Creative Writer Worksheet – Creation Criteria (PDF)
That initial idea spark can sometimes be so enticing that we follow it like a will ‘o the wisp instead of stopping to question where it’s leading us. I’ve found it very helpful to develop a set of criteria to test the strength of a shiny new project idea and check if it will really help me achieve my higher goals, or just create a time-wasting diversion.
Now, I’m not suggesting that all projects that don’t conform to your rigid life-plan are a waste of time. Far from it! I don’t think you can even recognise what is or isn’t worthwhile until you do a bit of both. But I do think it’s helpful to assess your past projects and use them to guide your future ones. Your greatest projects deserve more of you!
My current criteria:
- Not just exciting for me, but useful for others.
- Can be used/repurposed in at least 2 contexts.
- Will still be useful in 5, 10, 20, 100 years.
P.S. Apologies for the tardiness of this week’s worksheet! I was live writing last night and forgot that I hadn’t scheduled the post. Oops! :)