Goal-Setting With Prolifiko

by Elizabeth S. Craig, @elizabethscraig

Today I wanted to pass along a helpful goal-setting and tracking tool for writers.

I’ve gotten very into tracking lately. I especially like it when it’s easy to do (which is why I use the free app Daylio to track exercise, healthy eating, etc.)  There’s something very satisfying in plugging in info and getting charts and data in return.  Plus, I think it helps me to stay motivated.

That’s why I was happy to get early access to Prolifiko (now released to the public…I’m not affiliated with the product).

As they state on their website, Prolifiko helps you get writing in four ways:

• Get focused: Our small steps system provides a laser-like focus on what you need to achieve next.
• Reflect and learn: Super-simple tracking makes your writing process plain to see.
• Stay motivated: Nudges, streaks and rewards keep you to deadline and moving forwards with your goals.
• Improve and progress: Coaching tips and personalised writing data help you improve, optimize and keep writing.

The concept of goal-setting in small steps is especially appealing to me. I have always found that I’m a lot more successful setting incremental goals and writing in short sessions.  As the saying goes, the way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time.

The app walks you through the process of getting started on your goal.  Here it recommends you list your first step (the emphasis is on ‘small’ steps again):

And it makes sure that you set a deadline for taking that first step.  They email you your goal, step, and deadline, which does make it feel more of an official contract.

It’s easy to quickly record how your first step/writing session went.  Prolifiko takes it an additional step and recommends that you write a quick line to analyze your writing session (and why you should):

They also have a page that they call the ‘coaching center’ which offers info and help on topics such as writing systems, rewards systems, and accountability.

Prolifiko looks like a good tool for any writer who either gets a little overwhelmed at a writing project, or needs some help making more actionable goals or sticking with them. There is a 30 day free trial with no credit card required if you wanted to take it for a spin.  It looks as though they’re currently running a half-off sale until September, too, if you wanted to sign up.

Have you tried Prolifiko? Do you track goals and writing sessions?

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