I always like to take a little time in December to take stock of my writing life. My process, below, is a great way to do an End-of-Year Review. If you don’t already do this, I highly recommend the practice. It can bring clarity to what’s been working and what hasn’t.

I believe it’s so important to celebrate your successes as you begin thinking about your goals for next year. Looking at your creative journey, assessing your progress throughout the year, and reflecting on your wins and losses can help you prepare and organize your writing life for 2025.

First, let’s take a look at what it means to take stock of your writing life.

Taking stock means looking at your achievements and evaluating the progress you made on the goals you set for yourself throughout the year. If you’re not on deadline, now is the perfect time to step away from your actual writing so you can review your writing journey. Whatever level you are at with your writing—published or not, professional or aspiring—or how experienced you are, taking time to reflect can help you recognize all you’ve accomplished, what fell short for you, and what you want to focus on moving forward. 

Reflection is a way to maximize your transition into the New Year and ensure your continued growth and success as a writer. This means acknowledging your achievements, taking care of yourself, organizing writing materials, and beginning the process of thinking about new goals. Let’s break it down into steps.

Reflection

Taking time to really consider the year in your rearview mirror is the first step in being able to come out of the gate strong in the new year.  As you look at your written pieces from this past year, consider your growth as a writer. 

• Can you identify tangible ways you improved? 
• Did you seek out classes, content, or other ways to grow in your craft? 
• What were your major accomplishments in 2024? Which pieces or projects made you most proud?
• Did your work resonate with readers? How do you know?
• Did you pitch, query, or otherwise move forward toward your next step?
• What challenges did you face with your writing this year?
• Were there pieces that were difficult to research or to write? How did you get through that?
• Can you identify any areas in your writing that you feel require further improvement? 

Asking these reflective questions and analyzing what worked for you this past year and what didn’t can provide you with valuable insights that can help lead you into next year. 

Organization

Some creatives have right-brain organization skills. Others are pure left-brain thinkers. Use this month to set yourself up for success wherever you fall on that spectrum. Given all the ideas, drafts, deadlines, and activities involved with the writing profession, having some form of order in your creative life can be incredibly helpful. 

• Evaluate your workspace – clear out old notes, organize resources, and declutter digital files. Make sure your space is ready and prepared for another year of writing. 
• Organize your digital files
  • Delete unneeded files.
  • Clear out your downloads folder.
  • Consolidate and categorize various writing projects, for example, as completed or in progress.
  • Create a system or protocol for saving your pieces, assets, and other documents in Dropbox, the Cloud, Google, or whatever service or app you use. This can be tedious, but it is SO worth the time.
• Organize your physical workspace – having an orderly writing place will open creativity!
• Examine your writing routine—did it work for you, or could you be more productive with a different schedule? 
• Evaluate your writing tools, software, or apps. Are you lacking in a tool that could help? Is there something that hasn’t worked for you, and is it time to ditch it? Which tools optimized your efficiency during the writing process?

Organizing your physical and virtual spaces can definitely lead to increased productivity and decreased stress in the future.  It can provide a clear view of what has been completed so far and what still needs to be accomplished.

In-depth Review

An in-depth review can be incredibly insightful. Take some time to calculate metrics such as:

• Number of articles written
• Total word count
• Published works
• Rejected pieces 
• Income generated through writing

Doing this type of in-depth review can provide you with a pretty clear snapshot of what your career looked like this year. One of the benefits of this exercise is that it can help you plan objectively for next year.

Celebrate!

Once you’re finished taking stock of 2024, I encourage you to take time to reward yourself! Celebrate all your hard work as a writer, from rejections to reader feedback or reaching your target word count. Celebrating small victories can renew your motivation and set you up for next year. Taking the time to acknowledge your successes – no matter how large or small – plays an incredibly important role in your personal growth as a writer.

Overall, closing out a year as a writer involves reflection, organization, reviews, planning goals for the year ahead, and, yes, rewards. Embrace the closing of 2024 not as an end but as an opportunity to start fresh with your writing journey in 2025. 

Ready to set your goals for the new year? Go here!

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Crafting great characters is essential for every writer. When I’m creating the folks who populate my books, I like to begin with the antagonist because they, quite literally, drive the plot. The protagonist responds to the obstacles the antagonist presents. Without the antagonist, whether person, place, or thing, there is no story. For that reason, giving a lot of attention to the creation of this character (or storm, etc) is so important. Read on to learn how I write a strong antagonist in my fiction.

Who is the Antagonist?

