Stepping Back to Move Forward: A Week Without Writing and Its Effect on My Process

 

Stepping Back to Move Forward: A Week Without Writing and Its Effect on My Process

How a Pause Can Renew the Creative Spirit

Writing, for me and for many others I would wager, is just as much a calling as it is a craft. It lets us express our thoughts and feelings in ways other mediums don’t allow. It also allows us to, providing our introversions don’t get in the way, interact with others who may share our knowledge or passions. But what happens when we, as writers, decide to take a step back, to put down the pen as it were? What could we hope to gain from a temporary separation from the blank pages and blinking cursors? What could we learn from, for the sake of argument, a week away from these things and the inevitable silence that results? I did it, and today I’m going to tell you what I learned.

Rediscovering Observation

One of my favorite things about stepping away from the writing desk from time to time is being able to just sit back and observe. When we’ve got the blinders on, focused on creating content and sharing it with our readers, we run the risk of letting the world pass us by while we’re toiling away at the desk. The world waits for no one, after all. Too much focus on writing and its intricacies can lead to losing sight of what’s important in life, and even some future inspiration. In taking a break from the desk, I have allowed myself room to regroup, get my thoughts in order, and gather new material through inspiration by immersing myself in the seemingly innocuous moments that make up everyday life and foster creativity through experience.

One of the best ways to spark creativity, something I admittedly have yet to try since picking up the pen again, is simple observation in public settings. Though it may seem a bit cliche for a writer to go to a coffee shop to further their craft, such a setting is perfect for creative inspiration. There is background noise, which I know can be a distraction to some, me included. But the background hum of a local coffee shop can also inspire. Pay attention to—without eavesdropping, of course—conversation. You can pick up names, dialogue ideas, and character traits just by observing. Stephen King once described writers as the “secret agents of the arts,” a quote that may be paraphrased. I think what he was referring to was the quiet and unassuming way in which we go about our business. This can also be applied, in my mind at least, to silent observation. Such observations can often spark an idea that may otherwise slip through the proverbial strainer that is the human mind—also a paraphrased King quote; he’s full of them on subjects like this. Simple as it may seem, taking the time to just sit back and observe without worrying about jotting down the next idea before it leaves you, or getting that next story or blog post out, can remind us of the rich environment for creativity that is available to those who seek it.

Learning to Listen

 

I’ve always been told I have a way with words. That in mind, I often stumble over my words when I try to express them out loud, and certain emotions are still tough for me to express in certain situations. Writing is not all that different from speaking because it expresses the emotions and thoughts that we have in our minds, sharing your voice, if you will, with the world. It’s in our haste to share our thoughts that we often hear what someone is saying, but aren’t actively listening because our minds are preoccupied with how we’re going to respond. The same applies to the writing process. Conversations that happen out in the world, whether we’re a part of them or not, take on a new meaning when we’re not crafting our next sentence, or even our next paragraph, in our minds.Paying attention to subtle nuances in what may seem mundane conversation, the rhythm and cadence of someone’s speech or their expressions, for example, can reveal a story you didn’t know needed to be told. 

The ability to take a step back and really listen to the world around you goes beyond interacting with people. Whether you are surrounded by the cacophonous hum of the big city or the soft and subtle sounds of the country, your environment can teach a lot. Even listening to a certain song without the burden of constant analysis that is human nature can reinvigorate a writer’s creative spark. It’s happened for me countless times. Stuck on that next story, or the next article for your blog? Take a step back, listen, and reflect on your past efforts. You may find the spark you needed was there the whole time.

Embracing Reflection

Once you get past the pressure to write, you allow yourself time for reflection. If you allow yourself to take a week, or however much time you need away from the desk, you open yourself up to answer the big questions. For example, “Why am I doing this in the first place?” or “What is my message?” “Who is this for?” The answer to these questions, at least for me, holds the key to recapturing your creative groove through personal reflection.

Allowing yourself to do a little soul searching, as many call it, can be a creative boon for writers, or any creative for that matter. It allows for a factory reset of sorts, reestablishing goals and gaining perspective on the relationship between creator and craft. Sometimes, all it takes is a little time away to trigger a realization that changes the course of your craft and even your career.

When I think of career-altering introspective events, I’m reminded of yet another Stephen King story, this one involving his first ever successful novel, “Carrie.” To consider this a result of introspection may be a stretch, but Tabitha King fishing those first pages out of the trash and convincing her husband to continue writing the story was, at the very least, something similar, and it changed the course of writing history. It shows what reflection, even if it results from someone else’s encouragement, can be a transformative part of the process and have a positive effect on your future.

