Brainstorming new story ideas is not always the easiest job in the world. Frequently, it seems the longer you work to invent the concept to your next great book, the more impossible the battle becomes. So, how can you conquer the overwhelm and start generating narratives such as the ultra-imaginative author you to be?

Today, I am discussing three powerful brainstorming methods which produce the practice of digging up new story ideas look less like a hassle and more like the romp through your creative playground it should be. Let's writers, go. It is time to play!

Some authors struggle to select which of the many stories they will write next, and that is definitely a valid struggle. In actuality, we will tackle this subject in depth in next week's post here on the site. When you are in the thick of trying hard to create one story idea, however, it's easy to check upon these authors with envy.

But author, the Comparison Game is not worth your time. There are lots of reasons your creative well might be running dry, and I guarantee you none of them are a reflection of your ability or value as a writer.

Writers must balance plot with character development, theme, world-building, and prose, among other components, and it is unreasonable for any author to expect they'll naturally exceed whatsoever. Some authors simply gravitate toward storyline over characters or prose over narrative -- and that is okay!

There's absolutely no ideal way to become a writer, and you are no less of a writer when you must work diligently to excel in any specific element of the craft. If creating story ideas is a constant struggle for you, I would wager that you excel in different areas of the craft which would make more imaginatively-minded writers jealous.

Sometimes, the struggle to create new story ideas may simply indicate that you are experiencing a dry spell or a creative winter. Use this opportunity to unwind and relax, refilling your creative well by reading extensively, dabbling in different hobbies, nurturing your relationships, and getting out in the world.

With patience and time, this season on your writing life will pass and you will end up once more motivated to write a new prosperity of tales.

Let us create new story ideas!

If your private brainstorming methods don't seem to be getting the work done, don't have any fear. Generating new story ideas does not need to be a distressed grappling for any old scrap of inspiration.

By intentionally allowing ourselves to be affected by tales and other types of art, we learn to shape and transform these impacts into unique new works. So, how can we steal to be an artist to emphasise new story ideas? Simple!

Consider the stories you have most enjoyed and what it was about these stories that captivated your attention. Was it a theme or character? A plot twist or magical system? A setting that is breath-taking?

Create as comprehensive a list as possible, then play around with all the components you have written down.

What if distance were dominated by a corrupt empire?

Imagine if a wealthy aristocrat dropped for a girl who loathed him?

Imagine if a third-world African nation were covertly the wealthiest nation in the world?

Queries can be a highly effective method to create concepts for new stories. Start by making a new list and unleashing your fascination. Questions can you create?

As soon as you've developed a comprehensive list, select or combine the idea(s) that most excite your curiosity, then challenge yourself to write a new narrative based on each individual question.

Clients must invest in your narrative emotionally if they are supposed to take care of the journey at hand. And if it is emotion that hooks readers to your story, it is no wonder that playing feelings can be a highly effective way to create ideas for your next publication.

Jump on the emotional rollercoaster by producing a list of the scenarios that get your emotions churning. When creating your list, think about what causes one to feel joy, despair, sadness, anger, sorrow, hope, fear, peace, etc.

With your listing complete, you can start to combine the scenarios that most pique your curiosity to spark ideas for your next story.

By way of instance, if you're scared of spiders and becoming lost in the wild, you can write a dystopian story about a world overrun by giant spiders and the woman who must fight them in the wilderness as she journeys to reunite with her loved ones and enters her home through her fancy doorbell camera or find a life-saving medication. Fun

It's important to bear in mind that the purpose of brainstorming story ideas is to create a concept for your own story, not a heart plot. You're trying to find the seed of inspiration which catches your attention wholeheartedly.

Who's the protagonist?

What is their objective?

How do they intend to achieve their objective?

What disaster will throw off your protagonist balance?

Who or what's going to oppose them?

What is the battle that is core?

If you would like additional advice as you work to enlarge your new story idea to a full-fledged novel, you might enjoy working through Well-Storied workbook, The Pre-Write Project!