Every November, writers around the globe participate in a unique challenge known as National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo). The goal? To write 50,000 words in just 30 days. If you want to read all about the story of NaNoWriMo, you can find more here.

I’ll admit, I’ve been writing for many, many years but have never done it. This November, however, I am considering giving it a shot (don’t lock me in just yet).

Devoting time to writing is a gift, and working NaNoWriMo around life at the moment may be a challenge I am not able to meet but it’s worth a try to get some thoughts on the page.

I understand the luxury of writing time. Last February, I was lucky enough to score a writing residency at Police Point in Portsea, Vic. In two glorious uninterrupted weeks, I wrote one third of my third novel. That’s around 30,000 words. I have never managed to power through so many words in such a short timeframe but I’ve also never had two straight weeks of writing without a single other commitment.

So, can you really write a novel in a month if you have to function in life too?

The Idea Behind NaNoWriMo

From what I’ve read, heard and spoken to other writers about, NaNoWriMo isn’t just about writing a novel; it’s about fostering creativity and community. The challenge encourages writers to push through self-doubt and perfectionism, liberating them from the pressure of editing and rewriting in the initial stages. The emphasis is on quantity over quality, allowing writers to explore their ideas without the usual constraints.

Draft zero, is what many call it. Or the vomit draft. It’s literally getting words onto a page without judging their worthiness.

Find the story.
Learn about the characters as you go.
Keep moving forward.

The Feasibility of Writing a Novel in a Month

Writing 50,000 words in 30 days translates to about 1,667 words per day. Some days I can do this with ease and other days it is like pulling varicose veins out with a spoon. I guess as long as I can average that (some days 3000 words, other days zero words?), I’ll still be in the running.

The Challenges of NaNoWriMo

Preparation: According to those who have embraced this challenge in previous years, success in NaNoWriMo often starts long before November. Many participants spend October outlining their stories, developing characters, and establishing settings. This pre-writing phase can provide a roadmap, making it easier to dive straight into writing when November arrives. For someone like me, who is not a planner in any sense, it might throw me a curveball but maybe I’ll try planning for once in my writing life?

Time Constraints: Balancing work, family, and social obligations can pose a significant challenge especially at this time of year. Have you noticed how many people are desperate to catch up before Christmas, like they’ll never see you again after the 25th December? Making writing time a priority is the key here (although that may be easier said than done).

Writer’s Block: The pressure to produce words daily can lead to writer’s block. The fear of not meeting daily goals can stifle creativity and certainly create frustration. I think if that happens, a day off is just fine. Or a walk in nature. Or a tequila shot (who said, “write drunk, edit sober”?).

Physical and Mental Fatigue: Writing intensely for a month can be mentally and physically draining. Long hours spent in front of a screen are pretty fatigue inducing, which might affect productivity. It’s not life or death. Take a break, you crazy thing.

Strategies for Success

Embrace the First Draft: This goes for any writing time, really. Allow yourself to write poorly. The first draft is not about perfection; it’s about getting your ideas down on paper. Embrace the messiness of the writing process and focus on moving the story ahead. No rearview mirror.

Try Writing Sprints: Short bursts of focused writing time where you aim to produce as many words as possible. This technique can boost word count and reignite creativity. As long as you don’t stop to be all up in your head about the words you’ve put on the page!

Find a Writing Buddy: Partnering with another writer can provide accountability and encouragement. Author, Podcaster and Mentor Jodi Gibson is running a community challenge (and cheerleading squad) where you can share goals, progress, and challenges and motivate one another. Anyone is welcome to join. She also has a podcast and spoke about some tips for NaNoWriMo success.

Celebrate Small Wins: I mean this goes for life too but in writing—and especially in this challenge—acknowledge and celebrate milestones, whether it’s reaching a daily word count or completing a chapter. Small victories help sustain motivation and remind us of our progress.

So, can you write a novel in a month?

Who knows (and really, who cares, we’re not saving lives here)?

Just gather your ideas, prepare your snacks, and get ready to unleash your creativity. You might just write the next great novel! And if you don’t, then your fingers and your brain got a workout.

Are you giving NaNoWriMo a go? Join the conversation.

Kx

Can you write a novel in a month? And … what the heck is “NaNoWriMo”?

[Un]reasonably outraged by the “busy” excuse

[Un]reasonably outraged by “win at all costs” coaching