April Davila's Blog, page 4

Mastering the Art of Character Names

Crafting character names may seem like a minor detail in the grand scheme of writing a story, but the truth is, names matter more than we often realize. A well-chosen name can shape how readers perceive a character, while the wrong name can cause confusion or distract from the story.

Here are some strategies and insights to help you master the art of naming your characters.

When to Change a Name

Be careful not to give your characters names that are too similar. Maybe both names start with the same letter, or they sound alike when spoken. These similarities can confuse readers – and even you as the writer.

If you find yourself mixing up character names while drafting, it’s a good sign they might be too similar. Changing a name mid-draft can feel daunting, but it’s often worth the effort to create clarity.

If you’re considering changing a name, it’s best to do it as early as possible. The sooner you get used to the new name, the easier it will be to weave it seamlessly into your writing.

Choosing Names That Fit

The best character names reflect their personalities, backgrounds, or roles in the story. When choosing names, consider:

Cultural significance: A name can hint at a character’s heritage or upbringing.Tone and style: Does the name fit the world you’ve built? For instance, a sci-fi character named “Bob” might feel out of place unless that’s intentional.Uniqueness: Avoid overloading your story with characters whose names start with the same letter or or have a sound similar (e.g., Evan and Ethan).

One strategy I use is to list all my characters in Scrivener or a notebook, ensuring each name is distinct. If I add a new character, I look for gaps – maybe I don’t have anyone whose name starts with “K” yet. Start there.

A Few Final TipsRead your work aloud. Hearing the names spoken can help you catch subtle similarities you might not notice otherwise.Research your names. A quick google search will tell you if you’ve accidentally named your hero after a real-life serial killer.Don’t get too crazy. Of course it’s your story (get crazy if you want to), but names that are overly complex or difficult to pronounce can be frustrating to readers.Get feedback. If you’re unsure about a name, ask someone else to weigh in. A fresh perspective can be invaluable.

Character names might seem like a small detail, but they are one of the many ways we bring our stories to life. By taking the time to choose the right names—and revisiting them when needed – you ensure that your characters resonate with readers in the way you intend.

Happy writing, my friends!

When to Pause and When to Push Through​

As writers, we’ve all been there – staring at a stubborn chapter, a tricky character, or a plot that refuses to cooperate. It can feel like running into a brick wall, over and over, until you start wondering if there’s any point to your suffering. One of the questions I hear most often is: How do you know when to give up?

The short answer: you don’t.

Let me explain.

The Difference Between Pausing and Giving Up

There’s a world of difference between taking a strategic pause and giving up on a project entirely. Sometimes, the best thing you can do when you’re stuck is to set the problem aside and move on to something else. Work on a different chapter. Develop a side character. Rewrite a scene you’ve already drafted. By shifting your focus, you allow your brain the space it needs to tinker in the background.

It’s amazing what happens when we give ourselves permission to step away. Solutions have a way of bubbling to the surface when we least expect them. Maybe it’s during a walk, in the shower, or even while you’re cooking dinner – but those “aha” moments often come when we’re not actively forcing them.

Never Quit, Even When It Feels Hard

I had a teacher in grad school who used to say, There are two kinds of writers: those who get published and those who quit. It’s a simple concept, but it’s stuck with me because it’s so true. If you keep going, you will eventually figure it out.

But I’m not here to minimize how hard it can feel. Writing a book takes time – a lot of it. First novels, in particular, often take years. If you’re struggling to finish, I want to reassure you: you’re not behind. You’re not failing. You’re right on track.

When I was eight years into writing my debut novel, I hit a wall. I even wrote a blog post at the time saying I’d give myself two more years, but if I hit a decade, I’d walk away. Thankfully, that was the year things started to click.

The lesson? Sometimes, it takes a while for the story to reveal itself. Keep showing up. Keep writing. You’re closer than you think.

You’ve got this.

The beauty of writing is that it’s never just about the words on the page. It’s about discovery – of the world, of others, and of ourselves. When we hit roadblocks, whether it’s with a chapter, a character, or our own inner critic, it’s not a sign to stop. It’s a reminder to pause, reflect, and keep going.

