5 Ways to Spark Creativity

I have the best job in the world. As a blogger and an author, I get to do my favorite things, and that’s write and make up stories. I have people ask me where I get my ideas. I totally blame my parents for only having one child and since when I was growing up there wasn’t Mine Craft or iPads I played, had imaginary friends, and made up a lot of stories in my head. Fast forward 30 some odd years later and not much has changed. I could sit and entertain myself all day with what’s in my head. Most of it probably wouldn’t amuse all of you, but I find it interesting.

I do find a lot in the everyday world that I might embellish, or use as is, in my stories. The saying that life is stranger than fiction is 100% true. I mean look at some of the crazy things people without filters post on Facebook. However, even with my vivid imagination I can sometimes get stumped when trying to outline a new book or figure out a secondary story line. That’s when I turn to other methods to get my creative juices flowing.

Coffee. I go grab a latte at Starbucks. Not only do I love lattes, and happiness can spark creativity, the people watching is what is most helpful. In fact, people watching at any venue work wonders. I like to look at people and imagine what their story might be. By thinking about them and not thinking about what I’m trying to write I usually come up with some ideas to get me past my block.
Exercise. This may sound like a funny one, but I come up with more ideas at yoga or out for a run (and in the shower). It’s not a great time to be taking notes and admit I sometimes forget these great ideas but when I’m working out my mind is less cluttered by all the small things that creep in and the ideas start flowing.
Read. Writers must read, read, read. Think of it as professional development. When I’m stuck, I try and read something that is far off from what I’m trying to write. To clear my mind of any preconceived thoughts and focus on something else.
Write. But on another project or my blog. Get as far away from the project, that has me stumped, as I can. Obsessing over being stuck just makes it worse. Just moving on, temporarily, and thinking about something else can motivate me. Just the action of doing something besides staring at my keyboard is motivating.
Nap. If all else fails, take a nap and forget about it. OK, that’s only partially true. I have found that if I take a nap and thinking about my story while falling asleep can often cause me to wake up with ideas. And if it doesn’t at least I had a nap.

Happy writing.

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