By: Krista Darrach
There is nothing like being surrounded by a bunch of odd, peculiar, crazy people who think a lot like I do. I love being at writers conferences and retreats. I love learning, I’m a sponge much of the time and love to absorb.
We had the usual classes teaching us more about improving the craft of writing and about publishing (All Amazing - given by awesome presenters!!). Then we had a class called: “Creative Writing using your Right Brain (Subconscious Mind) by Helen Bair. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this class.
Helen discussed the differences between the conscious mind and subconscious mind. Her main point, or should I say her first point was: “THOUGHTS CREATE.” So, what you say to yourself, and how you phrase things, has a direct impact on what your subconscious mind hears (and what you do).
Helen says:
“Select word choices in the positive that solicit the sensory response you choose. Rather than “I am not miserable,” use “I am happy.” Imagine your desired outcome in the present tense. Use "NOW" rather than “I’m going to”. Imagine as if you already have or are what you choose. Following the above formula is like giving a blueprint to your internal builder/creator, your subconscious mind.”
Now, I’ve heard this before and so it wasn’t terribly enlightening. BUT… then she went on to talk about writers block and how it could be due to the conscious mind getting in the way of the creative thought process.
This struck me funny. In fact I was tickled to hear this. Mainly because this is exactly what I do—I allow my subconscious mind to … Percolate. I do this when plotting, or editing and especially when I revise. Although I never really understood the actual process at least not in these technical terms, but I can say that when I’m stumped, or feeling completely uninspired I allow my mind to … Percolate. Of course I usually start with a prayer, then I mull around the situation (plotting, character development, revising…etc) and then I basically tell my brain to work it all out. I leave it be and find something else to focus on. I have noticed that if I give myself a time frame, it helps. A few months ago I deconstructed my book and moved things around, I told myself, “Okay, next Friday I’m revamping the first 20 chapters.” And I did just that, by tapping into the creativity of my subconscious mind (and OF COURSE divine help is included in that) I am able to do things that I otherwise could never accomplish.
So … thoughts do create and our subconscious minds are working overtime for us writers. (thank goodness!) I really loved this class and the perspective it gave me or should I say reminded me. Now … I’m off to percolate!
Cool class. I also believe the stereotype that most great writers are also daydreamers. We stare off into space, enjoying our la la land (probably a little too much) and that's how the ideas come--because we're just having fun.
ReplyDeleteThis class was so cool. I plan to attend her workshop with the free ticket she gave on her handout. Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteMargaret
I loved the class too! When I tried to describe it to my husband, he got that glazed look. Luckily Helen describes it much better then I do. Go Subconscious Mind!
ReplyDeleteGreat ideas, thanks for sharing. I love the analogy of percolating. And when you do, isn't it soooooo cooool when the solution to a scene or plot problem pops up. It almost seems like magic.
ReplyDeleteI love that word, "percolating!" I sure wish I could have been there! sounds like it was time well spent. Now I can't wait to read the result of your percolating!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your summary of the class, Krista, which is so helpful since I couldn't be there. The class sounds awesome, and it is so fascinating how our subconscious minds keep working on problems independent of--or in spite of--the conscious mind.
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