I’ve decided that my NaNoWriMo attempt is a lost cause. I got about two days of good writing in before I fell sick and had family visit. I started to feel better a few days ago, but that week has put me too far behind.

It’s been suggested that I just tweak my word count goal to exclude that week, dropping it down to 40,000, but I know that won’t work for me. The motivation wouldn’t be there without that common goal at the end.

I do like the start of my novel, and the plot that’s formed in my head, so I’ll still be writing. It won’t be at the cutthroat pace of NaNoWriMo, but it will get done. While this may be a failed attempt, I do think I’ve gained from this experience. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been trying to come up with a novel-worthy plot. None of the ideas seemed good enough, and I was worried I’d start writing and find myself halfway through a novel with a terrible idea. NaNoWriMo forced me to come up with a plot, and I realise now that it’s not the end of the world of an idea doesn’t pan out; just learn from the experience and start writing something else.

I wish everyone still participating good luck. Those I’ve been following seem to be doing an amazing job, so keep it up.