Dear I Have Notes,

I’m new to writing in the creative sense. I’ve given myself goals, such as writing creatively a couple of times a month, and reading novels, since I’m interested in writing a novel. Does this seem like a decent way to start writing? Do you have any other suggestions? Is it ridiculous and presumptuous to try to write with a completely unrelated full-time job?

— Looking for Guidance

Dear Looking,

Reading and writing on a schedule that makes sense for you is exactly what you should be doing. If writing a couple of times a month is what works for you now, that’s great—it’s important to set goals that feel achievable, because that is how you will begin to establish a routine.

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