Have you ever read a story so immersive that you forgot where you were? Or have you wished to write such a story yourself?
Maybe you’ve dreamed of writing something that sparks emotions in readers but aren’t sure where to start. Well, here’s a secret: Great writing doesn’t just come from talent – it happens when you learn to think like a writer.
Whether you want to write a short story, a novel, or even a blog post, learning the art of storytelling can improve your work and make your words come alive.
So, how do you train your brain to think like a writer?
Observe the World Around You
A writer’s mind is constantly collecting details. The details are in the little everyday moments, in the quiet existence of nature, and in how the world just keeps on living.
Pay attention to how people converse with each other, the way emotions show on their faces, and even the tiny quirks in how someone walks. These everyday moments become the foundation of a compelling story.
So, the next time you’re in a café or a park, try to eavesdrop (discreetly, of course!) and imagine backstories for the people around you.
Why is that person tapping their fingers anxiously?
What’s the story behind that old man sitting alone with a newspaper?
Who is that woman on a phone call talking to?
This simple exercise can strengthen your ability to create believable characters for your stories.
Be Curious
Ask, “What if?”
Good stories often start with this single, simple question.
What if your favorite character lived in today’s world?
What if a small decision changed the entire course of history?
What if you woke up in a completely unfamiliar place with no memory at all?
By constantly asking what if, you open the door to new ideas and unique perspectives that make your writing more dynamic. This approach also helps you come up with scenarios that can make for an interesting story.
Find Your Unique Voice
Every writer has a distinct way of telling their stories. Some are poetic and lyrical, while others are sharp and witty. They all have their own ways of writing that make them who they are.
Your voice, in the same way, is what makes your writing yours. So, take all the time you need to discover that voice. Experiment with different styles and tones.
Write a scene you have in your mind. Now, rewrite it with a serious or dramatic tone. Try doing it again with a humorous or sarcastic tone. And do it again in a poetic, dream-like style.
When you keep doing this, you will eventually figure out which style feels the most natural to you and which tone feels the most to youmost you. Then, you can develop a voice that stands out.
Start a Daily Writing Habit
Writers don’t always wait for inspiration. They train their brains to start creating on demand.
A simple way to learn to do this is by setting a daily writing habit. You don’t have to write an entire novel. Even ten minutes of your day spent on free writing, journaling, and storytelling exercises can help a lot in building your skills.
If you have a hard time with discipline or consistency, consider working with a creative writing coach who can help you set goals, provide feedback, and keep you accountable.
A coach can also guide you through challenges and help you refine your writing. This way, your storytelling skills will grow stronger over time.
Read Like a Writer
To think like a writer, you have to read like one, too.
Reading isn’t just limited to entertainment – it can be a tool for training the writer in you.
When you read, pay attention to how the author describes their characters, crafts the dialogues, describes the setting, and builds tension.
Grab your favorite book and read a passage from any of the pages. Or take your favorite paragraph and analyze why it works. Why do you like it?
Now, try rewriting the paragraph in your own words. Don’t worry; you’re not plagiarizing anything – it’s just practice.
After you write it, see how your writing style differs from the author’s. Is it not engaging enough? Not descriptive enough? Look for storytelling techniques that can make your writing stand out, too.
You will start absorbing techniques that improve your own work by studying the masters.
Get Comfortable with Imperfection
Perfectionism is the enemy of creativity.
The first draft of anything you write will not be perfect. And that’s okay! Writers often have to revise multiple times before their story truly shines.
Instead of striving for perfection and chasing something that doesn’t exist, focus on getting your ideas on paper first. Your first attempt cannot realistically be perfect or even good.
The real magic happens when you start editing. You’ll find flaws, typos, and even grammar mistakes to fix. Every writer does. And that final draft might still not look perfect, but it will be good enough.
Keep reminding yourself that perfection doesn’t exist.
Step Outside Your Comfort Zone
If you only write one type of story, it’s time to try something new. Experiment with different genres, perspectives, and themes.
For example, if you always write in the first person, try the third person. If you love fiction, try writing some poetry or a memoir. If you only focus on realism, play around with fantasy this time.
Pushing your boundaries keeps your writing fresh and exciting.
Seek Feedback and Keep Learning
Writing is an art that keeps evolving.
Share your work with people you trust, writing experts, writing communities, or a coach to get constructive feedback. This will help you refine your style, strengthen your storytelling, and get personalized guidance that accelerates your growth.
Remember: Even the best authors have mentors, editors, and writing communities to help them improve.
Turn Everyday Life into a Story
Your daily experiences can be powerful material for storytelling.
That awkward conversation you had at the grocery store yesterday. That sudden downpour while you were waiting for the bus. That leaf that fell on your shoulder on a windy day.
These moments contain emotions and settings that can make your stories feel real. If you start seeing the world through a writer’s lens, you’ll never run out of inspiration.
So, grab that pen (or open your laptop) and start writing. Your next great story is waiting.