This week, Graduate Assistant Summer Byers shares her top three tips for conquering NaNoWriMo.
This blog post focuses on NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month), which takes place during the month of November. As someone that has participated in NaNoWriMo in the past, the first few days (and even weeks) can seem overwhelming, unproductive, and challenging. I’m working on my second novel this year, so I thought I’d share three tips that have gotten me through NaNoWriMo in the past and kept my sanity.
You’re probably thinking that this seems obvious, but hear me out. Do not go into the novel writing process critiquing and revising every portion you scribe. Let the words sit. The goal is to finish a novel – meaning a draft – not a perfect, cohesive, ready-to-send-to-the-publisher work. The revision process can happen after November is over. For now, focus on getting everything on paper.
I’ve gotten into the habit of bringing a notebook with me everywhere I go. Creative sparks and inspiration can happen anywhere, but by the time you get home to a piece of paper, it is probably gone. Be prepared to write down ideas when the moment strikes, no matter where you are.
In order to survive NaNoWriMo and complete a novel, you have to be committed to writing every day. Carve out time in your schedule to write for a set period of time. If you do not like writing your days’ worth in one sitting, split up your time throughout the day. The point is you are making a habit of writing daily. Don’t be overly critical of yourself if you miss a day, just get back on track the next.
NaNoWriMo may be a challenge, but it also gives writers, both seasoned and amateurs, a chance to stretch their creative muscles and try out novel ideas that haven’t seen the light of day. Have fun with the challenge, and be sure to reward yourself for every victory, big or small. When I finished my first novel, I bought a new pair of shoes to celebrate. Reward yourself for smaller accomplishments, too! Even the first 10,000 words are a huge accomplishment.
If you feel stuck or are looking for a novel writing group, stop by Tucker on Mondays at 1:00 p.m. (coffee shop area), Wednesdays at 9:00 a.m. in the Writing Center, or Thursdays at 9:25 a.m. in Tucker (coffee shop area).
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
The Christmas Art Sale starts tomorrow!
Shop for all of your Christmas gifts and see the knitted goodies the library has made for the sale from November 15th - 16th between 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in Stewart Hall.
The library is hosting a NaNoWriMo Slam on November 29th from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Come by the Main Floor Study Room (vending) and share excerpts of what you’ve been working on!
We still need Book and Movie Reviews!
Interested in submitting a book or movie review? Use this link!
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