Each week, at least five writing prompts will be posted. Please allow ten minutes for each prompt unless otherwise instructed..   Stay within that time frame for the purpose of the exercise.  Of course, no one will be able to write a fully developed story in that time.  The point is to tap into a flow of creativity and write about a topic that is presented.  Some topics will appear to be very easy for you to write about, others will be challenging.  I recommend that if the topic is too easy, write in a genre that is difficult or change perspective for the story.  This will stretch you so that you are constantly improving.  Also, resist the temptation to edit or judge what you are writing because it will slow you down.  Just let the story happen.

After you have completed the exercise, decide if you want to keep it as written or spend a little time editing.  You may even want to read it to other writers and get their reaction.  Next, if what you have written inspires you, develop the story.  If this is as far as you want to go with it, then put it aside or include it in material for your portfolio and move on.

Congratulations, you are writing new stories. 

Reward Yourself

Each month after following this process, give yourself a small reward.  Personally, I like to create a list of potential rewards.  Examples include:  A gift card for a coffee shop, a gift card for the movies, a new embossed journal, a trip to a local hotel for breakfast, an overnight stay at a lodge, a bookmaking machine, etc.  You get the idea.  Customize the rewards for what you enjoy.  Start small and work your way up to larger rewards as you earn them.