NaNoWriMo is National Novel Writing Month and takes place every November. This is the second time I’ve decided to do it and the second time I’ve failed.
In my defense, both years that I’ve done it, I’ve been given revisions from an editor that needed to be done. But to be honest, I was failing spectacularly this year anyway. Kind of. You see, my goal wasn’t to write 50,000 words like most participants in NaNo are shooting for. My goal was just to write more than usual and I was winning with that.
I have this hero and heroine, Finn and Zo, who have been in my head constantly for months and months and months. Their story isn’t paranormal, although I tried my darnedest to make it become paranormal. But I really got into them and their story–until I had to drop it for revisions.
Revisions are done now, though, and even though NaNo is ending, I have a goal. It might be a tough one because the holiday season is now officially here and it’s difficult to find writing time during this time of year. My plan, my hope, is to have a rough draft of their proposal finished by New Year’s. Can I do it? I’m sure going to try.
This is my fourth year as a participant and my first fail. I only made about 35K. However, I did finish three projects, one which I've been trying to finish for months and months. What a relief! Dec. will be revisions for me, and I can hopefully pick up one of the other shorter projects I hoped to complete and get it turned around.
50K isn't for everyone and this year I was determined to get what I needed done — not just hit 50K. I needed to finish these other stories so I can get them submitted, so that was a success.
And hey, revisions from your editor are a HUGE success! (Especially when they're turned back in.
Although technically it is supposed to be 50K during the month on a single book, I would think words done for the edits should count. Words are words whether in one book or three!
Joely, It sounds as if your NaNo was a success to me. The fact you got three projects handled is awesome and amazing.