Mini 1000 Starts Tomorrow

A few notes before we begin

Hi friends.

Tomorrow is the beginning of the eighth (or maybe ninth?) Mini 1000 we’ve done together, so it seemed like a good time to check in with you about it before we get started.

When I started doing the Mini 1000s in 2021 it was really for the hardcore writer nerds who had already participated in the big summer version and just wanted a little extra kick in the pants. Everyone was familiar with the ethos of 1000 Words and I didn’t have to explain anything. We were all just grinding through the extra credit together.

By the end of that first session there were about 1,500 of us. Now we’re at over 10,000 people and who even knows where all these folks are coming from, but I’m awfully glad you are here. (Here are some details on the 1000 Words project if you’re new!)

Still, I’m gonna try and keep it lean and mean as I always do with the Mini—although there will be some surprise guest letters this year. But mostly it means simple letters from me, plus we all work quietly, phone a friend when we need it, and check in online if we want a little extra fun.

If you want to post your word count, I will be scanning comments on the threads here a few times a day. Also, I am by no means telling you to join bluesky, but there seemed to be enough of you over there that I have decided to check the #mini1000 hashtag too. As for other forms of social media, I always appreciate your enthusiasm but also don’t let anything distract you from your work, OK?

I wish you all luck and remember: these words are for you and no one else.

Your pal,

Jami