As writers, we often get so focused on what’s ahead, finishing the next chapter, hitting deadlines, or chasing that big publishing goal, that we forget to look back. But pausing to reflect on how far you’ve come is not just a “nice-to-do” activity. It's essential for staying motivated and grounded on your writing journey.
Whether you’re a newbie or have been writing for years, celebrating your progress and achievements can fuel your creativity and keep you moving forward. No matter what challenges come your way.
Why Reflection is Essential for Writers
1. It Builds Momentum
Acknowledging small wins can have a big impact. Completing that tricky scene, sticking to a daily writing habit, or brainstorming a great plot twist are all victories that deserve recognition. Reflecting on these moments reminds you of your ability to push through and create, even on tough days.
2. It Helps You Overcome Challenges
Writing is not always smooth sailing. We face doubts, rejections, and moments when the words won’t come. Looking back at past challenges you’ve overcome shows you that you’re capable of navigating setbacks and finding your way forward.
3. It Reaffirms Your Purpose
Why did you start writing in the first place? Reflection can help reconnect you to your “why.” It’s a chance to revisit the joy, passion, or sense of purpose that writing brings into your life—and to see how your voice has evolved.
How to Reflect on Your Writing Progress
1. Make Time for Reflection
Schedule regular check-ins with yourself. This could be weekly, monthly, or even at the end of each writing session. The key is to make it a habit.
2. Start a Reflection Journal
Use writing prompts to guide your thoughts. For example:
What am I most proud of from my recent writing sessions?
What challenges did I face, and how did I overcome them?
How has my writing improved since I started?
3. Review Your Past Work
Dig out old drafts, blog posts, or stories. Comparing them to your recent work can be a powerful way to see your growth in action. Look for improvements in voice, structure, or creativity—it’s proof that your hard work is paying off.
Celebrating Achievements Big and Small
1. Honor Your Milestones
Publishing your first blog post, finishing a draft, or submitting to a contest are significant achievements. Celebrate these moments in meaningful ways—whether it’s treating yourself to your favorite coffee or sharing your success with your community.
2. Don’t Overlook Daily Wins
The smaller victories, like sticking to your writing schedule or figuring out a tricky plot point, are just as important. They keep you moving forward and add up over time.
3. Track Your Growth
Use tools like word count trackers, progress charts, or reflection journals to visualize your progress. Seeing the numbers or pages stack up is incredibly motivating.
Using Reflection to Stay Motivated
1. Set New Goals
Reflection isn’t just about looking back—it’s also about looking forward. Use what you’ve learned to set intentional goals for the future. Maybe you want to try a new genre, write every day for a month, or submit to a literary magazine.
2. Surround Yourself with Inspiration
Create a vision board, save inspiring quotes, or build a playlist that reminds you of why you write. Keep reminders of your progress visible to motivate you when the going gets tough.
3. Share Your Wins
Connecting with other writers can amplify your motivation. Share your progress in a writing group, on social media, or with a trusted friend. Encouragement from others can be a powerful boost.
Actionable Steps to Start Reflecting Today
Here are some simple ways to begin reflecting on your writing progress:
Write a journal entry answering, “What’s one thing I’m proud of this week?”
Review a piece of writing from a year ago and note three ways you’ve improved.
Create a “writing wins” list to celebrate your milestones, big and small.
Set one actionable goal inspired by your reflections.
Keep Moving Forward
Reflecting on your writing journey is not about dwelling on the past—it’s about celebrating your growth, learning from your challenges, and staying motivated for what’s ahead. Remember, every word you write, every lesson you learn, and every small step you take is progress.
Take a moment today to celebrate how far you’ve come. You’re doing the work, and that’s something to be proud of. Now, let’s keep writing!
What’s one writing achievement you’re proud of? Share it in the comments—I’d love to celebrate with you!
Resources
For years, I loved making YouTube videos. Whether I was showing a natural hairstyle, a crochet or beaded project or I was just talking about whatever was on my mind. The quality of my videos wasn’t always the best, so I have been exploring faceless videos. Haygen is the software that I’m thinking about trying.
If I make a short video of myself looking kinda cute. I can upload it into Heygen, and it can create a clone of me. That way all I have to do is write a script and it will make the video for me using my face and voice. This is why I love technology.
Until Next Time
Have a good day, good person. And happy writing!
Notes You May Have Missed
My Book
Susie Winfield’s Mysteries
Wrongful Accusations - All Chapters
Write on the Scene
Are You Afraid You Don’t Have What It Takes to Make a Living Writing?
I'm planning to have it done by mid-December for my beta readers.
Getting to the formatting and polishing stage of my first book, Silent Courage.