In addition to my last post, I realized I was forgetting one key thing that helps me during NaNoWriMo.
An awesome wallpaper.
Last year, I made a wallpaper, it was a pretty big hit with most people. Not only that, but I was really proud of it. It was simple but nice and got the point across.
Now, for this year, I'm trying to find another quote to use. I really love the John Green quote because during NaNo, it's something I have beat in my brain. But I'm wondering if any of my lovely readers have other favorite quotes pertaining to writing.
Is there a saying that you live by while you write?
Or one that has just kind of stuck with you?
Let me know, I may use it in a wallpaper (or two). The only thing is that it has to be a fairly short quote. So leave a comment and let me know what your favorite quotes about writing are.
With November quickly approaching, I'm starting to brainstorm as to what I want to try writing about this year. Last year I was surprised to actually finish, surprised but proud of myself. Looking at it from a distance, it's easy to say "It's ONLY 50,000 words." or "I have a full 30 days to write it." But what I learned last year is that it takes some incredible focus to actually be able to finish.
Also, a lot of chocolate and chai tea.
Here is what I discovered helped me a lot, after finishing my NaNo last year.
1: Write Every. Single. Day.
Even if I only wrote 100 words, I made sure to write something. More than anything, it kept the story fresh in my mind, and helped me maintain focus on the story.
2: Find Good Music to Write to.
For me, I would listen to upbeat, and silly music on my way to wherever I was writing at the time (I highly suggest ALL CAPS for this part). Then when it came to the actual writing, it was movie and TV scores all the way. For me, it was the Stardust, Warehouse 13 and P.S. I Love You Soundtracks.
3: Surround Yourself With People Who Are Doing the Same Thing.
I wrote more during my write-ins with my region, than I ever did by myself. It wasn't just that we had a few writing sprints, but just being surrounded by all those people who just gathered to write and do nothing (or mostly nothing) else. It was a supportive community, and really helps.
4: Good Food.
One of the worst things about going down to write-ins is that you can't really bring food with you. I mean, you can, but they frown upon it. So it forces you either to live (almost literally during NaNo) on cafe food, or bring small snacks that can be concealed and eaten quickly. I became a big fan of dried cranberries and sunflower seeds. Also, chai. I drank so much chai during last November, I'm pretty sure it was my main sustainer.
5: Have a Theme for the Month.
Last year, since it was the first year I was putting forth a real solid effort to finish NaNo, I made myself a wallpaper with a quote from John Green on it. This quote, pushed me through NaNo like nothing else.
So this NaNo season, the thing I recommend the most is to surround yourself with people who are also trying to do NaNo. If for no other reason than when you get to those bang your head against the desk repeatedly moments (and there will be many), you'll have someone who understands and someone who may even be able to help you out of a plot corner that you've painted yourself into.
And for those participating and in Salt Lake County, check out our NaNo Forum for updates on the kick-off party and soon, a list of where and when write-ins should be. Also, be sure to add me as a writing buddy!
