Writing – A Solitary Occupation

For some of us the actual process of writing can be a solitary occupation. Usually we share what’s been written, once it’s finished. Sometimes we share parts of it with others during the formation of the story or article. It’s possible to share an idea with others and absorb their feedback before the writing even starts, but the actual pen strokes, key presses and thoughts behind them are usually something done alone. Does this mean that we have to be lonely then? I think not.

One of the great benefits of NaNoWriMo is that you are and feel part of a huge worldwide network of writers. I suppose that same group of writers are working on projects on any given day or month in any year, the difference being that in November every one of these writers have the same goal; to write 50,000 words in 30 days. It sets us all a deadline and, for once, we share that deadline with hundreds of thousands of fellow writers across the world.

Good luck to all who are entering NaNoWriMo this year. It is hard work and there will be times when you will feel like giving up when life gets in the way, as I did the first year I tried it. Remember there’s a huge supportive group of writers out there who are happy to give you and to receive from you the encouragement needed to win through.

If you’re interested in the challenge head to the web site http://nanowrimo.org/ and register your interest. On there you will find similar groups of like minded people, some living close to you. They hold regular writing meets throughout the month and can help with the loneliness suffered by some whilst writing. You can find a writing buddy and via the web site check out how they are doing with their word count compared to yours. Then you can send them messages of praise and encouragement if needed. I found my buddy invaluable during last November.

So, 50k words in 30 days; it’s only 1,666.66667 words per day. How difficult is that?