In fiction, the antagonist is a shadowy figure who is there to thwart the protagonist’s plans. They act as a catalyst for the complex conflicts throughout the story. I like to start with the antagonist because, as I said, they drive the plot by continually thwarting the protagonist, either directly or indirectly. 

Defining the Antagonist

The antagonist is the primary source of opposition in a story, standing in direct conflict with the protagonist’s goals, desires, and values. A well-crafted antagonist is a complex character with their own motivations, backstory, and inner turmoil. They challenge the protagonist, which tests the hero’s resolve and drives the narrative forward.

Understanding Motivations and Goals

An antagonist cannot exist only as a thorn in the protagonist’s side. To write a great antagonist is fiction, he/she/they/it must be driven by their own set of goals and motivations. That might be power, revenge, redemption, total destruction (Twister!), or something more elusive. These motivations are the driving force behind the antagonist’s actions. They shape their character arc and influence all their interactions with the other characters in the story. As you write, you want to explore the antagonist’s motivations so you transform him/her/they/it from a faceless, nameless foe into a fully realized character.

Creating Sympathetic Villains

When you really think about it, the most compelling villains are the ones who possess qualities the reader can relate to. No one, save the psychopath or sociopath, is all bad. This means you have to make them human. Allow them to evoke sympathy. This type of antagonist–the ones with morally ambiguous actions that are rooted in relatable motivations, allows readers to see the world through their perspective. Yes, they are still pursuing goals that clash with the protagonist’s, but the reader understands why it’s all happening. This is the power behind a supervillain’s origin story.

Cultivating Conflict and Tension

Storytelling depends on conflict. Conflict is what drives the plot forward. The antagonist is the primary source of conflict within a story. This can happen through direct confrontations, psychological warfare, or even moral dilemmas. They act as a catalyst for the essential conflicts that keep readers glued to their seats, turning the pages. Conflict is what drives the plot forward. It also creates opportunities for the hero to undergo significant character development and gain emotional depth.

Honing Complexity and Depth

So, how do you write a strong antagonist? Give them their motivations and goals. To make them complex, think about their personality, the details of their backstory, and the personal obstacles they’ve faced. Complicated antagonists are shaped by past traumas, as well as present circumstances. When you build in layers, you add depth to the antagonist’s character. You make them memorable and engaging.

Mirroring the Protagonist

The antagonist is a shadow character to the protagonist. They can present opposing traits or philosophies to the hero. This reflection enhances the thematic depth of the story and highlights the protagonist’s traits and growth. Strong antagonists are as well-developed as the heroes. They provide a counterbalance that can enrich your narrative.

To Wrap Up

When you write a strong, compelling antagonist in your fiction, you provide significant conflict and depth which enhances your narrative. The villain characters, whatever that means (again, person, place, or thing) do not exist only to present obstacles for the protagonist; they are pivotal characters who drive the story forward. They offer a complex counterpoint to the hero’s journey.

So, as you craft your stories, think about the transformative effect a well-developed antagonist can have, both for your story and for the reader. That’s how you write a strong antagonist in fiction!

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Read this article on character development.

How to Build a Killer Writing Routine

As an author, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find the time and motivation to write consistently. When I first started writing, I worked full-time as a teacher, and I had five kids at home. To say I was busy is an understatement! Whether you’re juggling a full-time job, family responsibilities, or other life commitments, creating a killer writing routine can help you make progress with your writing project. In fact, it can make all the difference. In this article, I’ll share some tips and strategies to help you build a writing routine that promotes consistency and productivity. If you like podcasts, listen to The WriterSpark Podcast on this subject.

Importance of a Writing Routine

First things first, why is having a writing routine so important? Think of a writing routine as a roadmap for your writing journey. A routine helps you stay focused, reduces procrastination, and helps you make consistent progress. When you treat writing like any other important task in your life, you’re more likely to prioritize it, right?

Right.

It’s all about creating a habit. Atomic Habits, anyone? Stack those habits until they become part of your life. Once writing becomes a part of your daily routine, it feels more natural and less like a chore. If writing feels like a chore, that’s something to really think about. Why is it a chore and not a joy?

Time Management Strategies

One common challenge writers face is finding time to write given their busy schedules. Here are a few of my time management strategies:

1. The Pomodoro Technique: One of my favorite strategies is the Pomodoro Technique, which breaks writing time into focused bursts of 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break. After four cycles, you take a longer break. It’s great for maintaining focus and preventing burnout. You can do 15 minutes, or 20, or whatever works for you. People also call these writing sprints. Turn off your social media, silence your notifications, and set a time. During those sprints, focus. You’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish like this! Use this online timer to help you!

