So, you want to write a long novel, huh? I get it. That grand narrative idea? Totally irresistible. But let me tell you, this journey? It’s less of a quick dash and more like an ultra-marathon through a desert.
You start out, and it’s this amazing burst of inspiration, new ideas blooming everywhere. But then, inevitably, you face the blank page. That huge, empty space signaling thousands and thousands of words still waiting to be written. And that’s usually where it happens – in the middle, when the manuscript feels like it’s dragging on forever. Momentum falters, inspiration peters out, and that vibrant dream of yours risks just disappearing into the “someday” pile.
This isn’t just about trying harder or gritting your teeth. It’s about being smart, really strategic, about how you approach this whole creative endurance thing. Keeping your momentum isn’t something you just hope for; it’s something you actively, deliberately build. It means cultivating specific habits, truly understanding how your creative brain works, and committing fiercely to the process. My goal here is to help you tear down those common obstacles and give you really hands-on, specific ways to not just finish your long novel, but to do it with purpose and continuous progress.
Laying the Groundwork: Protecting Your Creativity From Wearing Down
Momentum isn’t just about what you do when you hit a wall; it’s about setting up a strong system that keeps that wall from feeling totally impossible in the first place.
1. The Superpower of a Smart Outline (But Don’t Let It Own You)
When it comes to outlines, especially for long novels, a lot of us either overdo it to the point of paralysis or just completely ditch the idea. Both of those extremes can really kill your momentum.
- The Over-Outliner’s Trap: You think the outline has to be perfect before you write even one word of prose. This leads to endless tweaking, getting stuck in analysis, and delaying the actual writing. You lose momentum before you’ve even truly begun.
- The No-Outliner’s Struggle: You wander lost in your own plot, veer off course, or feel completely uncertain about what comes next. This means wasted words, going back and forth, and losing a lot of time trying to find your way back to the story.
My Super Practical Tip: The Living Skeleton Outline.
My advice is to create a bare-bones outline. Think major plot points, how your characters will change, and the big themes you want to explore. This isn’t a strict blueprint, but more like a map you can actually follow. For a 100,000-word novel, this might just be 5-10 pages.
- Example 1: Scene Cards or Bullet Points. If I were writing a mystery, I’d list out 15-20 really important scenes: “Protagonist finds the body,” “First suspect introduced, alibi crumbles,” “Red herring subplot begins,” “Climax at the abandoned warehouse,” “Resolution.” Under each, I’d jot down 2-3 sentences about what the scene needs to accomplish, who’s involved, and what key info gets revealed.
- Example 2: Tentpole Moments. For an epic fantasy, I’d identify the 5-7 “tentpole” moments that have to happen for the story to move forward: “Hero leaves home,” “Hero gains first magical ability,” “First encounter with the main antagonist,” “Betrayal by trusted ally,” “Final confrontation.” These are like bright lights, guiding me when I feel lost in the writing.
Why this works: This living skeleton gives you enough structure to stay on track without squashing any new ideas that pop up during the writing process. When I hit a wall, I can just glance at my skeleton and immediately see the next landmark. It cuts down on decision fatigue and keeps me moving forward.
2. The Tiny Goal: Turning Mount Everest into Molehills
The sheer size of a novel – 80,000, 100,000, 150,000 words – is psychologically overwhelming. Seriously, just staring at “Write 100,000 words” is a quick way to just give up.
My Super Practical Tip: Break It Down, Then Break It Down Again.
Take your novel and slice it into manageable chunks, then slice those chunks into daily, totally achievable tasks.
- Phase 1: Big Picture Breakdown. Chapters are the obvious first step. If your 100k novel has 30 chapters, that’s roughly 3,300 words a chapter. Still feels big? Break chapters into scenes. A chapter might have 3-5 scenes. Now you’re looking at 600-1,000 words per scene. Much better!
- Phase 2: Tiny Breakdown (Daily Goals). Based on how much time and energy you actually have, set a minimum daily word count. This isn’t some wishful target; it’s the absolute lowest you’ll go.
- Example: If I decide 500 words/day is my minimum, and I write 5 days a week, that’s 2,500 words/week, or 10,000 words/month. Suddenly, a 100k novel is done in 10 months. This makes the huge task feel completely doable.
