From Cheryl's Writing Crate
One of the reasons I enjoy being a writer so much is because I love to visualize (don't most writers?). No matter what I'm writing--a humorous family column, a chapter from my novel, even my grocery or to-do list--I usually have a pretty clear vision of what the outcome will be. Well, let me clarify that a bit--I don't always have the piece written exactly as I'd like while I'm working on it, but I have always had the ability to picture the completed article as something I will be pleased with during the process of writing.
For example, last week I was working on a column I write each month for a local magazine that deals with different boutiques and shops. After visiting this funky and very eclectic gift shop in town I couldn't wait to get started putting it all together on paper. I rushed home to my Writer's Crate only to be deterred by my 7 kids who actually wanted me to serve them dinner! Ah yes, my writing would have to wait until my family's needs were met.
Two days later, I finally sat down to work on my shopping column. Frustrated just a bit that I hadn't been able to write when the details of this magical little shop were fresh in my mind I closed my eyes and imagined myself back in the store gleaning all the delightful items that were displayed so artfully throughout the shop. I then envisioned myself capturing the essence of the store's personality from beginning to end on paper--with the final result being a completed article that I felt great about and that I hoped the store owner would enjoy. When I get myself into this zone, I can usually create a final piece that I'm happy with.
One tool I've had fun using to help keep my writer's momentum going strong is a vision board. If you're familiar at all with "The Law of Attraction" you may already know about vision boards.
In the most literal sense, a vision board is a collection of images and notes attached to a board and placed somewhere that you can see it every day. But truthfully, it's so much more! For me, it's an inspired daily reminder of my deepest desires and is a very powerful writing tool. When I look at the writer's vision board I created for myself it allows me to focus on my deepest writing desires--becoming a best-selling author, a syndicated columnist, author of a children's book and a regular contributor to a national woman's magazine to name a few items. This visual reminder gets my juices flowing when I need a push to keep on writing.
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Here's an example of a vision board that uses quotes for inspiration. |
If you'd like some more information on how to create a powerful vision board of your own, you can download a free e-book written by Christine Kane called The Complete Guide to Vision Boards. There are also many on-line articles available that can guide you as well.
Vision boards can be used for any area of your life that you'd like to focus on. I have two vision boards--one for family life and one for my writer's life. Do you use visual tools to help feed your muse?
