Topics make the world go round for writers. Without topics writers are an automobile without wheels, an architect without a vision, a sailboat without a sail and a bank account without cash. Enough analogies, I think you get the picture.
Topics are critical for writers. Many times we writers will experience a temporary yet agonizing span of time when we can't think of anything to write. Here are some suggestions which I have found helpful in my time as a freelance writer and teacher of writing:
Keep a notebook where you can write down topics.
Also on your computer add a topic page to your word document and easily add ideas as they arise. List your interests, list what you do well and list things you know well.
We all have an area of expertise in something that we can share with others.Get away from your writing for a while.
Take a break to clear your head. Sometimes a few hours away can make the difference. A simple variation of activity can take your mind away from the pressure of needing another topic.Writing is a mental, yet sedentary activity, so get physical.
Go to the gym or take a walk. You will alleviate the pressures of writer's block just by moving.Be a people watcher and a good listener.
Watching and listening to others can give us ideas about writing topics. We are not islands, even though we work in solitaire.Quotes are always a great beginning.
They can be inspirational and really set off your piece. Quotes can pull together what you are writing about.Write a review of a movie, a book, a cultural event or a new product.
Others may not agree with your praise or criticism, but they will appreciate your honesty.Write on a completely different genre.
For example you might write about serious topics for a few articles, but then change the pace and write something humorous. Changing the pace will keep your pieces fresh. So mix it up.Be a reader.
Read what others are writing and make connections for future topics. Read books, articles, magazines, newspapers and pieces online.Write your opinion about something.
Be controversial.Write about current events.
What are the headlines and top stories?Check Yahoo!Buzz for current hot search items.
Do a “quick write” to that hot topic while it is buzzing.Listen to your favorite music or use the television as background noise.
Music or some kind of background noise can be stimulating for our brains. Music helps creativity as well.Go to an art or photography museum.
What stories do you see in the pictures? I find paintings and photographs serve as a catalyst for my writing. I see ideas and I see stories.Write about a problem and how you solved it.
Even if you have not solved it, just share your experience.Write about a birthday, a holiday.
Try to conjure up the smells, tastes, sights and sounds of that special day Who or what inspires you?
Who or what repulses you? What are you passionate about?Write non-fiction.
Research well what you wish to write about. Download pictures to highlight your non-fiction pieces also.Conjure up a childhood memory.
Write about it.Meditate, pray, do yoga.
Clear your mind of everyday complications and distractions.Take a 20 minute nap.
Research has shown that just a 20 minute snooze can be invigorating.Watch nature.
Take a hike or observe nature in your own backyard.
You can leave home for a few hours or a month. You can travel down the block or around the world. Whatever you do, writing topics are always available, infinite and everywhere. So bid adieu to writer's block and see every minute of each wonderful new day as a potential writing topic!
