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10 Ways to Jumpstart Your Novel Writing Journey This NaNoWriMo

October 21, 2022 | 3 min read

Are you gearing up for NaNoWriMo? If so, you'll want to check out this blog post! We've compiled a list of 10 ways to jumpstart your novel writing journey and make the most of this month. Whether you're a first-time novelist or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you get in the groove and write more words per day. So what are you waiting for? Start reading and get ready to write!

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1. Start with an outline: This will help you stay on track and ensure that your novel has a cohesive plot. Plus, it'll be easier to hit your daily word count goals if you know what needs to happen next in the story.

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2. Set a daily word count goal: Make sure it's realistic so you don't get discouraged if you don't hit it every day. But having a goal to strive for will help you stay focused and motivated.

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3. Find a writing buddy: It's always more fun to write with someone else, and you can help keep each other on track. Plus, it's nice to have someone to celebrate with when you reach your daily word count goals!

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4. Make time for writing: Schedule it into your day like any other important appointment. And if you can't find a solid block of time, just write for 10-15 minutes here and there. Every little bit helps!

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5. Set the mood: Create an environment that's conducive to writing. Whether that means lighting candles, brewing a pot of tea, or putting on your favorite music, do whatever it takes to get into the right headspace.

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6. Take breaks: It's important to step away from the computer every once in a while, or you'll start to feel burnt out. So take a few minutes to stretch, take a walk, or just step away from your desk.

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7. Keep distractions to a minimum: This means turning off your phone, closing social media tabs, and anything else that might pull you away from your writing. The fewer distractions you have, the more focused you'll be. Consider a distraction-free writing tool like the Traveler from Freewrite if you have trouble staying off your phone or other devices while you write.

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8. Write in short bursts: If you find yourself getting bogged down, try writing in short spurts of 500 words or less. This can help break up the monotony and keep your momentum going.

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9. Read other novels: Not only is this a great way to find inspiration, but it'll also help you improve your own writing. As they say, the best way to learn how to write is to read as much as you can.

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10. Reward yourself: When you reach your daily word count goal, treat yourself to something special. Whether it's a cup of coffee, a piece of chocolate, or some extra time spent on social media, find something that will motivate you to keep going.

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11 (BONUS!). Have fun: At the end of the day, NaNoWriMo is all about enjoying the process of writing a novel. So don't take it too seriously, and just have fun with it!

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Freewrite is a proud sponsor of the NaNoWriMo 2022.Β  Participants can find more tips from other users, a participant discount on product, and more at our NaNoWriMo sponsorship page!

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NaNoWriMo Sponsor
July 30, 2026 2 min read

PRESENTED IN COLLABORATION WITH

Calling all micro-fiction storytellers! 🏁

For the second year in a row, Freewrite is teaming up with Grant Faulkner, co-founder of the Flash Fiction Institute and author of The Art of Brevity, to bring you the fastest, most adrenaline-pumping writing event of the year.

Whether you're a seasoned writer or a creative rookie, the Freewrite 500 is your chance to rev up your imagination, write a 500-word story, and win big.

You do not need to own a Freewrite to participate.

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Can't view the form? Email us at annie@astrohaus.com with your name and email address to register.

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How It Works

🎟️ Fill out the form above to secure your spot. It's totally free. (You must register to participate.)

πŸ“– Watch the free mini flash fiction lesson by Grant Faulkner, which includes the announcement of the prompt for the contest. WATCH IT HERE.

πŸ“ You'll have the weekend to finish and submit your 500-word storybased on the prompt by end of day on Monday, August 17. Entries must be 500 wordsΒ or less. The entry form is plain text. Any necessary formatting should be noted in [brackets]. SUBMIT HERE.

✏️ Our judging panel, led by Faulkner and made up of writers from the Freewrite team and the Flash Fiction Institute, will judge each piece based on: length (500 words), relevance to the prompt, and creativity.

πŸ₯‡ NEW THIS YEAR: The panel will select three finalists, and then announce one grand prize winner.

All work must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. ET on Monday, August 17.

The Prize Pack

One winner will receive:

  • Publication on the Freewrite blog and Flash Fiction Institute blog
  • 1 Freewrite Traveler
  • 1 hour-long one-on-one coaching session with Grant Faulkner
  • 1 free Flash Gym session with the Flash Fiction Institute
  • 1 Words Are Hard prompt deck
  • A paperback copy of Set Your Story Free, the ultimate guide to freewriting
  • A digital copy of the opening chapter of Grant Faulkner's book, The Art of Brevity

Second and third place writers will each receive:

  • Publication on the Freewrite blog and Flash Fiction Institute blog
  • 1 Freewrite Alpha
  • 1 free Flash Gym session with the Flash Fiction Institute
  • 1Β Words Are Hard prompt deck
  • A paperback copy ofΒ Set Your Story Free, the ultimate guide to freewriting
  • A digital copy of the opening chapter of Grant Faulkner's book, The Art of Brevity

The Schedule

  • Thursday, Aug 13: Lesson & prompt announcement
  • Monday, Aug 17:Β Submissions deadline
  • Monday, Aug 31:Β Finalists announced
  • Monday, September 7: Grand prize winner announced

Questions? You can reach us at hello@getfreewrite.com.

Write on.

The Freewrite 500 Pit Crew 🏁 

Full contest terms and conditions

July 29, 2026 1 min read

Scroll down for the answer key.

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Short answer: Anything!

July 21, 2026 2 min read

We're thrilled to introduce you to the winner of our Journey to a BillIon Words Giveaway: author P.L. McMillan.