Happy endings
As we approach the start of a new year, many people may consider setting goals related to writing a novel. However, it’s not uncommon for writers to struggle with finishing their novels, even if they had good intentions at the beginning of the year. After all, starting a novel is often the simple part – it’s the finishing that’s difficult.
Finishing a novel can be a challenging task, but with the right approach and mindset, it’s definitely achievable.
Here are my SEVEN TOP TIPS to help you stay motivated and on track to completing your novel this year:
Set a goal and make a plan: Before you start writing, it’s important to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve. Do you want to write a certain number of words per day? Do you want to finish a certain number of chapters by a certain date?Setting specific, achievable goals will help you stay focused and motivated. It’s also helpful to create a rough or detailed outline of your story, so you have a roadmap to follow along the way when you get lost. And believe me, you will get lost. I only began outlining my novels recently. Trust me, it helps a lot.
Make writing a daily habit: Consistency is key to finishing a novel. Try to set aside a specific time each day to write, even if it’s just for a short period. The more you write, the easier it will become and the faster you’ll be able to complete your novel.
However, often writers who work full time or have children find it extremely difficult to find for even a few minutes each day. When my kids were younger, the most productive time for me to write was when they were in the bath after dinner. It was only 20 minutes (30 including drying time) but because I was focussed, I could write between 800 and 1000 words. Writing with kids is not impossible.
3. Eliminate distractions: It can be tempting to check your social media or respond to emails while you’re writing, but these distractions can disrupt your flow and make it harder to get back into the groove. Try to find a quiet, distraction-free place to write. Turn off your phone and other devices if possible.
When I don’t want to be distracted, I put my phone on ‘Do Not Disturb’ and my noise cancelling headphones over my ears. I find this creates a writing bubble (a little like Maxwell Smart’s cone of silence) where nothing can distract me.
4. Get feedback: As you’re writing, it's helpful to get feedback from others to help you stay on track and make sure your story is going somewhere. Consider sharing your work with a writing group or a trusted friend or family member who can offer constructive criticism. Just be sure to choose people who will be brutally honest but also supportive.
This is probably more helpful for beginning writers. Once you gain confidence in your craft, this step may not be so useful. Learn to trust yourself.
5. Persevere through rough patches: Every writer experiences writer’s block or moments of doubt, but it’s important to keep pushing through. If you’re feeling stuck, try taking a break, going for a walk (a great way to stimulate ideas and creativity) and coming back to your writing later. Otherwise, try writing from a different perspective or in a different location. It can also be helpful to remind yourself why you started writing in the first place and focus on the progress you’ve made so far.
Before I began outlining my novels, I found I hit a roadblock at around two-thirds of the way through the narrative. Typically, I had written myself into a corner and had to go back to the beginning and change aspects of my story to ensure it made sense. It was maddening to spend so much time going back over old ground.
6. Take care of yourself: As you’ve probably heard before, writing a novel is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s important to take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising regularly to keep your energy levels up. It can also be helpful to practice self-care activities like meditation or yoga to help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.
If you set writing goals for yourself, it can be stressful if you don’t meet them. Take the pressure off. Nothing good is going to come from forcing yourself to write. For me, physical activity – running, walking or swimming - always helps to relieve the stress. Likewise, yoga helps calm me when I’m feeling overwhelmed.
7. Celebrate your achievements: Finally, don’t forget to celebrate your accomplishments along the way. Finishing a novel is no small feat and one so few who embark on the journey complete. Be sure to take a moment to pat yourself on the back and appreciate all the hard work you’ve put in. Whether it’s treating yourself to a favourite meal or taking a day off to relax, it’s important to recognise and reward your progress.
Celebration is the key for me! At every significant milestone on the writing journey, I open a special bottle of wine and share it with my husband - my greatest supporter and fan.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finishing your novel. Remember to be patient with yourself, and don’t get discouraged if things don’t go as planned. The most important thing is to keep writing and stay committed to your goal.
Good luck, and happy writing!