National Novel Writing Month

November is National Novel Writing month.

If you’re a writer, you know this. If you’re not and want to be, read on.

Every November, while the rest of us are worried about learning the difference between stuffing verses dressing, thousands of novice and professional writers park themselves in their favorite writing space and commit to themselves, and the tribe, to write a 50,000 word novel. For most of us mortals, that’s a first draft. If you’re James Patterson or David Baldacci, then for November you probably write 200,000 words and have two novels ready for Christmas stockings. (Just kidding, Mr. Patterson and Mr. Baldacci.)

Like the NORAD website which tracks Santa’s yuletide trek delivering toys to good girls and boys on Christmas Eve, the NaNoWriMo website helps the writer track their novel writing progress and offers ways to connect with others who are participating. As the website says, “valuing enthusiasm, determination, and a deadline, NaNoWriMo is for anyone who has ever thought about writing a novel.”

The organization’s objective is to inspire those who have always wanted to try a hand at making stuff up and scribbling out a story.

But the November 1 start date has passed, you say. No big deal, have your own private little NaNoWriMo party. As the time-worn advice goes, the hard part is beginning, the rest is easy.

Start today. Ready, set, write.

Looking for support, check applications such as MeetUp to find a writing group which fits your style.