Exploring Other Forms of Creativity

Time away from the writing desk doesn’t always mean time away from creating. Quite the opposite, in fact. Taking a pause from writing can allow time for other forms of creativity. Perhaps you put down the pen and trade it for a brush, or maybe a camera. Think you can’t cook? Take some time away from your writing and give it a shot. Have a green thumb or not sure if you do? Get outside and plant a garden. Being outside and drawing inspiration from nature helps my process when I’m in a creative lull. Whichever activity or combination thereof you choose, it’s not only good for your soul, but also good for your craft when you decide to go back to the desk.

I don’t pretend to be an artist. Despite having a creative mind, and being left-handed to boot, which apparently some people think is linked to artistic creativity, I could not and still can not draw or paint to save myself. Other creatives who have that skill may benefit from using that medium as a new way of creative storytelling. A story, after all, is intrinsically designed to create a picture in the reader's mind. To me, art in the form of drawing or painting is just the reverse effect. You can take a picture and create a story in your mind. Music, which is more my cup of tea when not writing, can also be a great escape. Like art, there is a story in every song, and the rhythm and beat of a song is the perfect parallel to the pacing of a story. However you decide to spend your non-writing creative time, these activities can ground you and remind you of the interconnectivity of all things creative and the endless possibilities. 

Understanding the Importance of Rest in the Writing Process

As much as we see writing as a creative form of expression, we forget that it also takes energy in the same way anything else in life may expend it. A week, or any predetermined amount of time away from writing underscores the importance of rest. That includes body, mind, and spirit. As writers, and creatives we push ourselves to produce. Such pressure can have the opposite effect if taken too far; the time between my last article and this one emphasizes this point. Fatigue and burnout are real. Though there were other factors that went into my stepping back from publishing content, fatigue and overall burnout played a role. We obsess over deadlines and other internal pressures until the proverbial dam breaks, and that doesn’t help our production. If you find yourself in a situation like this, it might be time to take a step back.

Stepping away from the writing process is just as important as being productive. I’ve always tried to treat writing as a job in the sense of feeling the need to produce regularly. Have I always been successful at that? The time between posts on this blog speaks the unfortunate truth in and of itself. In the same school of thought, if you’re going to treat writing as a job in the sense of production, do so in every other aspect as well. Think of a break from writing as a vacation from any other job. Think of it as an opportunity to reset and recharge. Use it as an opportunity to shake free ideas that may have been tangled in the endless web of mental exhaustion. Though it may seem counterintuitive at first, rest and creative silence can be just as important to the process as the words themselves.

Surrendering to the Unknown

For some writers, me included, even one day, much less a week away from the desk can be uncomfortable. This is especially true if you’re lucky enough to have established a daily routine that has become second nature. I haven’t yet, and sometimes I think that may be a good thing, especially when the time comes to take a step back. That step back, the surrender into the unknown, is strangely liberating. In the same way as absence makes the heart grow fonder, time away from the desk can unlock creativity you didn’t know was there simply because you missed the process and wanted to get back to it. You return with a renewed trust of the process. Time is the ultimate healer, even when what ails you is creative.

Returning with Renewed Passion

The most profound lesson of not writing for any amount of time is the renewed passion that accompanies getting back to it. After a break, I’m excited to get back to the desk, itching to put a new idea on paper, even if it’s just a personal journal entry or something I don’t plan to publish. As I alluded to in the last section, absence makes the heart grow fonder. I believe this is also the case for writing or any other craft.Like returning from a needed vacation, writers and other creatives often find themselves reinvigorated, ready and eager to turn their thoughts and new experiences into something wonderful. They return to the desk looking at their craft from a new lens.

Like with any job or activity, a break from the desk can help the writer return with clarity, a sharpened eye for what really matters. Whether they return experimenting with something new, stepping outside their thematic comfort zone, or simply appreciating the joy of creating, they return with a fresh perspective.

