Where I Find Great Story Ideas (6 Examples)

As a writer, I’m fascinated by real-life stories. No surprise there. If you write, you probably agree. And if you don’t write, you probably agree.

Often, truth is stranger than fiction, though every great story idea probably springs from a kernel of truth. After all—most fiction is fact fabricated. To what degree is the writer’s prerogative. Of course, writers breathe life into stories by adding perspective and larger than life characters.

We embellish.

We re-create.

We—

Dare I say it?

Fib.

We start with what if and flip it on its head.

We don’t libel or risk integrity , but we do strive for realism. Hopefully, that’s why readers turn pages.

As someone who genuinely loves people, I’m driven to know more.

I want to know folks’ stories.

Their desires.

Their heartaches.

Where they’ve been.

Where they’re headed.

And you might guess, sometimes, my husband teases me.

“Dear, you’ve never met a stranger. You’re a ‘come talk to me magnet.'”

I must admit it’s true. Humanity intrigues me.

I think when we open our hearts to others, we avail ourselves to new opportunities. We learn as we listen, and we, in turn, bless those who yearn to be heard.

Some stories are poignant and profound. Others, tender and sweet, and even laugh-out-loud funny.

Here are six examples of where I’ve found great story ideas for future novels:

In a church member’s flower garden—> When the Peonies Refused to Bloom

What my friend Maude taught me about bravery and growing a spine.

2. At our local post office—> She Had Me at “Breast Cancer”

When another’s words challenged my thinking. In a good way.

3. In a coffee shop—> Sweet Friendship: The Reunion That Took 25 Years

As I connected with a dear friend as though it were yesterday.

4. From mistakes—> The Upside of Mistakes

While navigating life…and food poisoning.

5. In the Ozarks—> Today’s Story: Why Blend the Past With the Present? and From China to the Ozarks: A Girl, A Dream, and Sweet Sixteen

When considering blessings of the past, present, and future…

6. In a dandelion field—> When You’re Drowning in Dandelions…Laugh!

As those white-crowned devils mocked me.

AND these are just 6 ideas that jump to mind. I’ve found additional story ideas at church, in the mall, at the grocery store, and restaurants. I’ve also discovered the best stories are often those we tend to overlook.

Great story ideas abound. We just have to dig out our mining gear.

***