When You Hear the Call

Today, I am beginning a new series of posts about the creative writing process. I am a strong believer that what makes us human is our creativity—even more than our ability to talk or think. When we create images, stories, or poetry, we connect with a special part of our brains that I like to call Spirituality.

Have you ever heard a voice deep in your mind telling you a story? Sometimes it’s a narrative of your daily routine, a memory you’re revisiting, or a story about someone you don’t even know. These internal dialogues can go on for days. And then, as if someone hit a switch, the voice goes away.

Always Carry a Small Notebook

I often tell myself, “I’ll remember what the voice told me.” Unfortunately, I usually forget every word, every metaphor, every detail. That’s why I always carry a small notebook, or I use the notes app on my cellphone.

For example, I started working on a novel last year. I created a roadmap for the story and developed all the characters and settings. Then, I put it aside to focus on my trilogy, The Adventures of Patti and Barci. That doesn’t mean I forgot about my novel! This week, I was reading an article that mentioned “ashes.” Without even thinking about my book, a voice in my mind said: “She came back from the ashes.” I jotted it down on a sticky note immediately, and the whole scene developed in my brain as if I were standing in front of a movie screen. I’ve since pasted that scene onto the story board I created for the novel.

Finding the Time

In our busy lives, finding the time to write isn’t always easy. Honestly, many talented people are simply exhausted by the time they get a chance to sit down and create. I’m writing this post to help other writers stay encouraged. To start, you need to answer these three questions for yourself:

1. Why do you want to write a book?
2. Who are you writing this book for?
3. What inspired you to write it?

There are no wrong answers here. Grab the ugliest notebook you have and write these questions on the first page and the last page. Give yourself an honest answer on the first page and staple it to the cover. When you finally reach the end of your story, answer them again on the last page and compare. This is a great exercise to see how much you’ve changed through the process of writing.

When Do I Write?

Begin by creating a space for yourself: a little table next to your bed, a spare room, or even a specific corner in a coffee shop. Make that your sacred space—a place where nothing happens but writing.

Next, block out time in your calendar and give it the priority of a doctor’s appointment. This is an important date with your highest self! Finally, educate those around you that your writing time and space are untouchable and non-negotiable.

Remember: any amount of time you can give is valuable. Honor your ten minutes or your one hour, whether it’s every day or once a week.

Tips for the Busy “Mom”

1. Meal Prep: Cook several meals in advance.
2. Get Help: Invest in a cleaning robot if it’s within your budget.
3. Set Boundaries: Educate your family on the importance of your solo time.
4. Prioritize: Don’t over-commit yourself.

I have to remind myself of these four tips constantly! I am a very busy dog mom who loves helping others and spending time with friends. Sometimes deadlines pile up, and I find myself stressed and barely sleeping for a week just to finish on time. Balance is key.

What if Inspiration Doesn’t Come?

The creative muscle needs training. If you’re stuck, just write an idea, a sentence, or a memory. Write about what you want to write about.

In the beginning, things will be messy. My advice is to write without reviewing anything for a full week. Then, take a day to read what you’ve produced. This exercise helps you build detachment from your words and helps you develop a “critic’s eye.” Feel free to keep the best lines and discard or rewrite the rest.

Always remember: It is not about the words; it’s about the story.

Au Revoir

If you want to hear more about this process, let me know in the comments! You can also email me at author@anechypadron.com or find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Substack.

Speaking of habits: this is post number twenty-two! I have been writing every Thursday for twenty-two weeks now. They say it takes 21 days to create a habit and 90 days to make it a lifestyle.

Stay with me on this writing journey. Let’s go as far as the infinite with our creativity. This is your call!

Anechy Padron

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