.
I scrolled to like this video, was shocked to see only 449 on 2 days, your videos are honestly invaluable, I hope you get better appreciation. Please keep up the great work!
I finished writing my first book in July of last year. It's now out on the query-go-round.
I did find that I work best by committing to one chapter a week. I've begun writing my second book with the same routine.
Chapter a week with a half hour of coffee, pet care, news/sports, then writing from 6am to 1pm.
I love using placeholders so I don’t interrupt my writing flow. Plus, it’s satisfying to go back and fill in those blanks.
Fantastic video! I’m also aiming to finish my first draft by mid-2025. Your pieces of advice were inspiring and incredibly practical-thank you for sharing so much valuable insight! ❤
I think of the completed manuscript and my improvement as a writer as both my goals and my rewards.
I finished my first draft of my second book last year, but it needs a major rewrite. I've begun rewriting my outline to make sure I keep myself headed in the right direction!
Thanks for the insights! I'm working on four books right now, two in editing, two more in the first draft, and a dozen more in the outline phase. I could use a good plan.
In November, I wrote down goals to complete by March. I also wrote goals to complete by the end of 2025. I also wrote goals to complete by 2030. Checking off goals as I complete them has been satisfying 😊 They include reaching certain writing milestones and reading certain books for research and inspiration. Goals help.
I love the idea you presented of not having to write in chronological order. I've been sitting on the draft of the third book in the trilogy I'm writing because I'm stuck on a scene. The ending is very clear in my brain but I haven't written it because I've been waiting to write the scene that just won't formulate. Now? I'm going to write the end and then go back to the middle. Thank you for these suggestions. They're sure to be extremely helpful. As for my writing goals this year: To publish the first book of the trilogy and finish the draft of the third book.
Challenge accepted Alyssa! I'm 70%-80% completed with my first draft. See ya soon near the end. ---- Love your channel! Thanks for sharing Alyssa :)
I love how whatever’s on the shelf behind you makes it look like you have teddy bear ears. 😂
Thank you! My goal is to finish this month-I’m so close! Your video has given me a pat on the back-I’m on track! Have been using tips like habit building and TK in the last few months and it’s working!
Thank you so much for your advice. I’ve learned so much and felt so supported since discovering you about six months ago. 🥰
4:19 I am technically retired but as yet haven't finished work, When I do, I will work to an office routine i.e. 830--12-1pm then work till 430pm. So that's my routine. I will have to adapt to it and will have to use one day to market. I am a member of a writing group that not only provides feedback but also has accountability built in. I won't write on weekends because I have other things to do and I will need a break. I will set some goals but I simply don't yet know what I am capable of and I hope to up my productivity. I will have to give time to revise the book so obviously, it's not just about word count. I am currently on my second draft of my third novel and it's not easy to do. I will use the goals set on Atticus to motivate me when I start another book The difference is that I write Middle Grade an the wordcount isn't so large i.e. 35-45, 000 words, so not as much. My first draft is so far off that it's a total rewrite.
You are amazing! This is exactly what I needed to hear today! Thank you so much!
I have no doubt you'll meet your yard markers and publish your novel, Alyssa. I also finished my first novel in 2024. My goal for 2025 is to have a rough draft finished for the next one by the end of the year. In the meantime, I'm launching a digital magazine on Substack, a fancy way of saying "blog." My next novel is set in 1982. My blog will be devoted to history and analysis of the movies of 1982-1992.
Really straightforward and practical advice. I think you should write a self help book concerning organization and micromanagement because you honestly seem to excel at it. I know I would purchase it, beyond a shadow of a doubt. Do consider it, seriously.
I have written a book that I feel might make a good film. I've written poetry and short stories too. Now I want to try another form of art which I have always loved even more than writing. Good luck to all in the 2025 New Year. I hope you reach your goals!
I completed my first draft last year so my main goal for this year is to edit, revise, and query agents. I would really love to be in some part of the publishing process by the end of the year. My secondary goal is to complete at least a first draft for book number two.
At 26k words and will finish in 2025!
My measuring stick is usually per scene. Not word counts or per chapter. That seems a natural unit of measure because each scene has a beginning, middle, and end.
Anyway. Great advice.
My goal this year is to finish, edit, and publish my book. I'm hoping to finish by the end of this month!
