Most writers know that making real progress in their writing requires more than just dedication and talent – sometimes, it’s about having the right support system and structured approach to keep moving forward.
Many believe that simply forcing themselves to sit down and write every day will lead to a finished draft. While consistency is important, it’s not the only factor. The truth is, having a clear plan and a built-in support system helps maintain momentum and drive meaningful progress. If it were just about sheer effort, more writers would have completed manuscripts sitting on their desks.
So, what actually works?
According to research, one of the most effective factors in achieving big goals – like making consistent progress in writing – is setting and sharing goals, having accountability, and surrounding yourself with a structured support system.
Let’s break down why – and how you can use this insight to stay on track with your writing.
Why Some Writers Make Progress (And Others Don’t)
A fascinating study by Dr. Gail Matthews at Dominican University found that people who wrote down their goals, created action plans, and checked in with a supportive network were 76% more likely to achieve them — 33% more than those who went at it alone. Michigan State University Extension reinforces this approach, promoting goal-setting strategies that emphasize writing down SMART goals, creating structured action steps, and building a supportive network to increase the likelihood of success. (MSU Goal-Setting Study)
Writers don’t just need time to write. They need a structured approach, accountability, and a support system to maintain momentum.
Yet, so many writers still try to do it alone.
They tell themselves they just need more discipline. They try to squeeze writing into their already packed schedules. They promise to “get back to it soon.” But without a structured writing environment, accountability, and a community to lean on, progress remains inconsistent.
How to Create a System That Works
Write It Down & Make a Plan
It’s not enough to say “I want to write more.” Research shows that setting a clear, written goal shifts your mindset from wishing to committing. Instead of “someday,” your writing becomes a priority.
Build Accountability Into Your Routine
Let’s be honest: it’s easy to break promises to yourself. But when someone is expecting you to show up, you’re far more likely to follow through. Writers who check in with a structured support system – whether through scheduled writing sessions, a coach, or a writing partner – make more progress and stay consistent.Make Writing a Habit, Not a Hustle
Most writers make the mistake of setting huge, unrealistic goals (“I’ll write 1,000 words a day”) and then feel discouraged when they can’t keep up. Instead, small, daily progress builds momentum. Writing doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle – it can be a natural, structured part of your day like making coffee or checking your email.
Surround Yourself With Other Writers (Because Environment Matters)
Flannery O’Connor once said, “The isolated imagination is easily corrupted by theory, but the writer inside his community seldom has such a problem.”
If you’ve ever tried to write in a noisy coffee shop or with kids running around, you know how much your environment impacts your focus.
But what about your creative environment?
Research shows that who you surround yourself with influences your success. If you spend time with writers who are actively working toward their goals, you’ll naturally start modeling their habits and discipline.
On the flip side, if you’re the only writer in your life – or if you’re surrounded by people who don’t take your writing seriously – it’s easy to lose motivation.
The solution? Find a structured writing community.
It could be ANY online community, a local meetup, or a structured program – what matters is that you find a writing space that resonates with you. A group that aligns with your creative goals, writing style, and the kind of support you need will help you stay inspired, accountable, and moving forward.
Because accountability and goal-setting are most effective when shared with a supportive writing community.
Stop Waiting, Start Writing
Every writer dreams of making real progress. But dreaming alone won’t put words on the page – taking action will.
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to write, here’s a little reminder: there’s no such thing as the perfect time.Life will always be busy. Doubt will always sneak in. But the only way forward is to start—right where you are, with whatever time and energy you have.
The writers who finish aren’t necessarily the most disciplined or the most talented. They’re the ones who build a structured writing environment that helps them keep going. They don’t wait for inspiration—they create habits that make writing feel natural, even on the tough days.
So here’s a question to ask yourself: What small step can I take today to move forward?
Because your story is waiting for you. And trust me – you can do this.
Leave a Reply