So if you’re feeling stuck, frustrated, or unsure of your next step, remember this: every writer has been there. You’re not alone. Take a breath, pivot if you need to, and trust that the answers will come.

Navigating Writing Challenges: When to Pause, When to Push Through

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As writers, we’ve all been there – staring at a stubborn chapter, a tricky character, or a plot that refuses to cooperate. It can feel like running into a brick wall, over and over, until you start wondering if there’s any point to your suffering. One of the questions I hear most often is: How do you know when to give up?

The short answer: you don’t.

Let me explain.

The Difference Between Pausing and Giving Up

There’s a world of difference between taking a strategic pause and giving up on a project entirely. Sometimes, the best thing you can do when you’re stuck is to set the problem aside and move on to something else. Work on a different chapter. Develop a side character. Rewrite a scene you’ve already drafted. By shifting your focus, you allow your brain the space it needs to tinker in the background.

It’s amazing what happens when we give ourselves permission to step away. Solutions have a way of bubbling to the surface when we least expect them. Maybe it’s during a walk, in the shower, or even while you’re cooking dinner – but those “aha” moments often come when we’re not actively forcing them.

Never Quit, Even When It Feels Hard

I had a teacher in grad school who used to say, There are two kinds of writers: those who get published and those who quit. It’s a simple concept, but it’s stuck with me because it’s so true. If you keep going, you will eventually figure it out.

But I’m not here to minimize how hard it can feel. Writing a book takes time – a lot of it. First novels, in particular, often take years. If you’re struggling to finish, I want to reassure you: you’re not behind. You’re not failing. You’re right on track.

When I was eight years into writing my debut novel, I hit a wall. I even wrote a blog post at the time saying I’d give myself two more years, but if I hit a decade, I’d walk away. Thankfully, that was the year things started to click.

The lesson? Sometimes, it takes a while for the story to reveal itself. Keep showing up. Keep writing. You’re closer than you think.

You’ve got this.

The beauty of writing is that it’s never just about the words on the page. It’s about discovery – of the world, of others, and of ourselves. When we hit roadblocks, whether it’s with a chapter, a character, or our own inner critic, it’s not a sign to stop. It’s a reminder to pause, reflect, and keep going.

So if you’re feeling stuck, frustrated, or unsure of your next step, remember this: every writer has been there. You’re not alone. Take a breath, pivot if you need to, and trust that the answers will come.

Setting Writing Goals That Actually Work

The start of a new year always feels like a fresh slate, doesn’t it? It’s that perfect time to set writing goals and dream about what’s possible for your craft. Whether you’re working on a novel, essays, or just trying to build a daily writing habit, there’s something so energizing about turning the page and starting anew.

But setting writing goals – and actually achieving them – takes more than enthusiasm. It requires reflection, intention, and a plan that fits your life. Over the years, I’ve developed a system that helps writers set meaningful goals while honoring the creative process. It’s not about perfection or rigid rules – it’s about creating a framework that allows your creativity to thrive while keeping you moving forward. Let’s dive in.

Start by Reflecting on the Past Year

Before you set new goals, it’s important to reflect on the past year. What did you accomplish? Maybe you finished a draft, wrote more consistently, or tried a new style of writing. These wins, no matter how small they may feel, deserve to be celebrated.

One of the tools I recommend for reflection is journaling. Spend a few minutes asking yourself:

What were my writing goals last year?Did I hit them? If not, why?What writing habits worked for me? What didn’t?

If you’re a data person like me, tools like Scrivener can also help. Their project tracking feature shows how many words you wrote month by month, offering a clear snapshot of your progress. It’s a great way to remind yourself of all the work you’ve put in, even if it doesn’t always feel like enough.

Set Goals You Can Actually Achieve

Once you’ve reflected on where you’ve been, it’s time to look forward. Where do you want to be a year from now? Maybe you want to finish a novel, complete a short story collection, or finally stick to a daily writing practice. Whatever your big goal is, the key is to break it down into manageable chunks.

