And with that, oc-TOE-ber is over.

Ngl, when I first started this project, I was a little apprehensive.

I’ve mentioned before in my social medias that I’ve tried other similar daily writing projects before, often with bad consequences—specifically, to my physical health—and while I knew that I could have just done microfics like last year (and in fact, that was the original plan for this year as well), there was this little voice at the back telling me to give it a try once again. Nothing big, just 300-600 words, some light editing if that.

If it works, it works; and if it doesn’t, who cares?

In fact, the main reason I did not post any of them here as I wrote them was because I was certain that I was going to fail. Maybe reach Day 5 or 10 (20 at best) before it got too much, and I defaulted to just doing microfics instead (after all, it would be bad optics if I decided to quit my own project). But to the surprise of everyone, more so myself, I actually managed to pull it off.

Now, I won’t deny that it did have some adverse effects. My head for the past month has been pounding like crazy, though not as bad as how it was around Days 10-15. It’s mostly when I do try to focus or think too much (which also means I barely got to do any reading this month or even watch some commentary youtubers I like), but still, even at my worst, it was nowhere near what I experienced last time I attempted something like this. So, I’ll take my victories where I get them.

All in all, sure, it’s not an experience I’d like to repeat anytime soon, but I’d consider this to be a great experience. As I’ve mentioned a few times before, unlike most writers, my biggest struggle when it comes to writing is drafting, and with this challenge being mostly 31 days of drafting, I’d like to think I’ve improved somewhat on it. Moreover, after writing over 30k words in a single month, I see it as a sign that I’m capable of taking bigger projects if I really set my mind to it. Maybe finally start working on those books I wanted to write (or at least finish my MayWolf VN from 2 years ago…)

But for the time being, going to take a mental break. In the meantime, my microfics for the next month are already scheduled (except for the FWG #WeeklyPawmpts), and got a new art piece for you guys incoming, so you guys won’t notice it as much. I’ll also see if I can somehow squeeze another short story in, though no promises.

Knowing now that I can actually finish these types of challenges, we’ll see what next year brings.

Bye for now, and see you under my paws.