Hi Writer,
Do you hear that chiming sound?
That’s the NaNoWriMo Midway Clock, whose noble bells mark the conclusion of the first half of November. We’re now—
Sorry? What’s that?
It’s not the Midway Clock?
Could you wait here for a second?
Okay. So you were right. I guess the Midway Clock went off a few hours ago. The chiming sound was actually coming from the NaNo 2.0 microwave, letting me know my Hot Pockets were ready. You mind if I eat while we talk?
Great. Thank you.
So right now, we’re standing at a big moment in our journey—just over halfway done. Which means today the NaNoWriMo course turns, and we begin writing our way back home.
It’s also a huge moment because today the route forks, and we have to pick one of two paths to the finish line.
The first path is over there. It’s level and safe. If you take it, you’ll commit to writing when you can, but the bulk of your creativity will likely be directed at the demands of day-to-day life. You may not reach your original writing goal, but you’ll get much more done than you would have otherwise. Which is really the whole point of NaNoWriMo. If you take this path, do so with pride.
But there is a second path.
It’s the one over there with the two bears lounging next to it. It’s wild and steep, and taking it requires you to recommit to your original goal for the month. On this path, you’ll put your beautiful, messy, potential-filled project at the very top of your to-do list, and defend your writing time at all costs.
To travel this path, you may need to call in favors from friends, family, partners, and coworkers. If you have kids, you’ll likely be forced to increase their iPad rations and lower your standards for nutritious meals.
But this is the path that travels closest to your writing dreams. And the things that you see, learn, and experience along the way will stay with you for years to come.
Both paths are great. But if this second one is calling to you, take it and don’t look back. I’ll distract the bears with this Hot Pocket.
Good luck, writer! I’ll see you in a week.
Chris
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