2. Time Blocking: Another great strategy that can have a positive impact on your progress and

productivity is time blocking. This is where you set aside specific blocks of time in your daily or weekly calendar dedicated solely to writing. Time blocking ensures that writing time is non-negotiable. Also, consider tracking your time to see where it’s going. This can help you identify and eliminate time-wasting activities.

3. Communicate Your Schedule: When you communicate your schedule with the people in your life, you’re letting them know how important this is. Let them know when you’re unavailable to minimize interruptions. Creating a supportive environment with supportive folks is key.

Tools and Apps to Support Writing Habits

Now, let’s move on to some tools and apps that can help you build killer writing routines and habits:

1. Scrivener: For distraction-free writing, I highly recommend Scrivener. It’s a powerful tool that helps you organize your manuscript, research, and notes all in one place. There are so many reasons to love Scrivener. Listen to the podcast episode on this topic to hear a bit more about this writing tool.

2. Evernote: I often use Evernote for jotting down ideas and organizing my research. I use it to keep track of hashtags, SEO keywords, and so much more. It’s a great notetaking tool that is super efficient. It syncs across all your devices (depending on your plan), so you always have access to your notes.

3. Trello and Notion: For goal setting and tracking progress, try using an app like Trello or Notion. These allow you to create boards and lists to keep track of your writing projects and deadlines. I love my physical planner, but if your brain works well with an online productivity platform, these are definitely for you.

4. Focus@Will and Brain FM: Two other apps I like are Focus@Will and Brain FM, both of which provide background music…but not just any music. It’s music that’s scientifically designed to improve concentration. I’m here to tell you that they really work! They help you focus. All the better if you combine one of these tools with your writing sprints!

Real-Life Examples and Tips

Before we wrap up, I have some real-life examples and tips for you. Here’s how I’ve personally built a successful writing routine:

1. Set Small, Achievable Goals: When I first began writing, I had kids at home and a job. I started by setting small, achievable goals for myself. I started small, aiming for 250 words a day. The small wins helped me make progress and up my goals.

2. Write at the Same Time Every Day: Writing at the same time every day helps reinforce the habit. It becomes a part of your daily schedule. I’m not the type of person who can get up at 5 AM (no 5 AM club for me!) and write for an hour. Instead of fighting against my natural inclinations, I didn’t force them. Instead, I wrote after my kids were in bed. It just comes down to creating a routine that works for you.

3. Create a Dedicated Writing Space: I’ve found that having a dedicated writing space, free from distractions, really helps me stay focused. I work best when I’m in my little office. If you don’t have a separate office space, find a space in your home that you can claim as yours…just for your writing.

4. Be Flexible and Give Yourself Grace: Don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a day or if your routine goes off the rails once in a while. Life happens, and it’s important to be flexible and forgiving. Consistency is key, but it’s also important to enjoy the process. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Writing should be a joy, not a burden.

The Takeaway

Building a killer writing routine is all about:

1. Finding what works best for you
2. Sticking with it

I hope you found these tips and strategies helpful in creating your own routine. Remember, it’s a journey, and every step you take brings you closer to your writing goals. Happy writing!

Want more? Check our collection of articles HERE!

Recommended Books:

• Scrivener for Dummies by Gwen Hernandez
• Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by David Allen

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How to Use a Canva Template That’s Been Shared With You–A Step-by-Step Guide

Do you use Canva? Are you hooked like I am? If you’re here, you are curious about how to use a shared Canva template. Trust me, it’s easy-peasy! Canva is an amazing tool that lets you create beautiful graphics. You will look like a pro! Using a shared template can save you tons of time and effort. Use my step-by-step guide below to help you get started so you can save time or level up your creativity.

(Check out my Etsy listing with 100 social media prompts and 90 Social Media templates)

Step 1: Open the Template Link

First things first, you’ll need to click on the link to the Canva template that’s been shared with you. If you’re not already logged into your Canva account, you’ll be prompted to do so. If you don’t have an account, fear not. It’s easy to create a free (yes, completely FREE!) account. Once you’re logged in, the template will open up.

Step 2: Make a Copy of the Template

Before you start customizing, make a copy! When the template opens, you’ll see a preview of the design. Duplicate it so the original stays intact, and you can always go back to it if needed. To do this, just click on the “File” menu at the top left corner and select “Make a copy.” Use this copy to customize the template.

