How to Write a Short Story (with NO experience!)

Are you struggling to write a short story? Like, no matter what you write, you’re NOT happy with it? And no matter what advice you take, it doesn’t seem to help at all? If so, don’t worry - you’re not alone. In this video, I’m going to show you what to focus on + debunk some common short story myths so that you can write a short story that MATTERS to you!
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✨T I M E S T A M P S✨
0:00 Introduction
0:57 Myth #1: you need to read short stories before you can write one
2:00 Myth #2: you need to write short stories before you can write a novel
5:17 Fundamental #1: PLOT
7:02 Fundamental #2: CHARACTERS
8:00 Fundamental #3: THEME
9:54 Non-linear narration & breaking the “rules”
11:06 Subscribe for weekly writing videos!
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✨ A B O U T ✨
My name is Abbie Emmons I teach writers how to make their stories matter by harnessing the power and psychology of storytelling, transforming their ideas into a masterpiece, and creating a lifestyle that makes their author dreams come true.
Story isn’t about “what happens” - it’s about how what happens affects and transforms the characters. I believe that there is an exact science (a recipe, if you will) behind a perfect story. And if you know what ingredients you need, you can create your own perfect story with ease and confidence. That’s what we talk about every week on this channel - and if it’s something you’re into, be sure to subscribe and join this community!

[@jessjohns7723]

“Here’s the unpopular truth: not all writers are big readers ... that will probably cause you to be more self critical and more intimidated by the idea of writing anything at all.” Thank you!

[@marcellacassab4331]

YES! As someone who barely reads but still loves to write, this was so refreshing and encouraging to hear. I'm trying to read more, but I just don't have the attention span. I prefer more visual story mediums.

[@M3rtyville]

@@marcellacassab4331 me too. Not to mention, the way some books are written don't get me hooked really. When writing, I try to get away from these things.

[@tauruscyllar2461]

Thank you 🙏🏾 I needed to hear this

[@ebsfxxedits1038]

@@marcellacassab4331 yes! I always end up faulting to webcomics and manga haha

[@laikamansabdar1820]

@@ebsfxxedits1038 haha same

[@mariamoreno13]

"smaller, simpler stories where there's not much of a plot going on, because it allows the characters to shine" i really really really loved this i'm writing it down to remember it forever

[@enguunhoyor2431]

If you really love it you don't have to write it down. Brain doesnt forget such special things

[@ryelydude]

@@enguunhoyor2431 some people need to write stuff down. it's ok t write it down, op wasn't wrong to do it.

[@kubiatubiam1907]

Thanks

[@angham3829]

Ecclesiastes 12:12 King James Version 12 And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.

[@lilmomma8285]

@@enguunhoyor2431 ⁴a quick e èeee re

[@ShahadA10]

Unpopular opinion: writing short stories is harder than writing novels. Writing a novel may take more time, but it makes it a lot easier to make the reader attached to the plot/characters where as a short story you have limited time to make the reader care and/or understand. This video helped a lot with that! Thanks 😊

[@Evamarie41]

Agreed. I worked on longer fiction before working on shorter fiction because longer fiction came easier to me, mainly because that's most of what I read. I also disagree with Abbie because reading more short stories showed me how they work and let me study the form. Before that, I wasn't writing short stories, just pieces of novels. I don't think everyone has to read 1000s of short stories before they start, but they should at least read some to get a sense of the form.

[@sarahanncools960]

"Our best is constantly changing" YES!!! This is such an important thing to remember and I think some people are afraid of this because they just want to be "their best" right now...but that'd actually mean you were just plateauing.

[@francescagolden1061]

As a visual arts student, your paper analogy was 100% accurate 😂

[@mk-ki4ls]

Too real 😔✊😭

[@rokamayono8590]

Hit a little too close to home Ngl 😂

[@Ryon-qy3jk]

I’m in art class two!

