Friday Fives- The Five Ways I Find Inspiration

Song of the Day: Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Ella Fitzgerald
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-7VprPX8kg

   Hello all! I know, it’s been a while. As I tweeted last night, “October is kicking my a**!” It’s been a rough start to the month and I’ve been insanely busy. I’m thinking it may be one of those things again where I have too much on my plate. I’m hoping to take the weekend to “organize my life.” My parents will be out of town, which means I won’t be leaving town and I’ll be at my own apartment. I’m looking forward to some quiet time so that I can get a couple things done. I’m usually much more productive by myself. What are your plans this weekend?

It’s time for Friday Fives! The blog Paper Hangover asks:

What are Five ways you find writing inspiration? 

1. Reading

Often, I’m inspired by reading a book. For me, an idea can spark from a single word in the dialogue or a phrase the character might use.

2. Television

Like reading, I get a lot of ideas and inspiration from TV. Seriously. A scene will trigger something in my head and then I’ll usually make a note of it and come back to it later.

3. Music

Same concept as #1 and #2. Song are like short versions of a stories and they can make us feel emotions. It’s no surprise that we can be inspired to write simply by listening to music. And most of my editing time is spent with my iTunes running on shuffle in the background.

4. Other Writers

Other writers, whether they are famous or not, inspire me. When I hear about writers going through the same things as me (writer’s block, editing, re-writes, trouble with scenes) I’m always inspired to keep going because they keep going. When I hear about writers getting agents or getting book deals, I’m inspired. I keep going. I keep thinking that one day that will be me.

5. Life

Life inspires me. I’m truly thankful for being alive in this “advanced age.” We have so much technology and information at our fingertips. Living life and all the ups and downs inspires me everyday.

   The picture I used above also inspires me! I found it after I finished this blog post. Obviously, I need to stop complaining about having too much on my plate, and just eat what’s there already! What inspires you to write? Have a great weekend everyone!