As a writer, I feel like upping my word count is on my list of resolutions every single year. Yet once January makes way for February, I’m back to square one – disappointed and with a handful of writing projects left unfinished. Well, not this year! I’m utilizing the following five “hacks” to help me reach my writing goals in 2026 – and I’m sharing them here so we can reach up our word count goals together!
Find a new writing spot.
Personally, I thrive in public writing spaces. I love a café, with soft music and the smell of coffee brewing. If you don’t want to shell out the eight bucks for a latte, however, your local public library is a great alternative. While you’re there, sign up for a library card as well. If we don’t use these spaces, we will lose them!
If you’re more of a homebody, that’s totally fine! Set up a cozy corner and designate that as your “writing corner”. Make sure it’s stocked with everything you need to be productive.
Find inspiration by re-reading your faves.
Is there a specific book that inspired you to write? Re-read it. That author who’s work you admire? Go to the library and check-out every book of theirs they have. This is a great way to re-light that fire that dims time to time as we’re fulfilling our daily obligations.
Find an accountability buddy.
Tell your partner or a friend about your writing goals, and have them check in on you about your progress. Having to repeatedly tell somebody you didn’t make your word count goal is not fun.
Don’t forget to take breaks!
I mean take REAL breaks. No phones, no distractions. You can’t write about life if you never take time to live it now and again.
Hope these help! If you any more tips or tricks, leave them in the comments below and good luck to all in 2026!