Final Thoughts

Some creative purists might consider a week without writing as a wasted week. Having done it a time or two in my time as a blogger and aspiring writer, I disagree. Not only is time away beneficial to a writer’s mental health, it’s an investment in their creative health as well. Time away from the page allows time to rest, reflect, explore, and recharge. It reminds us that there is more to writing than the words on the page. It’s our own way of engaging with life itself. For writers, or any creative person really, stepping away can put you on the path to rediscovering your passion. It did for me. I came back with new found inspiration and a deeper connection to the message I wanted to convey. So if you’re stuck and thinking about taking a step away from your chosen craft but not sure if it’s the right thing to do, take my advice and do it. Listen, rest, reflect, try something new. You may be surprised what happens when you return to your chosen craft. 

 

 

 Why I Write: A Story of Catharsis and a Calling

Writing is something anyone can do if they put their mind to it. It’s a skill that can be learned, but I don’t believe it can be effectively taught. There are too many people with different learning styles and approaches to creativity. Personally, I was always drawn to writing. I have always been more of a bookworm than an athlete. My love of reading was an obvious steppingstone to a love of writing. I find it cathartic. It also allows me to express myself creatively and constructively. Looking back on life, I find it all comes back to writing at some juncture. All the people I look up to are writers or have written books in their careers. Most of all, as someone with a creative mind who has no skill with any other art form whatsoever, writing seemed to be the logical choice. In what I will admit is an attempt to thwart writer’s block, I would like to share with you why I do what I do and why it brings me such joy and satisfaction.

The Catharsis of it all: Freeing my Mind from Pent-Up Emotion

I don’t want to make this piece about my past or what I’ve been through, but I’ve been through a lot in life and writing has helped me process a lot of those traumas and pent-up emotions Even if it was just something for me, writing out what I was thinking and feeling always helped and kept me from doing things I would have definitely lived to regret. Some emotions I was feeling were misplaced, and sometimes misdirected. Only by writing everything down was I able to figure this out. I have plenty of regrets, many of which I have been able to process through the written word. I couldn’t imagine how many stupid and regrettable things I would have done had I not discovered—and later was forced to rediscover—the power of the written word.

Again, I don’t want to make this entire article about me and what I’ve been through, but I would be remiss if I didn’t at least briefly mention some things I’ve been through and how writing has helped me process them. I won’t bore you with the details, but writing has helped me through bullying as a result of being different. I remember a story I wrote when I was in fifth grade about someone with a disability and how it affected their life and how they viewed themselves. I have since gotten away from such obvious symbolism, but I still find comfort in the written word and being able to process those emotions. It keeps me from doing other things I may regret, as if I don’t have enough of those already.

Some people can say they have no regrets. For me to utter those words in any capacity would be the biggest fallacy I can think of. To find regret, all I have to do is look at my current situation and think about how I got here. I don’t regret the situation I’m in, but I am self-aware enough in my advancing age to understand that everything I’m experiencing now is a direct result of something I did or said years ago when I didn’t think my decisions would affect me. I was the definition of young and dumb. It is there that my regret lives, and I’m thankful that God gave me the ability to put words together in a coherent manner to deal with it.

The Creative Side: An Outlet for the Randomness and Nonsense in my Mind

Writing has always been cathartic for me, a way to deal with thoughts and emotions effectively. But there has always been something more to it. I have always had a creative streak, and I can’t draw or paint to save my life to this day. The logical solution, of course, was and always has been writing. ADHD has always left me with ideas flying through my head faster than I can process them. I find myself thinking of scenarios that could happen but haven’t yet, and expressing those has left me with a bad reputation of being untruthful in some circles; it was obviously never meant that way. Eventually, I internalized those scenarios and turned them into the “what if” questions that shape most modern fiction. Of all the abilities and passions I could have in life, I’m certainly glad I ended up with a love and talent for writing.

ADHD is a blessing and a curse sometimes when I think about creativity. I’m undiagnosed, so don’t come for me, but it isn’t hard to see it in myself. It’s a walking novel conflict, one that I might use at some point. Countless ideas float around in my head, but on most days, I have no way of rationalizing or organizing them. The resulting jumble of thoughts and ideas makes for some interesting scenarios, some of which could happen and others that would stand no chance. I write them out either way.

I find myself thinking of random scenarios sometimes that would probably never happen in real life. I used to express those scenarios aloud to people I considered friends. All it afforded me was what I considered to be an undeserved reputation as someone who stretches the truth a little too much. These were times in which I wasn’t writing and I probably should have been. These overly embellished scenarios could have been easily subjected to the “what if” filter that shapes modern fiction, and it would have saved me some headaches along the way.

