I am still unpublished right now, and that’s absolutely fine. I’m enjoying the writing process and polishing my work. Nothing is in a state to be published except for maybe a couple of shorter pieces. But while I have the summer off, I’m going to focus on the novels. And that means brainstorming. Lots and lots of brainstorming.
I love brainstorming. I love seeing the ideas come together to create a story. I also love pre-revision brainstorming to improve said story. Brainstorming alone is fine, but brainstorming with others can be massively helpful as well as encouraging to have someone like your thoughts. Also, you never know what other ideas it prompts.
It feels like therapy for your WIP. You express what’s causing problems for you and talk it out together. Or having someone listen while you sound out your thoughts is just as therapeutic for your work. I have a few people I love to brainstorm with. Not only are they great for bouncing ideas off, but they’re really nice people, too.
Even before the various international lockdowns, countless writers have been turning to online communities to discuss their work. It’s easier and more convenient for busy people, especially those of us who are aspiring writers and still need our day jobs. The writing website I’m on is great with helpful forums. I’m open to all and any discussions on writing in general, but when it comes to brainstorming my own work, I find the forums a little unsuitable for my particular style.
I created a Discord group a few weeks ago. I’m not sure what my original intention was for it, but I soon turned it into a writing group. Since then, I’ve had a few great conversations with a fellow writer on there. And now it’s time to invite more people.
My idea is simple. To bring a group of fantasy/sci-fi fiction writers together in a place where we can discuss various ideas and approaches to our writing.
Feel free to ask about my Writing Ranting With Others discord group. You can download discord for free here and find me as SilverLinings#0367.
The more the merrier.
Love Fantasy Novels 
I’m a pantser, so I never cared much for brainstorming, but after writing myself into a corner many times, I’ve since taken up outlining, and making all the connections work before I even start writing is pretty satisfying, like solving a puzzle. Thanks for sharing, Em!
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