So I’ve been writing my 5th novel during this year’s National Novel Writing Month. The goal for NaNoWriMo, NaNo for short, is to write 50,000 words in 30 days. That comes out to 1667 per day.

I wrote my entire 4th novel in one month during the 2015 NaNo. It’s a long and hard process of learning to get a routine, trying to squeeze words into any free time you get. This year is no different.

I’m a student, I have a job, and I also have a hobby of playing video games, so writing time is far in few. I also like to read when I can, as every writer should.

I’m actually almost done with my 5th novel with this NaNo. There were a few times when I was able to write a lot in one sitting. There were few days, though, where it was hard to even write more than a sentence.

My advice to those writing, or perhaps planning on writing next year, is don’t get stressed about word count. Write whenever you can, even if it’s one word.

Take part in write-ins, local events to gather several NaNo writers to write together. The change in scenery helps. Plus you can meet some awesome people.

Find some writing music that connects with your novel and/or character(s). I can’t admit enough how much Alesana helped with my second novel, Elements of Blood. Last year for NaNo, it was mostly Owl City. This year, it’s been a mix of Poets of the Fall and Ninja Sex Party.

Take part in forums. NaNo has many that are for those who need inspiration and support to meet the word count.

Lastly, just keep writing. Even when I’m not writing, I’ve been thinking about what to write next. So even when I’m not at my keyboard, I’m support till processing and refining the next sections of my novel.

9 more days till NaNo is over, so I wish anyone participating good luck. To another writers and aspiring NaNoers, I hope to see you next year.