When you break down most modern fiction, it usually starts with a character in a situation, then the author will ask themselves, “What if this happens?” and just like that, you have a plot. Unfortunately, as I’ve become painfully aware, this simplified outlook on fiction does not prevent writer’s block. That in mind, I have also broken down writer’s block into fear of rejection and fear of exposure, though individual results may vary on this score. I’ve found the best way to combat writer’s block is to break the idea of writing down into what it really is for me, a hobby. Once I started thinking of it like that, the bouts with writer’s block were fewer and farther between. Treat it less like a job and it gets easier, I thought. So far, that logic has not betrayed me.

The Hobby of Writing: Time Used Constructively

Though I try not to talk about it much, my battle with cerebral palsy didn’t leave me with much in the way of leisure activities, save for a brief foray into baseball when I was between nine and ten years old. I spent a lot of that time reading. I’ll never forget those nights I stayed up reading, aggravating my siblings because I had no way of completely blocking the light from my bedside lamp. Though I caught hell for it then, I certainly don’t regret it now. When I think about the time I spent between reading and writing and what could have potentially filled that time, I don’t regret picking up those hobbies in the least 

I don’t remember exactly when it clicked in my mind that writing was something I wanted to do in life, but it afforded me a constructive hobby that passed the time easily. The best part, I didn’t need any money to get started. With as many hobbies as I’ve had over the years that have either needed a deposit of some kind or a lot of investment into equipment, it is nice to have a hobby that doesn’t require such a monetary commitment. It wasn’t long after I picked up writing that I discovered I might have a natural talent for it. 

The Pen and Me: A Natural Pair

   The first inclination that I may have a natural talent for writing came around sixth grade. I was a good student—at least when I wanted to be—but I had an issue with daily work I discovered later was an issue of overconfidence in my own abilities. I was always a good test taker, and this was evident in how my high school career ended. My parents always made it a point to make sure I knew how smart I was. At this time, I was convinced it was simply an excuse to get mad when my grades slipped, a way of saying “there’s no excuse”. In reality, it was their way of telling me that my physical condition did not affect my mental faculties. I appreciate it now, but that’s only because I’ve been slapped in the face by karma a few times and forced to look into that omnipresent mirror that is hindsight. It was only when other people started saying what they said that I believed it.

I had a teacher in sixth grade English that wrote the same general comment on all of my writing assignments. Though I don’t remember her words to the letter, I seem to recall her praising my writing talent for my age at the time while admonishing my cavalier attitude toward actually turning the assignments in. I took the compliments seriously. Hindsight being what it is, I wish more and more as time goes on that I’d heeded the latter advice as well. I learned eventually, just not as quickly as I would have liked. It wasn’t until two years later that I’d come across an English teacher who would have a profound effect on me.

I’m going to leave his name out for both of our protection, but eighth grade English was memorable for me because of one man for whom I still hold a high level of respect to this day. Don’t get me wrong, all my teachers took as much time as they possibly could have with me, but there is always one that has a lasting impact. 

I don’t remember too many teachers in high school that affected my writing specifically. If I’m being honest, it was at this time I became lost. I had no direction. I was nothing but anger and superfluous friendships. I cringe every time I think about my high school graduation when they went through each of us and said something about what we planned to do after that day. The voice of the speaker and the word “undecided” haunts me to this day, highly indicative of a time in which I’d lost my way. Despite the encouragement for my writing and an interest in journalism, I for whatever reason at that time chose not to pursue it. I don’t have many glaring regrets, but I would say this is one of them, especially when I think of the natural gifts I wasted during that time.

When you mention or it is otherwise made apparent that you are left-handed, the reception is often mixed. Some people find it fascinating, others find it odd. My dad in particular saw it as yet another opportunity to make jokes. Regardless of the social reception, it is often associated with having some sort of artistic gift (unless you are a religious fanatic, then it has other less desirable connotations). I don’t directly attribute my skill with writing to this trait, but I don’t think it hurts either. Either way, I was naturally drawn to books and writing came naturally from that. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

The Power of Influence: The People Who Made Me the Writer I Have Become

Like anything else in life, nobody finds and realizes their dreams completely on their own. I spent far too long hamstringing my career chasing the impossible carrot that is being able to say I did it all on my own. The truth of the matter is, nobody does anything completely on their own, no matter how adamant they are that they did. There is always someone behind the scenes, whether it is a supportive parent, significant other, or mentor. The latter of these can come as someone who actually mentors you, or it could be someone you look up to that has done what you are trying to do. Whether I’ve allowed myself to see it or not, my family has always supported me, but aside from that, I can name many more distant mentors who have unknowingly helped to shape me as a writer and as a man.

