Why Starting Your Novel is the Hardest Part
Starting a novel can feel overwhelming—even when you have a great idea. In this post, I share why so many young writers struggle with the beginning of their story and simple ways to finally get words onto the page with confidence.
5/16/20262 min read
Writing class is my favorite day of the week. And has been the most helpful. I'm so impressed with the ideas that these teens have, and so excited to see their work start, but some don't.
Don't get me wrong--they plot and outline like fiends. Prepare, like I encourage them to do. But when it comes to actually starting . . . .
They stall out. Go back and change something. Change a great idea because it doesn't seem good enough.
They are terrified to start. To write something that isn't high-caliber storytelling, something that isn't 100% PERFECTION.
Time to get over that fear. Because the first draft won't be perfection. Not even close. Perfection comes many drafts later, when you have gone through your story so many times that you have it memorized.
So, let's start with some tips to get you started writing.
Tell me about one of your characters. Take a pencil or pen, or open that computer. Now give me a description of this person (or creature). Tell me what they like, a secret they have, and their flaws. Do they have a relationship? Hate their parents? Just write it. No one else has to read this. This is just for you.
Type (or write) the most important things to know about your book. Protagonist, antagonist. Motivations for both. What will happen if they fail? It's amazing how just typing or writing can get us in the mood to keep going.
Set tiny goals. Write for ten minutes. You don't have to complete a chapter a day. You just need to write.
Focus on writing scenes, not chapters. We all have a particular scene in our minds. It's okay that you don't know exactly where it will fit. Just write it. Ideas will begin to flow, I promise.
Stop striving for perfection in the beginning. Don't worry about spelling or grammar. Don't correct punctuation or go back and change things. That will come later during an editing round.
JUST WRITE.
After you start, it will come easier. Taking the step toward beginning a book is daunting. Stop judging yourself and start enjoying it! Overthinking is a real problem, and while preparation is always good, sometimes it can become a stall tactic.
So, I DARE you. Start your book. TODAY. Then let me know you did!
Happy writing!
Michelle
Comments? Questions? Let me know!
