You have a great idea for a story. You write it down, step back, and are amazed by how brilliant and original it is. But an idea is just that, an idea, and for it to become a complete story, a lot has to happen to craft a compelling narrative.
Sometimes, those story elements flood into your mind, and you can’t write them down fast enough. However, even when that happens, it’s always good to take a step back and see what some brainstorming can do.
Unlimited Possibilities
Brainstorming is a great way to explore all the possibilities available and filter out the strongest ideas from the weakest. In writing, brainstorming is a valuable tool that can help you generate an unlimited number of story elements, plot points, character motivations, and more.
It can be easy to utilize the first idea that pops into your head. Let’s say you have a great way to start your story. But what if you brainstormed five or six other possible openings for your story? Are any of those more compelling? Do they inspire you to explore other avenues of your story? Do you see new ways to craft the opening that will positively impact other aspects of the story as it progresses?
Brainstorming should be part of any writing project. It’s easy to fall into cliches, tropes, and predictable beats when it’s the first idea that pops into your head. Taking the time to really think and generate multiple ideas can go a long way to helping you find new ways to enhance and strengthen your story.
Break the Block
Brainstorming can also assist you when you feel writer’s block creeping in to squash your creativity. Instead of giving up and walking away, start brainstorming ideas so you can continue writing and break free from the block that’s slowing you down. Perhaps you’ll discover that the block was caused by a lack of fresh ideas. Now, with your brainstorming session, you’ve unblocked your creativity and are back at it.
Free Yourself and Your Writing
Here’s the great part about brainstorming: your inner critic can take the day off. No idea should be rejected as it flows from your mind onto the page. Judging each idea comes later in the process, but for now, during the brainstorming activity, anything goes. It’s possible that out of twenty ideas you write down, only a couple are worth exploring further. That’s great. That’s the process. That’s the beauty of brainstorming.
Connect the Dots
Brainstorming allows your creativity to explore and play without being restricted by structure and other limiting factors. By taking the time to really dig in and generate lots of ideas, you may discover new connections that elevate your story, its characters, or its themes.
Giving yourself permission to explore and connect will help you craft a stronger narrative with deeper roots than if you jumped on the first idea that popped into your head.
Final Thoughts
Curiosity is the main factor in the brainstorming process. While you think you know your story, take the time to ask yourself questions and really explore the infinite ways you can plot and tell your story. Through brainstorming, you will begin to see pieces of your narrative change for the better, and you’ll be a stronger storyteller because of it.
Happy Brainstorming, and I’ll see you next time!
