I have a little hobby, it's called pre-production. Actually I play video games...or played. I haven't had much time since I dedicated myself to writing. But I still keep up with video game ideas and news. And I watched a great video about pre-production in the video game world. It was interesting to me because I've seen similar problems in many areas. The main question is this. How much time do you spend planning and how much time do you spend working?
In writing I've heard others call it world building, planning, concept work, etc. Pre-production is actually a bit of a misnomer. Pre-production implies that there is production planning going on, but in most cases it is simply rapturous play time with a beautiful idea.
And I've noticed that this happens with any type of endeavor. Even my sons (Both under 10) have the hang of it. "Hey, let's make a fort out back dad!" "Hey, I should go pan for gold then we'll be rich."
What is it about our ideas that keeps us from acting on them? This stage of work is full of sharing. I want to share this idea with someone who can actually bring it to fruition but still give me the credit.
One of the most useless questions I hear all the time from people who get the chance to talk to any creator is this. "Where did you get your idea?"
The truth is that ideas are easy. Good ideas come along all the time. The hard part is taking that idea and spinning it into gold. That's the hard part of any project, the work. If you are a writer I suggest practicing projects. Find something small and finish it. You will find that skill is one of the most useful you can develop. Hone your craft, look for ideas, and practice bringing something to life.
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