Want to write a novel? DON’T !

Instead, tell your story to a friend. Haven’t got a friend? Sure you do. Your computer or typewriter is your best friend. It listens and records your one sided conversation like no friend or wife or husband ever did. It doesn’t argue, disagree, (unless you’re using spellcheck) or even comment. Simply sit down in front of your computer, (maybe give it name?) and start talking on the keyboard. .
Or imagine the kind of person you know will love your story sitting across the desk or table from you, waiting to hear the tale. “G’morning Fred. Can I tell you a story? Seem’s like this guy Samson had a full head of hair and…..” Or, “Once upon a time. Or, “It was a dark and stormy night.”

Remember, you are not writing a novel. You’re simply telling a story to a friend. Stumble, hesitate, whatever. Friends aren’t critical.
The point? It doesn’t matter what you say, just say something!! Open the door.
Your new motto? JUST WRITE THE DAMN THING!
(Many more ideas like the above in “A Guide to Writing & Publishing a Novel)