November is a special time for aspiring novelists and writers because it’s National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)! For 30-days, inspiring authors dive into the creative world of writing an entire book – or at least 50,000 words. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or someone who’s always dreamt of crafting a novel, National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) is a fantastic opportunity to finally make that dream come true.
And we have your back as we explore why NaNoWriMo is a great experience plus some tips and tricks to help you achieve your 50,000-word goal by November 30th.
Let’s dive in!
Why Join NaNoWriMo?
1. It’s a Community of Like-Minded Writers
One of the most compelling reasons to participate in NaNoWriMo is the sense of community. That’s why for a second year B&N is partnering with NaNoWriMo to bring together writers nationwide for our in-store writing events! Just look up your local store or search the term “NaNoWriMo” to find a participating store near you! Connect with thousands of writers who share your passion and together find the support, encouragement, and camaraderie that could be invaluable in your writing journey.
2. A Deadline That Drives You
The 50,000-word target may seem daunting. But that’s precisely what makes NaNoWriMo such a powerful motivator. Deadlines can be a writer’s best friend, as they push you to produce words consistently. The pressure of the November 30th deadline can help you overcome writer’s block and procrastination, ensuring you stay on track and complete your novel.
3. Overcome Writer’s Block
Every writer faces the dreaded writer’s block (we have some tips for that!) at some point. NaNoWriMo teaches you to power through it. The “just write” mentality encourages you to keep moving forward, even when your words don’t flow as smoothly as you’d like. By pushing through the block, you often discover hidden gems in your writing.
4. Develop Good Writing Habits
NaNoWriMo encourages you to establish a daily writing routine. Consistency is key to reaching your goal, and a daily word count target ensures that you make steady progress. Over the course of the month, you’ll develop the habit of writing regularly, a skill that can serve you well beyond November.
5. A Sense of Achievement
Completing the NaNoWriMo challenge and reaching the 50,000-word mark is an incredible achievement. It’s a testament to your dedication, creativity, and ability to persevere. Even if your novel isn’t perfect by the end of the month, you’ll have a substantial draft to work with, and that’s something to be proud of.
Tips and Tricks to Keep Writing
Now that we’ve convinced you to join NaNoWriMo, here are some tips and tricks to help you stay on track and meet your 50,000-word goal:
1. Plan Ahead
Take some time to outline your novel. Create a basic plot, develop your characters, and think about key scenes. Having a plan in place will make it easier to start writing and prevent you from getting stuck.
2. Set Realistic Daily Goals
Divide the 50,000-word target into daily goals. Aim for around 1,600 words per day to stay on track. This manageable daily target will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and allow you to build momentum.
3. Create a Writing Schedule
Establish a writing schedule that suits your daily routine. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, find a time when you’re most productive and dedicate it to writing. Consistency is key, so stick to your schedule!
4. Find a Writing Space
Create a comfortable and inspiring writing space. Whether it’s a cozy corner of your home, a coffee shop, or a local library, having a designated place for writing can help you stay focused and motivated.
5. Embrace Writing Sprints
Writing sprints are short, focused bursts of writing where you aim to write as many words as possible in a set time, typically 15-30 minutes. These can be incredibly effective for boosting your word count and breaking through writer’s block.
6. Don’t Edit as You Go
During NaNoWriMo, resist the urge to edit your work as you write. Your goal is to generate words, not to perfect them. Editing can slow you down and discourage your progress, so save it for after November.
7. Stay Accountable
Share your NaNoWriMo journey with friends, family, or writing buddies – like at a B&N store! Being accountable to someone can help you stay motivated and committed to your goal.
8. Take Breaks
While consistency is essential, don’t forget to take short breaks to rest and recharge. A brief walk, a cup of tea, or some light stretching can help you refocus and avoid burnout.
9. Celebrate Small Wins
Throughout the month, celebrate your small victories. Whether it’s hitting a daily word count goal, completing a challenging scene, or reaching the halfway mark, recognizing your accomplishments will keep you motivated.
10. Remember Why You Started
On tough days when you’re tempted to give up, remind yourself why you joined NaNoWriMo in the first place. Reconnect with your passion for writing and the desire to see your novel come to life.
National Novel Writing Month is an amazing opportunity to unleash your inner writer, connect with a supportive community, and accomplish a significant writing goal. By planning, setting realistic goals, and staying committed to your writing routine, you can conquer the 50,000-word challenge and create a novel you can be proud of.
So, take the plunge, embrace the adventure, and let NaNoWriMo inspire you to be the writer you’ve always wanted to be!