- Be Specific: Instead of just thinking “Write today,” say to yourself “Write the scene where Elara confronts the Rogue Guild, focusing on her internal conflict.” This pre-loads your brain, making it way easier to just start.
Why this works: Every completed scene, every daily goal met, feels like a win. These small successes build up positive reinforcement, which keeps my momentum going. I’m not writing a novel; I’m just writing the next 500 words.
The Daily Habit: How I Keep Producing Like Crazy
Momentum isn’t just about your plans; it’s about what you actually do every single day.
1. The Non-Negotiable Writing Time: Treat It Like a Sacred Appointment
Creative work often gets pushed off until “when I feel inspired” or “when I have time.” For a long project, this is basically self-sabotage.
My Super Practical Tip: Schedule It and Protect It Fiercely.
Figure out when you’re most productive and commit to that time, no matter what.
- Example 1: The Early Bird: If I’m a morning person, I block out 6 AM – 8 AM every weekday. Alarm set, coffee made, and I’m at my desk. My brain is fresh, and there are hardly any distractions.
- Example 2: The Night Owl: If I’m more of a night person, I dedicate 9 PM – 11 PM. I make sure my family or housemates know this is “do not disturb” time.
- Example 3: The Lunch Break Writer: Even 30-45 minutes during a lunch break, consistently, really adds up. If I need to, I use a portable device.
Why this works: Consistency builds habit, and once it’s a habit, starting takes so much less mental energy. Just showing up, even for a short time, reinforces that I’m a writer and keeps the story alive in my mind. The discipline of the schedule pushes past the ups and downs of inspiration.
2. The “Stop Mid-Sentence” (or Mid-Thought) Trick
Hemingway famously suggested stopping when you’re on a roll and know exactly what’s coming next. This is an incredibly powerful momentum booster.
My Super Practical Tip: Always Leave Little Breadcrumbs for Your Future Self.
When I finish a writing session, I stop at a point where I know exactly what the next sentence, paragraph, or scene will be.
- Example 1: The Suspended Thought: “She opened the door, a chilling gust of wind sweeping past her, and then she saw—” (Then I end for the day). The next morning, I don’t have to rack my brain for ideas; I just finish the sentence.
- Example 2: The Next Scene Anchor: I finish a scene where two characters have argued. Before I close my document, I type a quick note like
// Next scene: John seeks solace in the local tavern, meets mysterious stranger.This immediately tells my brain what the next logical step is.
Why this works: This gets rid of the biggest barrier to starting: the blank page and that awful feeling of “what do I write?” I sit down, pick up right where I left off, and am instantly immersed, totally bypassing that initial resistance.
3. Embracing “Crappy First Drafts” (My No-Pressure Zone)
Perfectionism is a silent killer of momentum, especially early on in a novel.
My Super Practical Tip: Shut Down Your Inner Critic During Drafting.
I truly understand that the first draft is only about getting the story down. It’s my permission to be imperfect.
- Example: When I catch myself obsessing over a word choice or a clunky sentence (“Is this really the best way to describe her walk?”), I literally tell myself, “Later.” Or I type
[TK - better description](TK means “to come”) and just move on. - My Mental Trick: I tell myself: “I am a miner, not a sculptor. My job right now is to dig up the ore, not polish the diamond.” The ore will get refined in later drafts.
Why this works: By removing the pressure to be perfect right away, I write much faster. And speed of production is a direct contributor to momentum. I’m building a framework, not a finished house, in that first draft.
Mid-Journey Toughness: Getting Through the Creative Dry Spells
Even with the best planning, there will be times when inspiration feels like it’s completely gone, and the finish line seems impossibly far away.
1. The Scene Jump: When One Road Is Blocked, Find Another
Stuck on a particular scene? Don’t just stop everything.
My Super Practical Tip: Leapfrog Chapters or Scenes.
I go back to my skeletal outline. Is there another scene or chapter I can write right now?
- Example: Let’s say I’m stuck on an emotional confrontation between two lovers. Instead of forcing it, I’ll skip to the next chapter where the protagonist is fleeing the city, detailing the physical setting and the immediate aftermath of the argument from their perspective. Sometimes, writing the consequences of the previous scene illuminates how to write the scene itself.
