10 New Year's Goals for Writers That Will Make 2026 Your Best Year Yet

As the clock strikes midnight on December 31, and we step into 2026, there's something electric in the air. A fresh start. A blank page. For writers, this isn't just another year—it's an opportunity to transform your craft, your mindset, and your career into something extraordinary.

But why will 2026 be your best year? Because the publishing world is evolving faster than ever. Indie tools are more powerful, reader communities are more connected, and AI is handling the grunt work, freeing you to focus on what you love: storytelling. With intentional goals, you can ride this wave. Below, I'll share 10 actionable goals, each with tips, real stories from writers who've succeeded, and reasons why pursuing them now will lead to breakthroughs in the coming year.

Set a Daily Writing Habit (And Stick to It)

Consistency beats inspiration every time. In 2026, commit to writing every day, even if it's just 300 words.

Why this makes 2026 your best: Daily habits build momentum. Science shows it takes about 66 days to form one, so starting January 1 sets you up for a prolific year. Remember Andy Weir? He wrote The Martian in daily snippets during his commute. That habit turned a side project into a bestseller and blockbuster. Tip: Use apps like Habitica to gamify it, or pair writing with your morning coffee. By year's end, you'll have a finished manuscript—or two.

Build (or Grow) Your Author Platform

Your platform is your megaphone. Aim to add 1,000 subscribers to your email list or followers on one social channel.

Why 2026 is prime: TikTok's BookTok exploded in 2025, driving millions of sales. Platforms like Substack and Patreon are booming for writers. Colleen Hoover grew her empire through organic social sharing—start small, post consistently about your process. Tip: Offer a free short story magnet on StoryOrigin. This year, focus on one platform where your readers hang out.

Experiment with New Marketing Tactics

Don't rely on the same old ads. Try one new strategy quarterly, like TikTok reels or newsletter swaps.

Why this year rocks for marketing: Algorithms favor fresh content in 2026, and indies are crushing it with cross-promos. Hugh Howey self-published Wool and used free serials to build buzz—leading to massive success. Tip: Join StoryOrigin for free swaps—authors report 200-500 new subs per promo. Track what works; ditch what doesn't.

Read More (And Read Wider)

Read 50 books this year, mixing genres and indie authors.

Why 2026 is your reading renaissance: With AI summaries and audio speeds, you can consume more. Reading fuels creativity—Stephen King reads 70+ books yearly and credits it for his ideas. Tip: Join Goodreads challenges or indie review groups. Mix classics with new indies to spark fresh inspiration.

Collaborate with Other Writers

Team up for a promo, co-write a short, or join a critique group.

Why collaboration explodes in 2026: Indie communities are stronger than ever (e.g., 20BooksTo50K). J.D. Barker co-wrote with James Patterson and skyrocketed—indies can do the same. Tip: Use Discord or Facebook groups for partners. A simple swap can double your reach.

Prioritize Self-Care to Avoid Burnout

Schedule weekly "recharge" time—no writing allowed.

Why this makes 2026 sustainable: Burnout killed many careers in 2025; self-care is the new productivity hack. Elizabeth Gilbert took breaks and came back stronger. Tip: Walks, meditation apps, or hobby days. A rested mind writes better.

Track Your Metrics (But Don't Obsess)

Log sales, reviews, and subs monthly.

Why data wins in 2026: Tools like Publisher Rocket make it easy. Brandon Sanderson tracks everything and adjusts—leading to empire-building. Tip: Simple spreadsheet: "What worked this month?" Focus on trends, not daily dips.

Diversify Your Income Streams

Add merch, audiobooks, or courses.

Why 2026 is diversification year: Indies like Lindsay Buroker earn 6-figures from bundles/merch. Your cozy fantasy? Think speckleplum stickers or fey-themed mugs. Tip: Start small with Payhip extras.

Give Back to the Community

Review indies, mentor newbies, or donate proceeds.

Why it pays off: Positivity circles back. Neil Gaiman shares advice freely and built a loyal fanbase. Tip: Join indie support groups—karma brings opportunities.

Celebrate Every Milestone

Throw a party for each goal hit.

Why 2026 will be joyful: Celebration reinforces wins. J.K. Rowling celebrated her first agent query—look where it led. Tip: Small rewards like a fancy tea for 1,000 words.

This isn't just a list—it's a roadmap to make 2026 your breakthrough year. The tools are here, the community is ready, and your stories deserve to shine. You've got this—one word at a time.

What's your top goal for the new year? Share in the comments—I'd love to cheer you on.