So you've read my first post and you've bought your first notebook, maybe you've even tried some free writing or observational work.
But writing in your notebook for the first time can be daunting. You want it to look perfect. You use your neatest handwriting, and you want everything in your book to be written in perfect prose to a publishable standard. But that isn't what your notebook is for.
Don't put pressure on yourself to keep a neat and well-organised notebook. Use it to its full potential. Illustrate your work, make mipmaps of ideas and plots, make bullet point lists. Your notebook should contain anything and everything you think might be relevant.
So what is relevant? How often should I write in my notebook? What should I write about?
The good news is, everything is relevant!
Try to keep your diary with you when you go out. Write observations, conversations and everything you experience. If you can't go out, start in your room.
Early on in my notebook I wrote descriptions of a candle and a cup of tea. Start with the five senses and don't be afraid to sketch the things you can't describe or write down quotes from the packaging. What does it smell like; does this remind you of anything else? How does it feel; is it hot, cold, smooth or textured? You can even do this with pictures, using your imagination to describe smell, taste and touch. For example, you could try describing this candle. Your version of its smell might be different from someone else's; your associated memories will definitely be different. This is GOOD. This is what makes your writing unique.
Don't put pressure on yourself to write every day. Some days you might feel uninspired or unable to write. Any writing you can do is good. You can write on the train, in bed, at a cafe, anywhere! Some days you might write pages and pages, other days you might stare at the blank page for hours. There are ways around this, and I will be discussing prompts and inspiration in a future blog post, so stay tuned for this!
So go out and buy a notebook if you haven't already and start filling it up. Write as often as you can, and as much as you can. Once the ideas start flowing you'll find it much easier to write in general, and your notebooks will become an irreplaceable resource for you.
Happy writing!
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