The Writer's Pulse

Here’s something I think you should do if you haven’t already: create an idea folder.

Newspaper and magazine clippings, passages from books, pictures, observations. Snippets of your own writing, or incomplete ideas. An idea folder is filled with things that interest you, things that in the future you may turn to for inspiration.

The folder can be real or digital, and keeping it will give you something to turn to when you feel creatively drained or out of ideas: just reach in and look through all the various things you’ve collected.

It’s very similar to a writing journal, or those things writers use to scribble down their musings on story ideas and characterizations. But an idea folder is meant to be more visceral, more intuitive. Bits and pieces of the world that you pick out one by one to save for a rainy day. Don’t think too much about it but, when you find something inspiring, add it to the folder.

As a side note, I personally prefer something tangible. As great as the digital age is, there’s something about actually holding an object in your hand that computers will never be able to emulate (well, not yet, anyway). The bit of paper from a fortune cookie, an expired concert ticket, an old bus pass. Things that might remind you of something that happened in the past, all waiting to be used as great ideas in the future.

So create your folder, in whatever way suits you, and add to it when you find something unique and inspiring. It will be waiting the next time you feel the dreaded block heading your way.

It’s amazing how much a change of routine can bring a person out of a slump. Read the rest of this entry »

In yesterday’s post, 5 Tips For Creating A Writing Schedule, I mentioned that it’s a good idea to set realistic, tangible goals. Reader Sayz Lim asked for a more detailed overview on what I meant, so instead of just amending that post, I’ve decided to write up a more in-depth article on the subject. Read the rest of this entry »

So, you’re getting ready to create a writing schedule? Not so fast. Here are five things you should consider before getting started. Read the rest of this entry »

Whether you’re working on a blog entry or a novel, it’s always a good idea to know where you’re going in advance.

That’s not to say you should plot out every detail — leave yourself room to be creative — but having a plan will:

• help you focus on your topic

• provide direction so you don’t get eaten by the Writer’s Block monster. That would be a tragedy.

Read the rest of this entry »