Individuality - The particular character, collection of qualities and traits that distinguishes one person or thing from others; sole and personal nature.
Individuality is formed by what you're born with, situations and people in your environment, and then ultimately, by the choices you make for your life. We were meant to be different from the moment our bald (or in my case, curly topped) heads emerged into the world. If you're a parent you've witnessed how different your children are. Even twins possess distinct personalities. How do you contrast from your siblings? My brother and I are complete opposites.
The writer's individuality is at the heart and soul of each masterpiece. If you read 12 authors in the same genre, each selection would feel different because of the creator's distinctive style. Do you find that your characters possess little bits of you in them? The appearances, idiosyncrasies, the situations they inevitably land in, and how they resolve these dilemmas all reflect the writer's unique flair.
Explore your past experiences, challenges, mistakes, and triumphs when brainstorming your next project. Each one of us has a different road map to work from. What original twist can you develop a plot around? Have you met any colorful people in your life that could play a role in your next saga? Observe those who cross your path from now on, and take notes. I tell people (half jokingly) watch out, you might end up starring in my next book!
What is the signature approach that makes your favorite authors stand out? It may be a particular ongoing theme, such as the futuristic time frame in J.D Robb's 'In Death' series. James Patterson's chapters often consist of only two to four pages, which, gives you the illusion you are moving through his books faster. Sue Grafton is working on an A - Z collection of suspense stories where each title coincides with a letter in the alphabet.
Janet Evanovich specializes in humor with her female bounty hunter stories, featuring Stephanie Plum.Hearing interviews, I discovered she is from the area where those dramas take place and, you can hear tonal similarities between her and the vibrant characters she creates. I've met Nora Roberts and recognize her personality and temperament permeating through Eve Dallas in the J.D. Robb books. And, she always portrays strong female heroines.
Feel fortunate because every obstacle you encounter is source material for a novel, short story, article, blog post, or ebook. View all of life's ups and downs through your customized eyeballs and mind filters, then translate the words into inspiring, funny, educational, or just plain entertaining material for your fans!
No two snowflakes, fingerprints, or writers are identical. Focus on individuality rather than competition and comparison. This will produce new and exciting ways to express who you are!
How do you express your individuality?
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