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NaNoWriMo Tips Series (#2): Getting Through - Tips for Winning and Reaching a High Word Count


      10 Sure-Fire Tips to Surviving November

1. Write every day. Make writing a priority. Set aside time where no one is allowed to disturb you. No one. Put on a writing hat if you have to.
 
2. Try timed writing exercises. Turn off inner editor and write for 10, 15, 20, 30+ minutes without stopping.
 
3. Write nonlinearly. Write in whatever order you feel like to keep your creativity fueled.
 
4. Reward yourself. Buy a gift that makes you happy but is fairly cheap as a reward for reaching goals: chocolate, a cheap book, favorite drink, take out, a new clothing under $15, a mug, etc.
 
5. Go to write-ins/events. Register and then set home region. Check calendar for events, host own event, if you’re inclined. Writing in a supportive community is helpful in keeping motivated and building relationships. Don't let shame and being behind stop you from writing. Remember whatever word count you end with is more than you started with.
 
6. Engage in social media. NaNoWriMo has accounts on Twitter and Youtube. They offer timed exercises, prompts and encouragement. You can also be social with a network of people from all over the world trying to reach same goal. (Twitter: @NaNoWordSprints AND @NaNoWriMo, YouTube channel “National Novel Writing Month”).
 
7. Just say no! Say no to distractions, including extra requests from work, family and friends. This month is about you. Get ahead in order to be off on weekends or on Thanksgiving weekend. 

8. Three clicks, that's it! Unless you're on social media to engage or up your word count, research is the only other reason to be online while writing. Click three times to find an answer and stop. Stop!

9. Don’t stop your flow, write a note. Highlight, bold, underline, change font color, etc., when you need more info/research for a scene/concept so you aren't distracted by having to stop your writing flow.
 
10. Push past burnout. NaNo is 30/365 days which is 8.219% of your year. Remind yourself this in order to reach the ultimate goal. This feat is like running a marathon. Ask for extra help and consideration from those depending on you.
 
HAPPY WRITING!
The other two blogs in my NaNoWriMo Tips Series are "Plotting" AND "Getting Through". Stay tuned for  my last NaNoWriMo related blog post: "The Aftermath". 

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