Step 1: Want to write a novel.
Step 2: Write a novel.
Granted that, for each person, the specifics of step 2 will vary slightly. Some are planners, some are pantsers, some are compulsive researchers, some are inspiration hoarders; this we know. But all of it is irrelevant if you don’t really want to sit down and slog through it. Whatever your process is, it begins and ends with that simple fact; unless you want to finish that book, you never will. Yoda knew this. Take the advice of the small green man.
Do, or do not. There is no try.
C. A. Harland 