I read short stories in magazines and set myself a project to write for a particular magazine. I take note of the variety of writing styles, the genres and how the twist stories work. I enjoy the challenge of tackling a project outside my comfort zone. If you usually write murder/mystery try a twist.
Scanning the newspapers is a good trigger for writing projects. Headlines can spark up an idea and letters to the editors can get you asking questions. What if that person against junk mail deliveries decides to take matters into their own hands and it backfires? Read what gets up people’s noses; be those characters – the ones with the gripes or the ones being ‘griped’ (I just made that word up) about and see where your story takes you.
Visit writing forums online. The aspiring writer is keen to improve their writing skills (Aren’t we all?). If I can answer a question because I’ve travelled that road and found a way to overcome a particular writing dilemma, I set myself a project to write an article to submit to a writing magazine. (And yes, if I can help in the forum, I do.)
I drag out stories I wrote years ago. I revamp them with fresh eyes and what I like to think the capabilities of a more experienced writer. Sometimes a change in point of view or adjustments in the plot transforms it into a better story, but more often than not a major overhaul is required.
What do you do to get yourself started on a writing project?
It all changes once you decide to work full-time as a Writer. Then all you need to think about is bills, or the need for a holiday, and those words flow.
ReplyDeleteAll good advice, Diane. I usually have several projects on the go at once so I can flit between short pieces and novels if I get stuck, or bored.
ReplyDeleteBut I like Lynne's comment, as that's the way I should be thinking now!
I have an idea file that I go through--all the little ideas that pop up while I'm intensively working on a project are too good to waste, so I write a blurb and store it for later. I then read through the ideas and the one that sings to me, I get to work on. :)
ReplyDeleteAngela @ The Bookshelf Muse
Lynne - good point!
ReplyDeleteRosemary - thank you. Is great when you have few projects going at once, always somewhere to turn to then.
Angela - thanks for leaving a comment. Excellent to keep a record of those ideas to go back to and be inspired from.
I'm like Rosemary in that I usually have several things on the go at once.
ReplyDeleteHello Patsy - I'm liking that idea of a couple of projects happening at once. I get into this ridiculous panic when I finish a project and have nothing to work on! Started a new short story last Friday and came up with another new idea for a different story this morning. Got two on the go and feeling quite content right now :-)
ReplyDeleteIf you can, I suggest having things at different stages. That way if you don't feel full of new ideas or you're short of time you can concentrate on editing for a while.
ReplyDeleteExcellent plan Patsy - I really like that idea! Thank you.
ReplyDeleteSome helpful ideas Diane. Thank you. My problem tends to be having too many ideas and getting "stuck" deciding which option to go for. Any suggestions?
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for leaving a comment Melissa. Too many ideas? Trust your writing instincts. You could choose by going for the project you feel passionate about, or perhaps the one you know there is a market for!
ReplyDeleteThanks Diane! I'll give it a go and let you know how I get on.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to hearing back from you Melissa :-)
ReplyDelete