Thank you for this great video! My goal is approximately 4000 words a month and 1 chapter a week. I hope to finish a draft by the end of May!
Finishing my first revision this year and finding an agent would be enough. I already have a prequel of short stories and the rest of the trilogy to work on.
Great video. I actually created my first outlines for the year a few days ago. But the main thing that’s been tripping me up is the fact that I know how the book starts and how it ends, but I have no clue what comes in between lol. I’ve spent years outlining and brainstorming
Revising as you draft …
I present scenes to my critique group. They are getting my first draft as I write it. And so, i do go over it once or twice before I share it with them. Otherwise, i would not revise it early, I don't think.
Thank you for the motivation! 🌹
"Talent is a prolonged patience." - Gustave Flaubert.
Wishing you luck in that regard.
I wanted to finish my first protodraft by December 2024, I have been working on it for almost 2 years, its a short story/novella, I am 3 quarters of the way done, when I finish, I bought a video game I have been wanting to play, but I cant until the 1st protodraft is done! Thats my reward/restriction!
2025 my goal is to revise and publish my manuscript.
I manage to write nearly every day for a few hours or less. There are a few days I don't write due to writersblock or just need a break. Nearly done with reaching another 30k words of my current WIP and get it beta read. Once this is done and have addressed the issues being found, I continue with the next 30k, which should complete the book.
Finish editing my first book, write the sequel and work on another book.
My goal is to finish the first draft of my gothic horror novel. I'm currently at 73,000 out of my 80,000 word goal. When that's done, my new goal is to write the first draft of a fantasy idea I've been planning in the meantime. For that I'm setting a goal of 90,000 words.
Hi Alyssa! I absolutely love your videos. I finished my book a few months ago, but after working on other projects, I noticed my writing style has changed a bit. Now I’m rewriting it, but even though I was super motivated the first time, I’m struggling to get it done this time. Do you have any tips for staying motivated through rewrites? Also, my book is part of a series. Do you have any advice on how to connect each book without making them feel repetitive?
Goal: finish this Novella I started a couple weeks back and pray for a book deal by the end of the year :/ haha
my goal is to draft the remaining 2-3 stand alone pieces missing in my collection (1-3 months), do several rounds of revisions for the whole ms (~ 4-5 months), and query/sub on or before fall. Is this a realistic timeline?
Fantastic advice as always Alyssa! I have written written, revised, edited and shared my book with Beta Readers, and now I am working on book cover materials and copy. 2025 is the year I plan on releasing my first Novel and your videos have been a HUGE inspiration to me along my journey. Keep up the great work!
But most of our issues are not the first draft lol it’s the rewrite and revisions that were really suck
I have a question for Alyssa or published authors. Did you publish short stories before your first novel?
I hear what you say, and I believe you this works for you, but I can't be systematic and disciplined and make plans and schedules while the story is simmering inside, waiting to come out like a butterfly crawling out of its chrysalis. It's an organic process for me, and while I know exactly where the story is headed, eventually, every new scene is an adventure to write as I make myself available for its staging and creation. Ironically, this is my sixth novel, and, I can see now, also my best one. My previous work (deservedly unpublished) was vying to dazzle, puzzle, entertain and contemplate. This one will tug at anyone's heartstrings from start to finish, because I can feel it while I'm writing. What a difference. Really hope this one makes it to an audience. Anyway, thanks for all your good advice. Your videos have been very helpful.
It’s really not possible to have schedules when writing a book.
Does this apply to fan fiction as well?
Trying to finish writing my entire book on my smartphone whish me luck 🤞
Well, I’ll try and write 300-400 a day then-
👍🏻
Challenge accepted.
I finished my first draft last November. Best piece of advice I can give is don’t edit while you write. If you want to make changes make notes of your ideas then keep going. Your first draft are going to be messy. That’s okay. The story is told in the edits. It’s okay to put all your ideas in your draft. Think of writing a book like an illustrator. When they start a new artwork they use guide lines and references and a ton of tools to help them form their work. Once they have that done they add large details and move smaller and smaller until they have a completed piece. My first chapter was 7k words after edits it’s closer to 3k. You will improve as a writer more when you are writing. The end of the book will be easier to write than the beginning. The best part is once you’re done you get to go over the book as the improved writer. You will then catch a bunch of stuff that you wouldn’t have known when you started. Biggest thing is just write.