Stephen King

It wouldn't be a writing article for me if I didn’t mention my literary idol, Stephen King. My fiction tends to be on the darker side, and I can attribute that to Mr. King’s influence. I’d like to think I’ve slowly developed my style over time, but to say King hasn’t influenced my writing in some respect would be a lie. I’ve read more of his books than I haven’t read. Though my writing has taken more of a psychological thriller turn, I will always credit King with my initial inspiration. After all, he essentially says in his book “On Writing,” which you can check out here, that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. King has famously talked about imitating the likes of Lovecraft and John D McDonald. This in mind, King also maintains that in order to become a good writer, you have to write, and through writing you will eventually find your own style. I feel like I’m getting there, and I have him to thank.

Anyone who knows me will tell you I love baseball. Those same people will also likely tell you that I’m one of if not the biggest Braves fan in this part of the country. I was blessed to grow up in an era in which we had nationally televised games on a weekly basis (Thanks Ted Turner) and to have someone close to me share my love for baseball. The reader in me was even more excited when I found out some of my favorite players wrote books as well.

Chipper Jones

Every baseball fan has their favorite player. Some change over time, some don’t. I didn’t. I was and still am a fan of Chipper Jones. Though being left-handed probably would have put me on the opposite side of the diamond from him, I always liked the way he went about his business. Everybody thought he was cocky because he stepped in the box or onto the field every time with the mentality that he was the best player out there. If you read his book, “Ballplayer,” which I’ve included a link to, you’ll find that it came from his mother, who was a professional equestrian. She encouraged him to step on the field for every game, every at bat, every inning in the field like he was the best player on the field. The importance of family was evident, as anytime Chipper was in a slump, he went not to then hitting coach Don Baylor, but to his dad, Larry Sr. Reading that and hearing Chipper talk about it in interviews got me thinking about my relationship with my dad and how it shaped me as a man and a writer.

My Dad

My dad has been a farmer all his life. It’s all he’s ever known. As time goes on, I think the contribution of farmers to the function of this country is vastly overlooked in today’s society. Even during my misguided youth, a time in which I disrespected everyone believed to be in authority just for the sake of doing so, I always held a silent respect and admiration for my father. As long as I’ve been alive, he hasn’t taken a day off from work that didn’t have a purpose or good reason. Though I can’t say I’ve always followed this example, I’m proud to say that I do now. The older I get, the more I become like my dad. I’m ok with that. He’s always supported me, so I owe it to him to pass on his values.

No matter what I pursued, my dad has always supported me. Sometimes he was vocal, sometimes he stood to the side in silent support as I made the inevitable mistakes on the way to potential success. I have only moderately succeeded in life so far, and that is not for lack of support. Whatever success I have, I will always attribute some of it to my dad. He’s not a big social media guy, but I hope he reads this someday. Though I was too proud to admit it when I was younger, I wouldn’t be the man I am if it weren’t for him and my mother. Appreciate your parents, folks. Whatever the method, they always teach you something. I suppose that could be said for all people. No matter what type of influence someone has on you, they always teach you something if you’re willing to learn.

Final Thoughts

No matter who you are or where you come from, we all have a calling, something that we are meant to do. Whether it’s putting words on a page, tending a farm, or hitting a baseball, there is something for everyone. Like the inciting incident of your favorite novel, there is always a moment in life in which you discover this calling, and it changes your life forever. Whether it’s carrying on the family business or something life calls you to later, everyone has a purpose. Take whatever advice your parents give you, however they choose to give it. Find something in life that keeps you busy and brings you joy and try to make a career out of it. Cliche as it sounds, if you do that, you’ll never work a day in your life. I write because I love it, and if I can make a full-time income out of it someday, I will be happy. Find that one thing that gives you the same thrill writing does for me and you can be too.

    

 

 The Algorithm's Gift: Finding My Muse in the Depths of YouTube

Writer’s Block? Or Something Different?

