Write a blog entry imagining that you are either a boy who has just broken up with his girlfriend or that you are a girl who has just broken up with her boyfriend.  Maybe try both.  How different are the entries?  Can you hear the voices of your characters as you get under their skin and make them vivid and real?

Trying to get into the head of your character will help you as you work on stories of your own.  Characters that ring true are essential for good writing and the best way to get good at writing characters is to practice.

If you’re lying there in the dark – like I am now – get your computer out and start writing.  Some of the best ideas come late at night, when you’re halfway between awake and sleeping…

Apparently, teenagers today (who live in Canada) have an excellent chance of living until they’re 100 years old.  I want you to image you’re 100 today.  It’s your birthday and you’re writing a diary entry for the day.  Think about what the world is like around you.  Think about the memories you have from your life.  Think about the regrets you have.

100 years.  What a life you’ve lived…