In a previous blog post, I wrote about how to begin a story by writing from personal experience. Another way to begin writing is by observing people. Here’s how you can use this technique.

Wherever you go and whatever you do, you are a writer. You can gather material from every aspect of your life. Every moment is an opportunity to fill your creative well.

I have been in trying circumstances and said to myself, “Maybe I can write about this later.” It consoles me when things are tough, and inspires me to try out new experiences.

So I suggest you eavesdrop on people sitting at the next table in a restaurant, or at a bus stop, or at work or school. Observe how your body reacts when you feel angry, sad, happy, and so on. Make note of sensory experiences (sight, sound, taste, touch, smell) so you can use them in your writing.

Write down your observations. Borrow shamelessly from life around you. Let life inspire your writing.

In a later post, I’ll explore how to write by asking “what-if” questions.