Don't judge

Have you ever had an idea for a story or book that you didn't explore, only to find out that someone else had the same idea? And published it? And made a lot of money? You may have kicked yourself for letting go of a perfectly fine idea because you couldn't see past your own perception of whether or not it was worthwhile.

Many years ago, someone hung a sign in our office stating that ideas are in the air, and you just have to reach out and grab them. So how do you grab these ideas? Most likely, writers catch thoughts and ideas with their pens, pencils, and computers.

If ideas are in the air, pay attention. You can do this by developing a habit of sitting quietly, letting those thoughts flow, and following them. Something your neighbor said about her service dog may pop into your head while watching a news story about robotic dogs, which may help you connect the dots and develop a story about robotic service dogs that may or may not rise up against humans.

The key is to be quiet and listen. By listening to my thoughts and recording them, I've developed character traits for a protagonist while watching someone do the dishes, generated an article idea from a product label, and found solutions to plot problems by reminiscing about a ferry ride across Lake Michigan.

A writer's job is not to judge. Don't fall into the trap of dismissing your ideas that may be viable, valuable, and worthy of further exploration. Write them down, type them up, or record them. Just don't let them go.

Mary Horner's story Shirley and the Apricot Tree was recently published in Kansas City Voices. She has written for numerous publications and teaches communications at St. Louis and St. Charles Community Colleges, and earned the Writing Certificate from UM-St. Louis.