If you are unfamilliar, November is National Novel Writing Month. It's a challenge to write 50,000 words in the month of the November. I have participated quite a few years but this year something has changed for me. I'm actually trying.
I know that probably sounds weird. Why wasn't I always trying. I was in a way. I had an idea, I wrote words, I tweaked and edited, I circled back and read what I had written, life happened, and then I would set it down at the end of the month. I always thought of writing as a hobby that I was clearly not good at because I hadn't writen a novel.
This year, I have decided I want to see if I have what it takes to be a writer but also pursue a job in the publishing industry. I'm looking at going back to school or take some specific courses. I'm looking into internships. I'm working hard to set aside my internal editor and just write knowing that this first draft is going to be bad, or at least not as good as I want to make it. I'm letting myself discover the world, story, character quirks and paradigms that are going to shape the message I want to tell. I'm developing the habits I will need to draft, edit and revamp until I have writen the book I want to submit.
I'm also fighting the inevitable doubts. Am I even capable of doing this? If I'm not good at it, why bother? Do I want to start a career at 47? Is my brain still capable of learning? I've quit every time before, how is now different?
It's a journey. As part of that journey I think it's important for me to document it. To practice the art of writing, researching, and crafting a story.
So, step 1:
- Sit down and write every day
- Take steps to learn the art and craft of writing
I'm excited. I hope you'll come along on the adventure. Let's Go!
