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Our minds wander. That’s because humans are innately curious, and our minds are always looking for thoughts to fasten on to. So this week, take a long walk. Stare out of a window.

I used to think that my writing was “unartistic” because I like to use outlines. And I have heard many character writers bemoaning their inability to wrangle plot. But–trust me–whatever you are doing is right.

You know you’re a writer when even the Email you send to complain about a computer bug is thoughtfully composed, appropriately descriptive, and--frankly--funny.

There’s a little meanie who lives in my brain; you might have one, too. This meanie is mean. He knows just what to say to get me to feel badly about myself and to give up on my creative projects.

Friends, readers, and fellow writers, I’m going to let you in on a little secret: You do not have to write every day. I don’t. And I’m one of the most prolific writers I know.

In the workshops I’ve given across the country, I’ve met a lot of writers who feel comfortable developing character, but struggle with plot. Many people ask what a plot even is.

Prompts are intended to help you spark new ideas and, often, to help you build new skills. They are meant to be open to interpretation and use; how you handle the prompt is completely up to you.

Settings play a vital role in any story. They aren’t simply locations where things happen, they are opportunities.

Prompts are intended to help you spark new ideas and, often, to help you build new skills. They are meant to be open to interpretation and use; how you handle the prompt is completely up to you.

Offering criticism—even when it is done with utmost love and care—can be a tricky business. Writers are often sensitive creatures and writing, like any creative endeavor, is a vulnerable thing.

Story/acquiring editors are always on the lookout for good manuscripts. They want to buy wonderful stories. But sloppy writing can take focus away from a great tale.

Articles about work/life balance always separate these things as if work is work and life is going for long walks on the beach and drinking a piña colada at sundown.

There are many moments at which you must stop, reassess, think, and wonder. These are some of the most important moments in your work.

Every major character has a guiding belief, a core understanding of the world that determines her actions. This belief serves as the foundation for the character’s decision-making.

Prompts are intended to help you spark new ideas and, often, to help you build new skills. They are meant to be open to interpretation and use; how you handle the prompt is completely up to you.