42: The End of NaNoWriMo: A New Approach to Sustainable Writing
Working with Planetary Energy for a More Sustainable Writing Practice
Want to hit your writing goals this November?
It's November, and maybe you're already a few thousand words into your latest manuscript … that is, if you're carrying on with a variation of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) since the popular challenge shut its doors earlier this year.
I understand the excitement — I used to participate myself.
The nonprofit officially closed its doors in March 2025 after inspiring writers for over 20 years (and possibly leaving many more feeling disheartened and frustrated).
Despite its popularity, though, NaNoWriMo doesn't boast many "winners." The completion rate has consistently been between 10-16% over the years, yet participation has steadily increased.
In today's episode, I share my experience with the writing challenge — the good, the bad, and the dusty.
If you're rolling along with a similar writing challenge this month, I also share some key insights to help you manage your energy and make progress on your latest writing project.
Key Takeaways:
The key reasons writers end up feeling frustrated and uninspired with NaNoWriMo-style intense 30-day sprints.
How intense writing challenges can lead to burnout and lower-quality writing, especially when they don't account for daily energy fluctuations, particularly among women with menstrual cycles.
Easy ways you can work with your natural energy rhythm, combined with the moon, to create a more sustainable and fulfilling writing habit.
If you end up feeling exhausted or scattered partway through the month, there's a key reason why — and it's not your fault.
Discover a simple approach to help you create a sustainable writing practice this month that inspires your best writing yet.
How joining a supportive writing community can provide accountability, inspiration, and a judgment-free space to develop your authentic voice.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to How Women Write Podcast
00:28 The Rise and Fall of NaNoWriMo
01:04 My NaNoWriMo Journey
02:34 Writing Challenges and Realizations
05:06 Energy and Writing: A New Approach
09:56 Astrological Insights for November Writing
21:30 Community and Support for Writers
23:27 Conclusion and Invitation to Join the Community
Quick Links:
Blog: The Ultimate NaNoWriMo Alternative: How To Create a Writing Habit this Fall Without Burning Out
Quiet Coaching Signature Services: The Quantum Writing Accelerator
