If this is your first time participating in NaNoWriMo (the National Novel Writing Month that is held in November), then you might not understand this slump… yet. You will, dear writers. Mark my words.
At first, your story is strong and exciting. There are endless possibilities! Until you enter the final third of your novel. Then you notice your momentum slowing as your plot stalls and your characters start to feel … well, dull. Basically, it’s at this point that you grow frustrated and exhausted.
But this is when things can get really good! This is usually where parts of your story begin to intersect. Questions are answered. And most importantly, things are amping up to a thrilling climax.
So, here’s the ultimate question. How do you battle through that 30K word slump?
photo by Emma Matthews Digital Content Production via Unsplash
Give Yourself An Entire Day
Rather than avoid writing altogether, which is what your procrastinating mind will want to do, dedicate an entire day to pushing forward. Setting aside a whole day for writing can remove the stress of writing under pressure, so you power through that writer’s block. This, in turn, can alleviate that constrained feeling that’s associated with writing in short bursts of time, so you can get those creative juices flowing again!
Put Down That Outline
Yes, it’s true that outlines can work miracles. However, if something in your outline is no longer working, drop it. Explore a new option. Don’t force something into your story because you initially thought it was a good idea. Stories and characters have a way of evolving as you write, so work with them. Not against them.
Remember Your Goals
Why are you writing this book? How amazing is it going to feel when you type THE END after? There’s a reason why you started this, so don’t let that 30,000 word slump wear you down. You can do this!
For more information on NaNoWriMo, visit their website. Also, Writers Helping Writers offers a great post with even more tips about powering through a 30K slump. Lastly, for advice on participating in next year’s NaNoWriMo, check out my post on How To Prepare For NaNoWriMo!
Good luck fellow writers!
