Book Launch Party Creativity Tip: Steeping

A creativity tip that I recommend in THINKING WRITE: The Secret to Freeing Your Creative Mind (Adams Media, October 2009) is something I call “steeping” yourself in your writing. Here’s how it works.

Let’s say you’re stuck on what the next scene for your novel should be, or you need a fresh idea for a freelance article, or you need to get to know a new character’s motivations better.  Before you go to bed for the night, surround yourself with your writing materials; read your outline notes, look at character collages, or generate a question about your plot.  Give some thought to the direction you want your subconscious mind to give you, then pose a direct question. Say, “Subconscious, please give me the next scene in my novel,” or whatever. Then as you drift off, think about your question. Again, focus on what it is that you need help with– plot points, character development, or ideas for a nonfiction project.

You will probably have some new insight when you wake up in the morning, or even at 3 AM!  If you don’t, then expect to get some answers to your questions within a week or so, and be prepared for  a sudden flash of insight at an unexpected moment. Have your notebook ready!

I’ve used steeping to help me put together book proposals. For instance, for a few weeks before bedtime I’ll re-read my notes and focus on the writing project at hand. I will ask my subconscious mind to provide the answers to any missing pieces that will make the project a success, or give me the next chapter, or help me see portions that have been left out or need to be fleshed out, etc.

Usually I get a picture in my head the next morning of what the final book should look like, including sections of chapters that are missing. My subconscious mind usually provides me answers in the form of pictures or symbols– you may see words or ideas that “pop” into your mind at odd times of the day. You may get hunches. You may *hear* words or guidance in your head. You have to practice with this technique in order to learn how your subconscious provides you with information.

*******************

How can you use steeping in your writing process, and/or how does your subconscious mind communicate with you? Leave a comment and be entered to win a free copy of the 2nd chapter of LIVING WRITE: The Secret to Bringing Your Craft Into Your Daily Life (Adams Media, Sept 18, 2010).