When I’m confronted with the blank page the situation can go one of two ways. I could either write with inspiration or struggle to find the words or ideas to make my writing session satisfying. Yes, I have a lot of ways that I generate creative writing ideas. Some of them involve doing writing exercises and using prompts. However, I also like to turn off the computer and derive inspiration from life and the world around me. Here are some ideas:
- Your hobbies. Do you have any hobbies? If so, this step should be easy. If you knit, start a knitting project. If you paint, work on your next painting. The goal is to do something that isn’t writing – something that will help your mind relax. When you’re in this state, ideas may come. If not, at least you had fun!
- Get a hobby. If you don’t actually have a hobby, consider getting one. That way, you can always have a way to spend your time if you’re not up to writing. Hobbies can include physical pursuits such as running or hiking, artistic pursuits such as painting, cooking, needlework, knitting, etc.
- Exercise. Physical activity is good for the mind. Simple, repetitive pursuits such as walking and running can go a long way to help keep your mind healthy. Not only that, but when you’re not thinking about the activity you are doing, it gives you a chance to focus on your writing and get some ideas or work through anything you are stuck on.
- Go out. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve come up with ideas at the movies, in a restaurant, or even at the mall. The book store is one of my favorite places to go because you can see what people are interested in reading. Pay attention to the “Staff Picks” sections, the bestseller section, and special displays scattered throughout the store. Also browse through the magazine rack.
- Read the paper. Even something so simple as reading the paper can have big results. The paper is ripe with stories that could easily be turned into something creative. An article about a tragedy could inspire a movie plot. A human interest story could become a poem. Clip any articles that you find interesting and keep them in a scrapook or folder. When you’re stumped for ideas, look through the articles to see if anything stands out.
Finding creative writing ideas doesn’t need to be challenging. These offline methods are perfect for stimulating your creativity and giving you some ideas to work with in your own writing. Wherever you go, be sure to keep a notebook and pen handy so you can jot down ideas as they come.
