When you’re a multi-passionate writer, goal-setting is imperative. Otherwise, you’ll end up saying yes to everything and, most likely, accomplishing nothing.

As a multi-passionate writer, I try to set goals each month in four categories: BLOG (blog and social media goals), BOOK (goals related to the book I’m working on), BYLINE (freelance writing goals), and BIZ (goals for See Jane Write LLC). And I typically have a BODY goal, too, related to health and fitness.

Last month was supposed to be “All-In August” for me. But when I look at my progress with my goals for last month, it was more like “Half-Assed August.”

I was supposed to be consistent on Twitter for three weeks, but I only stuck with it for one week. I was supposed to send 4 pitches to publications I haven’t written for before, but I only sent one. I was supposed to create a new lead magnet; I started but didn’t finish. And I didn’t work on my book at all (unless you count thinking about it during my daily walks).

Nonetheless, I am celebrating the things I did accomplish. I met all of my freelance writing deadlines. I hosted a journaling challenge for the See Jane Write Network. I signed on two coaching clients. And I saw my byline on HerMoney.com. So, whether you conquered all of your August goals or not, I want to encourage you to take time to celebrate your small wins. 

But now, it’s time to set some goals and plans for September.

September Goals & Plans

Yesterday, I had to give myself some tough love. I asked myself, “Why are you more committed to walking than you are to writing?”

You see, I have walked for exercise for at least 30 minutes every single day this year – despite the fact that I’m battling breast cancer. I walked the day I had a lumpectomy. I walked the day I had surgery for my chemo port placement. And I’ve walked on chemo days and on days when the side effects from chemo left me feeling like trash.

Yet, I can count on one hand how many times I’ve sat down to work on my book this year.

What is wrong with you, girl!? That’s what I had to ask the mirror.

Honestly, I don’t know the answer. I’m not sure what’s holding me back. But I’ve decided that this month I will make writing my book as much of a priority as walking my miles. This month, I’m challenging myself to work on my book every day for at least 30 minutes.

Here’s a look at all of my goals and plans for September.

September Goals

Work on my book for at least 30 minutes every day.

Send pitches to 4 publications I’ve never written for.

Create and promote a new lead magnet.

Publish 13 blog posts.

Walk for exercise for at least 30 minutes every day.

September Plans

Host the See Jane Write Instagram Challenge.

Lead two virtual essay writing workshops with Reckon Women (details coming soon!)

Raise $800 for The Women’s Fund.

Solicit essays for a Reckon Women breast cancer series.

Prepare for the See Jane Write Collective fall launch.

My Top Tips for Goal Setting and Slaying

As you set your goals for September and work on your master plan to accomplish them, here are some things to keep in mind:

Embrace the freedom of focus. With goal setting, less is more. Try not to set more than four goals. This allows you to get laser focused. If you set four goals for the month, for example, you can focus on one per week.

Be action-oriented. Set action goals instead of aspirational goals. That means set goals for which you completely control the outcome. So, instead of setting the goal of landing a literary agent, a book deal, or a new freelance gig, set a goal of sending out a certain number of query letters or pitches.

Keep your goals in sight – literally. Write your goals down on a piece of paper or index card (or both) and post your goals someplace where you will constantly see them. Also, be sure to review your goals throughout the day or once in the morning and once before bed.

Plan for success. Be sure to review your goals when you’re planning your week and creating your schedule for each day. Include tasks on a weekly and daily basis that will help you accomplish your goals for the month.

Take imperfect action. Don’t let perfectionism hold you back. Progress over pride! Just do it!

Get accountability. Share your goals with the See Jane Write Network, a friend, or an accountability partner so you’ll have someone checking on your progress and cheering you on throughout the month.

Treat yourself. Plan a nice reward for yourself for accomplishing your goals for the month. 

What are your goals and plans for September?