How to write a novel
How I did it: This was my 3rd year signing up for National Novel Writing Month. This was the first year I got involved with other local writers. I attended local write-ins and parties as well.
At the write-ins we did word war competitions, shared anecdotes, and our struggles. This provided me a huge amount of encouragement.
Another thing that helped was keeping up with fellow nanos via twitter. Huge encouragement to me!
Lessons & tips: Do the writing alone but don't be a loner. Find support with family, friends, and even strangers. Join a group of local writers.
Write in dedicated time periods. I sat aside about 2 hours each day to write. By write I mean remove distractions. My biggest distraction was often other people. Just tell people it's important.
Get a commitment from your partner/wife/girlfriend etc to be there for you and also not be there when you need to write.
Write every day even if you're sick.
Get a computer unless you are in love with writing by hand.
Resources: Scrivener for Mac
Nanowrimo.org
