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Writer's pictureJ.H. Jones

Writing groups and November


November is National Novel Writing Month

Writing a novel can be a challenging task, whether you're new to writing or you're an experienced author. The annual National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) began in November 1999 to help writers with this task by calling them to action: Write a 50,000 word novel in 30 days.


That's a big, hairy goal, and maybe you say: No way! Impossible! Actually, some writers achieve it. Others make progress on a project. Either way, November is a month of writing accomplishment.


In that spirit, we're fast approaching November and you might want to set a goal for yourself. (I have an editing goal, plus I'll be hosting daily write-ins.) So, if you're thinking about taking on a NaNoWriMo-like challenge, I have a three tips, based on my personal experience, that I hope will help position you to reach your goal. You'll work hard throughout the month, but believe me, you'll feel great on November 30:


  1. Set your priority. For the month, identify your writing goal and intentionally make your goal your priority. Too often, writers, especially new writers, have creative aims, but they don't follow through on them and they allow other activities to take precedence over the writing. November is your chance to put your writing first, and finish your project.

  2. Use a writing work planner. Even if you're a discovery writer or pantser and you hate planning, getting a sense of your expected time commitment and what your progress needs to be over the month is a good thing. You'll have a better idea of your direction and what to expect. Luckily, there are free tools that can help. For example, Pacemaker Planner offers a terrific free resource to set your goal, plan out your work for the month, and track your progress. Also, ReedsyStudio offers a free app through which you can set up a project and set an end date, then input your writing, and monitor along the way.

  3. Get your writing buddies involved. The ultimate way to ensure your success is to put yourself in good company and share your commitment with your writing buddies. This is where your writing group (whatever kind it is) comes in. The human contact is super important because sharing your commitment with other people helps you remain on track. The other people can hold you accountable, and support and encourage you as you make progress. (If you feel you can't rely on your group for constructive support, check out this post.) Likewise, you can do the same for others, which will strengthen your own commitment.


I hope I've given you some things to think about if you're planning to take part in National Novel Writing Month. Above all, consider, whatever your writing goal, your writing group can help you cross your November finish line. Let them help you!


I've got many more tips about how to let your writing circle support your writing growth and development in my ebook, The Write Group. Read it today to get actionable ideas for your success!




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