NaNoWriMo & Real-Life Distractions: Staying Focused in a Busy November

How am I going to finish?

by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan

NaNoWriMo is here, and I’m diving headfirst into my writing project! 🖋️ But this November feels like a whirlwind, and balancing everything is a challenge in itself. This month is packed to the brim with distractions, and let’s just say, my keyboard isn’t the only thing keeping me busy!

Distraction #1: The Welding Shop is Booming 🔧 The welding shop has been nonstop for weeks! Orders are flying in (equipment is flying out), and it’s amazing to see our hard work paying off, but it’s also taking a big chunk of time and energy. I’m thrilled that things are going well in the shop, but it definitely means squeezing in writing hours whenever I can.

Distraction #2: Harvest Season 🌾 Chris is in full-on harvest mode with peanuts and cotton, and that means long hours, late nights, and the occasional need for an extra set of hands. Farm life has its own rhythm, and during harvest season, the whole family feels the pace. Trying to keep my focus on writing while helping out here and there is a juggling act I’m still learning.

Distraction #3: Liam’s Football All-Star Season 🏈 And then there’s Liam, my little football star! He plays on the All-Star team, and we couldn’t be prouder. Between practices and games, I’m his number-one cheerleader, and I wouldn’t trade that for the world. But fitting in writing between his schedule, well… let’s just say the writing marathon is feeling a lot like a sprint this year.

With all these November distractions, I’ve had to work extra hard to stay focused on my NaNoWriMo goals. It’s a juggling act, but I’m determined to keep writing every day, even if it’s just a little bit. I only got 256 words written Saturday😢. Plus, I’m also pushing to get my teen devotions edited and formatted for a Black Friday release. Talk about a packed month!😊

So, here’s to balancing life, family, work, and writing. To everyone tackling NaNoWriMo in the midst of a busy season, I’m right there with you. We’ve got this! 💪


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What would successfully capture your balancing act? Let me know what you’re working on in the comments!