Friends, family and even other writers ask me where I come up with story ideas.

Trust me, coming up with the idea has never been a problem for me. I have thousands of ideas. Take a look at the Post-It Notes lining the perimeter of my desk and you’ll barely get a glimpse of all the ideas I think would make interesting stories.

The trickier situation is taking one idea, molding it into a solid, sellable piece that appeals to a diverse audience for a specific publication. That’s what makes being a writer an enjoyable experience.

Where do I find ideas? Everywhere.

Friends, family, social networking, other publications, press releases, community events, photographs, internet trends, curiosity: all of these are potential idea mills.

Consider what subjects and events are significant to you and you’ll never be at a shortage for words.