A few writing tips to ignite your imagination

1. Freewrite. There are a couple of ways to freewrite. Set a time or write until you cannot write anymore. Writing on your computer to complete this freewrite is fine; however, the best way to write a free write is on paper, preferably in a journal, so you can review your writings. Remember, the main rule with a free write is to write and not edit.

2.Doodle. Many famous artists, Presidents, businessmen and writers have doodled. Perhaps you have embraced this activity, during your favorite business meeting or a required class? Or perhaps, you lost phone and you had nothing else to do. Whichever the case, doodling is a good activity to do regularly to make, develop, and even challenge ideas or problems. Similar to a freewrite, it is idea generator—you can build on ideas—elaborate.

3. Steal. Don’t plagiarize and don’t copy. But do pick up ideas from other writers. Some writers have a good knack of finding nuances with subjects and people. Recently, I read an article about 50 iconic writers who were rejected. Even though, it’s common to hear rejection stories about writers, I had not thought about famous writers who have been rejected. This type of article makes you think about the similarities and differences of a subject, the nuances. It illustrates, a slight change in the subject can create an interesting article or story. It is a technique that I will integrate into my writing regimen.

4. Play music. Stimulate the deep parts of your mind by playing music in the background. Non lyrical jazz and classical music (catchy, lyrical music might lessen your writing focus) are good tools for writing. With your practice, try slow and fast tempos to elicit emotions, meanings, and tones in your writing. This technique is employed in film. A film score can cue emotions, a chase scene, or foreshadow change. Remember the classic psychological thriller film, Sleeping with the Enemy with Julia Roberts? Here, the movie employs a powerful, menacing classical track to illustrate the power and control of Laura’s (Julia Roberts) husband in the film, creating sympathy towards Laura.