So we’re now in July and you still want to write that book you promised yourself you would on 1st January, but time’s flying by and you think it’s too late to start now.

Wrong!

There’s still plenty of time to start (and finish) your novel. And here’s how…

 

Start with the basics

What story do you want to write? Not entirely sure? No problem. Think about a few basic things to get you started.

Who is your main character?

What challenges will they face?

What will their end goal be?

How will they get there?

Think about these questions and write down everything that occurs to you. You’ll probably end up with ideas for scenes, other characters and even settings. This is the start of your story!

 

Take it a step further

If you’re a plotter you may want to write down some more details. Maybe a chapter outline, or just some notes on other plot points you want to cover. If you’re a panster or discovery writer, you may prefer to get writing and see where the story takes you. The important thing is to get started somewhere.

You don’t have to write linearly. I know some amazing writers who write the scenes they can picture in their minds and jump around. If you prefer to write sequentially then start at the beginning. It probably won’t be right (the beginning of most books change during the writing process or in edits!) but once you’ve begun somewhere you’re on your way!

 

Create a Writing Habit

The hardest thing about writing is getting words on the page those days when you really don’t feel like it. You’re tired, the kids have been difficult, you had to stay longer at work, there are so many reasons not to write, but those words aren’t going to magically appear on the page.

I’m not saying you have to write every day, but you do need to decide when you can get some words down. Maybe give up half an hour of Netflix a day. Maybe you can write while your kids at a club and you’re sat in the car waiting. Can you write on your commute?

The only way to stay consistent is to make it a part of your life. Prioritise it and you will see results!

 

If all else fails…plan for NaNoWriMo!

National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) occurs in November (and at other times though the year) and the goal is to write 50,000 words during that month. I’ve done it a number of times and it’s really, really motivating.

If you need more time to plan your story and work through what it’s going to be, use the next few months to outline your novel so when NaNoWriMo comes around, you can smash it!

I’ll be sharing lots of writing tips over the next few months so make sure you follow me on my socials and have signed up to my newsletter!

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