Here’s how I do it:

Set an annual goal. Let’s say you want to write an 80,000-word novel.Divide it into quarterly goals. That’s 20,000 words per quarter.Break it down even further. Writing 20,000 words in 13 weeks (Q1 of 2025) means about 1,500 words per week. The average person writes about 500 words per hour, so that’s 3 hours a week you need to carve out. 

If word counts don’t feel right for you, consider tracking hours instead. For instance, committing to 12 hours of writing per week might feel less intimidating than aiming for a specific number of words.

Plan Around Your Schedule

Life is busy, and writing doesn’t happen in a vacuum. That’s why it’s essential to get realistic about your schedule. Look at the weeks ahead and mark the days you’ll actually be able to write. Maybe you’re a weekend writer, or maybe early mornings are your sweet spot. Whatever works for you, commit to showing up consistently.

Remember, writing isn’t just about putting words on the page. It’s also about brainstorming, revising, and sometimes just staring out the window while you figure out what happens next. All of that counts as part of the process, so don’t underestimate the value of those quiet, reflective moments.

Hold Goals Loosely to Honor Creativity

Here’s the thing about creative work: it doesn’t always fit neatly into a timeline. While deadlines can be helpful, they can also feel constraining if they’re too rigid. That’s why I like to treat goals as intentions rather than strict rules.

Say you’re thinking, ‘I must finish this chapter by Friday.’ Try shifting it to ‘I’ll focus on this chapter this week, even if it’s just a rough draft.’ Or take the goal ‘Write 500 words every day’ and reframe it as ‘Show up to write for 30 minutes, even if I only write 50 words.'”

This approach gives you a framework to stay on track while leaving room for the creative process to unfold naturally. It’s all about finding that balance between structure and flexibility.

Accountability Is Your Secret Weapon

Accountability is one of the most powerful tools for achieving your goals. Whether it’s a writing group, a coach, or even just a commitment to yourself, having a system to check in can make all the difference.

Here’s a trick I love: write yourself an email with the subject line “Q1 Writing Goals” and include your intentions for the next three months. When the quarter ends, open the email and assess how you did. It’s a simple but effective way to stay accountable and reflect on your progress.

Writing Is a Journey

At the end of the day, writing is about progress, not perfection. It’s about showing up, day after day, even when the words feel clunky or the story feels stuck. Every word you write, every minute you spend thinking about your story, is a step forward.

As you step into this new year, give yourself permission to celebrate your wins, however small. Set goals that inspire you, but hold them loosely enough to honor the creative process. And most importantly, keep writing – because your story matters.

Here’s to a year of mindful writing, steady progress, and the joy of creating something truly meaningful. Let’s make 2025 a year to celebrate.

Words, Pictures, or Feelings: How Your Thinking Style Shapes Your Writing

Have you ever stopped to wonder how your mind works as a writer? Do you think in words, pictures, or something else entirely? Understanding your thinking style can be a powerful tool for enhancing your storytelling and making your writing more engaging.

Here’s why: the way you process the world shapes the way you describe it on the page. And recognizing your unique thought patterns can help you lean into your strengths and address areas where you might struggle.

The Three Thinking Styles and Their Impact on WritingWords-First Thinkers
If your thoughts come in the form of words—a running narrative that describes your day or creates stories in your mind—you likely excel at crafting dialogue, internal monologues, and poetic turns of phrase. However, you might find it challenging to include rich sensory details or visualize your characters’ surroundings. Being aware of this allows you to deliberately work on those areas, balancing your natural strengths.Visual Thinkers
Do you see vivid mental images when you think? You might be a visual thinker. This strength often translates into detailed scene descriptions and striking imagery in your writing. But because your inner world is so visual, you might need to focus on conveying the emotions or inner lives of your characters, ensuring their development is as rich as your imagined landscapes.Feeling-Based Thinkers
If you process the world primarily through feelings or sensations, your writing might naturally convey deep emotional resonance. Readers may connect strongly with the moods and undertones of your stories. However, you might need to work on anchoring those feelings in concrete details to create a more vivid and tangible world for your audience.Why Mindfulness Matters for Writers

Mindfulness—the practice of paying close attention to your thoughts without judgment—can help you identify and embrace your natural thinking style. By noticing how your mind works, you can lean into your strengths while addressing potential blind spots in your writing.

