Introduction to Idea Documentation

Writing down ideas is a controversial topic among writers. While some swear by keeping a notebook full of snippets and full stories, others, like me, have come to realize that not every idea needs to be documented on a daily basis. This article explores the benefits and drawbacks of idea documentation, highlighting the strategies used by successful writers like myself.

The Power of Idea Haunting

Some of the best ideas tend to come back to haunt me without my intervention. These ideas, which I term 'haunting ideas,' are those that keep resurfacing, even on days when I'm not actively working on them. This constant return and persistence are often indicators of their potential for becoming great stories.

These haunting ideas sometimes return even when I don't immediately have the time or energy to pursue them. Over time, these ideas may come to me while writing, or during mundane daily activities. By allowing these ideas to return and haunt me, I've been able to develop several stories, some of which have even reached partial completion. In a few years, I expect to have a wealth of stories and ideas ready for development, instead of consciously trying to generate them daily.

The Pitfalls of Daily Documentation

On the other hand, documenting every single idea can lead to an overwhelming backlog of ideas that may never see the light of day. I prefer a strategy that focuses on the most persistent and promising ideas, allowing those that truly matter to keep coming back to me. By focusing on these recurring ideas, I can ensure that each one receives the necessary attention and development time it deserves.

Moreover, daily documentation can be time-consuming and may detract from the actual writing process. For writers like myself, who already struggle to find enough time to develop and write stories, daily documentation can be a hindrance rather than a help. Instead, I create an environment that fosters the growth and development of ideas naturally, without the need for constant documentation.

The Benefits of Documenting Life for Ideas

While not every idea needs to be recorded in a specific notebook, documenting life itself is an invaluable practice for any writer. By creating a daily journal, I ensure that important insights, events, and encounters are not forgotten. For instance, I maintain a routine of answering a series of questions daily, such as:

What inspired me today? What happened with my kids and spouse that I need to remember? Who did I meet today, and what do I need to remember about them?

These questions, and around 20 similar ones, help me to recall valuable moments, conversations, and inspirations that can later serve as a well of ideas for my writing.

Documenting for Inspiration and Networking

Perhaps the most significant benefit of journaling in this manner is the enhancement of networking and community building. Each person I interact with can provide new perspectives, experiences, and ideas. Documenting these interactions helps me to remember the unique value of each encounter, fostering stronger and more meaningful connections.

Furthermore, as I document more of my life, I find that I create an even richer tapestry of connections and opportunities. The idea that 'opportunity creates opportunity' rings true in this context. By maintaining a detailed record of my life, I am better positioned to identify and capitalize on new chances, leading to a never-ending stream of inspiration and ideas.

Conclusion: Balancing Documentation with Inspiration

While there is clarity in how ideas come to me, the art of documenting is an ongoing practice that complements my natural approach to idea generation. For writers, striking a balance between allowing ideas to come naturally and actively documenting them is key. By integrating these practices, we can ensure that every significant moment and encounter is preserved for future reference. Whether it's through the haunting of ideas or the chronicling of daily life, the pursuit of inspiration is a never-ending journey.