The photo you see below stopped me in my tracks when I saw it on Facebook about a year ago. It spoke to me.

Heroes in their own story …

Some of you may know these friends of mine—twins, their mother, and their aunt—but if you don’t, and if you’re willing to let your imagination roam, you might see a story here.

That’s what these little where-do-you-get-your-story-ideas exercises are all about, after all. I hope you’re using them as creativity practice, as excuses to play on your keyboard. (Oh, OK—call them writing prompts, of you must. I just think creativity practice sounds more fun.)

My point, though, is to train yourself to see everything—everything!—in terms of story. Here’s what I mean: make up a story for this photo, right now. 
It can be a joyful story or a spooky story, right? Look at the brave, confident stance of the kids. They are heroes in their own story! And the people behind them—what if they’re screaming? Or laughing?

Who’s the protagonist—child or adult? Who’s the audience—child or adult? What was happening before this moment? What happened after it?

Give yourself permission to take a break from work … and find out.

There are other articles in this series: parts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”