Goals and Deadlines

You've decided to write a book. You may have written another, or you may have written dozens. Perhaps this is your first journey into the world of fiction, love, monsters, or alternative universes.

Regardless of where you are in the writing adventure, you should be serious if you want to finish what you've started. That means setting goals and reaching deadlines.

If you have chosen to work with a publisher, your deadlines will be set, or at least discussed, with the company you've chosen. They have agendas and schedules that they need followed so they can help you by finishing, editing, and publishing your work. This makes things a little easier, but you still need to adhere to those deadlines.

If you have chosen to go the indie route and do everything for yourself, you must be the gate guard of your own deadlines. Do not take them lightly. Your goals may include finishing your manuscript, creating a cover, deciding where to publish your work and formatting for each venue you've chosen.

Mark deadlines and post them in an obvious place. If you have a white board, bulletin board, or just a piece of paper taped to your wall, then you are on your way to following a time schedule. Stick to it. Don't make excuses to not follow your process.

Loved ones may also try to distract you from your goals and want you to ignore your deadlines. Before you even begin your serious journey into the literary world, discuss with them the importance of what you are doing. Explain that you are working toward personal goals and ask them to honor your needs and give you the time to accomplish your tasks on your timeline.

In a nutshell, to reach your goals, you must follow deadlines and schedules. Keep both in your mind when you sit down at your office chair, kitchen table, or comfortable sofa.