One of the most difficult things about wanting to write is getting started. Faced with a blank note book or a blank document is daunting if you haven’t quite hatched an idea.
Here are a few ideas that may help.
- Get a notebook which will just be for your writing. By using a book rather than file paper you will be able to keep everything together.
- Aim to write something every day – even if it is just a list. This will help you to include writing regularly. It doesn’t matter how much or how little.
- Don’t worry if you aren’t good at spelling or grammar. That can be worked on. Writing electronically can help here, but be careful with autocorrect!
- Never feel pressured to share your writing but sometimes it can be very helpful to let someone look at your work, someone who will be constructive and supportive.
A Helping Hand
Below are a few exercises to stimulate some ideas to get you writing
Exercise 1
Create a character.
- Male or female, other?
- Age
- Occupation
- Height
- Eye colour
- Weight
- Distinguishing features
- Favourite colour
- Education
- Religion
- Interests / hobbies
- Skills
- Name
- Family
- Friends
- Where does the character live?
- What kind of home does he/she have?
As you develop your character, let your mind wander and start to visualise this character in a life.
If you haven’t come up with an idea for story for your character, try this:
Write a letter to this character pleading with them to reverse a decision they have taken. Add as many details as you wish.
Repeat exercise 1
Aim to create a contrasting character.
When you have done this, create a conversation between these two characters