The Importance of Writing Prompts

​Writing is a pure joy for most of us. But, like most things in life, it takes a lot of work to be creative. Words don’t always start flowing onto your page from the word go. If only it were that easy! However, nothing worth doing is ever easy. I can’t count the number of days that I’ve sat down at my computer and could think of nothing to write about. That’s why I’ve built a habit of relying on writing prompts during times like that.
 
When my mind is drawing a blank all it takes is just a gentle nudge to get me on my way. That’s true with most writers. I keep a book of 300 writing prompts on my desk. I’ll thumb through the pages until I find one that is intriguing and I’ll write about that with three simple rules. If you find yourself in need of a writing prompt I strongly suggest you consider these rules.
 

1. Set your timer for 15 minutes. Write for the entire time. Don’t stop! Usually once your time is up you’ll find yourself still wanting to continue. That’s a good thing. Put your writing prompt away and get to work on your book.
2. Don’t stop during the process for any reason. Don’t stop to edit. Don’t worry about your spelling or grammar. Just keep writing. You can always go back and clean it up if you decide to use it for another writing project.
3. Let your thoughts go. Write them down no matter what they are. Good, bad, or ugly.

 
Writing prompts are a great way to get your creative juices flowing, especially at times when you are staring at a blank page and having trouble getting started. One of my favorite prompts is to imagine that you are on an international flight. The person next to you asks you what you do and where you are travelling to. You realize that you can tell this stranger anything, be anyone you want to be other than yourself. What do you tell them?
 
Do you have a favorite prompt or a few you suggest to others?