How to Get Motivated to Write a Novel

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Thinking isn't doing. Get motivated to write your novel using carrots and sticks, and an understanding of how hard it is to work at something you really want to do.

Step 1: Get real
If you have a problem with procrastination, take steps to address it before you begin writing your novel. Writing requires intense concentration, so come up with ways to keep yourself from putting off the work. For example, commit to writing for a certain amount of time at the same time of day each day, no matter what.

Tip
Consider downloading internet-blocking software, which will temporarily disable your internet connection and keep you from getting distracted by web surfing.

Step 2: Define the subject
Wrte an outline. Get motivated to write your novel by defining what you want to explore, and how you want the story to develop.

Tip
Don't let the threat of public opinion or taste dictate whether you write.

Step 3: Focus on an imaginary world
Shift your attention from any sense of inadequacy to the fun of entering the world of your imagination, where anything is possible. Unless one of your characters is beset by neurotic doubt, paralyzing fear isn't conducive to writing.

Step 4: Carry a notebook
Carry a notebook and be observant. Record your thoughts, snippets of conversations, and anything else that strikes you as interesting. You never know what you might use later in setting a scene or fleshing out one of your novel's characters.

Step 5: Reward yourself
Reward yourself with a relaxing bath or a marathon viewing of your favorite TV show after you put in a predetermined amount of time each week.

Step 6: Find a buddy
Try finding a writing buddy, preferably someone already motivated or in the middle of writing their book. Meet with them in person or chat with them online regularly. They'll give you encouragement and something to aspire to.

Did You Know?
As a part of Google's attempt to digitize all of the world's books, the tech company determined in 2010 that there were 129,864,880 books in the world.