NaNoWriMo Prep with MJ

MJ Moores’ members-only workshop this October was all about preparing for November’s NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month). So, let’s get ready!

MJ started by reminding us that a lot of planning happens in our head. Think about your story. Give yourself the space to daydream. That’s part of the writing process. Stare off into space. Stare at nothing. Imagine your main character taking form, going about their day. Let your mind wander.

Let’s talk goals. The official NaNoWriMo goal is 50,000 words in one month. But that doesn’t have to be your goal. Make your goal something tangible. How many words do you think you can reach in one month? Maybe word count isn’t your real goal. Maybe it’s about exploring a genre, experimenting with POV, or setting discovery. Any words on the page can be part of your word count, even if they don’t make it into the manuscript.

Even though we’re not trying to put too much pressure on ourselves, we also want to hold ourselves accountable. Make your goal public. You can do that on the official NaNoWriMo website, or you can do it on the WCYR Word by Word Facebook group. Word by Word was born though the WCYR’s Mini-Nano years ago and thrives every November. Find a space for accountability and encouragement. Join in at the WCYR (& WCDR) Write-Ins. On Sunday, Monday and Thursday, find writers like you trying to meet their November goals. Come to one or all. Don’t forget to reward yourself when you hit a milestone. A tasty treat or new notebook goes a long way.

Remember: NaNoWriMo is about getting words on the page. They don’t have to be the best words, they just have to be words.

Don’t forget self-care. MJ emphasized that we should be taking care of ourselves during this undertaking. Tell your friends and family what you’re doing. They can support you and also leave you alone. Share your writing schedule with them. Can they help you? Tell them how. Achieving 50,000 words should not come at the cost of your sanity.

Are you participating in NaNoWriMo or the Mini NaNo? Let us know!

Upcoming Events:

15 Key Editing Tricks with Greg Ioannou – November 14, 1:30pm to 4:00pm

Virtually Social: Chat Rooms and Games Rooms – December 5, 1:30pm to 4:00pm, FREE

Scrivener for Beginners with Kim McDougall – January 20, 7:00pm to 9:00pm, FREE

Sprouting Your Own Green World with Paul Coccia – February 20, 1:30pm to 4:00pm