- Character Deep Dive: If it’s not a scene, can I write a character backstory snippet that isn’t directly in the novel but deepens my understanding of a character? This still counts as progress and can inspire a new angle for a plot point.
Why this works: This prevents me from getting stuck. Any forward movement, even if it’s not strictly linear, keeps that feeling of progress alive. Often, working on a different part of the story magically unlocks the solution to whatever was blocking me before.
2. The “Sprint” and “Marathon” Toggle
Writing a long novel is definitely a marathon, but within that marathon, you need to throw in some bursts of sprints.
My Super Practical Tip: Use Writing Sprints Strategically.
When my energy flags, I set a short, intense burst of writing time.
- Example 1: The “Pomodoro Technique” for Writing. I set a timer for 25 minutes. I commit to writing only during that time, with absolutely no distractions. Then I take a 5-minute break. I repeat that. The short window feels much less daunting than an open-ended “write until you’re done.”
- Example 2: The Word Count Sprint. I challenge myself: “Can I write 200 words in the next 15 minutes?” I make it a game. That competitive aspect can really light a fire.
Why this works: Sprints push past inertia. They provide measurable, short-term goals that are easy to achieve, building confidence and reminding me that I can produce. They break up the monotony of the long haul.
3. Using “Reader Feedback” to Boost Momentum (But Be Smart About It)
Letting early readers see your work can be terrifying, but carefully chosen feedback at the right stage can be incredibly revitalizing.
My Super Practical Tip: Get Specific Feedback from Trusted Beta Readers.
Do NOT, I repeat, DO NOT send your entire first draft to anyone. It’s too overwhelming for them and honestly, for you too.
- Example: Let’s say I’ve finished the first third of my novel and I’m feeling a slump. I’ll send just those first 30,000 words to one or two trusted beta readers (ideally, other writers) with very specific questions: “Does the protagonist feel active enough?” “Is the pacing in chapters 4-6 working?” “Are there any parts where you just completely lose interest?”
- The Gold Nugget Rule: I focus on getting just one or two really useful pieces of feedback, not a full critique.
Why this works: Even minor external validation that my story is connecting can give me a huge surge of motivation. Constructive criticism, when it’s specific and actionable, gives me concrete problems to solve, which can re-engage my problem-solving brain and fuel new writing. Crucially, this is about getting energy and direction, not about fixing every single problem.
The Long Haul: Staying Energized and Avoiding Burnout
Momentum isn’t just about how much I produce; it’s about managing my well-being throughout this tough journey.
1. Celebrating (No Matter How Small)
We’re wired for rewards. Denying myself celebration for small steps forward will drain my energy.
My Super Practical Tip: Acknowledge Milestones – Big and Small.
- Example 1: The Chapter Victory: Finished a chapter? I treat myself to my favorite coffee, a short walk, or 15 minutes of guilt-free browsing.
- Example 2: The Word Count Climb: Reached 25,000 words? That’s a quarter of a novel! I might treat myself to a new book I’ve been wanting, or a special meal.
- Example 3: Getting Through a Rough Patch: Got through a particularly difficult scene? I allow myself an hour dedicated to a hobby I love.
Why this works: These small celebrations create positive feedback loops. They tell my brain, “This hard work is worth it, and there are rewards along the way.” This recharges my emotional battery and makes the next writing push more appealing.
2. Filling the Creative Well: Replenishing What I Use Up
Writing is an act of creative output. To keep putting out, I have to take in.
My Super Practical Tip: Actively Seek Creative Input and Rest.
- Example 1: Read Widely, Not Just in My Genre. If I write fantasy, I’ll read literary fiction, historical non-fiction, or psychology. Fresh perspectives from other areas can spark new ideas and prevent creative echo chambers.
- Example 2: Get Involved in Other Creative Pursuits. I might draw, paint, play an instrument, cook a complex meal, or garden. These activities engage different parts of my brain and can often loosen mental knots related to my novel.
