Real Talk: Goals for Writers Who Hate Goals

Goal setting. Sounds sexy, doesn’t it? You picture yourself jotting down ambitious plans in a sleek notebook you bought from the clearance section at Staples, sipping coffee like a moody protagonist in a French art film who thinks his shit doesn’t stink, thinking, “This year, I will write a bestseller, land a six-figure deal, and have readers tattoo my words on their butts.” Fast forward six months. Where the fuck did that notebook go? Oh, that’s right. You left it gathering dust under a pile of laundry you promised to wash three weeks ago. And what about the coffee? Oh, I remember. You replaced it for instant ramen at 2 a.m. as you mutter, “Why did I think this was a good idea?”

Here’s the truth: most writing goals suck. They’re either too big, too vague, or completely out of your control; believe me, I’ve done it a million times and am not proud to admit it. I’ve created over five podcasts I never used and planned to write so-and-so words a day but failed to do it every single time. And yet, goal setting can be a game-changer—if you do it right. Which I haven’t. Fuck. So let’s break it down, indie-writer-style, and figure out how to set goals that won’t make you want to torch your laptop by March. But this time, stick to it, damn it!

Why Most Writing Goals Suck

Let’s start with a classic: “I’m going to write a bestseller.”

Sounds great, right? The problem? You can’t control whether your book becomes a bestseller. That’s like planting a tree and expecting it to sprout money instead of leaves. It’s never up to you, my little grasshopper, to become the next Stephen King. You have to shut up about that and focus on being the next YOU. 

Another common one: “I’ll finish my novel in two weeks.” Bold. Ambitious. Also, are you okay? Because unless you’re mainlining espresso and have no regard for your sanity, that’s not happening. And besides, you and I both know you are already crazy, so why would you even inflict any more unnecessary pain onto thyself? The issue isn’t ambition—it’s that these goals are outcome-based. They focus on the result (fame, fortune, validation from your ex) instead of the process. And the process, my friend, is where the magic happens.

In the words of the great philosopher JAY-Z, “It’s not about the destination. It’s about the journey.”

The Two Types of Writing Goals: Outcome vs. Process

Here’s the difference:

•Outcome goals: “I’ll get 1,000 readers on Wattpad.”

•Process goals: “I’ll write 500 words a day, five days a week.”

Outcome goals are like shooting for the moon—they’re inspiring, but if you miss, you’ll land in a crater of self-loathing. Process goals, on the other hand, are like taking the stairs: slow, steady, and less likely to leave you in a heap at the bottom. When I started writing, I had a goal to finish a novel in three months. Guess what? It took me a year, mainly because I forgot I had a real job and needed to pay the bills. But when I started to focus on the process—writing consistently, revising ruthlessly—I ended up with something I was proud of, even do it took me what it takes a famous writer to come up with three whole novels. 

And that’s the point. You have to be proud of your own process. 

How to Set Writing Goals Without Losing Your Mind

Let’s get practical. Here’s how to set goals that work for you, not against you:

1. Be specific and measurable.

Don’t just say, “I’ll write more.” Say, “I’ll write three chapters by the end of the month.” Specificity is your friend.

2. Break it down.

Big goals are overwhelming. Instead of “I’ll publish a book,” focus on smaller steps: outline, draft, revise, repeat.

3. Build systems, not pressure cookers.

Writing isn’t about willpower; it’s about habits. Create a routine that makes writing inevitable—like a 30-minute block every morning.

4. Embrace the mess.

Goals aren’t straight lines. They’re squiggly, chaotic, and sometimes resemble a toddler’s art project. Roll with it.

Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation: Why Are You Really Writing?

Quick reality check: if your goal is to “get rich and famous,” you’re in the wrong business. Writing is more like farming—you plant seeds (your ideas), tend them obsessively and hope a storm doesn’t ruin everything. Instead of chasing external rewards, focus on intrinsic motivation: the joy of creating something meaningful. Writing should feel like a conversation with yourself, not a shouting match with the world.

The Art of Setting Realistic Expectations

Ambition is great, but let’s not set ourselves up for failure. If you’re working full-time, raising kids, or battling existential dread (relatable), don’t expect to churn out a novel in a month. Think marathon, not sprint. I’ve learned this the hard way—like the time I tried to write 10,000 words in a weekend and ended up binging on The Sopranos because “I needed some inspiration.”

Pace yourself and celebrate small wins.

The “So What?” Test

Here’s a fun trick: whenever you set a goal, ask yourself, “So what?”

• “I’ll finish my novel in three months.” So what?

•“I’ll publish my book and get 500 readers.” So what?

It might not be worth it if the answer doesn’t excite you—or if it’s all about external validation. Goals should light a fire in your soul, not just look good on Instagram.

Final Thoughts: Writing Goals Are a Guide, Not Gospel

At the end of the day, goals are just signposts. They’re there to guide you, not dictate your worth as a writer. The real magic lies in the journey—the messy, beautiful process of putting words on a page and creating something uniquely yours. So, go ahead and set your goals. But don’t forget to enjoy the ride. After all, the only rule that matters is the one you write for yourself.