Exploration Sparks Ideas

Part 3 in the sources of inspiration series is here. This time, we’re talking about exploration. Exploration can have two different aspects: exploration of environment, and self-exploration. Today we’ll talk about exploration of environment, and next time I'll tackle self-exploration.

One way to generate inspiration or ideas is to change up your environment, do something out of the usual. Getting out of your comfort zone, your safe-space, can coax our brains out of day-to-day ruts and jolt us into a different headspace.

Whether urban exploration or venturing into nature, writers should visit new places. Urban exploration can lend inspiration to both setting and even characters. Finding a new haunt can link back to my first source of inspiration post. One can people-watch, listen and observe in this new setting, as well as explore the setting itself. How did you feel there? Was it dark, gloomy and slightly ominous? Was it bright, crowded and uplifting? Some combination of emotions, senses and décor?

Venturing into nature, similarly, can provide inspiration for setting. While you’re unlikely to be able to observe dialogue, gestures or body language, it can be just as beneficial to embrace the sounds of nature. As well as the added bonus of health benefits, taking a hike can clear the mind, and allow one to focus on the smaller things around them. Without the distraction of people and sounds of distraction, writers are free to focus on smaller things. Let your eyes catch on whatever they’re drawn to. Why were they drawn there? Does it say something about the setting, or you as the perspective person?

Wherever you end up, I urge all writers to step outside of their daily routine and break their minds out of their deep-rooted, well-worn paths. Let the world show you the way to your next story.