National Novel Writing Month, often affectionately referred to as NaNoWriMo, is an annual event that challenges writers to complete a 50,000-word novel in just 30 days during the month of November. This fast-paced endeavor isn’t just a test of your typing speed; it’s a journey of self-discovery and creativity. As a writer, I’ve learned five valuable lessons from participating in NaNoWriMo that have not only improved my writing but also enriched my life.
- Discipline and Consistency: NaNoWriMo is the ultimate test of discipline and consistency. To reach that lofty 50,000-word goal, you must commit to writing every day, regardless of your mood, energy level, or writer’s block. This experience taught me the importance of showing up for my writing, even when the muse seems to be on vacation. The ability to push through and write regularly has become a valuable skill that extends beyond November, helping me maintain a consistent writing routine throughout the year.
- Embracing Imperfection: During NaNoWriMo, there’s no time to agonize over every word, sentence, or paragraph. The focus is on quantity over quality, and that’s a liberating concept for perfectionist writers. I learned that it’s okay to write messy first drafts, incomplete scenes, or awkward dialogue because those imperfections can be refined and polished in the editing phase. NaNoWriMo taught me to silence my inner critic and embrace the imperfections, freeing me to write without restraint.
- The Power of Deadlines: Deadlines can be a writer’s best friend. The strict 30-day timeframe of NaNoWriMo creates a sense of urgency that propels you forward, forcing you to prioritize your writing. This experience taught me the power of setting realistic deadlines for my writing projects. Whether it’s a short story, an article, or a novel, I now establish clear deadlines and use them as motivation to meet my goals.
- Community and Support: NaNoWriMo is more than just a personal writing challenge; it’s a global community of writers who share the journey. Engaging with fellow Wrimos, attending local write-ins, and participating in online forums offered me invaluable support and camaraderie. Writing can be a solitary endeavor, but knowing that thousands of writers are facing similar struggles and triumphs made the journey feel less lonely. I’ve learned to seek out writing communities and support networks (like JRW!), both online and in-person, to foster inspiration and motivation.
- Creativity and Exploration: The pressure of NaNoWriMo encourages writers to think outside the box and explore uncharted territories in their storytelling. Writing under a tight deadline led me to unexpected plot twists, new characters, and creative solutions I might not have considered in a more leisurely writing setting. This experience has instilled in me the importance of embracing creative spontaneity and welcoming the unexpected in my work. Writing isn’t just about sticking to a predetermined plan; it’s about allowing your creativity to flow freely.
NaNoWriMo is more than a writing challenge; it’s a transformative experience that can profoundly impact your writing journey. As a writer, I’ve gained discipline, learned to embrace imperfection, recognized the power of deadlines, found solace in the writing community, and nurtured my creativity through this annual event. NaNoWriMo has not only made me a better writer but also enriched my approach to writing and storytelling throughout the year. So, whether you’re a seasoned novelist or a beginner, consider taking the NaNoWriMo plunge and see what valuable lessons await you on this thrilling writer’s journey.
Catie-Reagan King is the Membership Director at James River Writers and the Managing Editor of the Metropolitan Universities Journal. Her writing has been featured in publications, such as Dialogue: The Interdisciplinary Journal of Popular Culture and Pedagogy, ElevAATE: Perspectives in Theatre & Education, and Jaden Magazine.