Biscuits & Buddies

via GIPHY

Writing can be a lonely process, tapping away at a typewriter, sticking post-its on a board, having imaginary conversations with imaginary characters . . .

It's why I love the opportunity to attend workshops and author events. 
This weekend, I attended an inspiring workshop led by Douglas Skelton and Theresa Talbot. 

Sometimes workshops just 'click'. It was a  great mix of topics from writing a synopsis to creating dialogue. Everyone contributed to making it a worthwhile day. 
There was lots of good advice but I'll share two snippets here:

• someone else can help write your synopsis - especially helpful if you're getting bogged down in detail
• treat writing like an assignment - as a journalist and editor, I couldn't afford the luxury of writer's block.Writing fiction needs a similarly focused approach​

The day also brought some revelations about my central character. Although she had been pushing and shaping the plot, I had some niggling doubts about her 'why'. The workshop helped me to identify her core motivation and values, and suddenly everything slid into place. I couldn't wait to get home and start writing - and that's surely the sign of a successful day.
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