How do you find writing ideas?
A month ago when I visited the barbershop, I needed ideas for the magazine I’d just begun editing. But that wasn’t my reason for visiting. I needed a haircut.
In less than an hour I had my haircut. But I also had a great idea for an article for the Model A Ford magazine. How did I find it? By listening.
As my barber was finishing, another longtime client greeted my barber. His voice reminded me of a former co-worker’s, so I began listening. Turns out he wasn’t my old friend, but he did tell the barber something about his old car. That really got me listening.
I asked if he could stay a few minutes so I could learn about his car. We ended up talking for fifteen minutes.
I asked if he could stay a few minutes.
We ended up talking for fifteen minutes.
Turns out, he has a great story for the magazine. He wouldn’t be able to write it for a few months, but we exchanged contact information and promised to get in touch.
This past week at my barber, I thought of that conversation. After lunch I confirmed I still had his name and number. An hour later, the man phoned to say he’d not forgotten, and he still looks forward to writing the article.
You never know when someone around you has a story. You’ll have a better chance of knowing if you just remember to listen.
