When Ideas Won’t Come

In writing, like in cooking, continually coming up with the initial idea is often the hardest part of the job. But unlike in cooking, there really aren’t leftovers in writing.

So what to do when the ideas have flat-lined?
First comes mind-drifting. Sprawled on the floor upon my stomach, I let my mind flit from thought to thought without constraint. Often an idea is waiting below the surface and simply needs the freedom to rise to the top.

Then I wander. Don’t ask me why, but sometimes the act of aimlessly pacing the house allows an idea to congeal.

Still blank? Pestering usually results. I will track down one of my parents or give someone a call, bemoaning the fact I can’t think. The following chat, brainstorm, or even a tease thrown out in fun will spark just what I need.

Of course, when very desperate, I write about the only thing I can think about: how I don’t know what to write about.