For instance:

A words-first thinker might practice describing scenes visually to expand their narrative toolkit.A visual thinker might write exercises focused on their characters’ internal monologues to deepen emotional resonance.A feeling-based thinker might make a conscious effort to add physical details and action to their writing.

By understanding and expanding beyond your thinking style, you can create a more balanced and compelling narrative.

Applying This Awareness to Character Creation

Understanding thinking styles doesn’t just help you as a writer—it can also enrich your characters. People process the world differently, and this diversity of thought is key to creating multidimensional, believable characters.

For example, a character who processes through words might narrate their own experiences or have a sharp, witty inner monologue. A visual thinker might focus on noticing the details of their surroundings, while a feeling-based thinker might be deeply attuned to the emotions of others. By varying your characters’ thinking styles, you can bring a unique authenticity to their perspectives.

Exploring the World Through Writing

One of the great joys of writing is the opportunity to explore lives and perspectives far beyond our own. Understanding your own thought process—and learning to stretch beyond it—can open doors to more dynamic storytelling.

So take a moment to reflect: Do you think in words, pictures, or feelings? How does that show up in your writing? And what steps could you take to embrace your strengths and expand your creative range?

No matter how your mind works, there’s one universal truth: every thinking style has something unique to offer. The key is understanding your approach and using it to tell the best stories you can.

The Indispensable Art of Fiction Writing

In our relentlessly practical world, where efficiency and productivity are often prized above all else, fiction writing can sometimes be dismissed as a frivolous pastime—a luxury that serves no real purpose. But those of us who dwell in the realms of imagination, who spend our days conversing with characters that have never actually breathed air, know differently. Fiction is not merely important; it is vital.

Imagine, for a moment, a world without stories. What would our existence look like without the tales of love, adventure, tragedy, and triumph that have been passed down through generations? Stories are not just mechanisms of entertainment; they are the very fabric of our humanity. They teach us empathy by allowing us to live lives not our own. They broaden our understanding of the world by exposing us to perspectives we would never otherwise encounter.

Fiction has the unique power to transport us—to other places, other times, even other worlds. In the hands of a skilled writer, a story can transform the way we think and feel. It challenges our perceptions and encourages us to question our beliefs. It dares us to dream bigger, to fight harder for what we believe in, and to love more deeply. It reminds us that life is richer and more complex than our daily routines might suggest.

And let’s not underestimate the sheer joy that stories can bring. In times of sorrow or stress, a good book is like a refuge—a place where we can escape the harshness of reality and lose ourselves in the adventures of others. This escape is not an act of denial, but a respite that can refresh and rejuvenate our spirits.

Writing fiction, therefore, is far from a waste of time. It is a pursuit of the deepest value, an act of creation that reinforces the best of what it means to be human. Each time a writer picks up a pen or taps away at a keyboard, they are doing nothing less than shaping the consciousness of their readers. They are sculptors of the soul, architects of empathy.

So to all who write: know that your work is essential. In a world that often feels devoid of magic, fiction writers offer a reminder that wonder still exists, that possibilities are limitless, and that within the pages of a book, we can find the whole universe waiting to be discovered. Let us cherish and support the art of fiction, for without it, our lives would be much the poorer.

Why I Write

Last week, I was in an online discussion with a group of fellow writers, and a thought-provoking topic surfaced: Why do we write? What drives us to spend countless hours creating characters, crafting worlds, and subjecting these figments of our imagination to various trials and tribulations? The answers to these questions can be (and are) as varied as the writers themselves, but for me, the explanation touches something deeply personal and, perhaps, a little existential.

Life is Short

I write because of a profound dissatisfaction—a recognition and a resentment, really—that I only get to live this life once. There are simply too many things I want to do and be, far too many for any single lifetime. The longing to embrace everything is intense, yet the reality is grounding: there is only so much one can do, so many roles one can play.

I Want It All

For instance, despite my varied interests, I will likely never become an ultramarathoner. The chances of me parachuting from a military helicopter on a combat mission are slim, and racing across icy terrains in the Iditarod with a team of dogs is a dream that will remain just that—a dream.

