It can be difficult to get back into work mode after the holidays, especially if you have taken some time off.

But if you want this year to be even more successful than last year, then you have to get off your butt and do something.

Even if you’re not yet ready to write, there are a few things you can do to get ready.

Chase up those unpaid invoices. There’s nothing like getting some money coming in to remind you that you need to start work again. Making sure that you’ve been paid for all outstanding work is a great motivator to do some more.

Bid. If you don’t feel like writing, then visit the freelance writing job sites. This is a good time to sharpen up those query letters and refine your bidding techniques. Once you see what’s available, you’ll soon be ready to start work.

Talk to your colleagues. Some people are able to hit the ground running. In fact, some people took no time off at all, and are still working at full pace. When you find out what your writing friends are doing, that will help to motivate you to start 2018 the right way article. Sit down and write!

Even if you’re not writing for clients, you can draft articles and blog posts that you would like to sell. It could also be time to write the ebook or novel you’ve been meaning to finish. Discipline yourself to get something on paper and the writing juices will soon start flowing again.

These are ways to prepare yourself to start the writing year right. How have you got yourself into gear for 2018?