Tag: write about fears

That Was Embarrassing

On By Terry ConnellyIn prompt, Uncategorized, Writing promptLeave a comment

            Some people embarrass easily. When someone compliments them, their cheeks redden. If someone likes their outfit, they blush. If they bring a well-liked dish to a potluck, they lower their head when everyone offers praise.

            Your task is to write a story in which your protagonist finds himself in an incredibly embarrassing moment.

            Come up with a list of potential causes, then narrow it down to the one that you would find the most entertaining to write.

            Your story can be humorous, serious, threatening, even humiliating.

            Have fun with this one.

Comfort Zone

On By Terry ConnellyIn prompt, Uncategorized, Writing promptLeave a comment

The vast majority of the time we stay within our comfort zone. At our jobs, we feel comfortable when we understand our job duties. After work, we have safe places to go where we feel respected.

When we venture away from home on a vacation, many of us return again and again to the same place because we find comfort there. Sometimes opportunities arise to go somewhere new, and we might, at first, want to go, but as the departure time approaches, we get nervous.

Stepping outside our comfort zone can cause a great deal of anxiety. We check maps over and over, wanting to make sure that we know the way. If we venture overseas, we might choose trusted tour company so as to ensure a clean and safe place to spend the night.

Your task is to take a character outside of his comfort zone. Send him to places unknown, have him try out new restaurants, or visit countries he’s never seen. Along the way have him encounter strangers, deciding in each instance how he will react.

What impact does journeying have on your character’s personality? Does he feel emboldened? Frightened to the point of desiring only isolation? Proud or timid?

Write a scene that challenges your character to step outside of the norm.

Have fun with this one.

Phobia Time

On By Terry ConnellyIn prompt, Uncategorized, Writing promptLeave a comment

            You need to introduce some spice into your story. One way to do that is to let your protagonist’s phobias pop out unexpectedly.

            For example, he’s in the shower when a large, brown spider drops on his shoulder. If he’s okay with spiders, he might try to catch it so as to release it outside. However, if he’s terrified, he’ll jump as he brushes it away. He might scream, dance about the shower, even call for help if his partner isn’t afraid.

            What would make this even more interesting is if this display happened when during a gathering. Imagine what her colleagues would say when a normally calm woman bursts into hysterics when a tiny mouse scampers across the floor!

            Your task is to write a story in which your character has kept his phobia hidden from others. An occurrence happens in which his fears are revealed in such a way as to change perceptions of the character.

            Set the scene, populating it with business coworkers, old classmates or fishing friends. Let there be fun happening, or a solemn meeting, or a class reunion. Introduce the bee, spider, mouse or snake.

            Have fun with this one.