I have two stories I’m currently working on. The first is my major story. It’s an epic tale. I’ve done a lot of work and research for it. I have a world map, a list of scenes and sequels, a story arc, and character sketches (both brief and extremely developed). I’ve worked and reworked this story. It’s the story I’m going to try and get published. I really, really love this story and the characters. But it’s the story that causes me so much stress.
This stress isn’t always a good thing for creative works. Sure, sometimes a certain amount a pressure can help us push past a block as a deadline is looming. But it can take something key away from the creative process: enjoyment. The lack of enjoyment makes it harder to want to write. Something I once loved has now become something I HAVE to do.
That’s why I started a “fun” story. I got the idea from my friend back in December who is doing the same thing. This story isn’t epic, it’s very silly. I have no outline, no character sketches, no arc. I’m just putting down ideas and dialogue with the distinct knowledge that know one except maybe a couple friends will see it.
So how exactly does this help with writer’s block? Well, there are two ways I use my “fun” story.
First, I always work on my “fun” story for fifteen minutes before I start on my major story. This helps me to get creative and get the juices flowing. It also helps to get me in the right mindset. I find it less of a task and more of an enjoyment if I write this way.
Second, I will work on my “fun” story if I’m stuck in a particular place in my major story. It helps me think of different things, though I’m still writing so I’m being creative.
I’ve seen great improvement in the time I’ve spent writing the “fun” story. It’s brought back the enjoyment of writing by relieving some of the pressure I feel. More importantly, my major story is benefiting from it.
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