NaNoWriMo

Okay. I have an idea, a pen I like, and a notebook that's just cute enough without being distracting. I'm going to do it this time. I will write that novel.

But first, I have to check Facebook, and Twitter, and I wonder if I have any new e-mails...

One of the most important, and sometimes the most difficult, parts of creating a story is taking the time to write. Of course, you knew that. It would be hard to have a novel without words.

Still, sometimes an extra boost of motivation is needed.

For me, that's where National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) came in. The goal is simple enough: Write a novel (50,000 words) in the month of November (30 days).

No one would say it's easy. In fact, it's a running joke among participants that anyone who does it must be crazy. Sane people wouldn't put that kind of pressure on themselves.

But we wouldn't do it if we didn't love it.

The winners goodies (deep discounts on writing software and a free author's copy of your novel, among others) are nice, but what really makes it worth it is the sense of accomplishment at the end.

A complete novel, written by you, is its own reward. Trust me.

Forgotten Memories was the product of NaNoWriMo, and so is the novel I'm currently working on, Shrouded Jewels. NaNoWriMo is free for all; just create an account, make an outline if you prefer, and start counting down the days until November 1st!