When people find out what a prolific writer I am, they often ask, “How do you think of something to write every day in your blog?” or “How do you come up with all those story ideas?” I used to write articles for magazines and got the same questions: “Where do you get all of those article ideas?”
Well, here’s the deal: I’ve found that if I think about my blog, for example, and try to plan a post out, I generally draw a blank. But if I sit down at my computer, fingers on the keyboard, most of the time a topic occurs to me fairly quickly. If not, I just start writing. Usually, a spark of an idea will evolve from my scattered thoughts.
Here’s another idea—when you get an inkling of an idea, write it down for future reference. Often, throughout my work day, a term or a concept will occur to me and I’ll make a note. This often becomes my next article topic or blog post.
I’ve found little gems of ideas in emails I’ve received, advertisements for books or services, comments left at the discussion groups I belong to, books and articles I read and questions people ask me about writing or publishing. I also visit other people’s blogs, social media pages and so forth.
If all else fails, I’ll go out and take a walk. Walking in the fresh air is meditative for me and ideas flow easily when the mind is quiet.
Do you have tricks and rituals you use to generate ideas for your blog, articles or the books you’re writing?
I can tell you that having an inquisitive mind is vital to a writer. But I also believe it’s important to reach outside of ourselves—go out and observe others, listen to their concerns, hopes, worries, fears, complaints and joys. Watch how they move, respond, handle life’s bumps and sweet moments. Your writing will be richer for it.