Hey writers! This week, we’ve been discussing common NaNoWriMo mistakes and strategies to overcome the mental hurdles they bring. Last time, we mentioned the importance of embracing imperfection as you draft that 50k! But what are the best ways to go about that?
Here are 5 ways to be content with that messy 1st draft:
1. Stay focused on your WHY
Why do you want to tell this particular story? What made you want to jump on the NaNoWriMo train? Reflect on why you started writing in the first place and you’ll be much less stressed about all those minor typos and inconsistencies. Look back at books or stories that inspired you initially. Perhaps check out some of your old work and see how far you’ve come. Reconnect with the passion that got it all started, and you’ll be sure to keep the big picture in mind.
2. Focus on completion, not perfection
Shift your mindset from creating a polished piece to simply finishing the draft. The goal of NaNoWriMo is to get words on the page, not to produce a masterpiece in a single draft! Give yourself permission to write poorly; remember that this draft is just a starting point. You can always revise later.
3. Keep moving forward
Got a plot hole? That’s okay. Super inconsistent character? No problem. When you encounter issues in your story, resist the urge to go back and fix them immediately. Instead, as they say in Writing Mastery Academy: keep writing forward. You can note those problems in your revision plan.
4. Enjoy the process
Grab a snack, listen to your favorite tunes, make your writing space cozy. Whatever you do to make the drafting process more enjoyable, the better. This could help a ton with your mental state and help combat that inner critic when he rears his ugly head. December will be here before you know it, and then you’ll have plenty of time to refine and polish what you’ve created. For now, focus on having fun.
5. Remember, you’re not alone
Every published author has gone through messy first drafts. Remind yourself that even the best stories began as rough ideas on paper. Journal or vlog about your journey. Jump online and share your experience with other writers. You’re sure to find a handful of peeps who can relate. Take a break when you need it. And always, always, be kind to yourself.
Conclusion
Feeling dissatisfied with drafts may tempt some participants into discarding some or all of their manuscript before NaNoWriMo ends. But that tragic ending doesn’t have to be yours! Everything you write has value—even if it’s simply a learning experience. Believe in yourself and your abilities and before long, others will too. If you’re still feeling down in the dumps about your NaNoWriMo process, we’ve got you. Check us out next week for tips on what to do when you’re in a NaNoWriMo slump.