When I write, I try to view the scene in my head as if it’s a movie. My first drafts tend to be spare, almost like scripts. Not in terms of format, but if there are scenes with multiple characters in them I focus on dialogue and blocking, or how the characters move around the space/stage.
character development
A to Z Challenge: L is for Limiting Beliefs
Limiting Beliefs are something I’ve discussed a lot, but not usually in connection with writing. So I’ll address the topic generally, and you can apply to your life and your characters as you see fit.
An underlying limiting belief is a core belief that exists within your operating system. Your operating system consists of your beliefs, thoughts, memories, triggers, go-to reactions, and more. Underlying limiting beliefs affect your perspective (how you view the world), your beliefs (about yourself and others), and your behavior (how you react and interact). Underlying limiting beliefs usually pop up in early childhood, at a moment when you felt separated from love (for whatever reason) and made up a story about how this separation meant something about you. The belief seeps into your foundation and becomes the basis for how you operate.
Some common limiting beliefs are:
- I’m not good enough.
- I’m unworthy.
- I’m unloveable.
- I’m a failure.