IWSG: NaNoWriMo – “If Not . . . Why Not?”

November brings about one of our profession’s biggest events: National Novel Writing Month. The goal – to getter done. Whether it’s your first attempt or the latest in three dozen, it’s fire up your computers in a race to meet a word count goal of 50,000 and finish your book in thirty days. Founded in 1999 by Chris Baty and a group of writer friends in Northern California, it’s Ready Set Go on November 1st in a challenge that ends at 11:59 pm on November 30 to draft a new book or redraft an old one by month’s end. Writers to your keyboards . . .
Our November 2nd’s optional question is “Have you ever participated in NaNoWriMo, and if not, why not?”
I’ve never been one to work under pressure other than what I apply to myself. I’ve written under and met publisher and personal deadlines for some 30-years, completing over 70 books. For me, it’s a personal thing, creating scenes and characters by my own circadian rhythm as time and inspiration allows. My motto has always been if you are forced to write, your writing is forced at best. It’s not the work of your heart if it’s work under pressure. And I don’t respond well to stress . . . at least at my age.
I know, I’m taking this WAY too seriously. It’s a challenge that’s meant to be fun and enjoyed. But for me, outside competition makes me freeze up. It’s like dogs chasing the rabbit on a track: A frantic race with blinders on that doesn’t even net a mangled rabbit. But that’s JUST me! Many of my writer friends swear it’s just the push they needed to get their project done. Me, I don’t like pressure or the thought of competition when it comes to something so intrinsically personal as my written words. Again, that’s just me.
To those of you who enjoy putting your feet to the fire, I’m cheering you on this November! Remember to hydrate, to stretch, and to get enough sleep. And bathe. That’s a good thing for the sake of everyone downwind. May your words have wings, your mind race free, and your pages accumulate into a novel you can proudly sell (after a good week of sleep and editing!).

The Insecure Writer’s Support Group
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time. The awesome co-hosts for the November 2nd posting of the IWSG will be Diedre Knight, Douglas Thomas Greening, Nick Wilford, and Diane Burton!
Let’s rock the neurotic writing world!
Twitter hashtag is #IWSG
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