3 Reasons to Use an Authority List
I don't believe in writer's block. When most people talk about block, they're really talking about DOUBT.
I'm just Josh. What does an average guy like me have to say?
When I start thinking that way, I make an authority list. All of us have life experiences that could teach others valuable skills or insights.
The great thing about a list is that it triggers your memory network. Each idea you add to the list unlocks others. And when a story-worthy idea breaks through, you'll have readymade scenes from your memory -- places, times, little movie reels playing in your head.
But all of this starts with owning your authority.
You have a story to tell. You have a life's witness that no one else does. Believe that. Turn your authority into a list. That list will soon be teeming with scenes.
There is no such thing as block when you've conquered the doubt.
1. Everyone is an Authority on Something.
What are you an authority on? What life experience do you have that others might not?
Focus on that to break writer’s block.
2. Lists Unlock Ideas.
Memory is a network of interlocking experiences. Trigger one memory, and it will awaken others.
The story-worthy idea might be the last one in your list. But you might never have unlocked it if you hadn’t flipped every other trigger first.
3. Lists Lead to Scenes.
I’m an authority on wildland firefighting. But that job requires a hundred different tasks.
Initial attack
Back burns
Mop-up
Nested within each of those tasks are scenes, moments in time, little videos playing in my memory.
Looking for an editor, thought partner, or coach?
