Do you use word count goals?

[serria]

Do you set word goals for yourself - if so, how many words? Do you find word goals distracting, and focus only on getting scenes down? Or do you tend to just write whenever and how much feels natural for you, without thinking about daily goals?

For me, I never used to think about word counts or anything until I became really involved in fanfiction for a particular series. A fanfic writer friend would always talk about word goals, whether her goal for the day, or an ultimate goal for a fic. When I started thinking about it, it became a compulsion to check my word count every couple of sentences of paragraphs. Now, I don't do word counts at all, unless I'm checking how long a particular chapter is when I'm done with it.

I know they can be a useful way to push yourself to write, especially during NaNoWriMo (or similar events), but what do you think? Are they helpful for you?

Comments

[sarillia]

I tried Write or Die but it didn't work for me at all. I work best when I'm in a good mood and not under any pressure. Which may sound strange when combined with what I said before about challenging myself with word goals. The thing is, there are no consequences if I don't meet a goal. I don't beat myself up about it, if necessary I remind myself that it doesn't make me a failure or anything. The only reward when I do make it is the feeling of accomplishment I get from it. So if I don't get that, it's no big deal, but if I do, I really enjoy that feeling and I'm motivated to write some more to meet another goal.