Writer-In-Progress

Today’s interview features freelance writer and creator of the “Stuck on Stupid” books, author T. Murray.

Thanks for joining us today, T. We love creative minds! Tell us about your daily writing process.

My daily writing process is really to write down any ideas or thoughts I have that I might want to include in a book, blog or other bit of writing I am working on. I have napkins, scraps of paper and post-its on which I have scribbled plot ideas or topics. I always come back to them at some point and have some collected in a binder. I like to write late at night. I’ve never been much of a morning person. I tend to get into a rhythm after the sun goes down and if I try to tackle my subject matter early in the day I run into writer’s block or get distracted. One of the best gifts I ever received is the book The Writer’s Block: 786 Ideas to Jump-Start Your Imagination. It is literally a “block” with activities and ideas that are meant to get the creative juices flowing. I keep it on my desk.

I’m notorious for having notebooks full of future ideas myself. How do you approach new projects/stories?

I approach new writing projects by putting together a quick outline of what I want the work to look like and how it should flow. This is particularly helpful with my book projects. I find this helpful whether I am writing fiction or non-fiction.

I generally have high energy for new projects. I struggle with trying to juggle too many writing projects at once and to balance I prioritize projects by deadlines and due dates.

Speaking of due dates, how about giving us a 3-sentence overview of your current WIP.

My current work in progress is the second book in the Stuck on Stupid Book Series. The first, Stuck on Stupid: A Guide for Today’s Single Woman Stuck in Yesterday’s Stupid Relationships, was released in 2006. I am now working on Stuck on Stupid: A Guide for Professional’s Stuck in a Job They Can’t Stand. This book will cover the ways that we sabotage our true career goals by sticking with a company or profession that cramps our creativity and hinders our happiness.

In the grand scheme of writing, what are your favorite and least favorite parts of your creativity/creative process?

My favorite part of the creative process is the energy that comes from it. When I am birthing a new idea for a print or online project it really is like bringing a new “life” into the world. I like the process of perfecting the piece and getting it to read just as I imagine it in my head.

My least favorite part of the creative process is taking the creation and editing it or completing revisions. It can be tedious and is the least creative part of the creative process, in my opinion.

Getting stuck is part of the game in writing. Tell us 2 surefire ways you spark your creativity when the muse isn’t cooperating.

Sometimes the best way to spark creativity is to take a trip. I think being in the same environment too long can stifle creativity. I believe that is why so many writers travel to the venues which appear in their work. I recommend taking a trip during the writing process. It is amazing what a slight change to your surroundings can do for your end product.

Fabulous. Thank you so much for spending time with us discussing your creativity. Where can we pick up your books and find out more about your services?

You can find my book at http://www.StuckonStupidBooks.com. I am self published and currently working with an agent in New York City. I also write quirky event recommendations for http://www.Go2.com Atlanta and blogs for http://www.FlaglerHill.com. I take on freelance writing projects through my company http://www.PersonalityonaPage.com.

What last bit of advice would you like to share about the creative process?

The creative process is just that: a process. There are going to be points in the creative process where patience is key. When you feel you’ve hit a writing roadblock don’t let frustration get the best of you. Make sure you have exercises and activities that get you brain buzzing with ideas. You may just need to take a break and come back to your project. Also remember to think outside of the box. New ideas are the result of creativity. Take your writing to a new level and don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo.

Thanks, T. Best of luck with your series and your ongoing projects!

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Bio:
T. Murray is the creator of the Stuck on Stupid Book Series,found at: http://www.StuckonStupidBooks.com and owner of her own freelance writing service, PersonalityOnaPage.com. She has written for a number of websites including About.com, Yelp.com, First30Days.com and FlagerHill.com. Check her out on Twitter @TMurrayOnline!

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