It’s really that simple. Now comes the fun part—customizing the template to fit your needs!

Step 3: Customize the Text

Start with the text. Click on any text box to edit it. You can change the font, size, color, and alignment using the options that appear at the top of the screen. Canva has SO many free fonts. (If the template you’re using has custom or Pro-level fonts, those will not be editable. The little crown next to a font in the sidebar indicates it’s a Pro font.

Experiment until you find the font(s) that match your style. Once you have your fonts, customize text and any placeholder text with your own content.

Step 4: Swap Out Images

If the template you’re using includes images you want to switch out, or placeholders for images, you can either use images from Canva’s library or upload your own. Click on the image you want to change, then click “Uploads” in the left-hand panel to upload your own photos/book covers. If you want to use one of Canva’s images, just click on it or drag and drop it into the placeholder or into position. It will automatically replace the old one. From there you can adjust the size, position, and crop to fit the design perfectly.

Step 5: Adjust Colors and Backgrounds

To make the template truly your own, adjust the colors to match your brand or personal preference. Click on any element you want to change, then use the color picker tool at the top to select a new color. If your template includes background colors or patterns, you can change these too by selecting the background and choosing a new color or pattern from the “Background” tab.

Step 6: Add Additional Elements

Want to add something not on the template? You can do that. Use Canva icons, shapes, lines, and illustrations under the “Elements” tab on the left. Click on or just drag and drop them onto your design. You can resize and/or reposition as needed. If you want to add your own images, use the Upload Files tab in the left panel.

Step 7: Save and Download Your Design

Once you’re happy and finished, save your design. If you’re ready, download it. Click on the “Download” button in the top right corner and select your file type ( PNG, JPEG, PDF+).

Best Practices for Using Shared Canva Templates

1. Stick to Your Brand: Use your brand’s colors, fonts, and tone of voice to maintain consistency. You can set up brand colors and fonts, as well. With all the options on Canva, it’s easy to go and go and go. Remember, less is often more!
2. Check for Copyright: Make sure you understand Canva’s usage policies. You can read more HERE.
3. Keep it Simple: Again, sometimes less is more! Avoid overcrowding your design with too much text or too many elements. A clean, simple design often looks more professional and is easier to read.
4. Proofread Everything: Double-check all the text for typos, spelling errors, and grammatical mistakes. It’s easy to overlook small errors.
5. Save Multiple Versions: If you’re working on something complicated, consider saving multiple versions as you go. This will allow you to easily revert to a previous version if you need to.

To Wrap Up

Shared Canva templates are great! They can help you level up your design, and save precious time. Happy designing!

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Writing is an art that requires not only creativity and skill but also a great deal of perseverance and inspiration. Aspiring writers often look to the words of seasoned authors for motivation and guidance. I know I did…and still do seek inspirational quotes about all things writing related.

Well-known writers have shared profound insights into the writing process, offering encouragement, wisdom, and sometimes a touch of humor. In this blog post, I’ve curated a list of inspirational quotes from well-known authors that capture the essence of the writing journey.

If you’re a novice writer, let these quotes ignite your passion for writing. If you’re an experienced writer, let them remind you why you started this creative endeavor in the first place. Dive in and let the words inspire you to keep writing and telling your unique story.

Ernest Hemingway: “There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.”

Carl Sagan: “Writing is perhaps the greatest of human inventions, binding together people, citizens of distant epochs, who never knew one another. Books break the shackles of time — proof that humans can work magic.”

Stephen King: “If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot.”

Maya Angelou: “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”

Toni Morrison: “If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.”J.K. Rowling: “The stories we love best do live in us forever.”

Anne Lamott: “Almost all good writing begins with terrible first efforts. You need to start somewhere.”

Neil Gaiman: “The one thing that you have that nobody else has is you. Your voice, your mind, your story, your vision.”

George Orwell: “Writing a book is a horrible, exhausting struggle, like a long bout of some painful illness. One would never undertake such a thing if one were not driven on by some demon whom one can neither resist nor understand.”

Ray Bradbury: “You must stay drunk on writing so reality cannot destroy you.”

Stephen King: “If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot.”​

Barbara Kingsolver: “Close the door. Write with no one looking over your shoulder. Don’t try to figure out what other people want to hear from you; figure out what you have to say. It’s the one and only thing you have to offer.”​​

Cory Doctorow: “Write even when the world is chaotic.”​

Margaret Atwood: “A word after a word after a word is power.”​

Isaac Asimov: “Writing, to me, is simply thinking through my fingers.”