Writer’s block and what I like to call creative stagnation are often—not always in so many words—used interchangeably. In reality, they are quite different.It's easy to mix up writer's block and creative stagnation, but they're not quite the same thing. Writer's block is usually a temporary hiccup in your writing process, like hitting a wall where you can't come up with ideas or put your thoughts into words. Creative stagnation is more of a long-term funk, where you feel like your creative juices have run dry and you're just stuck. Writer's block is like a minor roadblock, while creative stagnation feels more like a major detour.

What causes these issues? Writer's block often pops up because of stress, nerves, or even just a severe case of self-doubt. Sometimes it's external things like deadlines or not having any new ideas. Creative stagnation, though, comes from deeper issues like losing your motivation, being afraid to fail, or feeling like you're stuck in a creative rut. To get past writer's block, you might just need a break, a change of scenery, or to try some free writing. But to get out of creative stagnation, you might need to really change how you're thinking, be willing to experiment, and attempt to boost your creativity.

While they're different, writer's block and creative stagnation can also be linked. If you have writer's block for too long, it can turn into creative stagnation because feeling like you can't write can make you doubt yourself. And if you're already feeling creatively stagnant, it can make it even harder to start or finish a writing project, leading to writer's block. Knowing the difference between the two is really important if you want to deal with creative challenges and keep your creative work going strong.

Until recently, I found myself afflicted with a bout of what I refer to as creative stagnation. While writer’s block is a state in which the words don’t come at all, creative stagnation is a state in which the words come but don’t feel right in your mind. The one thing they have in common is their roots. They are both rooted in self-doubt. Thankfully, self-doubt only hangs around for a short time when you have inspiration all around you.

Every writer, while writing every piece they’ve ever written, has had that one moment where they stare at the blank document and wonder if they are in the right profession, if they have any talent at all. It happens to me regularly. It’s happening to me right now as I write this. I, however, have another reason to doubt myself, even if it ends up being mostly subconscious.

I try not to talk too much about my lifelong battle with cerebral palsy; I did that a little too much in the first blog I ever wrote, and this is my way of reinventing that image. It is relevant in this context, however, because it causes an extra layer of self-doubt that while on the surface I know it isn’t warranted, is hard to push out of my mind. The physical aspects are one thing. They don’t affect my ability to write since it is done in a seated position. The problem is the stigma surrounding the effects of this disability on a person’s mental faculties. I would love to say I dodged that metaphorical bullet, but sometimes I wonder. Like with the physical aspect, I know deep down that few people could tell just by my writing style and the way I structure my ideas that I have some sort of condition. Even knowing that, I wonder if anyone will ever read what I write. This worry is further exacerbated knowing that I know people in my life look at me differently, even when they say they don’t, because of the condition. Thanks to boredom and my good fortune with the YouTube algorithm, however, I found there are other reasons for the lack of initial success and it’s easier to fix than I was allowing myself to believe. It turned out that the solution was right in front of me.

Jumping Down the Rabbit Hole: Finding Inspiration in the YouTube Algorithm

I’ve been subscribed to Joe Van Cleave on YouTube since November 2023. I’m not sure why it took this long for my brain to make this connection, but I was watching one of Joe’s videos the other day, which I believe had something to do with finding your creative flow as a writer, and it got me thinking. 

“This video was uploaded almost ten years ago,” I thought to myself. That small, innocuous thought spurred me on to create what you’re reading today. In that video, Joe unknowingly showed me the power of dedication to the craft and perseverance when seeking creative fulfillment and success. In the event he reads this piece, I’d like to thank Joe for his engaging content and wish him well for the future. 

I’ve been a fan of Stephen King and his work for many years now. What began with a curious first reading of “Dreamcatcher” when I found it in the spare bedroom of my great aunt’s apartment when I was in high school has grown into a healthy obsession based on the respect I have for the man and what he does. He has inspired a lot of my fiction writing, most of which has not been seen by anyone to this point. His book, “On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft has also stuck with me. One of my favorite quotes from that book is about what writing is about for us writers. It’s about finding happiness in what we do, and finding stories in everyday life. His story about how he discovered his love for books and fulfilling his desire to write them inspired me to go on my journey. Along the way, King has spoken to many groups, and some of those videos have ended up on Youtube. The last video I watched, which was recorded at Politics and Prose in Washington DC, left me with more unexpected inspiration.

During his talk in DC, King told the story that led him to write “Cujo” in which he took his motorcycle to a man to be fixed and was greeted by the man and his enormous St. Bernard. Apparently, “Buster” didn’t like Steve’s face, as evidenced by the growl and attempted springing of his haunches, which was stopped by a socket wrench in the mechanic’s hand. From this quite ordinary encounter, “Cujo” was born. Again, I was silently wondering why it took me until this rabbit hole YouTube session to understand this concept, but better late than never, I suppose.

