NaNoWriMo Craziness

Yes, yes. I know. Halloween is this Thursday. While everyone is handing out candy to cute little boys dressed as Minions and sweet little girls dressed as Disney Princesses, I'll be organizing my character lists and preparing myself to start writing at 12:01 am during NaNoWriMo.

What's NaNoWriMo you ask? It's short for 'National Novel Writing Month,' but it's definitely INTERnational. People from all over the world sit down and attempt to write 50,000 words by November 30th. The site has a wealth of information, and if you're feeling brave, there's still time to sign up and write your novel in one month. Come on! Why don't you join me?

My first year was 2009. I completed a really bad novel that didn't follow any rules. It's in my bottom drawer. In 2010, I didn't finish, but I was pretty close. In 2011, I signed up, but didn't write. In 2012, I stayed away from all things NaNoWriMo. No way was I getting sucked in.

I'm convinced it's that 'Accountability' thing. You know--where you voice your intentions in order to keep yourself accountable for your actions. I know NNWM is a personal thing, but I always feel like I let someone down (besides myself) if I don't finish.

I work better under pressure, but what if I can't do it? What if I don't finish? What if I can't write 1667 words a day for 30 days? This is the first month of the Holiday season! When will I shop? When will I clean my house for Thanksgiving? How will I cook all that stuff I'm serving on Thanksgiving day?

Well, I know the answer...if you want something bad enough, you MAKE time. I do most of my Christmas shopping online anyway. Besides, who will complain if my house is less than spotless? Do I really need to make 6 different vegetables when only 5 people are coming for dinner?

I took the plunge. I signed up for NaNoWriMo in November. Yes, that's this Friday. I know, I know, but I haven't done much writing this year. I have a main character who is constantly chattering in my ear, but I can't seem to find the time to sit down and write her story. NaNoWriMo is a great way to dive into the writing pool. We'll see...Maybe I'll do a really big belly flop. Maybe I can't write 1667 words a day for 30 days, but maybe I CAN.

If you'll be participating and want to add me as your buddy, my user name is denise0616. Look me up! If not, you can still keep track of my progress on the blue widget above my picture.

NaNoWriMo scares me! So does this guy...

Wish me luck! Oh and Happy Halloween!

Writing And Accountability Partners

 

Accountability--An obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one's actions.

Whenever I plan on doing something important, like losing weight or staying smoke-free, I find that voicing my intention helps to keep me on track. Talking about my plans takes that random idea out of my head and flings it into the universe, making it an attainable goal. I think it works--I've been smoke-free for almost 4 months.

The same is true for writing. For the most part, it's is a solo endeavor, and unless you have to meet a deadline, there is no one to answer to. Writing is not a team sport, but there's no reason you can't have cheerleaders.

Partner--One associated with another, especially in an action.

Having an accountability partner is invaluable for me.  I need someone to answer to, brainstorm ideas with, discuss my fears, celebrate accomplishments and yes, commiserate with about rejections. Having a partner helps me get back in the zone even with all the trials and tribulations of everyday life. And sometimes, a partner is great for pulling you out of that writer's block slump we all get into. I have two partners, and I'd like to think I help them as much as they help me.

Just like Penn and Teller, Bonnie and Clyde, Lewis and Clark, or Thelma and Louise, having a partner keeps you focused, keeps you on task, but it also makes life more fun.

Do you have an accountability partner?