Reflection

Remember: GMing is a practice. You get better at it by doing it, and by trying to do better next time.

Spend time after each session reflecting on the previous one. Ask yourself:

• What goals had you set for yourself? Did you meet them? If not, why not?
• What went well? What are you proud of? What did your players praise?
• What did your players wish for? How can you make those wishes come true?
• Where did the game falter or drag? Where did you feel uncertain? What would you do differently, in retrospect?
• Did you pursue your agenda? Did you follow your principles? If not, how was the game impacted? What would it have looked like if you had?

You might do this formally, sitting down and taking notes. Or maybe you just think about it while you commute or do chores. However you go about it, reflect on the session. Don't beat yourself up, but be honest. Consider what worked and what didn't. Think about why, and about how you can do better.

Write down 1-3 goals for the next session. As you prep, keep these goals in mind. During the session, put them somewhere you can see them. Try to meet them.