I’m not sure if I should thank Steve or Joe for this, but after that YouTube session, I was inspired to write again, and it started with what you’re reading today. Joe inspired me to continue to create and have patience that the right people will find me. Mr. King reminded me how many of the best stories out there came from ordinary situations combined with unusual changes in circumstances. So I guess they both deserve some thanks, for they have both inspired me to continue to put my words on paper and eventually out into the world, and they’ve taught me to look for inspiration everywhere instead of waiting for it to find me.

Sometimes Inspiration Finds You

One of my favorite story ideas that started with a seemingly normal situation was one that I am still working on. Essentially, it involves a retired police detective on vacation to celebrate his retirement, only to hear the call of public service in his head once again when a body is discovered in the cabin down the way from his own when the proprietor of the resort was investigating a strange odor that was reported.

That story came to me fairly quickly. Like the gentle knock of opportunity, this idea would live—rent free, as people say now—in my head for about a month. I didn’t act on it because inspiration like that was so unexpected, but it’s a fun story to tell, anyway. Essentially, the cabin that I was supposed to stay in last summer, along with my sister- and brother-in-law’s cabin next door, was closed off and made unavailable because of an odor that was believed to be coming from the fish cleaning house below. There was a joke circulating around the resort that there was a dead body down there. Being the creative soul that I am, my first instinct was to ask myself, “What if there were a dead body down there?” That, in its purest form is, exactly what I’m talking about when I say inspiration finds you, and you should never ignore it.

Hindsight tells me I should have written that story then and there, but using more of the advice I gleaned from Stephen King, I let the idea sit for a while, see if it would stick around or fall out of the proverbial strainer—that was in the Politics and Prose video too in some form. Though it has gone through a few changes between then and now, the core idea has not left me. I have many projects in the works—ADHD is not my friend in that way—but this one will find its way into manuscript form at some point in the near future, and I’m certain it will be the first of many.

Inspiration can truly come from anywhere. Sometimes it comes in times and places where we least expect it. I can come when you take your motorcycle to the mechanic, from a dream on a plane, or even from a YouTube video that sends you down a rabbit hole and inspires you to step outside your comfort zone. Inspiration can come from all around us, and it’s up to us to decide what to do with it.

When your goal is to make an income from your writing, you can’t afford to wait for inspiration to strike you. As Steve Jobs famously said, “Real artists ship.” I can’t say I’ve always followed this rule, but what that quote means to me is, as writers and creators, we have to go to the post every day, just like you would at any other job, regardless of inspiration or lack thereof. I bring that up because that quote was brought to my attention in being a creator when I watched a video from another exceptional creator, Damon DiMarco. I’ll link his YouTube channel here for anyone who wants to check out his content. He is a screenwriter who creates using older technology, much like Joe Van Cleave. If you like screenplays and typewriters, check out Damon’s content. You won’t be disappointed.

Creating New Experiences: Stepping Beyond Your Comfort Zone

One key I’ve found to having success as a creator is always being open to new experiences, whether that be food, new places to write within your house—or your local restaurant or coffee shop, for that matter, or even travel. I’ll take one more cue from the great Stephen King. His book, “Misery” was inspired by a dream he had while sleeping on a plane to London that involved a writer and their number one fan. When King and his wife Tabitha arrived at the Brown’s Hotel in London, he asked the person at the front desk if there was somewhere he could go to write. He pointed him to an old desk that happened to belong to Rudyard Kipling and King wrote the first draft of “Misery.” I’ve experienced some of this in my lake trips, which you can read about in one of my other articles, but I’ve never traveled to that extent. I’d like to, I just haven’t yet. Someday though, I’d like to do some extensive travelling.

Where do you find inspiration in everyday life? Do you travel? Interact with different people regularly? Or do you jump down YouTube and internet rabbit holes as I do? Leave me a comment and let me know where your inspiration comes from. Thanks for stopping by. Remember that inspiration is all around us and make every day a creative one. Inspiration can be found in the most unexpected corners of our lives. It's not confined to exotic travels or profound interactions; it's woven into the fabric of our everyday experiences.

