1. Set a goal. Define exactly what “more” means for you personally.
2. Write consistently. NOT EVERY DAY (unless you can/want to), but on a schedule. The more you practice writing on a schedule, the easier it gets.
3. Write about things that interest you even if it’s “just for you.”
4. Embrace the First Draft Philosophy. Write now, edit later.
5. Set aside a block of time for writing and only write during that block.
6. It’s better to over-write than end up short, so don’t hold yourself back.
7. Start with small goals and gradually increase as reaching them becomes easier.
8. Always have two writing projects in progress: one that others will see and one only you will read.
9. Hold yourself to a word-count goal. Sometimes specific numbers are more motivational than you might expect.
10. Don’t worry about doing it perfectly. Chances are, it’s not nearly as “bad” as you think.
Meg is the creator of Novelty Revisions, dedicated to helping writers put their ideas into words. She is an editor and writer, and a 12-time NaNoWriMo winner. Follow Meg on Twitter for tweets about writing, food, and Star Wars.
Meg Dowell Writes 