The advice to writers is to place butt in chair and write. But sometimes it’s a good idea to step away from the computer (or in my case the ballpoint and paper) and get out of the house.
Since I have no fenced yard I make several “”business trips” each day with my dog. I’ve experienced many a story solution or revelation during these outings. Sometimes I’m purposely mulling over a story problem as we set out on our walk. Other times the mental lightning bolt strikes and I come up with revisions for the morning’s or previous day’s scribbles. Fresh air is good for the brain as well as the body. Even sloppy wet days (when properly suited up in rain gear) offer the opportunity for new insights when strolling with your canine BFF.
I also own a horse that I ride 3-4 days a week. Collecting him from pasture and grooming before and after the ride is similar to walking the dog. The mind can wander while conducting routine tasks. I may develop a bit of dialogue while brushing my horse and transferring hair from him to me. Or a descriptive phrase will pop into my head while removing shavings from his tail. But once in the saddle the focus is on riding. And that’s when the story ideas can percolate subconsciously. Fresh air, exercise, and story development. What’s not to like?
Don’t chain yourself to your writing implement, no matter how mobile. Walk away from your laptop, put your iPhone in your pocket, set aside pen and paper. Go do something and free your mind to figure things out on its own.
Mary S. Potter 