As I was preparing some copy for a client, an idea popped into my head to create a version of this as a “off-the-wall” creative writing exercise.
I love to experiment with using eloquent words (which is not how I speak), but use this as an opportunity to explore. It gives me permission to just write and not give a crap about what anyone else things. It’s helping me build a thicker skin as my writing is pivoting because my ideal customer has taken a 360 degree turn.
By answering the following 10 questions, you’ll end up with a writing prompt which you can then use to continue writing a super short story of about 250 words or less.
Either on paper or computer, make numbered list from 1–10 and first answer these questions.
Step 1: Answer the Questions
- What’s an emotion you’ve recently experienced? (e.g., Joy, Wonder)
- Name a city or place you’ve always wanted to visit. (e.g., Paris, Himalayas)
- Describe a weather phenomenon you find soothing. (e.g., Rainfall, Gentle Breeze)
- What mystical creature intrigues you? (e.g., Phoenix, Mermaid)
- What is a talent or skill you feel proud to possess? (e.g., Writing, Painting)
- What’s a scenic spot or landscape you find breathtaking? (e.g., River Seine, Grand Canyon)
- Name something you enjoy doing in your leisure time. (e.g., Reading a book, Meditating)
- What’s a word that captures your sense of bravery? (e.g., Courage, Determination)
- Which of your qualities do you value the most? (e.g., Creativity, Perseverance)
- What’s a significant aspiration you’re aiming for? (e.g., Publishing a novel, Starting a business)
Here is an Example
- Inspiration
- Santorini, Greece
- Sunset
- Griffin
- Storytelling
- Aegean Sea
- Drawing sketches
- Fortitude
- Resilience
- Opening an Art Gallery
Step 2: Replace Placeholders with Your Answers
Next, write out this statement and fill in the placeholders with your numbered answers:
In a moment of [ 1 ], I dreamt I was in [ 2 ] amidst a stunning [ 3 ], when a
[ 4 ] appeared. This creature, symbolizing my [ 5 ] ability, led me to a breathtaking view of the [ 6 ]. Engrossed in [ 7 ] while sitting a peaceful corner, a wave of [ 8 ] washed over me. My [ 9 ], in full bloom, began to etch a trail towards my grand ambition: [ 20 ].
Example:
In a moment of inspiration, I dreamt I was in Santorini, Greece amidst a stunning sunset, when a Griffin materialized. This fantastical creature, symbolizing my storytelling ability, guided me to a stunning panorama of the Aegean Sea. Engrossed in drawing sketches in a peaceful corner, a wave of fortitude washed over me. My resilience, in full bloom, began to etch a trail towards my grand ambition: the opening of an art gallery.
Step 3: Expand on What You’re Written
Finish the short story — max 250 words.
In a moment of inspiration, I dreamt I was in Santorini, Greece amidst a stunning sunset, when a Griffin materialized. This fantastical creature, symbolizing my storytelling ability, guided me to a stunning panorama of the Aegean Sea. Engrossed in drawing sketches in a peaceful corner, a wave of fortitude washed over me. My resilience, in full bloom, began to etch a trail towards my grand ambition: the opening of an art gallery.
I watched the Griffin soar over the Aegean, its wings reflecting the sunset’s glow. This sight pulled me towards my sketchbook, where I tried to capture the scene. My strokes were bold and free, echoing the Griffin’s flight, fueling my inner fortitude.
As I sketched, an image formed, not on paper, but in my mind. An art gallery filled with my creations, a testament to my resilience. This vision brought clarity and purpose to my journey.
Awakening from the dream, I was invigorated. The dream, the Griffin, the sketching, all were guiding lights, pointing me towards my aspiration. With a newfound resolve, I set forth on my journey towards my own art gallery.
Step 4: Repeat the Exercise When You’re in a Different Mood
Here’s what I completed the following day, and after a 30 minute meditation:
- What’s an emotion you’ve recently experienced? burnout
- Name a city or place you’ve always wanted to visit. Tuscany, Italy
- Describe a weather phenomenon you find soothing. Caribbean rainfall
- What mystical creature intrigues you? Lochness Monster
- What is a talent or skill you feel proud to possess? problem solving
- What’s a scenic spot or landscape you find breathtaking? The Grand River
- Name something you enjoy doing in your leisure time. meditating
- What’s a word that captures your sense of bravery? Determination
- Which of your qualities do you value the most? Perseverance
- What’s a significant aspiration you’re aiming for? becoming a digital nomad
Here is my completed writing prompt:
In a moment of burnout, I dreamt I was in Tuscany, Italy amidst a stunning Caribbean rainfall, when a Lochness Monster appeared. This creature, symbolizing my problem solving ability, led me to a breathtaking view of the The Grand River. Engrossed in meditating while sitting a peaceful corner, a wave of determination washed over me. My perseverance, in full bloom, began to etch a trail towards my grand ambition: becoming a digital nomad.
and here’s how I completed the story
The Lochness Monster arose from the river, mighty and mysterious, mirroring my capacity to solve problems. Its massive presence under the rain felt like a symbol of my determination, rising against all odds.
As I went back to meditating, before closing my eyes, the serene backdrop of Tuscany, during a Caribbean rainfall, and the Lochness Monster’s appearance swirled together, spurring a sense of resolution within me.
Upon waking, the essence of the dream lingered. The Italian countryside, the mysterious Lochness Monster, the calming meditation, all seemed to consolidate my resolve. It was as if my dream was not merely a figment of my imagination, but a beacon guiding me towards my ambitions. With renewed determination and an invincible spirit of perseverance, I began my journey towards becoming a digital nomad.
Observation:
Where this exercise shines is doing it when you’re in a different mood. The first example, I had been writing all day and was living inside a Thesauras for hours. The 2nd example, I did after a 30 minute meditation.
It made me giggle because answers 2, 3 & 4 are in different geographic areas. But who’s to say that’s not the case in a parallel universe. Well that’s the reason and I’m sticking with it.
The majority of writing I’ve done has all been related to customer website copy, email campaigns and technical instructional writing.
I’m exploring more creative writing, not for work, but for personal pleasure. A way to push my ADHD brain in little bits every day.
The exercise isn’t about creating the most elegant or perfect piece of writing. It’s about taking whatever prompt you have and finishing it.
Being ok with it sounding funky and totally illogical. Have fun with it.
It’s as simple as that.
Your Turn
Takes about 15 minutes, and give this a try. Pop your story in the comments below.
Until next time, stay inspired.
Gisèle
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