NaNoWriMo is a wild ride. One day you’re on top of the world, cranking out words like a literary machine, convinced your story is pure genius. The next, you’re drowning in self-doubt, wondering why you ever thought this challenge was a good idea. Sound familiar?
You’re not alone. Every writer faces highs and lows during NaNoWriMo, but the key to success lies in navigating the emotional twists and turns. Here’s how to keep pushing forward, even when the journey feels overwhelming.
Highs: Celebrate the Wins
Let’s start with the good stuff: those magical moments when the words flow effortlessly, when your characters surprise you, or when you hit a major milestone. These highs are why we love writing, and they deserve to be celebrated.
- Set small milestones: Whether it’s hitting 10,000 words or finishing a tricky chapter, every step forward is worth celebrating. Reward yourself with something fun—a treat, a short break, or even a victory dance.
- Share your wins: Post your progress on social media, connect with fellow Wrimos, or share with a writing buddy. A little cheerleading goes a long way.
By focusing on these wins, you can build momentum to carry you through the tougher days.
Lows: Conquer the Dips
Unfortunately, the lows are inevitable. Maybe you fall behind on your word count, or you’re stuck in the dreaded “murky middle” of your story. Perhaps fatigue and self-doubt creep in, whispering that you’ll never make it.
Here’s how to stay resilient:
- Remind yourself of your ‘why’: Why did you start this story? What excites you about it? Reconnect with your purpose to reignite your passion.
- Embrace the mess: First drafts are supposed to be imperfect. Don’t let the pressure of perfection stall your progress. Give yourself permission to write badly—it’s all part of the process.
- Take it one word at a time: When you’re overwhelmed, focus on small, manageable goals. Write for ten minutes. Add 100 words. Sometimes, just starting is enough to break through the block.
Fatigue: Prioritize Self-Care
NaNoWriMo’s pace is intense, and burnout is real. Writing is important, but so is taking care of yourself.
- Rest when you need it: If you’re exhausted, step away from the keyboard. A nap, a walk, or even a good night’s sleep can work wonders for your creativity.
- Refuel your body and mind: Stay hydrated, eat nourishing foods, and give yourself time to decompress. Creative energy thrives when you’re feeling good physically and mentally.
The Middle Ground: Keep Moving Forward
Writing a novel in 30 days is like running a marathon—there are stretches that feel impossible, but you’ll never finish if you stop. Instead of focusing on how far you have to go, concentrate on the next step.
- Visualize the finish line: Imagine the satisfaction of completing your novel. Picture the joy of typing “The End” and celebrating your achievement.
- Accept the rollercoaster: NaNoWriMo is an emotional journey, but every twist and turn teaches you something about yourself as a writer. The highs and lows are proof that you’re challenging yourself—and growing in the process.
Final Thoughts
NaNoWriMo is a challenge like no other, pushing you to stretch your creativity, discipline, and perseverance. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.
So, whether you’re riding a creative high or battling through a low, keep going. Your story matters, and the world needs it. The finish line is closer than you think—one word at a time.
How do you handle the emotional ups and downs of NaNoWriMo? Share your tips and experiences in the comments—I’d love to hear how you keep pushing forward!
Elizabeth Yuen 