It’s that time of year again. The leaves change color, people wear more layers of clothing, and they consider it socially acceptable to drink hot chocolate. It’s November, which means it’s time for National Novel Writing Month or NanoWrimo. 

The goal is to write at least 50,000 words during the month of November. 

Technically, you are supposed to write a novel from start to finish by the end of the month. However, I know plenty of authors who write 50,000 words within their current work-in-progress. I’m guilty of this every year. I always worry if I jump projects, I’ll never go back to what I was working on before November.

What is the Point?

50,000 words sounds like a lot, but the goal is only 4-5 pages double spaced per day. I love NanoWrimo because the contest gives me a goal with a deadline. Procrastination is my default. NanoWrimo provides motivation for me and other authors to work on our manuscripts.

It’s a Good Distraction 

Three genocides are currently occurring alongside daily violence. Reality is a mess. Now is the ideal time to create your own fictional chaos or personal getaway. Even if you write a dystopian fantasy. You created the world; you know the rules. A solution exists even if your characters don’t realize the answer yet. Characters’ deaths are left on the page. Someone is always to blame. Reality has more gray areas. 

Writing serves as a therapeutic outlet for the author. You may discover a new passion.

My to-be Read Pile!

Every writer reads. You can write whenever you have time. I always read for a little while before writing especially if I’m stuck. Reading a book makes me want to write one for someone else. 

Also, you aren’t required to participate. No one is going to bar you from writing for eternity if you don’t complete the challenge. I never reach 50,000 words. Enjoy the experience. 

Disappointed with popular fantasy authors? Why not become the author you need? It won’t be easy, but nothing worthwhile is easy in life. Good luck with your new adventure.