Whether you’re a serial resolution maker or breaker, this year we invite you to try something different. Ditch fleeting resolutions in favour of a realistic, professional approach to writing success.
Research highlights the power of approach-oriented resolutions. Rather than fixating on avoidance-based goals, like ‘stop using clichés in my writing,’ pivot to goals that focus on action and growth, such as ‘explore fresh and inventive ways to express my ideas.’ This positive approach encourages creativity and progress.
Up for a challenge? Here are five resolutions designed to encourage progress over perfection.
1. Take one step at a time
Make 2025 the year you take realistic steps toward your writing goals. Whether you want to polish a draft, hook an agent, or enter a competition, start by identifying the stepping stones that will get you there.
Week-by-week deadlines can help, and our progressive courses are designed to keep you on track: try Edit Your Novel to get submission-ready, Write and Submit a Short Story for that competition entry, or Write a Romance Novel to nail your meet-cute.
Not all journeys are linear, so don’t be discouraged by rejections. Frame each setback as a new learning experience and keep moving forward.
2. Set aside time for your dream project
Still have that idea rattling around at the back of your desk drawer? The one that pops into your head just as you’re drifting off to sleep? It’s time to dust it off and give it the attention it deserves.
Returning to an idea you can’t let go of isn’t always easy. In 2025, resist the bad habits that caused you to set it aside in the first place.
Most importantly, make time to focus consistently on your dream project.
We understand that carving out writing hours can be tough. That’s why our courses emphasise discipline and routines that work for your life. Courses like Jumpstart Your Novel are designed with that in mind, and our online campus is open 24/7 so you can write when it suits you.
3. Unleash the power of the community
Successful resolutions need support.
A problem shared is a problem halved, and sometimes the solution to your plot hole is just a fellow writer away.
Our courses are so much more than videos. As well as structured learning, you get:
- Peer-to-peer feedback – arguably the most important aspect of your learning
- Expert guidance from your tutor – the all-seeing eye
- Networking opportunities – an expert community at your fingertips
- 24/7 access to an online campus
- Q&As with industry experts – join live or watch back at your leisure
- Writers’ forums – make the most of our hive mind
- Continued support in our alumni area, speaking of which…
After completing a course, our dedicated alumni area and events programme helps you keep your momentum going. Alumni gain access to:
- Exclusive workshops and writing groups
- Live Q&A sessions with literary agents, bestselling authors, and industry professionals
- Curated resources to support your ongoing projects.
We’ve welcomed guests including A.Y. Chao, Lucy Steeds, James Aitcheson, Alwyn Hamilton, Jo Morey, Oli Munson, C.J. Skuse, Gyamfi Osei, Nadine Matheson, John Yorke, and many more — all sharing nuggets of wisdom.
Whether you’re polishing your first draft or preparing submissions, the alumni area is designed to support your writing goals long after your course ends.
4. Prioritise self-care
All creative endeavours share a common enemy: burnout. Make 2025 the year you learn how to recharge properly while giving your best to your writing.
Writing for wellbeing comes in many forms, and our short courses help you build resilience and navigate challenges. You’ll discover tools to boost your wellbeing while developing your writing craft.
5. Don’t strive for perfection
Many resolutions involve mastering new skills, and writing can feel like a constant pressure to become an instant expert.
Here’s a refreshing thought: you don’t need to master everything.
Writing should be about joy, exploration, and self-expression, without the weight of perfection.
Embrace the joy of writing and explore your creativity with our Creativity for Writers course. Free your inner genius and uncover the unexpected ideas and characters hiding in your subconscious.
Whether you love the tradition and optimism behind New Year’s resolutions or prefer to avoid setting rigid goals, 2025 is a blank page. Pick up your pen and start writing your story today.