[@inspite5592]

Hello Abbie! I am Leo, a 12-year-old kid. "MY MIND EXPLODED RIGHT AFTER I SAW THIS VIDEO!" Writing short stories is one of my most favorite hobbies. I love writing short stories, especially in my free time, just cuz it helps me a lot to story tell. It all started when I thought of starting a journey of writing short stories, as I loved short stories as heavens, and that moment is when I opened KZbin and thought of getting pieces of advice from KZbinrs like you. I was tired of watching a lot of videos, but still not getting to write it! I tried watching a lot of videos to try writing my 1st short story, yet it didn't work! And that's until I clicked your video. After watching your video, I felt that watching your video was worth it. Three days later, I successfully finished my own short story - it was basically one whole short story, divided into two. But even though, I don't know why (and I also feel so WEIRD), I just keep on watching your video even after I finished my 1 short story! Now, I have decided to write another short story. Wish me good luck! Thanks a lot! Bye!! Have a Great Day! PEACE!!!

[@pacitaalvarez5878]

Good luck!

[@pro-procrastinator295]

Good luck in writing, I’m 13 and I write and I wish you luck, people will tell you that you’re to young to write never listen

[@arturosandovalsaito2704]

Good luck writing your stories! I started creating my own stories when I was 13. I’m 18 right now and I’m still in the middle of creating my 7th one.

[@maxvoroshilov3207]

Leo, go for it! I am 50 yo. And If I took seriously my love for writing early my world would have already been very different!

[@maxvoroshilov3207]

@@yankee2666 thanks!

[@nixie6021]

One of my short story’s I wrote it’s not a happy ending, but I shared it with random strangers on discord and they all kept telling me how good it was. 1 person said they couldn’t finish it because it was so sad. Another person said they liked it a lot because they knew enough about the character but not a lot, (the character had no gender so the reader could image them however they want.) It was interesting seeing how everyone saw it vs. how I saw it. One other person said they think how I write is really good or something like that. But seeing that people like my story’s makes me happy and encourages me to write more!!

[@sangeetha2560]

Hi! Can I read the story?

[@nixie6021]

@@sangeetha2560 Sure, I can copy and paste it here, or give you my wattpad, which ever one you choose is fine by me!

[@sangeetha2560]

@@nixie6021 Owh thanks I'll have your wattpad then.

[@nixie6021]

@@sangeetha2560 okay, it's @Banana_Sloth should be the user with a sloth reading a book

[@xin4379]

Heyy I would like to read your story too but I don't have wattpad;w; if it wouldn't be too troublesome, could you please copy and paste it here? Thanks and sorry for the trouble in advance

[@jula-maytaylor7893]

Whenever I write a short story for school it's basically just a set up for a long story...

[@lordathenapretty7935]

Huh, the few short stories I do is *in media res*

[@angelina9203]

that's me currently

[@riv1907eu]

That's what I am basically doing I just wrote what seems like a prologue with a cliff hanger and my school decided that it's really good and will be sent to the magazine submission It's kinda funny

[@rosaschwanz3038]

You. Write. Short. Stories. At. School? Omg

[@hams2410]

"This is art, you should do it your way" Very true. The writing process should be enjoyable mainly to the WRITER. I like reading and writing fanfictions 😍

[@e2thepi]

One of the best pieces of advice I've heard for short stories (or flash fiction) vs longer works is...if you're having trouble finishing a longer project, try a shorter one. The more projects you finish, the more confident you may feel in your ability to write complete stories.

[@reinajalana]

This is *exactly* mainly why I've shifted from trying to complete a novel, to more so embracing writing short stories. Just to be able to finally finish SOMEthing..and MORE somethings... than just one, big thing. And yes, hopefully with enough finishing those many somethings, I'll finally gain the focus, motivation, clarity, and discpline to also start and finish that one, big thing :)

[@paulinejulien9191]

OMG when you said "here's the unpopular truth: not all writers are big readers" I felt so acknowledged

[@kkscorner6557]

Holy moly I literally have never written a short story before and I was thinking Man it would be so cool if I could figure out how to do that because I’m starting to write short stories, I decided to do this yesterday!

[@crystinapierce6833]

I think the reason people say to start with short stories is because a lot of people have a hard time finishing a story. Once you finish one, you prove to yourself that you can and the hurdle of self doubt is lessened.

[@daltonoelke-hamm9153]

I have ADD, the idea of a novel is very overwhelming with no experience to writing stories. A short story on the other hand feels much more manageable and I’ve been making good progress

[@mariavalente6304]

I just won a short story contest... Been waiting for this video for EVER

[@ArialBurnz]

Best quote: "Our best is always changing." Abbie Emmons SOO true. Every time we write, we improve the process. Great video, Abbie...as usual.

