Every writer has problems getting started sometimes. Sometimes we sit down and there is no inspiration; there is nothing that sticks out in our mind to spark the writing on the page. Do you just quit and start tomorrow? Do you try to write a stream of consciousness piece to try to get started? Personally, I think the way to go is to go in search of inspiration.
My biggest problem with getting started often results from being in the same place I wrote in yesterday, surrounded by white walls and a chatty husband. I am easily distracted when my husband is in the room, and easily bored by the unalluring décor of my apartment. Leaving behind the distraction and the boring apartment often helps me to get started.
Many times all I need is the description of one person or the setting for my story. Just walking outside on my front porch opens up a plethora of story starters. If you are looking to work with a specific story and you know the setting, try to find a place that resembles that setting and go work. For example, if you are working on a story that includes a strong nature setting, try going to a local park to get in that mind frame. Or if you are writing a story about children in a school, try going to a McDonalds that has a play place or another place you know will be filled with kids.
If you really cannot leave your house and your writing spot, try surfing the internet for images, videos, or stories that have a similar setting or character type in mind. If you are really at a loss look through all of your magazines. (You will find it helpful to subscribe to or pick up an eclectic mix of magazines.)
Be sure to examine the details closely. Note things that you haven’t noticed before. Is there anything that seems odd in the magazines? These types of details will help get you started. Just don’t let the big stuff like plot get in your way. You can always go back—in fact there should never be a time that you don’t—and do some fine tuning.
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