One question that nearly every author gets asked is “where do you get your story ideas?”
This is often due the fact that a lot of beginning writers approach creating story ideas as magical process that only award-winning authors know the secrets of. But in reality, the process is not magic, it’s just a matter of working out your imagination.
There is no story idea ATM that you can go to and use your debit card to take a few out. Instead, it’s a matter of looking, learning, and listening.
Here are a few ways to generate your own story ideas.
Read Constantly
As a writer, you should already read pretty frequently. But when you’re trying to form a story idea, reading is a great way to get your imagination in gear.
Read fiction, non fiction, newspapers, etc. Note anything that you find fascinating.
Pay Attention To Your Surroundings
There’s a saying that goes “Real life is stranger than fiction”. This is often proven to be true, making it easier for writers to write based on reality.
Spend some time outside, around other people. Listen to how they talk. Watch what they do. Attend community events and take note of anything that catches your eye.
Not only will this help you come up story ideas, but it help you craft characters that sound like real people.
Start An Idea Notebook
Every writer should have an idea notebook to write down any ideas you might have. This way, you have a “file” to pull from whenever you get stuck.
Write down every idea that you come up with, even if you don’t think that it’s that good. I have ideas in my notebook that I have taken and made changes to, but without that initial idea, the story wouldn’t exist in its current form.
Try A Writing Prompt
Writing prompts are a great way to help build a story because they provide you with a base and then you can let your imagination do the rest.
There are thousands of writing prompts available online, (including on this blog). Simply pick one that you think sounds interesting and start writing.
Watch A Little TV
TV has inspired a lot of authors to write stories. One of my favorite authors of all time, Ally Carter actually came up with idea for her Gallagher Girls series while watching an episode of Alias.
Other writers have also found inspiration while watching TV.
Daydream
Yes, it is okay to sit around and daydream, sometimes. When it comes to building a story, sometimes it’s just a matter of letting your imagination roam free for a little while.
A lot of authors, (including me), will do chores and work on their story at the same time via daydreaming.
In fact, my current WIP, (Work In Progress), came from an old idea that I decided to rewrite while cleaning the kitchen.
Another place writers often daydream is the shower. (It’s weird. I know.)
Think About Your Own Life
Have you ever done something unique or interesting that might make a good story?
Think back and see if anything in your memory seems story-worthy.
For me, I could write about being an Irish dancer, working for a local newspaper at 17, being homeschooled my entire academic career, etc.
Everyone has done at least one thing that is different or unique, and even if it’s not, your experiences are.
Write About What You Love
What inspires you? What makes you feel intense emotions? Use these to build your story.
Passion for something can create a work of art that is in-depth and beautiful that will draw readers in.
Final Thoughts
Creating a new story is hard work, but it is rewarding work.
If you have any more ideas for coming up with stories let me know in the comments.
Great post Cassie! I’m a big fan of content that provides readers with useful and practical applications.