You have spent months, even years struggling to create the perfect characters, with detailed backstories, plots, subplots and the right amount of conflict but somehow the ending is no closer in sight. What is the solution? We all know that frustrating feeling of not knowing how to finally complete a novel that does all of your hard work, sweat and tears justice. So, here we will examine ways that you can implement to finally complete your book, no matter how long the creative process has taken you. 

The first action you must take is to plan your novel. I know a lot of writers hate this process, but for me, without the necessary planning, you are lining yourself up for unnecessary time wasted on writing plots and characters that will find their way into your waste paper basket. If you have taken the time to plan out your storyline, chapter by chapter, knowing where the areas of conflict will arise and being clear on how each of your characters is going to react to different situations, then the whole writing process will be much quicker and more enjoyable.  

Second, set yourself small goals and a time scale to complete each one. Although setting yourself a goal to complete the entire novel is not recommended, especially if this is your first book, setting small manageable goals is extremely beneficial. Here are a few examples of the goals I set myself. 

1. Create the backstory of the antagonist. Research psychological behaviour traits that have made them act in a certain way. What unique personality characteristics could they have? (Continue this process for each main character) 

2. Create a character arc for the antagonist and each day repeat the process for all of the other characters. 

3. Write an outline for your first chapter. What are the main points you want to achieve? Ensure that the content moves the story forward and develops character relationships. Again, repeat this process for each chapter. 

4. Write your first chapter. 

You will not have a clear indication of how many chapters your book will be at this stage, but when you have completed a detailed plan of your book, and see the whole story slowly coming together, this will be the motivation you need to build a new ritual of writing every day, until you have completed your book. 

Third, tell people what your deadlines are. This will not only make you accountable to sticking with your writing routine, but also get them excited to read your completed book. Maybe you could find yourself a writing partner via a writing forum or social media group. Do whatever it takes to ensure you keep to your goal. Talk to other writers that are going through, or have been where you are. You will find enormous encouragement from the writing community.  

Finally, make writing your priority and not something you do once all the other tasks in your life have been completed. If you are passionate about building a carear as a writer, then it must take precedence. Set boundaries with loved ones that when you are writing, then you are not to be disturbed unless there is a dire emergency. If you have small children, is there anyone that can take care of them for a few hours a week while you write? Self-preservation is healthy after all.  

If after following all of these guidelines, you are still struggling to complete your book, then maybe the subject matter is just not right. Never feel guilty for discarding an idea if you are struggling, especially when you have tried everything to complete it. Simply put it on the backburner and start again. Writing a book that you are not passionate about is doing yourself and your readers such a disservice.