The Mid-Year Manuscript Check-In: Are You On Track?
It’s hard to believe we’re already more than halfway through the year! Summer often brings a welcome shift in rhythm—longer days, looser schedules, and (hopefully!) more time to read, write, or reflect. That makes it the perfect moment to check in with your writing goals.
Whether you started 2025 with a clear plan or simply hoped to “write more,” a mid-year review can offer clarity, encouragement, and direction for the rest of the year.
Here’s a simple framework to help you assess where you are—and where you’d like to go.
1. Take Stock of What You’ve Done
Look back at the past six (seven?!) months and ask:
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What have I written? (Drafts, revisions, brainstorming sessions—all count!)
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How many submissions have I sent out?
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Did I attend any workshops, critique groups, or conferences?
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Did I learn something new about the craft or industry?
Tip: If you keep a writing log or planner, flip through it now. If not, try reconstructing your activity from memory or emails—it’s often more than you think.
2. Identify What’s Stalled
Most of us have at least one project gathering digital dust. Ask:
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What projects did I hope to finish or send out that haven’t moved forward?
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Is there a manuscript I keep avoiding? Why?
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Have I been stuck in perfectionism, procrastination, or paralysis?
Name the roadblocks without judgment. Awareness is the first step toward momentum.
3. Revisit (or Set) Your 2025 Writing Goals
If you set specific goals in January, revisit them. Are they still relevant? Do they need adjusting?
If you didn’t set goals, it’s not too late. Try choosing three clear intentions for the second half of the year.
For example:
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Revise and submit my manuscript to three agents or editors
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Attend at least one webinar or writing retreat
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Draft two new picture book manuscripts
Keep them achievable and measurable. Success breeds momentum.
4. Celebrate Every Win
Progress in publishing can feel slow and invisible—but that doesn’t mean it’s not happening.
Did you finish a tough revision?
Receive encouraging feedback, even in a rejection?
Show up to write when it wasn’t easy?
That counts.
Give yourself credit. You’re building your writing life word by word.
What’s one writing win you’re proud of this year so far? Or one goal you’re setting for the second half of 2025? Share it in the comments!
Until next time, keep writing…
