Coffee, Mountains, & Wine

  • Unlocking Your Writing Potential: Tips and Tools for Aspiring Writers

    Writing lets us communicate with one another. It allows expression for whatever purpose we choose, but it’s a common problem to hear when someone says “they are stuck” in a particular spot of their writing. It’s especially evident with the “writers block” term and is a genuine stage in the writing process. However, I believe there’s all sorts of ways to unlock new ideas and avenues of conveying a message. Here are some helpful tools that could help spark new ways of thinking:

    Set a consistent schedule

    A lack of basic planning typically results in feelings of anxiety and not feeling in control of ones own environment, causing harmful effects to the writing process. Consistency is essential to opening a reliable window towards fresh ideas and each schedule must meet the needs of the individual.

    Some people like to workout before they write while some do it as they roll out of bed. There’s even some who prefer to write in the late hours of the night when everyone is asleep. Each have their own perks, but it’s ultimately up to you on how you want to plan and go about your schedule.

    I personally recommend that you try writing in all different times of the day or at least when you can, then slowly narrow your timeframe once you’ve grown a preference for when you think you write most. This can take time but is typically better for the long run.

    Find external sources

    We can only create so much on our own. We need books, music, movies, life events, and anything from the external world which helps with the creation of new ideas. I often read a specific genre when I’m writing in that area or I listen to music when I try to get an uninterrupted flow of ink onto the page. Another exercise I enjoy doing is watching a movie or going for walk to experience the outside world and trying to see certain things I don’t normally pay attention to. In short, it’s much easier to write when you don’t always have to create something from thin air.

    Changing your writing style

    Experimenting with different writing styles allows you to think in new and exciting ways. Writing prompts are a great option to get your juices flowing whether you make them yourself or find them in a book(external source). Another great new tool that is taking the world by storm is Artificial Intelligence. While I don’t recommend using AI to write your entire book, I personally have found an abundance of ideas and exercises which you can teach the AI through writing workshops, feedback, and constructive criticism. This takes some practice with teaching yourself on how to teach AI and what to look for, but I strongly encourage it just so you have the experience. You can also try writing a black out poem. They can be very fun!

    Finding or building a community

    Finding people who you can share and collaborate with is a great factor not only to life, but to your creative journey as well. I personally have difficulty with this one because I find it easy just to sit in my room and write, but it’s easier to bounce a ball with four different walls rather than none. Community is a gift and it allows you to connect, share ideas, and embrace feedback which can improve your writing. This includes workshops, courses, Facebook groups, and anything else which allows you to connect with people.

    Looking for community? Send me an email and I’ll happily share ideas, feedback and conversation.

    Setting goals and keeping a notebook nearby

    This seems like an easy one, but rarely do I see people with updated goals on where they want to be and how they are going to get there. Better yet, it doesn’t require weeks of brain power or a life coach to get you going. All it takes is some concentrated thought and you writing it down so it becomes a little more concrete. Thoughts are intangible and become forgotten in minutes, which is why it’s so dangerous to leave your goals only with your thoughts. But when you have a notebook where ever you are, you’re able to write anything that comes to mind in that very moment.

    Conclusion

    There are countless of ways to improve your writing potential and I think all it takes-deep down-is some alone time for you to think, observe, or listen to what you or the world has to say. It isn’t going to come right away, but there’s different tools and tips all around the world/internet, which furthers the possibility of you writing your next book!

    What were your takeaways from reading this? Do you have any tips or exercises that you do to unlock your brain from writers block?

  • Music track: Let it Cook

    There’s moments in life where you must simply do whatever is calling you. Write that book. Start that business. Paint that painting. You’re capable of all this. You only need to act. Let it cook.

    By C.R. Angel

  • New Track: “Humping Art” by C.R. Angel

    Listen to his brand new release of “Humping Art.”

    Available on YouTube.

  • Why do you look back?

    It’s a natural state for human beings to look back on their lives and see how much has changed, and I think it’s a healthy aspect of our condition on self-improvement.

    Looking back on life requires an evaluation of thought and memory. A retrieval of a scene from the catalog of our brain while trying to make sense of what already happened or how it affected us.

    However, it’s easy to get caught in the trap of constant retention, which can be seen when people refuse to let go of the past or try to cling onto whatever it was they had. It’s the “glory days” of people’s lives and appreciating it is one thing, but worshipping it is altogether different.

    To worship means that you’re giving it your all, which explains its sensitivity, especially when dealing with religion. Instead, we must learn to appreciate the past without feeling like we need it again. If we need the past, then we’re living in it. If we’re living in it, then we’re not living at all.