Despite all reason, there is a part of me that craves to know what all these experiences feel like. Writing allows me to slip into the skins of characters who do these exact things. Through them, I explore and live vicariously. When I write about a character parachuting into a war zone, I immerse myself in their fears, their adrenaline rush. Although it’s only a fraction of the real experience, it’s enough to satiate that deep-seated curiosity.

In The Time I Have Left

As I age and acknowledge the narrowing path of my own life’s possibilities, writing becomes even more significant. It offers a gateway to dive into the depths of imagination, to live lives I will never lead, to be people I will never meet. It is, without a doubt, the most satisfying way I’ve found to spend my time. In writing, I find the freedom and the ability to experience the multitude of lives I’ve always desired to know.

So, why do I write? It’s simple: writing is my portal to the infinite, a way to satisfy my yearning for the myriad experiences the world has to offer. Through words, I live a thousand lives—all from the comfort of my desk.

Embracing the Messy Middle

In writing a novel, there comes a pivotal stage that just about every author faces affectionately known as the “messy middle.” It’s that stage where the initial spark has dimmed slightly and the end still seems a long way off. During this phase, many writers find themselves questioning everything from their plot to their character development, often leading to a daunting and existential: “What am I even doing?” If you’ve ever found yourself in this situation, rest assured, you’re not alone.

It’s Normal to Question Everything

The messy middle is a rite of passage for most writers. It’s where the complexities of your narrative are wrestled into coherence, and yes, it’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed. The doubts you’re experiencing are not a signal of your inability but rather a common part of the creative process. Each question about your plot or character is actually an opportunity for refinement and depth.

The Role of Self-Doubt

Writing a novel involves weaving our creative magic with a substantial amount of self-doubt. Though it can be unpleasant, this blend is crucial as it pushes you to continually evaluate and re-evaluate your work, ensuring that every element of your story serves its purpose. Feeling uncertain isn’t just common; it’s an integral part of crafting something meaningful. The magic lies in the balance between knowing when to question your work and when to trust the process.

Strategies to Overcome the Messy MiddleKeep Writing: The most straightforward advice is often the hardest to follow. Keep adding words to your manuscript, even if they are not perfect. Progress is incremental and every word written is a step out of the messy middle.Seek Perspective: Sometimes stepping back from your work or getting an outside opinion can provide new insights. Whether it’s from a fellow writer, a trusted friend, or a professional coach, fresh eyes can help you see what’s working and what isn’t.Embrace Support: Reach out to your writing community or a mentor. Support from others who understand your journey can be tremendously uplifting. Sometimes, just hearing someone say, “Yes, keep going!” can reignite your motivation and help you push through doubts.Break Tasks Down: Tackle your writing challenges in smaller, manageable chunks. Instead of overwhelming yourself with the entirety of your novel, focus on resolving one plot point at a time or deepening one character before moving to the next.You Are Not Alone

Remember that while every writer’s journey is unique, the struggles, particularly in the messy middle, are universally felt. The #WritingCommunity is vast and supportive, filled with individuals who have navigated or are currently navigating this tumultuous phase. Engage with them, share your experiences, and draw strength from the collective perseverance of your peers.

Keep Going

The messy middle might feel endless, but it is just a phase. Every word you write not only brings you closer to the last page but also builds your skills and resilience as a writer. Keep going, because the story only ends when you stop writing. In the meantime, embrace the chaos—it’s all part of the beautiful process of creating something truly great.

Embracing Conflict: Why Being Hard on Your Characters Creates Compelling Stories

Recently, I had a discussion with a client who is crafting a novel about a woman who experiences mysterious blackouts, waking up in unfamiliar places without any recollection of her whereabouts. The premise itself is intriguing, but our conversation took an interesting turn when we delved into the concept of challenging our protagonists with compelling conflict—something I’ve noticed many writers, especially woman writers (we’re far too nice), often shy away from.

The Reluctance to Challenge Our Characters

As writers, we create characters from the depths of our imagination, imbue them with quirks and personalities, and just like that, they almost become a part of us. This connection, while beautiful, can sometimes be a double-edged sword. Because we relate so closely to our characters, we hesitate to put them through hardships. We want to shield them, wish for their happiness and success, perhaps much like we would for a friend or even ourselves.

