Self-Exploration for Writers: Inspiration and Dreams
By Norma J Hill (aka Pen And Paper Mama) ©2020

Welcome to a self-exploration series of exercises for writers: useful whether you are just thinking about writing, are a beginning writer, or are already an experienced writer. Explore what, for you personally, defines a writer, what kind of writer you are, what your writing goals are—and in the process, you will discover yourself as a writer. At the end of each post in the series, there is a link to a downloadable and printable PDF copy on which you can write your responses. Put them in a binder or duotang-type folder. Then, periodically along your writing journey, return to your answers, read what you noted previously, and add new thoughts and experiences. Through this self-exploration process, you’ll end up with a wonderful personal record of your writer’s journey.

1. Muses and Mentors
2. Reading that Inspires Me
3. Listening and Viewing
4. My Life Experiences Related to Writing
5. Inspiration and Dreams
6. Writing Formats and Focuses
7. My Writing Skills
8. My Readers/Audience
9. Preparing to Write

5. Inspiration and Dreams

Ask yourself:

What stimulates me to write?

What are my writing dreams (be specific)?

What frightens or overwhelms me about writing? How can I confront those fears?

What does “success” as a writer mean for me, personally?

What are my writing goals and aspirations?

Putting your exploration into practice:

Make a poster of your writing dreams and stick it on the wall above your desk.

PDF LINK for this “Inspiration and Dreams” exercise: Download, print, fill in your responses, and place them in your own “Self-Exploration for Writers” binder.