1. Invest in a good notebook.
Take it everywhere with you. Jot down everything that strikes you – you don’t know when something might end up in your novel.
2. Read as many books as you can in the genre you are writing.
Because duplicates, who needs them?
Forbidden love between an angel/werewolf/vampire/mermaid and a human? Hmm, why does that sound familiar? Oh, right. Because it’s been done before.
There are bound to be SOME overlaps in premise, but getting a sense of what’s already on the shelves will up your chances of writing something as original as humanly possible.
3. Establish a routine
Protect your writing hour. Guard it. Clock in religiously.
4. Find your tribe.
If possible, find a group of friends whom you can count on for honest feedback. Two absolutely trusted ones are ideal: one as a cheerleader, one as a no-bullshit critic.
5.Announce it on Facebook.
But please don’t be obnoxious about it. No one needs to hear you brag about your genius idea five times a day, or wax lyrical about a story you haven’t even started writing.
A simple status letting people know that you are embarking on this project is all you need to hold yourself more accountable to its progress. You’d be more inclined to stick to a writing schedule and work on that word count when people are constantly asking you how that novel’s coming along.
6. Create a playlist.
Hit Replay if you have to. Anything to get you in the mood for the story or a particular scene. I have an individual playlist for every novel I write.
7. Prepare caffeine. Lots of it.
8. Prepare for the time of your life.
Just kidding!
Happy writing!
Muse in Pocket, Pen in Hand 