However, as most seasoned writers would agree, the essence of a good story lies in conflict. Without challenges, without the trials and tribulations, a narrative risks becoming flat and uninspiring. It’s through these conflicts that characters grow, evolve, and become engrossing to readers who are, consciously or not, seeking a reflection of their own struggles and triumphs in these fictional journeys.

Pushing the Boundaries of Conflict

Take, for instance, the character in my client’s novel. Her blackouts, initially, led to nothing more drastic than forgetting to feed her dog. While neglectful, this scenario doesn’t quite exploit the full dramatic potential of her mysterious condition. During our coaching session, my client and I brainstormed ways to intensify the character’s plight, to really push the envelope and drive the narrative into darker, more urgent territories.

One idea was to have her “come to” in front of a burning stove, completely oblivious to how the fire started. Imagine the panic, the confusion, and the immediate need to piece together her actions. Another scenario could see her regaining consciousness while speeding down a freeway at 60 miles per hour—equally terrifying and a stark escalation from her previous experiences.

The Value of Pressure

These scenarios do more than just spice up the plot—they compel the character to act, to seek answers, and to confront her reality, however daunting it may be. This pressure is what moves a story forward, what keeps readers turning the pages. It’s the engine of change and growth.

So, to my fellow writers, I say: do not be afraid to be tough on your characters. Your story—and your characters—will be all the better for it. Remember, it’s through pressure that diamonds are formed, and it’s through conflict that your characters can truly shine.

And as always, if you’re struggling with your writing, reach out and book a time to chat with me about it. IfI’m not the right person to help, I almost certainly can point to someone who is.

Creative Space in a Busy Life

A couple weeks ago, my son was on spring break and we went to see the Da Vinci exhibit at the California Science Center. It was an excellent exhibit. They basically hired a bunch of craftsmen to create the things that were in Da Vinci’s journals and bring them to life and then they ranked them all how well they actually worked. Some of them worked really well and some of them didn’t work at all. Some of them were just terrible ideas, but still fun to see brought to life.

The thing that really struck me as I was walking through the exhibit was that this was a man who had time to just think and ideate and jot down and scribble about any idea that came to him. That was his life, just thinking up stuff.

He had an idea for a 360 weapon that threw rocks like a cross between a machine gun and a cannon, but in 360. Why? Who would ever need that? Doesn’t matter. The point is he had all these wonderfully creative ideas. I had a moment where I paused and thought, “this man had time.”

If he had kids, he almost certainly wasn’t in charge of caring for them. The Medicis were his patrons, so he didn’t worry much about money from what I understand. He had time to just think.

I’m almost embarrassed to admit that I was super jealous. I mean, to just have nothing to do but play with ideas all day? Yes, please. It got me thinking about how I might carve out more time for myself to just sit and think about stuff, to play with ideas.

So how do we make time for that in our busy lives when we work full time, when we have kids, when we have parents that we care for, or demanding pets? How do we make time to just sit and think and play with ideas?

The first thought that came to mind was from a book I read last summer called We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rogers. If you have not read this book, it’s definitely worth picking up. One of the things she really advocates for is hiring help.

And this is something that I’ve done pretty well in my business. I have people who help me with things like organizing my online Mindful Writing Community or, you know, just helping me make sure that things get done, that I hit my deadlines, but I haven’t really engaged much help in my personal life.

One of the things that she advocates for is hiring someone to just help you with things, particularly if you are a person who runs a household, if you’re a care taker or if you just have a lot of fairly easy things that need to be done all the time, like house cleaning and grocery shopping and walking the dogs.

I’m feeling the need to get better at delegating some of the more menial tasks in my life so that I can free up more time to be like Da Vinci and just sit around and think or take long walks and let story ideas come to me.

So I’m curious – has anyone out there found a good way to carve out time to just think, to just play with ideas? And if so, do you have any tips or tricks you could share? Did you hire help? Do you just sleep less? Did you find some creative way to engage technology? Can AI clean my floors yet?

If you have any thoughts, drop them in the comments.