Writing Fear Free: NaNoWriMo Week 3

Last week, I fell off my horse, and it was the first time I could not get right back in the saddle. In fact, for a few minutes, I couldn’t move. Along with a bruised tailbone, I chipped a bit of bone off my elbow.

It hurt.

Now, I’m only able to type with one hand.

I have to look at every task from a new perspective. I have to break things down into small steps that I know I can do so that I don’t re-injure my arm.

And when I do get back in the saddle again, I will also have a different perspective. I’ve been hurt. Will I go out and immediately seek out the cattle truck that spooked my horse and caused the accident?

No. I’ll break down the task into things I know we can so well and build memories of good rides to override the fear. I will be out there again soon doing what I love.

Does this have anything to do with NaNoWriMo?

A great deal.

This week you’ll be writing your climax and falling action (sorry for dreadful pun). A big event occurs and leads to some interesting changes in your main character’s life.

• You may find yourself behind in the word count. You may be tempted to give up the whole thing. But you can get back in the saddle and make up you deficit, no matter how big.
• Don’t try to make up your lack all in one sitting.
• Break the task into smaller chunks.

If it is scary to think of making up 2,000 words, instead think of adding an extra 500 word session each day for the next 4 days. Can you sit down and write 500 words?

Sure you can.

I just wrote 318 words with only one hand in less than 15 minutes.