When it comes to NaNoWriMo, I’ve heard a lot of mixed opinions over the past few months, and quite frankly, they were all solid reasons. This web-based event isn’t for everyone, and if it is for you this year, it doesn’t mean it will be next year and vice versa.
Whether you participate in NaNoWriMo or not, there is certainly value in doing so. But in the end, it’s all about who you are, what’s in you, and whether it’s the right time or not. Let me explain this.
Continue reading Is NaNoWriMo right for you? #AuthorToolboxBlogHop
Kelly Charron is the author of horror, psychological thrillers and urban fantasy novels. All with gritty, murderous inclinations and some moderate amounts of humor. She spends far too much time consuming true crime television (and chocolate) while trying to decide if yes, it was the husband, with the wrench, in the library.
Frank McKinley is a published author, writing coach, idea guy, and entrepreneur. His mission is to help writers engage readers, sell their ideas, and build their tribes. His website is
Writing a book is undeniably something you do on your own unless you co-write a book, but most of the time, it’s an activity that you do alone. You sit down and pour your heart and soul onto the paper. Interactions aren’t what writers are known for, and sometimes, it can feel heavy on your shoulders. There are a lot of reasons why you may struggle, from trying to balance work, family, and writing, and fit everything in one day to doubting your writing skills. When you start spending a lot of time looking at the cursor blink on your screen or looking at the white paper mocking you, walk away.
Matt Mayr grew up in a small mining community north of Lake Superior, where he learned to hunt and fish from a very young age. He holds an Honours English Degree from York University, and attended the Humber School for Writers mentorship program twice. 
Now I said “read extensively in your genre,” but it doesn’t mean only reading in your genre. Extensively doesn’t mean exclusively. You can learn a lot by reading in other genres. For example, if you need to build tension or a twist in your plot, reading thriller are very helpful. Reading romance can help you develop a love story.
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Kevin Lux is a twenty-two-year-old comedy writer from Luxembourg. He writes comedy articles about all sorts of subjects and is always looking for different ways to make people laugh with his words.
This week, Sarah L. Johnson wrote a wonderful post filled with humor and invaluable information for Authors on how to approach Indie Booksellers. She shares insights she gained while working at an independent bookstore. This Guest Post is a must read for all Authors and Aspiring Authors. 
So what did I do?
Making this type of decision must be carefully thought before. The leap is something you must want beyond anything else because you don’t need to write full time to be successful. Many authors wrote best sellers maintaining a day job. Writing full time doesn’t guarantee success, it’ll just increase your chances. You could also have a part time job.
Chances are I’m not going to make any money or very little in the next few months, and it’ll take a long time to make things happen. That’s a risk to be considered. The likelihood to make a living is thin, but if you don’t try, you’ll never know. Having a plan B is crucial. I have a stable work history, lots of recommendation, and did everything I could the right way when I quit.
Get coffee, but don’t bring the pot or you might need to do some squats afterward. Put some music on if that helps. I don’t like music when I write as I find it distracting, but I have friends who can’t write without music or a picture on the wall. We’re all different, so find what works for you. Also, set up your desk by getting rid of possible toys (FYI – a slinky may count).
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