    Living is like looking back. It’s a gift. We must appreciate it for what it is because we’ll one day lose the privilege to do so. Don’t forget to live. Don’t forget to look back. Whether it’s years, months, or a singular day. Just don’t make it your home.

    “Day Back” by C.R. Angel

  • What else can a writer use in their free time?

    Writers, like many artists, are known to be crafty in areas that require a creative eye. The term “polymath” has been thrown around as early as the 17th century and is described as a talented individual in multiple areas. An example of such a character is Leonardo Da Vinci, an artist, inventor, and engineer. He brought fresh ideas to math, architecture, and science. His kind has become rare, however, there are remnants of people who choose to work in multiple subjects.

    If I were generous, I would consider myself a student on the road to becoming a polymath. Whether it be through writing, music, or entrepreneurship, I am hungry to be involved in multiple arenas of knowledge.

    I have taken a conscious step into the unknown like anyone else who aches for improvement. As a result, I’ve attempted the journey of making music in small doses throughout the week.

    Listen to “ALAS” by C.R. Angel.

  • 5 Ways to Stretch Your Word Count — A Writer’s Path

    It was a thrill reading this. It’s filled with constructive thoughts and examples to help increase your word count without being too much, which is a valuable skill in writing. Examples such as backstory, character development, and subplot.

    This time last year, I thought my newest New Adult speculative fiction work-in-progress about the collective subconscious and evil corporations was finished and ready for the world. Since then, I have gotten sidetracked by the release of my first novel entitled The Black Oracle and by the launching of my full-time writing career. During all this time, I […]

    5 Ways to Stretch Your Word Count — A Writer’s Path

  • Tomato Basil

    It’s easy to take for granted the memories of life that flash in front of our eyes. A chance to cook with family. To listen to music. Bring out a camera.

    That’s exactly what I did. I rushed to my room and reached down to the lowest shelf next to my desk. I grabbed a freshly mint camera. Only a few days old. I smiled and looked down to another camera which was collecting dust around itself. “Don’y worry,” I say. “You’re not done yet.” I turn away and head back downstairs where I see an empty pot that’s ready for it’s significant other.

    Water is in.

    Music is playing.

    A writer is at work.

    I find a source of inspiration and a mingle of imagination. A thought of worry and its insignificance compared to an undying ambition. It’s a juggle of arts that bring contentment and wonder.

    “Follow through in ambition with commission of a heart that grows a hunger.”

    In “Tomato Basil” by C.R. Angel.

    What is success to you? what will it take? How will you get there? This requires an introspective state that’s sure to bring some sort of emotion. However, it’s our obligation to keep going no matter the lack of confidence.

    The noodles have been drained at this point as they wait for me in the sink. There’s a low fire that’s underneath the pot which once held a salted water, but is now in charge of a savory tomato basil. Garlic bread has also been in the oven for some time and I feel an excitement. My work is almost done.

    I finish a touch onto this newly written piece. I close my book and walk towards a cabinet which holds a series of plates and bowls. A few have been set aside and I reach for my cold black camera. It’s pointed at me and I pinch off the lid to set my sights on a goofy-looking dog. I take my shot and look at the replay… I’m satisfied with the result. I pinch the cover over the lens and gently put it on the counter.

    I fill a bowl with pasta and a bread that burns in garlic. I look at the clock and there’s still time before my day rests. Today is good. I recently finished a book that’s brought an overall wealth and I’m thinking of reading it again. I smile once more and hum a little beat to myself.

    “Tomato Basil” by C.R. Angel.

  • Writing Tips From An Editor #7 — Emma’s Writing Things

    I enjoyed this helpful read on filler words by Emma’s Writing Things. It’s made me look at how I write and I appreciate the use of examples as well as humor.

    “That” “That” is a word that you often don’t need. “That” is a word you often don’t need. Do you see what I did there? This week I want to talk to you about filler words. I couldn’t even guess how many “that’s” I’ve deleted this week while editing manuscripts, along with other filler words […]

    Writing Tips From An Editor #7 — Emma’s Writing Things

  • What happens when you mix music with poetry?

    What happens when you mix music and poetry? The two forms of art have a profound way of impacting a person’s soul, which allows them to feel an emotional connection. It’s a message that runs through both the listener and creator. Such an example is C.R. Angel and his latest track: Misch.

    The soothing and down-to-earth beat praises Tom Misch, who’s a producer, musician, and inspiration to the writer, C.R. Angel.

    Experience the two-minute project on YouTube, where he shares his goal of making a song with Tom Misch.

    Official video of “MISCH” by C.R. Angel.

  • Can you make money from blogging?

    How can you make money through your blog?— A helpful article that I enjoyed by Elena on ShortWisdom.Wordpress.com