Advice Column

Writergrrls' Advice Column Debut

One of our upcoming and ongoing features in the Opinion section is the Advice Column. When you get involved in writing, whether it's for personal or professional reasons, you may have a lot of questions. We'd like to provide an open environment where you are welcome to ask questions on a myriad of topics under the writing umbrella. For example, you can get the inside scoop on MFA programs, expert advice on the how and why of tech writing, or suggestions for unraveling out a kink that's come up in the workplace. In some instances, the response will be written by one of the Opinion section's group editors. In other instances, depending on the topic of the question, we'll have a guest writer help you out. So, everyone, ask your writing questions of any sort and send them to: wg_opinion@yahoo.com

I'll be fielding most of these questions, so I should introduce myself. I grew up in southern Louisiana, lived in Utah for five years, and moved to Washington in early 2000. Although I don't find as much inherent quirkiness here as I've experienced in Utah and Louisiana, I feel like this is such a solid and excellent place and I plan to be in the Seattle area for quite some time. I have a wonderful husband and an adorable rabbit. Officially and professionally, I'm a Software Test Engineer, but I find writing to be a wonderful activity and I've tried to involve myself in this as often as possible, on and off the job. I'm a recent victim of the technology industry slow-down, so I've been able to practice my writing more since my lay-off in mid-May. I've also recently returned to school and I'm loving this new opportunity.

One of the themes we Writergrrls have been focusing on lately is creativity. So, to start off, this month, in lieu of answering your questions (since we haven't received them yet), I'll give you five tips to try to increase your creativity and refresh your mind. I've found these ideas helpful in increasing my own creativity.

For many writers, especially those who already do this, keeping a journal is integral (to the writing process). For more back-up information on why this is a great idea, try reading Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way—a book which gives you a 12-week program to increase your creativity, where journaling is essential.

Schedule in a specific physical activity break, such as a hike or a bike ride. Pick something that gets you moving around, preferably outside in nature. During this break, try to stay in the moment and focus on the experience.

Try something different. Sometimes, it helps to give yourself the opportunity to have a new experience. This can be as simple as trying a new dish at the food court in the mall or finding a radio station you've never listened to before.

Spend time around people who are dynamic and creative. The company we keep can have a huge effect on our mental state and how we see the world around us. They are also good examples—often inspirational and stimulating.

Play games like chess, checkers, Scrabble, or Boggle. These games require a certain amount of strategy and make you think differently, since you have to react to your opponent's moves. This is great for the creative process. Word games and visual puzzles are also helpful.

Some of this information was inspired by the following Web sites, so be sure to check them out!

Rachel Strawn, a native of Louisiana, is currently a full-time student in web applications and software development. Recently, she's worked as a Software Tester and lives just north of Seattle.