- Example 3: Prioritize Sleep and Breaks. My brain needs time to consolidate information. Pushing through exhaustion is counterproductive; it leads to poor quality writing and burnout. I schedule non-writing days, and I step away from my desk regularly during sessions.
Why this works: Creative input prevents stagnation and offers new ways to approach narrative challenges. Rest allows my subconscious to work on problems and integrate new information, making me more efficient and vibrant when I return to the page.
3. The Buddy System: Accountability and Emotional Support
Writing can be a lonely endeavor. Sharing the burden, even indirectly, can really lighten things.
My Super Practical Tip: Find an Accountability Partner or Join a Writing Group.
- Example 1: The Daily Check-in: I connect with another writer who’s also working on a long project. We text each other at the beginning of our writing session with our goal, and at the end with our word count achieved. Just knowing someone is expecting my update can be a powerful motivator.
- Example 2: The Critique Partner (for later stages): Even before sending full drafts, having someone who understands the writing process to vent to, brainstorm with, or celebrate small wins with is invaluable.
- Example 3: Online Writing Sprints/Communities: Websites and apps dedicated to writing offer virtual co-working spaces or timed sprints. The shared presence of others also working can be surprisingly motivating.
Why this works: Knowing I’m not alone in the struggle provides emotional resilience. External accountability can be the gentle nudge I need on days when motivation is scarce. Sharing ideas and frustrations can release mental pressure and offer new perspectives.
The Finish Line and Beyond: Keeping Momentum Through Revision
Finishing the first draft? That’s a huge accomplishment, truly monumental. But it’s not the end. Momentum has to carry me through the crucial, and often more challenging, revision phase.
1. The “Distance” Strategy: Stepping Away Before Diving Back In
Jumping straight into revising after finishing a first draft is like trying to proofread my own grocery list while I’m writing it. I’m just too close.
My Super Practical Tip: Institute a Mandatory “Cooling Off” Period.
- Example: For a long novel, this might be 2-4 weeks, or even a month. During this time, I do not look at my manuscript. I read other books, watch films, travel, or engage in other hobbies.
- The Purpose: This creates critical distance. It allows my brain to “forget” what I intended to write and instead see what’s actually on the page.
Why this works: When I return, I approach the manuscript with fresh eyes, almost like a first reader. This renewed perspective is crucial for spotting plot holes, pacing issues, character inconsistencies, and clunky prose. The “newness” reinvigorates my analytical mind and provides renewed momentum for the revision process.
2. Targeted Revision Passes: The Multi-Layered Approach
Just like I broke down writing the first draft, I break down the revision process. Trying to fix everything at once is overwhelming and inefficient.
My Super Practical Tip: Do Successive, Focused Revision Passes.
- Example 1: Plot Pass. I read through only for plot consistency. Does the story make sense? Are there any logical jumps? I check cause and effect.
- Example 2: Character Arc Pass. I read through only for character development. Does the protagonist change? Are their motivations clear? How do supporting characters evolve?
- Example 3: Pacing Pass. I read specifically to find slow spots, areas where tension drops, or times a reader might get bored. I mark these for tightening or expanding.
- Example 4: Dialogue Pass. I read only the dialogue aloud. Does it sound natural? Is each character’s voice distinct?
- Example 5: Prose/Line Edit Pass. Here, I focus on sentence structure, word choice, imagery, and flow.
- Example 6: Copy Edit/Proofread Pass. This is the final, granular check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Why this works: This systematic approach prevents me from getting bogged down and allows me to stay focused. Each pass is a distinct, achievable goal, building momentum for the next. I’m tackling the novel like a layered cake, making sure each component is perfect before moving to the next.
My Final Thoughts
Writing a long novel is an act of massive ambition and incredible perseverance. Momentum isn’t some magic thing you catch; it’s a carefully built structure of consistent habits, smart planning, understanding myself, and relentless dedication. It’s about accepting that inspiration will come and go, but consistency, like a steady tide, will always bring me back to the shore. By strengthening my process, embracing small, achievable goals, building consistent daily routines, and cleverly navigating those inevitable dry spells, I not only maintain momentum but transform this tough journey into a sustainable, fulfilling, and ultimately triumphant expedition. My story deserves to be told, and with these strategies, I have the map to guide me to its completion.