A Step-by-Step Guide to Effective Annual Planning for Writers

by Susan U. Neal RN, MBA, MHS @SusanNealYoga

The dawn of a new year is a powerful time—a season of reflection, evaluation, and preparation. It’s a moment to pause and consider the year behind us, celebrate the wins, learn from the challenges, and prayerfully set a course for the year ahead. For those of us who write or work in ministry, this is an opportunity to align our plans with God’s will, ensuring our efforts are purposeful and impactful. Have you taken time yet to plan for 2025?

Setting Goals for a Successful Writing Year

by Kennita (Kay) Williams

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3

As writers, we often feel the pull of creativity and the weight of deadlines. The blank page can be both exhilarating and intimidating, and the idea of planning may seem restrictive in a world where inspiration is often viewed as spontaneous. Yet, Scripture reminds us of the power of intentionality, commitment, and trusting God with our plans.

6 Ways to Beat the Writing Blues

by Cindy K. Sproles @CindyDevoted

There's not a writer alive who hasn't sat in front of their computer and stared at a blank screen. It doesn't matter if they are a novice or a well-seasoned and successful writer. Sometimes, life pushes in directions that cause us to question ourselves and our calling.

It's important to remember that you aren't the only one in this dark hole. Finding ways to pull yourself out and renew your excitement for writing is key.

Best Resolution for Writers: Attend a Writing Conference This Year

by Larry J. Leech II @LarryJLeechII

Well, well, well. It’s that time of the year.

Make New Year’s Resolutions? Nope. Most were made late in 2024, and some people may have already broken theirs.

Set goals for 2025? It’s still early in the month, so I guess that could still be a thing.

Get ready for conference season? Ding, ding, ding. We have a winner, but sorry, no chicken dinner.

Writers, Pay Tribute

by Martin Wiles @LinesFromGod

I remember the day and the place. July 20, 1969. I was nine years old. Well, almost. In the middle of a hot Southern summer, I sat in our den, cooled, I’m sure, by a window air-conditioning unit, awaiting a historic moment in American history. 

The black-and-white 19-inch television sat on a shaky stand, not attached to a secure stud on a wall. I kneeled on our couch, awaiting the grand moment many Americans thought was NOT happening. Believe it or not, many thought no one had been flying around in space and certainly would not be walking on the moon’s surface. The government was pulling our leg. But I believed it—and wanted to see it. 

Sure enough, moment by moment, announcement by announcement, slowly, the monumental event unfolded. Apollo 11 landed on the moon, the hatch opened, an almost alien-like creature emerged, and humanity made their first step on the moon. Neil Armstrong said of the event, “One small step for man; one giant leap for mankind.” 

4 Ways for Writers to Stay Committed to New Year's Resolutions

by Beth Vogt @BethVogt

Anyone know what yesterday was?

The second Friday in January is known as “Quitters Day.” 

I know you’re wondering, “Why is that, Beth?” Don’t worry—I’ll tell you. 

Resolutions for Writers

by Lilka Raphael @Lilka_Raphael

New Year: a new chapter, new verse, or just the same old story? Ultimately 

we write it. The choice is ours.” Alex Morritt

Most people either love the optimism for change that accompanies a new year, or they hate the notion that they must reinvent themselves. The following resolutions aren’t ambitious, but they may spark innovative changes for your writing routine.