So Close, Yet So Far Away…

I have written 41,221 words on my latest work-in-progress. I’m happy that I have so many words down on paper, but it’s not time for cheering yet. Technically, I’m only half-way there. (I like my novels to be about 85,000 words before I begin revisions.)

Half-way is the scary part of your novel where you’re too far in to start over, and too far away from finishing. With two novels under my belt, I know I can get through this part to get to the sweet victory of the end. But with every book, I find myself asking, “How am I going to get this done?” A few tricks that help me:

Buy a Desk Calendar and Make Appointments To Write

Most days are filled with an objective word count that I want to hit. Why not everyday? Because for me, it’s unrealistic. I can’t write everyday and saying that I would sets me up for failure. I have a life outside of my writing. But I do try to keep the appointments I’ve set up, and most of the time, I’m successful.

Know When To Quit

I’m not talking about my book. No, never that. I know when to stop for the day. On some days writing can feel like torture, like pulling my fingernails out one by one. (Well, not that bad I’m sure, but you get the picture). I still make myself write on those days, but I don’t force myself to hit my word count goal for the day. If I’ve been sitting in my chair for a considerable amount of time and the words aren’t flowing, I give it up and try again later—preferably the next day.

Use Scenes Instead of Word Count

Sometimes thinking of getting down 1,500 words a day can seem daunting. On the days that it does, I decide to write the next plotted scene, or sequence of events. Most of the time, I get my word count in, but without all the added stress.

Most of these tips keep me going until I can type the sweetest words to any writer’s ears—THE END.