Usually we’re inundated by information, our feed readers are chalk full of unread articles. Right? But one of the few things I still search for is how to write: How to write well; How to write consistently; How to Blog. I’m looking for NaNoWriMo HELP!
I look for excuses, I wish I could hire someone to do it for me. I just wish I could get out of it altogether. Its a huge deal for me to blog. I’ve been thinking about what it is that keeps me from writing, and I’ve narrowed it down to a few in-my-face possibilities:
- stuck on a topic
- not sure if the topic relates to the audience
- discouraged by lack of feedback
- lack of time
- perfectionism (not sure you’re a good enough writer)
I have some ideas on how to combat these problems which I’ve discovered and tried (some of them), but I’d like to know how you manage to write consistently? For those of you who have published an e-book or even a bigger book-book, what is your secret to get it done?
Its National Novel Writing Month(NaNoWriMo).
NaNoWriMo is a simple, bold, courageous commitment to write. Every day. For 30 days. Anyone else feeling some excuses creeping into the consciousness about now? Me too. Read on for the solutions that may help with your own NaNoWriMo challenges.
Stuck on Topics? Try these 20 Go-To Topics
These 20 topics are always in demand. Start there and come up with your own list.
Is the topic relevant?
Go to other more popular websites in your industry, look at the most viral/shared/social posts. Make a list of 50 or so of these posts. Then categorize them into topics. You’ll have a good idea of 3 – 5 relevant topics right there.
Feedback: Its About Them Not You
Feedback is important. And social sharing is even more so. If that isn’t happening yet, check in personally with a few readers to see if the content is relevant and useful to them. One telling feature of Chris Brogan’s success is when he “…It was when I started writing to be helpful, instead of giving my opinion.“
Combat Perfectionism: Ouch
I’m no psychologist and I can’t help anyone get over an inbred need to excel or beat everyone else in their niche. But I can say that you don’t have to be perfect to accomplish goals. Smaller goals will make NaNoWriMo seem far more do-able.
Perfectionism often stems from arrogance or low self esteem; two sides of the same coin. This post by Chris Brogan resonated with me and maybe it will speak to you too: This Post Isn’t Worth Your Time.
Help for the Writing-Impaired:
Fancy infographic from the amazing designer at Copyblogger.
How about you?
Does this work for me? I wouldn’t know, as I skip steps 2 – 10 on most days. But this month I intend to at minimum get an A+ for effort. How about you?
