Welcome back to The WriMo Blog and my ONC Tips & Tricks series! Writing a novella in 12 weeks is an exciting journey, but it’s not without its challenges. Whether it’s battling writer’s block or fending off burnout, every writer faces obstacles along the way. In this episode, I’ll share some strategies for overcoming these hurdles and staying motivated throughout the contest.
Beating Writer’s Block
Writer’s block can strike at the most inconvenient times, leaving you staring at a blank page and wondering how to move forward. Here are some strategies I’ve used to break through and keep writing:
Change Your Environment: Sometimes, a fresh perspective is all you need. Try moving to a different room, heading to a coffee shop, or even taking a walk outside. The change in scenery can spark new ideas.
Sprints: Set a timer for 10 minutes and write whatever comes to mind, even if it’s unrelated to your novella. This can help you shake off the mental cobwebs and get the words flowing again.
Work on a Different Scene: If you’re stuck on a particular part of your story, skip ahead to a scene you’re excited about. You can always come back later to fill in the gaps.
Use Writing Prompts: A prompt can provide the nudge you need to move forward. Try incorporating a random object, line of dialogue, or unexpected event into your scene. Skim the ONC prompts list again and choose a second or third prompt to supplement your story.
Talk It Out: Explain your story or problem to a friend, writing buddy, or even yourself out loud. Verbalizing your thoughts can help clarify your ideas and lead to solutions.
Avoiding Burnout
Burnout is a common challenge during intense writing projects like the ONC. Recognizing the signs early and taking proactive steps can help you maintain your energy and enthusiasm:
Set Realistic Goals: While it’s tempting to aim for perfection, remember that progress is more important. Focus on writing consistently rather than trying to hit an impossible target.
Schedule Breaks: Incorporate regular breaks into your writing routine to recharge. Short walks, stretching, or even a quick power nap can work wonders for your focus.
Prioritize Self-Care: Eating well, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep are essential. Your physical well-being directly impacts your creative energy.
Celebrate Small Wins: Reward yourself for hitting milestones, no matter how small. Every step forward is worth celebrating.
Connect with the Community: Engage with fellow ONC participants through forums, social media, or writing groups. Sharing experiences and encouragement can help you stay motivated.
Additional Tips for Staying on Track
Create a Backup Plan: Life happens, and sometimes writing plans go awry. Build in buffer time for missed days or unexpected challenges. I recently started incorporating "Double Days", where I try to write double the amount I would have on a regular day.
Revisit Your Why: Remind yourself why you joined the ONC. Whether it’s to grow as a writer, complete a story, or connect with the community, keeping your motivation in mind can help you push through tough moments.
Have Fun: Remember, writing should be enjoyable. Give yourself permission to experiment, play with ideas, and embrace the process.
If you are participating in the ONC, or maybe you are doing your own version of the challenge, why not join my TrackBear Leaderboard and Discord discussion? Connect with me and share your process; let’s cheer each other on!
Challenges are a natural part of the creative process, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can overcome them and keep moving forward. Whether you’re tackling writer’s block, managing burnout, or simply navigating the ups and downs of the ONC, remember that you’re not alone.
What’s your go-to strategy for overcoming writing challenges? Share your tips in the comments below!
Stay tuned for the next episode! Until then, happy writing!
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