Week 1: Starting that writing project with NaNoWriMo

It’s 7 a.m. on Nov. 1 and I’m at my desk. The challenge has begun. For the rest of the month, I am committed to writing at least 1,500 words every day. The goal is to have 50,000 words by the end of November.

Welcome to National Novel Writing Month! I just registered on NaNoWriMo’s website to make sure I’m counted. There’s gonna be hundreds of thousands of writers participating from around the world.

Imagine, all of us working on writing projects. That’s a lot of clacking on computer keyboards.

Most Nano folks are chasing dreams of producing the first draft for a novel. Others, like me, fall into the “other” category that includes nonfiction books, memoirs, screenplays, short stories, etc.

The organization’s website has all sorts of “post your novel here!” interaction opportunities. But I’m staying low profile. As you know from  I’m taking the pressure off by not talking about the actual contents of my nonfiction book. Enough talk, already!

Instead, I will be here every Saturday with a blog post dedicated to process. This is a chance to practice the art of nurturing ourselves. How are we doing? What’s it feel like to make writing a priority?

Okay, I’ll go first…

I once had a writing instructor who said that whenever she sets aside specific time for writing, she gets her laundry done. Man, I totally relate. Instead of surrendering to scary unknown possibilities, it’s easier to hide behind the familiar routine of washing clothes. Or, running to the post office. Or…well, you get the idea.

Knowing my tendency to procrastinate, I’ve cleared my calendar for November. I also spent the past week dealing with errands. What a liberating process:

• Recycled old copies of The New Yorker. I love subscribing to this magazine. But getting through each weekly issue has been impossible. So I save them under my desk. Three years’ worth, really?
• Reorganized my closet. Neatly folded the winter sweaters. Summer’s over!
• Stocked the food pantry. Want a snack? Come to my house.  :)
• Hung some paintings. Now, they’re sending out colorful, creative vibes.
• Cleaned my desk. Recycled more paper. The clutter is gone.

Okay. Enough about me…

Even if you’re not working on Nano, feel free to post about what it’s like to make time for a special project. If you subscribe to this thread, we can chat all week. I’ll be here.

How about you? What’s on your plate for the week? Got any special plans?