Quartz 4

20. Write a short story

4 min read

links: Home tags: in_progress

Summary: Write a short story - publish What: Write a short story that I would be proud to publish Purpose: To cultivate a habit of daily writing Start Date: 2024-08-18 Target Date: 2024-08-31 Milestones: 2024-08-25 Measurement of Success: Published short story Steps to Achieve: See below Research Resources Needed: GDocs Potential Challenges: Motivation Solutions to Challenges: Review and Adjustments:

Reference (to delete)

Goal Definition Framework

  1. Goal Statement

    • Summary: A concise, one-sentence description of the goal.
    • Example: Hold a plank position for 5 minutes.

  2. Detailed Description

    • What: Explain what the goal entails.
    • Example: Increase core strength and endurance to maintain a plank position for a continuous duration of 5 minutes.

  3. Why

    • Purpose: Clarify why this goal is important to you.
    • Example: Improve overall fitness, enhance core strength, and achieve a personal milestone in physical endurance.

  4. Start Date

    • When you plan to begin working towards the goal.
    • Example: July 15, 2024.

  5. Target Date

    • When you aim to achieve the goal.
    • Example: December 31, 2024.

  6. Milestones

    • Intermediate Steps: Break the goal into smaller, manageable steps.
    • Example:
      • Hold a plank for 1 minute by August 1, 2024.
      • Hold a plank for 2 minutes by September 1, 2024.
      • Hold a plank for 3 minutes by October 1, 2024.
      • Hold a plank for 4 minutes by November 1, 2024.

  7. Measurement of Success

    • Criteria: Define how you will measure and know when the goal is achieved.
    • Example: Successfully maintain a plank position for 5 continuous minutes without breaking form.

  8. Action Plan

    • Steps to Achieve: List the specific actions you will take.
    • Example:
      • Follow a core strength training program 3 times a week.
      • Gradually increase plank hold times by 10-15 seconds each week.
      • Incorporate complementary exercises such as leg raises and sit-ups.

  9. Resources Needed

    • What you need to accomplish the goal.
    • Example: Yoga mat, fitness tracker, plank training app, guidance from a fitness instructor.

  10. Potential Challenges

    • Identify Obstacles: Anticipate any challenges that might arise.
    • Example: Time constraints, potential for injury, maintaining motivation.

  11. Solutions to Challenges

    • Plan: Outline how you will address potential challenges.
    • Example: Set a consistent workout schedule, learn proper form to avoid injury, track progress to stay motivated.

  12. Review and Adjustments

    • Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular reviews to assess progress and make necessary adjustments.
    • Example: Review progress every two weeks and adjust the training plan as needed to stay on track.

Research

Writing a short story is a great creative goal! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve it:

1. Choose Your Genre and Theme

  • Genre: Decide what genre you want to write in (e.g., fantasy, sci-fi, romance, thriller).
  • Theme: Think about the main message or idea you want to convey.

2. Develop Your Characters

  • Protagonist: Create a main character with clear goals, desires, and challenges.
  • Supporting Characters: Add other characters who will influence or interact with the protagonist.

3. Outline the Plot

  • Beginning: Introduce the characters and setting, and set up the main conflict.
  • Middle: Develop the conflict and show the protagonist facing challenges.
  • End: Resolve the conflict and show the outcome for the characters.

4. Write a First Draft

  • Set a Daily Word Count: Aim to write a set amount each day (e.g., 500 words).
  • Don’t Worry About Perfection: Focus on getting your ideas down, even if they’re not perfect.

5. Revise and Edit

  • Take a Break: After finishing the first draft, take a few days off before revising.
  • Revise for Structure: Make sure the story flows well and the plot makes sense.
  • Edit for Language: Check for grammar, punctuation, and clarity.

6. Get Feedback

  • Share with Friends or Writing Groups: Get opinions from others who can provide constructive feedback.

7. Finalize and Polish

  • Incorporate Feedback: Make necessary changes based on the feedback you received.
  • Proofread: Do a final check for any lingering errors.

8. Consider Publishing or Sharing

  • Self-Publish: You can publish your story online through platforms like Wattpad or Medium.
  • Submit to Magazines: Consider submitting your story to literary magazines or contests.

9. Set a Timeline

  • Deadline: Set a realistic deadline to keep yourself on track.

10. Enjoy the Process

  • Celebrate Milestones: Reward yourself for completing each stage of the process.
  • Keep Learning: Read other short stories and continue improving your craft.

If you’re ready to dive in, start by brainstorming your story idea and getting your first few sentences on paper!

Graph View

Backlinks