At the beginning of 2008, I referred you to an excellent article by Daphne Gray-Grant called “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Writers”. At the time, I created a schedule that included most of what she talked about: reading with the purpose of learning, plenty of research, writing rough drafts in short bursts, and reading my work aloud. I wanted to develop those habits. I don’t call them New Year’s Resolutions anymore, but they were new habits I wanted to develop.

So, halfway through September, how am I doing? (And if you made New Year’s goals, how are you doing?) Frankly, I should have done this scrutiny before now. I could have felt good about the successes. (I do fine at separating the writing and editing process, getting critiqued, and doing adequate research.) On the other hand, I stopped reading my work aloud, even though I found it very helpful during the editing process. I also gave up my study of language very quickly, so my “power of the metaphor” that Ms. Gray-Grant mentioned is missing. I have a great book on figurative language–but if I don’t study it, my language will remain where it currently snoozes.

So, today I’d encourage you to revisit whatever writing goals you made for this year. Reward yourself for any goals met or any ongoing goals you are keeping up with. For the others–the goals that have dropped by the wayside–re-evaluate them. Do they still seem important to you? Would you grow as a writer if you implemented these goals? Then do some noodling and doodling and figure out where in your schedule you can put them on a regular basis.

What 2008 goals are you achieving? What lagging goals need a shot in the arm?