There are some basic rules to NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month). You have to write 50,000 words in a month. You have to start on November 1. You have to work on a new piece. You have to write a novel.

I am breaking all the rules.

Okay, I am writing a novel because this is me we are talking about. I live for fiction.

But other than that, I am being the James Dean of the NaNoWriMo world. Minus the leather jacket and motorcycle.

I am not planning on writing 50,000 words in a month. My goal is around 20,000. Why? I plan on being fully present during the Thanksgiving holiday with my in-laws. I want to eat turkey and look at the Christmas displays in New York City without guilt.

I am starting my writing today, not on November 1. I always think you should start writing as soon as possible.

I am also working on a book I have previously started. Why? Because that’s what I am inspired to write. That’s what I want to finish.

I personally think NaNoWriMo is about progress, not perfection. I know it is technically about finishing a novel in a month in a sloppy, no pressure way, but I think it is really about developing a writer’s lifestyle. The real goal is learning to write every day and to prioritize your writing.

So if you want to write a non-fiction book or only write 15,000 words this NaNoWriMo, I say go for it. If you want to play by the rules, that’s okay, too. Either way, I am rooting for you.