Writing your story

Igniting the writing process begins with daily meditation and mindfulness.  You can unlock your story through a practice of quiet contemplation. 

Writing is much more than plot, theme, and an outline you follow with excruciating precision.  Writing is about expression, the expression of your inner voice.  That is the work- developing your voice.  You learn to be free, vulnerable, and open to creating.  

We all have a story that we want to tell, that needs to be told.  Whether it is for our children, grandparents, friends, or a yet unknown audience, our voice needs to be heard.  The question then becomes:  how do we get our thoughts down on paper? 

Try this simple exercise before you meditate:

1. Think about who you are.  Ask yourself:  Who am I?  What is my role in life? 
2. Explore further than the expected/accepted roles of being a mother/father, spouse, worker, American, etc.  What gives me joy?  Sadness?  Fear?  Happiness?
3. Honor the thoughts that surface, rather than place judgement on them.

Sitting silently being mindful brings you into the present moment.  And in the present moment lies the truth about yourself. Readers love a story that is compelling, coming from truth and inner knowledge whether you are writing a novel, memoir, or non-fiction.  

Now go get started on that manuscript!