Know What You Want

You have a dream: to write a book. Congratulations! Now what? How do you go from great idea to great reality? With The Writer's GMC*. Answer the questions below to uncover you writing goals, motivations, and conflicts. You can do it! This next step requires your handy tools of creativity, honesty and perseverance.

G is for Goal

What is your current writing project? What are your long-term writing projects? Describe each one, as applicable, in as much detail as possible, addressing for example, genre, length, and audience.

M is for Motivation

What is your main motivation fueling you? What are your secondary motivations? Peer deeper, and find another reason, if you can. Some write because their day isn't complete with out it; others write to communicate a message or a dream, make a point, or impress others. There is no right answer–only clarity achieved–by knowing why you write.

C is for Conflict

Focus on your perceived obstacles — both internal and external. Allow any negative or limiting self-talk to be recognized for what it is — an obstacle to be overcome. No need to judge, just acknowledge. Notice what external factors interrupt the path to your writing time, be it busyness, work and family obligations, or TV watching. Don't judge, just notice that these obstacles are often there by our own choosing and that by recognizing them we can choose differently. What strengths can you use to achieve your writing goals? Include inner qualities like humor, intelligence, curiosity, drive, and outer benefits such as a space to work, a regular schedule to write, a nice computer, or no pressure to make money at your writing.

Share

Now that you are clearer on your writing goals, motivations, conflicts and strengths, share them with a supportive writing buddy, writers group, teacher or coach. Sharing helps you stay accountable for your goals. A success buddy can cheer you on and validate you. Also, a buddy or writing group, coach or teacher, can ask you “What next?” and encourage you to plan and execute your next step.

Next Step

So what is your next step in your writing project? Do you need to sit down and write? Do you need to create a project time line? Do you need support to review and activate your GMC? None of us achieves a dream without the many people helping us along the way. Welcome to the Writers Community!

* Thanks to Deb Dixon and her book, Goal, Motivation and Conflict, for inspiration for this article.



Source by Beth Barany