Everyone has stories to tell.  Our narratives about our life help us to know who we are.  Stories can even help us overcome trauma.

If you are just starting out, Julia Cameron’s wonderful book, ‘The Artist’s Way’ is a good place to begin.  She recommends writing ‘morning pages’ every day.  The morning pages help us develop the regular rhythm and habit of writing.   Also, at some point, our inner critic gets bored and wanders off — and now the words can flow.

Why not experiment with a few minutes of quiet meditation before you pick up your pen?  This will allow the mind to become more present — to notice what is happening, within you, and around you.

If a story rises up to the surface, it will be the story that only you can tell.  It may take only a day or two to write.  Now that you have a first draft, you can invite your editor (that inner critic) back into the room.  It may take weeks or months to refine, until every word is fresh and true, and this is part of your craft.