Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Creativity Tips: Create Structure

Four very talented writers expect me to show up tonight with a polished version of the short story I started during our weekend at the Iowa Summer Writing Festival. And, I'm happy to say, I have the short story ready.

Why? Because I have the structure of the workshop. The deadline created by our monthly meeting. And a creative team that inspires me. Without that powerful combination, the story would still be moldering in my brain.

You've got a team -- you're part of our incredible CI team. But do you have structure? Deadlines? And could you use a team that can physically pat you on the back -- or smack you upside the head? Because a blog, no matter how wonderful, can only do so much.

It's in your hands. You can create the structure you need to create. Do it.

P.S. If you'd like to read the story, post a comment here or send me a note at jan@sokoloffharness.com and I'll send it your way.

5 comments:

Leslie said...

Of course I want to read the story! Please share...

Brenda said...

Please count me in to read the story-I can look forward to it.

b

Jan said...

I should also add that my creative team on this extended to my buddy Steve, who offered editorial direction that really made a difference.

And, I owe Katherine Anne Porter thanks for "The Jilting of Granny Weatherall." Always good to find other works that inspire you.

Eva said...

I want to read the story too!

Richard said...

I'd love to read it! But also... what do you look for in a "creative team"?