Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life: How My Writing Journey Unfolds
As a writer, one of the most exciting parts of my process is how everyday moments can spark creativity. Writing fantasy may seem like a leap into distant worlds, but for me, inspiration often comes from the world around us—simple conversations, names, places, and even random observations.
Ideas Spark from Everyday Encounters
Sometimes, the most ordinary events can ignite a whirlwind of ideas. A name or a casual conversation can lead me down a rabbit hole, inspiring new characters or plot twists. For example, a visit to a new place often sparks creativity for me—exploring unfamiliar locations, hearing unique names, or spotting something out of the ordinary can open up a whole new world of inspiration.
Research into folklore and myths also plays a significant role. When I dive into the history of Celtic or Norse legends, for example, I discover new elements that can expand my storytelling. This blend of real-life observations and mythical lore helps build the fantastical universes I love to write.
Learning to Live in the Moment
To stay inspired, I’ve learned the importance of living in the moment. I try to stay aware of what’s happening around me, noticing small details or oddities that might inspire a story later on. If I hear an intriguing word or see something that catches my eye, I allow my mind to wander and explore the possibilities. I make sure to write down any fleeting thoughts, knowing they could become a full-fledged idea later.
One of my most memorable moments came while working in a shopping center. I was selling my books and happened to glance over at an old market building being renovated. The bare metal framework, the drizzle outside, and the overcast sky gave it a mysterious atmosphere. I thought, “That looks like a perfect spot for underhand dealings and skullduggery.” That one observation turned into a new story idea, with more books planned around it.
Capturing Ideas: Handwritten Notes
I like to keep things old-school when it comes to note-taking. I handwrite all my ideas in notebooks, dedicating a full page to each idea. Some pages are still blank, waiting for their moment to shine, while others are packed with notes and expansions. Even if it’s just a word or a phrase, I make sure to record it before moving on, knowing I’ll revisit it later.
The Right Environment Matters
My writing environment also plays a crucial role in how I work. The right kind of noise or music helps me focus, while a calm atmosphere allows me to immerse myself in the creative process. I’m also mindful of my energy, especially with ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis) impacting my ability to write on some days.
Being around others can sometimes spark creativity too. Whether it’s a coffee with friends or visiting an old building, everyday experiences often lead to unexpected plot ideas. My closest friends and family are used to me zoning out mid-conversation when inspiration strikes! I make sure to jot down these moments, even if it’s just a quick note on my phone to be expanded later.
Influences from Books and Films
Alongside real-world experiences, books and films have a huge influence on my writing. I’m particularly inspired by the works of Terry Pratchett, Garth Nix, and Philip Pullman. However, films also play an important role in helping me relax and understand how great stories are constructed. Learning how to weave together compelling plots and characters is a skill I’m always striving to improve.
Overcoming Creative Dry Spells
When it comes to writer’s block, I prefer to think of it as having low creativity tanks. When this happens, I take a break, go for a walk, read, or sometimes just write anything that comes to mind. I might do another blog on overcoming writer’s block, but for now, my main strategy is to keep the mind active and allow space for new ideas to flow.
Turning Inspiration into Stories
When I have a spark of inspiration, I like to let my mind guide the story. I plan out key waypoints—places in the story I want to reach—but I leave the journey between them open-ended. This method keeps things flexible, allowing me to explore my characters and worlds while still maintaining direction. It’s about balancing structured storytelling with creative freedom.
What I Hope Readers Take Away
At the end of the day, I write to give readers a chance to escape into another world, just like I do when I’m crafting my stories. Whether it’s exploring a magical realm or following a quirky character’s adventure, my goal is to write books that people can enjoy, no matter their background or genre preferences.
While my stories might be born from everyday experiences, I hope they create extraordinary experiences for my readers. After all, the best part about books is that you can escape to new worlds without ever leaving your armchair.