Is it a coincidence that my writing spirit caught fire during National Novel Writing Month, (NaNoWriMo) last year, and then again, this year? I had never heard of NaNoWriMo, not until I joined a writing community late in 2010. Prior to that, even though I had already completed a number of short stories, I was still a writer in the closet. I was too embarrassed to show my work to anyone outside of a small circle of friends and relatives.
Now that I’ve “outed” myself, I’m actually more productive than ever. Once you put yourself out there, you’re allowing others to publicly criticize you. It was a big leap for me. A part of letting the world know that I’m writing is being actively engaged with a large online community. That has been a rewarding experience and a big eye opener. I don’t know about anyone else, but with me, when I put something down in writing or tell someone that I’m planning to do something, I am committed.
Yes, I’m committed to my novel. And yes, I’m committed to my short stories. I contemplated signing up for the NaNoWriMo challenge, but decided that I’m not quite ready to write 50,000 words in thirty days. However, as soon as I started to read Rochelle Melander’s Write-A-Thon – Write your book in 26 days (and live to tell about it), I realized what was wrong with my efforts so far. I did my MBA while working full-time and taking care of a young family. If I treat my novel writing project the same way as the way I accomplished the MBA readings and assignments, then it is conceivable that I could have my first draft completed before the end of this year. I believe the key is setting a deadline. I must have one to motivate me to the finish line.
There, now that I’ve written it, then it must be done. Gulp…
Labels: Writing
