We know writing a novel can seem like a daunting task at first. Just starting can seem intimidating!

​Fortunately, there are many ways you can simplify writing a novel to make it easier. This list of 10 novel writing tips will help you stay focused, motivated, and organized throughout the writing process.


1. CHOOSE YOUR DEADLINE AND WRITING GOAL
When there’s no deadline or goal to finish, it can be very hard to complete your project.

This is why this is the #1 rule on the list: Set a measurable deadline and writing goal.

Most novels are between 50,000 and 100,000 words. Because it’s easier to add words than cut them out, it’s often better to set your word count goal lower than 75,000 words for your first draft.

To determine the best writing goals and deadline for you, think about how many words you can write in a day. I can generally easily write between 2,500 and 4,000 words a day, so setting a goal of 75,000 words in 30 days is reasonable for me.

A deadline will push you to your limits and write even when you’re not motivated to write.


2. PREPARE BEFORE YOU WRITE
While some writers just sit down at the keyboard to write with no plan or idea, it can be difficult to keep a story going or you may hit writer’s block. By preparing a basic synopsis, mind map, or outline for your ideas, you’ll have something to reference to anytime you come across a roadblock while writing.

There’s many different ways to prepare for writing a novel.

Here’s two examples for ways you can prepare:

• Write a 1-2 page synopsis of the novel
• Create an outline for your novel
  
  

A little prep work can go a long way in helping you stay focused and on task while writing. Having all your research and ideas in one place can also be very beneficial for keeping thoughts and ideas organized.


3. KNOW YOUR CHARACTERS

The better you know your characters, the easier the writing will unfold. Get to know your characters as well as you would know a close friend.

You don’t have to write every little detail about your character in the story – but the more you know about your character the more you will be able to imagine new scenes and develop the story.

Need help creating strong characters? See our list of Character Development Questions and How to Develop Strong Characters in Your Novel.


4. USE THE RIGHT TOOLS WHILE WRITING YOUR NOVEL
 
If you’re using Microsoft Office or Open Office to write your novel, you’re likely going to get frustrated during the process. While these programs are great for some writing projects, most professional writers use software specifically made for writers.

There are a lot of great programs and tools that can help you easily write your book. The key is to make sure that whatever you use is productive, reliable, and efficient.

Beyond just software and hardware, there are a lot of other important things – like being comfortable while you work! Never underestimate the importance of a good Ergonomic Office Chair!


5. SCHEDULE TIME TO WRITE – AND ACTUALLY WRITE!
There will never be a perfect time to write. Waiting for when you have more time is a surefire way to never start writing your book. Finding motivation to write may not be easy, but sometimes scheduling time is just as hard!

Schedule a time during the day when you can write with minimal distractions and sit down. Try to disconnect from the internet if you can and force yourself to write. Do it one word at a time. Making time for writing will help you complete your novel.

To your novel success,
​
MG

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​Today, I have something interesting for you.

Did you know that the early morning hours are the most important hours in your day?

They affect your mindset and your productivity for the rest of the day.

So, how can you start each day off on the right foot?

Plan your day the night before
By thinking about what you want to accomplish the next day, you are essentially visualizing what you are going to get done successfully, instead of wasting time worrying about where to start and what to do when you wake up. This puts you in the right mindset for success and keeps you calmer and more efficient.

Set goals for the day every morning
When you wake up and get ready to act on the plans you made the night before, stop and take a second to remind yourself of what your goals are. This will refocus your energy into only what you want to complete and will promote more productivity throughout the day.

Avoid checking your phone
By making sure you have a morning routine that allows you to wake up, shower, get ready, and prepare a good breakfast, you are ensuring that you are more likely to feel accomplished and stay focused all day.

Checking your phone for emails, new social media notifications, or missed calls can cause you the anxiety that goes along with feeling like you have to have to start jumping in and handling everything immediately. Give yourself a break for some focus and you’ll thank yourself later.
Remember, it’s okay to take a few minutes for yourself.
 
To Your Success,
​
MG

People doubt all the time.

They doubt themselves, they doubt positive outcomes, and they doubt they will achieve the success they’re so desperately working toward.

Why?
Because the voice inside your mind takes everything you’ve ever heard or seen throughout your life and throws it back at you exactly when you don’t need it. Worries, bad dreams, and memories of people telling you that you can’t… all things that are completely unhelpful in most situations.

A lot of writers, even very accomplished authors, have doubt. They don’t feel like their writing is good enough.

That’s a dangerous game to play. If you convince yourself you’re  not doing well, then it becomes easier to give up -- and that is the opposite of what we want to achieve here.

To overcome your doubts and any fears you may have of writing a book, there are 15 practices you can use to help.

Write often, even when you don’t want to
One of the best ways to overcome your fears of writing is to write 1,000 words a day. The key to writing a book is to just write. Like most things, you can’t get worse at writing by doing it.

Stop thinking about what other people will think
Don’t worry about what others are going to think of your writing or of your book -- that’s what reviewing and editing are for. Right now, just focus on getting your message out of your head!

Say affirmations that rid your mind of the fear of failure
Rather than focusing on the fear of why you think you can’t write a book, focus on the future and how you’ll feel when it’s done.
 
Start today,

​MG

 

You can write anything. Even if it doesn’t directly add to what you see as your final book.

It’s important to keep your creativity flowing and to stay in the habit of writing your thoughts down and getting everything out.

Established authors never feel like they’re done growing and improving. They stick to strict routines, shut out distractions, and always look for new ways to focus and write more.

If you’ve experienced any writer’s block or frustration with your progress, it’s okay.

It’s normal! You’re not a dud.

But, if you are tired of that feeling and you’re ready for something that can help, try Brian’s free training.

With 3 Simple Tips to a Winning Writing Routine (That Actually Work!), you will learn how easy it can be to:

• Know how to start writing and organize your book
• Focus on the most important steps, one at a time
• Make writing a priority so you see regular progress

Whether you’re brand new to book writing, or you have experience and are just looking for ways to keep getting better, these tips can help you.

To Your Success,
​
MG