There’s something about the start of a new year that feels special. That first fresh month is a chance to reset, reflect, and recommit to the things that matter most—including your writing.
But if you’re like many writers, it can also feel overwhelming. The blank calendar, the endless possibilities... where do you even begin?
For me, starting the year with a writing retreat has become a tradition that sets the tone for everything that follows. I have even held a mini-retreat for one out of my spare bedroom! I wasn’t always so intentional, though.
Years ago, January was a muddle of half-finished ideas and resolutions I couldn’t stick to.
Then I attended my first retreat at a library in the state of Delaware, and something shifted. Those few dedicated days gave me clarity, focus, and energy that carried into the months ahead.
If you’ve been feeling stuck or uninspired, a writing retreat could be the jumpstart you need. Here’s why:
1. Time away from your routine helps you see more clearly
There’s a saying I heard a friend's mom say over and over when I was a kid: “You can’t read the label when you’re inside the jar.”
When we’re immersed in our daily routines, it’s hard to step back and see the bigger picture. A retreat, even a virtual one, creates space to reflect on your goals, process your ideas, and reconnect with what drives your writing.
For example, during a writing residency last fall, I realized I’d been avoiding a project I really cared about because I wasn’t sure I could do it justice.
The time away from my regular routine gave me the perspective—and the push—I needed to dive in. And I did, with fresh eyes and new clarity!
2. The structure of a writing retreat boosts creativity
There’s something magical about having a clear plan and a group of people working alongside you. Retreats give you both.
You know when you’ll write, when you’ll reflect, and when you’ll share (if you want to). This structure takes the guesswork out of your day and lets you focus fully on your craft.
I spent some time talking to a panelist at a recent literary conference in California, and she told me that she wrote more in three days at a writing retreat than she had in the previous three months—because she finally had the structure she needed to stay consistent.
3. You’re not alone
Writing can be solitary, and while that’s part of its appeal, it can also be isolating.
Retreats offer a sense of community and connection. Even if it’s just seeing others on a Zoom screen, there’s something powerful about knowing you’re in it together.
One of my favorite moments from writing retreats is hearing participants share their wins: “I finally started that short story,” or “I wrote a poem I didn’t know was inside me.”
For me, these moments are a good reminder that we’re not alone, that we're all navigating this creative journey—and that support makes a difference.
4. It sets the tone for the rest of the year
Starting the year with intention can have a ripple effect. When you begin with focus, you carry that energy into your next writing sessions—and beyond. It’s like planting seeds that grow throughout the months ahead.
Personally, I’ve found that even a short retreat helps me feel more grounded and aligned with my goals. I don't have to write the “perfect” story or hit a specific word count, but by showing up for my creativity and giving it the time and space it deserves, I build momentum for the rest of the year.
Make 2025 your creative year with a writing retreat!
Whether you’re working on a novel, poetry, essays, or just exploring ideas, a writing retreat is an incredible way to start the year. It’s an opportunity to honor your creativity, connect with others, and build momentum that lasts.
If you’re looking for a place to begin, I’d love for you to join my upcoming virtual retreat, Writing Jumpstart 2025!.
It’s four days of dedicated writing time, prompts, and reflection—all from the comfort of your own space.
We start on January 20th at 9 AM Pacific / 12 PM Eastern and we gather and write in community for two hours each day for four days (through January 23rd).
Use the time to get started on a new writing goal or keep going with an established project.
And if you're just getting started and aren't sure what to write, don't worry! I've got some structured prompts to help guide your time.
I'd love to help you jumpstart your creativity this year at this accessible and affordable retreat. Read more about it here or message me with questions!
Whatever you choose, I hope you’ll carve out time to celebrate your creativity this January.
You—and your writing—are worth it. =)
Have you ever attended a writing retreat? How did it shape your work? Let me know in the comments!
Happy writing!
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