It’s only eight days into November, and not too late to start writing. I don’t know about the website in particular. A few years ago, I decided I didn’t need to participate in NaNoWriMo through the official website. I could still spend the month of November challenging myself to write 50,000 words, or in the case of this year, 80,000 words. You can begin at any time. As long as you begin.
Why Should You Start NaNoWriMo?
You’ve always wanted to write a novel, but you never had the time or didn’t feel you were that good. Well, November is the perfect time to start and finish at least part of the novel you’ve always wanted to write. National Novel Writing Month is a 30-day challenge to write 50,000 words, with the grand prize being the satisfaction you get by completing the challenge.
There is a website dedicated to NaNoWriMo, but you don’t have to be part of the website to challenge yourself to write a novel. Start by telling your friends and family that you want to write a book and will attempt to write 50,000 words before the end of November.
Then, start writing. You can post updates on your progress on social media if you want. I encourage you to comment below so I can cheer you on.
The best reason to start NaNoWriMo now is that it teaches you the importance of consistent writing and completing the first draft.
How Do You Start?
Choose a story that matters to you. What book have you always wanted to read? What story have you always wanted to tell? There is a book inside you, trying desperately to get out. That is the one you should be writing. Start out by making a rough outline. What do you want to write about? Who do you want to write about? What happens? How does it change the character? Then begin writing. At the beginning of November, the goal is to write around 1667 words a day. Even though we are eight days in, you can start with that number, and as you get used to writing that amount of words you can increase your goal.
What Are the Benefits of Participating in NaNoWriMo?
First, it teaches you how to be a writer. NaNoWriMo will teach you that consistency is the key to starting and completing your novel.
Second, you will find a whole worldwide support group of other writers. Whether you join the NaNoWriMo site or strike out on your own. Once you post on social media, people will start to cheer you on.
Third, I encourage you to put aside the inner critic and not worry about editing. You will see that daily writing will help improve your story-telling and overall writing ability. Like any activity, the more you practice, the better you become.
Tips and Tricks
- Start off with a good idea, something you are passionate about.
- Make a time every day to write, whether early in the morning, late at night, or somewhere between.
- Connect with other writers via the NaNoWriMo site or social media to find others who will cheer you on.
- Don’t get discouraged. Start writing today or tomorrow and write every day this month. Even if you don’t reach 50,000 words, you’re building a writing habit to help you become a published author.
Connect with Other Writers
Find me on TikTok and X (formerly known as Twitter) if you’re a fellow writer needing moral support. Follow me and drop me a line.
Comment below if you don’t use social media, I am here to support you.