Final Thoughts

Take a moment to reflect on your own sources of inspiration. Perhaps you find it in the vibrant hues of a sunrise, the soothing melody of a bird's song, or the infectious laughter of a child. Maybe you're inspired by the resilience of the human spirit, the beauty of nature, or the power of art.

For many of us, the internet has become a vast reservoir of inspiration. We can explore distant lands, delve into fascinating subjects, and connect with people from all walks of life with just a few clicks. YouTube, with its endless array of videos, can be a rich source of inspiration.

Whether you're watching a TED Talk, a documentary, a music video, or a DIY tutorial, you're bound to come across something that sparks your creativity. So next time you're feeling uninspired, don't hesitate to jump down a YouTube rabbit hole. You never know what you might find.

Remember, inspiration is all around us. It's in the mundane and the extraordinary, the simple and the complex. All we have to do is open our eyes and our minds to it. So make every day a creative one. Seek inspiration in the world around you, and let it fuel your passions and your dreams.  

   

Inspiration at the Lake: A Writer's Retreat

 

Finding Inspiration at the Lake: A Writer's Retreat

The sunrise over Long Lake paints my world in hues of amber and gold. As I look out from my cabin's private deck to the boat docks below, the gentle lapping of waves echoes a timeless rhythm. The endless line of trees beyond the glassy surface takes me to a place of pure tranquility.

For my family, this is a vacation from work. For me, a trip to Long Lake is a portal to relaxation and creativity.

 The Midwestern Tradition of "Going Up North"

When you live in the Midwest, particularly Wisconsin, vacations to places we call "up north" are a family staple. Living in the southern part of the state, finding somewhere that qualifies as "up north" isn't difficult.

My family has always blocked off at least one week each summer for such a vacation. It began with my grandparents taking my siblings and me to Wisconsin Dells. Those trips planted the seeds for my love of lakeside retreats, despite being the one family member who rarely participates in typical lakefront activities.

 Finding Peace by the Water

I've never been big on swimming or fishing. My legs aren't as strong as my arms, making swimming in currented water difficult. And while I enjoyed fishing as a child, I lost interest as I grew older.

Despite these personal preferences, I always look forward to family vacations on the lake. The water offers a tranquility I've rarely experienced elsewhere. From my cabin deck, I can hear gentle waves lapping against the dock below while enjoying a cold beverage. As the sun sets, casting a red-orange glow through the trees on the horizon, an overwhelming sense of peace washes over me.

 A Writer's Sanctuary

It may seem cliché for a writer to find inspiration at a lakeside cabin, but it works for me. Two years ago, I stayed in a rustic one-bedroom cabin with the most spacious deck of all those available. The worn wooden planks creaked with every step, adding to its charm.

The stillness of morning as I sat with a cup of coffee, enjoying the peaceful moments before a day of family activities, sparked something within me. As the sun rose above the tree line, my mind would race with creative energy, and the words would begin to flow.

 Unexpected Sources of Inspiration

Contrary to what you might expect, my most vivid story inspiration didn't come from the picturesque lake view, but from a macabre joke circulating around the resort. Locals joked about a dead body somewhere in the fish house below my usual cabin. "What if there really was a body down there?" I thought and thus was born perhaps the darkest narrative I'd ever conceived.

Being around new people in unfamiliar situations helps generate ideas. The less I think about everyday stresses, the easier it is to create. Though I haven't written this particular story yet, it remains on my project list, requiring me to step outside my comfort zone.

 Growth Through Reflection

Until writing this piece, I hadn't fully considered how past vacations could spark story ideas through simple "what if" scenarios. It's only in the last two years that I've seriously pursued writing during these trips.

One memory stands out: when my ex unexpectedly left our vacation with little explanation. Looking back, this disappointment could fuel many psychological thriller tropes. It's in these raw, emotional moments that I find the intricate dance of human relationships most fascinating—providing endless fuel for storytelling.

A Sanctuary of Inspiration

Long Lake has given me more than memories. It has deepened my understanding of myself, my family, and the human experience I seek to capture through writing. That lake, with its tranquil beauty and endless possibilities that accompany every sunrise, remains a sanctuary of inspiration in my memory.

Whether or not I return, the lessons learned, and stories conceived while gazing across Long Lake's shimmering expanse will always be with me, weaving into the fabric of my life and work.

Perhaps the "what if" questions I asked myself will find their way to others, leading them to seek their own experiences and find pieces of themselves reflected in gently rippling waters.