Sometimes we can be tempted to believe that the best stories come from extraordinary adventures and big moments. Yet some of the most memorable stories begin with the ordinary, everyday moments. Writing isn’t about having the best imagination; it’s about noticing things that other people overlook. A conversation overheard on the bus, an old picture in a charity shop, or an unusual item on the washing line. All of these can all become the starting point for a compelling story. The world is full of ideas if you look close enough.
So, when I’m sat in a café, eavesdropping, it’s not being nosey, it’s looking for inspiration. I love people-watching, and as a writer, I have a great excuse! Next time you are out and about, try a little people watching and borrow small details that make characters feel authentic. For example, a man who always straightens his tie before speaking, or a child who asks unexpected questions, can become memorable traits for your fictional characters.
I like to use the question ‘What if?’ when I’m observing the world.
- What if the woman at the train station was waiting for someone she hadn’t seen for twenty years?
- What if the person in the supermarket was getting the shopping for someone in hiding?
- What if the librarian was secretly an author?
A single question can transform an everyday moment into the beginning of an exciting plot.
I used to carry a notebook with me everywhere, as ideas are often fleeting and my memory is shocking. You might think you’ll remember your ideas later, but inspiration has a habit of disappearing as quickly as it arrives. Nowadays, my mobile phone is my notebook, so I can hold onto my ideas even when my memory fails me.
You don’t have to travel the world to discover fascinating stories. Your life is full of inspiration. Wherever you go, whatever you do, listen to conversations, notice people’s routines, and imagine the lives behind the faces. Every person has a story, and your imagination fills in the parts you cannot know.
The more you practice noticing the world around you, the easier it becomes to recognize potential stories everywhere. Everyday life is far more extraordinary than it first appears. Behind every ordinary moment lies the possibility of conflict, humor, mystery, or hope. As a writer, develop your ability to observe the world with fresh eyes and turn those observations into stories and poems.
So next time you think you have nothing to write about, look up, the story you’re searching for might be right in front of your eyes,
This was written by our contributing writer, Claire Walsh-Jones.
Image Source: Unsplash, Dollar Gill
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