Day 26, Saturday, March 26th

Writivation

Does anyone suppose the best writing is easy?

Flinging a rough draft out as fast as possible sometimes can be easy, but turning it into one's very best work certainly isn’t -- not even for masters of the art. 

Being satisfied with one's writing is a very good way to feel. But It takes patience, perseverance, and perspective to reach for one's best. 

Are you willing to pay the price? J.M. Clark

Creativity Kick-Starter

PEOPLE WATCH

Why would one person need that much food?
What's his story?

Characters are the key to a good story. Why do we love Pride & Prejudice? Hint: it’s not because early 19^th Century English country life is so exciting. It’s because we relate to Elizabeth Bennett or we crush on Mr. Darcy, etc.

A great way to get inspiration for characters, and by extension storytelling, is to observe humans in their natural habitat. You’re probably doing it already. Don’t you sit at Costco and listen to the conversations around you? Sneak a peak at the contents of the cart in front of you at check out.

“Four bottles of tequila and a giant thing of plastic wrap? Either someone’s having a party or planning a murder.”

So when writer’s block hits, I recommend a visit to a park, the grocery store, or your local fast food restaurant for some leisurely people watching.

- PJ Switzer

Writing Sprint

It's the Name Game

(Based on just the names given describe the characters and their story)

Esteban Trujillo & Esperanza Chavez

Let's get the mojo going. 

Set your timer for 15 minutes 
and write fast & furious. 
- PJ Switzer

Ready. Set. Go!

Share your sprint on our Tumblr page:

 http://anwawritingsprints.tumblr.com

Productivity Pointers

Surely, it can't be that simple.

RETHINK YOUR PROCESS

There are many reasons we get derailed from our writing. Sometimes it’s outside forces, i.e. the kids get sick, the folks want to come for a visit, or work turns hectic. And sometimes it’s because we’ve locked ourselves into routines or methodology that just doesn’t work. 

If you’re blocked and can’t figure out why, take a look at the details surrounding your writing space, time, and pattern. It’s possible you need to change things up.

- PJ Switzer

Return & Report