Observation: The First Step

When we think of scripting or writing a book, we often wonder what to write and how to write. Many of us tend to miss out on that crucial first step that can guide us towards effortless writing.

Observation.

Let's backtrack a little bit to understand this.

Many first time authors come to me with either of the two challenges:

I am not sure what to write.

I am not sure how to write it.

While the first statement throws up the challenge of content, the other one throws up the challenge of context.

When we observe the world around us, we find both.

The RAS

Many of us do not know this, but there resides in our brain a collection of nerves known as the RAS or the Reticular Activating System. This is essentially like the search engine of the brain and does the amazing job of taking our thoughts, questions and musings to pass them on to the unconscious or the subconscious mind. Then, a crucial system of searching for opportunities to experience that thought as reality is thrown into action.

When we carry out intentional observation based on the story we want to write or rewrite, we end up feeding search terms to the RAS that will eventually reach the unconscious mind and become a part of what we see around us. And the more we see, the more evidence we gather - and the more authentic, structured and relatable our story will be.

Example

If we are writing a story of a fruit seller, we will suddenly start seeing fruit sellers in every street, on every corner. If we are thinking of buying a certain model of a car, suddenly we will notice the same model everywhere.

So, if you want to write, just intentionally look for things that can feed your imagination and you will stumble upon the building blocks of your story - and many creative, inspiring ways to write about it.

The same goes for your journey in life.

Scripting is a powerful exercise that can change your life and bring your desires to reality. It can also help you find the right words to tell the story of your journey and put across a purposeful message to help others and to make others aware as well. Being an author is all about recognizing that message and presenting it in a way that hits all the right notes for your readers. And observation is the very first step in doing that.

Ask me for prompts to get you to start observing!