Perhaps you want to write a novel but don’t have any clue where to get started. Where does an author get inspiration? How do you know it’s a good idea? Inspiration is the very first seed in writing a novel, or anything for that matter. That’s why I wanted to start here. In this category of blog posts, I will offer any insight that helped me get that first book to near publication. However, I do want to note that there isn’t a specific order to take these steps and what worked for me may not work for you. I just hope that some of this helps you! 🙂

Okay, whew. So where can you get inspiration for your writing project? Whether it’s a novel, short story, poem, haiku, or anything else, you can get inspiration anywhere. Yeah, I know it sounds crazy, but it’s true! The key to getting that “eureka” moment is keeping an open mind and writing down everything.

Personally, I find my best ideas come from bits and pieces of dreams. It never comes all in one night, but certain scenes and plot twists will find their way into a short story idea or part of my novel. I do have one rule though, keep a notebook by my bed. If, in the morning, I think the idea is crappy, I don’t feel bad about scrapping it. Stay positive that amazing inspiration will come eventually!

Not every author (and yes – you are an author!) will find great ideas in their dreams. Like in my last post, find what works for you. Try meditating, taking a walk, painting, search Pinterest for writing prompts, ANYTHING you can think of! Personally, I think the key to getting that inspiration is relaxing your mind. It is only natural to have some anxiety or need for perfection, but that will hinder you from getting out that awesome novel!

Pinterest is a wonderful source of inspiration. There are countless writing prompts for all types of genres and pictures that depicts scenes, characters, and environments. Any type of book you could ever want to write, there is something to pin. Not only that, there are many resources for designing book covers, where and how to self-publish (if you choose that route), and how to market your novel when it is available. I would definitely suggest making an account (and follow me, of course!) if only for the purpose organizing your inspiration.

How do you know that your idea could be a book? Another post will deal with ways to outline your novel, but understanding whether your idea is able to be outlined is a good start. Also, be sure that you are passionate about the idea itself. Give it a few days and expand on the blurb, create characters, polish the environment, etc. After a week or so, scrap it if you aren’t excited about writing it. Basically, if it has enough substance, it can be expanded to at least 70,000 words. And if you make it that far (which I know you will), BAM. You have a first draft!

I hope this helped a bit. Remember:

1. Find a way to relax and ‘let your guard down’.
2. Always keep a notebook and writing utensil close.
3. If you don’t think it’s a great idea, scrap it.
4. Get a Pinterest Account.
5. Stay positive and keep going! 🙂

My next “Let’s Write a Novel” post will be about dealing with too many ideas.

As always, thanks for reading and following my blog. Much appreciated! 🙂