11 Ways to Find Inspiration for Your Next Story

It’s no secret that we love to write. Writing a new story and finding inspiration is one of our favorite things to do. However, finding inspiration isn’t always easy for writers. Whether you’re a writer with many stories or you’re just starting your writing journey, we’re here to help you. Keep on reading to find ways to get ideas for your next story.

This blog post is all about finding inspiration for your next story.

1. Write about your life

Taking inspiration from your life is a great way to start writing a story. That doesn’t mean you need to make yourself the main character and write an autobiography. It means you should take inspiration from your experiences and the people in your life.

2. People watch

Going out in public and finding a place to people watch can help with your inspiration. You never know who you’re going to see or what you’re going to hear. Just relax and let the people walk by and write down whatever you see or hear.

3. Visit someplace new

Going someplace new is a great way to inspire a story. You can choose to use the place as the setting for your story or just let the new experiences drive your story. The goal should be to have as much fun as possible and enjoy yourself. Everything you see and do could eventually be part of your story.

4. Try free writing

Put words to paper, it’s that simple. Just write about whatever is on your mind and see where your imagination takes you. The goal is to not overthink it. That’s why you need to keep writing without worrying about the plot or characters. You can start by describing your day and see what happens.

5. Play a game

Games are great at helping your creativity. Find a fun game and just focus on enjoying yourself. Games also are a great way to relax and get out of your head. Write about what happens during the game and see if it inspired any ideas.

6. Spend time with your friends

The great thing about having close friends that you trust is that you can tell them anything. Bounce around any ideas you have with them and get some feedback. Also, ask them some questions to help you along. For example, if you’re thinking of a character, describe the character and ask them to say whatever name comes to their mind. Have them help you with ideas and turn it into a fun brainstorming session.

7. Listen to music

Music can get you ready to start writing. To get inspiration, listen to your favorite bands or artists. Another way to do this is to find music that goes with the vibe of what you want to write. If you’re interested in writing a romance, put on some romantic music. It could help you think of the couple clearly in your head and what type of romance they have.

8. Exercise

Getting your body moving is great for writing. You don’t have to be an exercise enthusiast or an athlete to get up and move. Try going for a walk or do some easy yoga at home. It doesn’t matter what you do because getting up clears your head and allows you to be creative.

9. Meditate

Meditation is also a great way to clear your head. Meditation is perfect for people who are stressed or worried about story ideas. Get your mind clear and find a quiet place to just be. Getting yourself to fully relax is a way to allow yourself to let new ideas come to you. It also helps with the pressure to write and instead lets you make it a calm experience.

10. Get Creative

To find a story idea, try another creative activity. There’s painting, cooking, photography and many other ideas to use your mind. Who knows, maybe you’re going to write about a painter. Or the creative activity allows you to get out of your head and enjoy yourself, which allows your imagination to have fun.

11. Watch a new TV show or movie

Sometimes we need to relax and enjoy ourselves while watching something new on TV or by finding a new movie. Take inspiration from how the characters are developed, if the plot is done well and the setting. For example, if you want to write a book set in New York City, watch something set there. Obviously, write something completely unique. However, the scene at Central Park could inspire you to write a scene set there. Just remember to have a notebook near you to jot down ideas.