Welcome back, writers! And just like that, we’re in the final stretch before NaNoWriMo. Are you ready? If you’ve been following this month’s Preptober series, hopefully so. But if not, we’ve got you. This week, we’ll be covering those final steps to preparing for NaNoWriMo—starting with strategies to eliminate any of those final obstacles that might be holding you up as you finalize your plans. Feeling a little inadequate or overwhelmed as you prepare to knock out those 50k words?

Here are 5 strategies to clear those creative hurdles before NaNoWriMo:

1. Freewrite

Unsure of how to make the transition from planning to writing after weeks of outlines and charts? No worries! Start getting into practice now by freewriting 10-15 minutes a day. About what? Anything. You can focus on character backstories, world building, or even take on completely unrelated writing prompts. The goal is to get into the habit now, so you’ll already be in a comfortable writing habit by the time November begins. And if Writer’s Block is getting you down, check out our tips here.

2. Generators

Remember, your first draft doesn’t have to be perfect! In my opinion, the revision process can be the most enjoyable part of writing. It’s the time you get to take all the glorious words you’ve already written and really make them shine! That’s why you shouldn’t stress about choosing the perfect character names, title, or fictitious businesses for your novel. If you can’t settle on an option right now, use an online generator to establish a placeholder until later. You’ve got better places to focus your creative energy!

3. Read

Worried that the creative ideas won’t flow? A great way to break through mental barriers is to consume story. It could be a novel (in or out of your genre), short story, blurbs, or even writing prompts. Checking out other story ideas is sure to spark your creativity and get you pumped to craft your own. Curl up with a good book and get inspired to let your voice be heard.

4. Take a break

Sometimes the best option is to simply back off and let those ideas percolate. Take a walk, or a nap, or a shower. This is when some of your best ideas will come. You’d be surprised what kinds of plot twists or snippets of dialogue will come to you when you’re passionate about your next story. So step away from the desk and see where your imagination takes you.

5. Relax

Don’t get overwhelmed with how many words you plan to write or how well you’ll write them. Again, the whole point of NaNoWriMo is to have fun while striving to achieve your goals. So, no pressure—You’ve got this. Break that mega journey into small, tangible steps, and you’ll be at the finish line before you know it.

Conclusion

Don’t let nerves keep you from achieving your dreams this November. Even the smallest of strategies can make all the difference as you strive toward your goal. So make a plan, and do what you can to stick to it this week. Looking for a few more tips to help you win NaNoWriMo? Check out our next installment on making your final Preptober preparations here.