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writercises Original Posting 7/24/2020
Hi, ho. It's summer doldrums time again? And we're all suffering through COVID, protests, and all kinds of odds and ends, too? Ugh! Might be a good idea to think about writing, eh? But hold on, let's not drop that notion of stress and toil quite so fast. See, if you google stress factors, or stress factors infographics, you will find all kinds of lists of problems that we all face! Which, of course, might also be causing your characters heartburn. And conflict and stress for characters makes good stories! So, let's take a look.... Over here https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/stress/causes-of-stress/ They suggest some reasons things cause stress, and suggest that they might be personal, friends and family, employment and study, housing, money, or even happy events (which often cause big changes, and... stress!). They offer several options under each heading, too. So, roll the dice or otherwise pick an area, then pick one or more specifics under that, and... tell us what happens to your character when they face stress in their life! How do they react, what do they try to deal with it, do they overcome it or not? https://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/causes-of-stress#1 Also offers several lists of stress causes. Work, life, worry... what makes your character fret and fume? Or, over here, you'll find a list. Just a list! https://images.app.goo.gl/CaprhDPWSovvVrgP6 Feel free to use that to help figure out what is bothering your characters! Then, of course, put the characters in a scene, add some dialogue, and write, write, write! Who knows, it might help you get through the summer doldrums!