128: How to Write a Novel in a Month: Interview with Grant Faulkner
Many people believe they have a novel in them, but they fail to ever write it. They sit on the dream for years and a word never reaches the page. What they don’t realize is getting started is easier than they think.
Many people believe they have a novel in them, but they fail to ever write it. They sit on the dream for years and a word never reaches the page. What they don’t realize is getting started is easier than they think.
Last week, after five years of writing non-fiction, I began working on my first novel. The process of becoming a student again has been eye-opening and thrilling.
After signing up through National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), one of my favorite observations is the power of community to propel a creative in their pursuit. Everyone is chasing a common goal and encouraging each other along the way.
This week on The Portfolio Life, the Executive Director of NaNoWriMo, Grant Faulkner, and I talk about leveraging collaboration to fuel creative output, growing to over half a million members, and why writing a novel is like running a marathon.
Listen in as we talk about preparing for a new writing project, how to conduct a “time hunt”, and the life-changing impact of writing a novel in a month.
Listen to the podcast
To listen to the show, click the player below (If you’re reading this via email, please click here).
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Show highlights
In this episode, Grant and I discuss:
The accidental beginning of a worldwide creative phenomenon
Why community creates powerful momentum for writers
How accountability drives productive writing
Which unconventional trick is the best writing incentive
The parallels between overcoming addiction and creative work
Quotes and takeaways
“Creativity flourishes with other people and in collaboration.” —Grant Faulkner
“Everyone has a story to tell. And everyone’s story matters.” —Grant Faulkner
“Writing a novel is the prize unto itself. That’s the gift you’re giving yourself and the world.” —Grant Faulkner
“Our stories connect us as human beings. They are what make our life rich.” —Grant Faulkner
“Novel writing is largely about building a big structure through small increments.” —Grant Faulkner
[share-quote author="Grant Faulkner" via="JeffGoins"]Writing a novel is the prize unto itself. That’s the gift you’re giving yourself and the world.
Resources
No Plot? No Problem! by Chris Baty (NaNoWriMo founder)
Download the full interview transcript here.
What do you love about new writing projects? Are you doing NaNoWriMo this year? Share in the comments.