Q: Do you recommend a notebook, paper or oral digital recorder for ideas and thoughts, like traditional writers have used?
A: Yes, I think it’s a good idea to start thinking of yourself as a “writer” – even if you only sit down to craft a piece occasionally. You want to invite ideas to come to you whenever and wherever, and you should be ready to capture them.
I carry a small notebook around with me wherever I go. But I could just as easily take notes or record my thoughts on my mobile device. Going back through my notes later is a great way to relive my recent ‘aha’ moments and maybe even add an additional thought that has been brewing in my mind. A journal is an expanded version of this little notebook, and I also recommend keeping one. In addition, I keep a little notepad by my bedside to keep notes before or after sleeping. These methods have come through for me countless times.
In general, as soon as you get a writing assignment, start keeping track of your ideas about it. Those ideas can be specific things you want to include, more general thoughts about the topic, or words and phrases you come across in everyday life that might relate to your piece. If your piece is going to have sections, you might want to label your notes accordingly.
By starting the writing wheels in motion, you will subconsciously clear the way for relevant ideas and experiences to enter your world. Suddenly you will realize how many things that come into your life actually connect to your writing project.
You have probably already experienced this phenomenon. How many times have you learned a new word one day and then noticed it everywhere for the next week? Or shopped around for a specific car, bike, or piece of clothing and then had it follow you around no matter where you went?
This happens because you have focused your attention on that specific topic, even if you are not actively pursuing it at every moment. The same thing holds true for your writing intention. Once you commit to working on a piece—even if only in your head—you begin writing it in a larger sense.
If you have been entertaining thoughts about your piece, when you sit down to commit words to paper you will already have some starter material. Nothing can torpedo your creativity faster than a blank page staring you in the face. Trust me: If you wait until the last minute to get started, you will increase your probability of getting an ulcer and decrease the quality of your end product.
PS: You can find more “”Ask Dalya” questions and answers HERE.
