National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) is a month away, and my novel planning has just begun.

First, let me give you some background around the story. I had an idea six years ago of a group of rich people who use their wealth to create world peace. It was supposed to be a graphic novel called Deterrents with a lot of allusions to Herman Melville’s Billy Budd. Now it’s becoming a novel.

Rather than starting my novel from the same place as my original idea, I’ve decided to make it more of an origin story for the main character. He’s a wealthy 30-something who is looking for a new adventure in life. He comes from a fairly prestigious background but doesn’t like being recognized for it. He’s part Kennedy, part Bond, part Timothy Ferriss.

This year I’m also looking forward to participating in NaNoWriMo community more than ever. Sitting down with other people who are focused on their writing is very motivating. I also like the idea of being social yet anti-social at the same time. It’s an awkwardly comfortable feeling.

For those counting, this will be my fourth NaNoWriMo. I haven’t won yet, but I write about 5,000 more words each year.