Let's start this week with NaNoWriMo's Pre-NaNoWriMo Non-Noveling Checklist:

❏ Stock up on writing fuel! Consider planning out your meals by week or by month and buying all your non-perishable groceries in one big trip.

❏ Bookmark a few quick and easy recipes (crock pots are your friend!), or consider making and freezing meals ahead of time.

❏ If you can, divvy up your chores with other people. Promise to make up the balance later.

❏ Deep clean the spaces you're responsible for (whether that's your house, your room, or even just your computer files) before the month begins.

❏ If you have any big work/school items due in November, see if you can extend the deadline or get as much as possible done in October.

❏ Designate a special writing place for yourself. Try not to make it the same place you do work or chores, but if it is, how can you make it special for writing? (i.e, a candle, a picture, certain music. Whatever helps you feel creative!)

❏ Make a "Do Not Disturb" sign, or choose some other obvious signal (a hat? headphones?) to let the people around you know they should leave you alone.

❏ Inform your friends and family that you'll be writing this month. Tell them how important it is to you and let them know you might have to prioritize writing over socializing.

❏ Ask someone if they'll be your accountability buddy. They don't have to read your writing, but even just a "Hey, have you written yet today?" text can help keep you on track.

Are there other non-noveling things you'd like to get done to prepare for NaNoWriMo? Be sure to add them, and look forward to that sweet sensation of crossing them off later. A link to an online version of the form is listed in the comments.

There are many events being held by NaNoWriMo, too. Check out their page using the link in the comments.