It’s Black Friday. How many of you are buying tools to help your writing?
I love Black Friday. At what other time can I buy 200ft of Ethernet cable for $5? That’s right, 200ft. It’s the best investment I ever put down on Amazon.
During a time where we usually buy the products with the best marketing, let’s think about what we can purchase that will benefit us for the remaining time in NaNoWriMo and beyond.
Specialty writing programs can help out. I personally use Scrivener for the vast majority of my writing needs, and Scrivener has several discount codes for NaNoWriMo that can be used. Hemingway is another program and friend of mine picked up. I don’t know what you specifically could us, so look for your niche and see if there is a more productive way of going about your writing. Even if you don’t fall in love with the program, treating yourself goes a long way in motivation.
A new computer, whether it be a desktop, a laptop, or a tablet. I’m picking up the Surface 3 for mobile use. When I traveled to New York in the summer, I found out that my laptop was too big to fit in my messenger bag. I was really looking forward to getting some work done in the flight, so instead I printed each chapter out and worked on them by hand. Tablets have come a long way from where they once were, and faster processors and great keyboard covers have made it convenient to keep one around.
Keyboards and mice! Laptop keyboards are a matter of utility, not comfort. When I bring my computer home, I have a Logitech keyboard and mouse I use for all my needs. Writing is more satisfying on a bigger keyboard that gives better sounds. The screen of the computer is further away, making it easier on my eyes. I don’t have to use a stupid touchpad that likes to click things as I’m moving the cursor. Spruce up your home writing space.
I hope these suggestions help you consider what to spend your money on today. I had this revelation recently (again) when I was saving money, but impulse bought something for $20. It was so weird, because for some products I considered $20 to be a lot of money. That’s when I made sure to not worry about spending that money if it helps me in either productivity or convenience. It’s certainly better than collectibles that have no real value.
So spend some money on yourself today. You deserve it!