[@jamquijano4402]

"Our best is constantly changing." It sounds so simple and should be common sense but it's such a revelation to me. Thanks Abbie

[@elisendap.h.f.984]

This short story mith is also so prevalent in comic writing! You don't have to make a whole bunch of short comics to be able to make your big one, just make it!

[@kiwigirl92]

I am not a big reader! But I love to write, plot and make character profiles. I really enjoy it, so thank you for saying that not all writers are big readers.

[@jjgarcia7593]

Alternate title: Why to write a novel instead of a short story

[@KutWrite]

...or vice-versa!

[@M3rtyville]

*me writing a Novel and still not finished for several years* :I

[@KutWrite]

@@M3rtyville: Me too. Between my own thoughts and my Critique Group, it keeps getting better! Pretty soon I'll put on the brakes and publish it as-is. I've got a couple more to write!

[@ooglemonster]

I tried to find even one short story by this person, but was not successful. This video contained no advice for writing a short story, and its way to guess why.

[@SmartStr33t]

I'm much more interested in short stories. I love the short story format which I got into when I had young children. I did not have time to focus on long immersive novels and began reading Nocturnes by Kazuo Ishiguro. Wow, each story a mood, a feeling, a perfectly formed little world, a tiny glittering microcosm, a glimpse into the window of a life without having to move in. Nevert over-staying their welcome they leave an impression and go. I still remember most of the stories to this day and some have really stayed with me. Since then I've read many books of short stories and have not lost my preference for them. For me the ability to write short stories, so focused and lean, every word so carefully chosen, is preferable to writing an entire novel.

[@OOB080]

I always felt like my short stories I had to write for school were terrible and now I see it's because school asked too much for their plots.

[@mosbomier]

This is a very rare video about writing. It's healthy, encouraging, not belittling, and very relaxing. Honestly I barely see writing youtubers talk like this.

[@peblezQ]

I always went for writing long books because my ideas ended up being too big - so this was very useful (:

[@xchrysantha]

I did not expect to get SO MUCH from this video simply because I'm a completely novice writer looking up "how to write a story" for the first time since high school almost 15 years ago. Thank you so, so much for all the information and guidance you provided in this video, not only was it really helpful but also it was extremely encouraging when thinking about all the details and passion I already have for the story I want to write.

[@storyteller0521]

Peace Place You don't know me yet, but I do you. I am what you dream of from the second you wake up until you rest you head at night. I am the endless night sky you look up at while you try to count the trillions of stars floating above you. I am the unexplainable feeling you got when you listened to that song, the warmth you seek, the inner peace you will never get to experience in this life, or any other. I am not God, but for I am the Peace Place. Every daydream you've had has been here. I am filled with peaceful chaos and bittersweet moments. We may never meet in person, but in your subconscious you are welcome every minute. For we are alone together and all we need is us.

[@ailsa2434]

Ugh, I'm so happy you made this video. Also, your disdain when talking about the advice to not have a theme for short stories was amazing. Made my day, completely.

[@mr.sleepyhead8401]

Oh my sweet Grandma's brownie biscuits, this is something I needed to hear!

[@zeinaelwy]

Something that helps me or started me on short stories is side characters. Your side characters in your novel usually have a subtle change or arc within the course of the novel. They are a SUBPLOT. This would make them ideal practice for short story. Since I kinda felt overwhelmed finding a way to downsize any idea or anything I have for characters and event so a kinda set there already plot and character is SIDE CHARACTERS! I hope this helps people who want to write a short story but couldn't find any ideas!

[@jge8144]

"Two Kinds" by Amy Tan, part of her anthology "The Joy Luck Club", is a great example of character driven story. The author starts with backstory, and I was invested in the protagonist's and antagonist's character arcs.

[@rphb5870]

The biggest problem I have with my writing, is that I spend way too much time listening to youtube videos then to writting.

[@obsessedwithart231]

A while ago I wrote a short story that I really liked, and I haven’t actually been able to write something to top it but I think I now understand why I loved it so much. It had a bunch of the fundamentals that you spoke of. I think I can now make something even better.

[@d.b.7444]

Oh my gosh, you are right about reading before writing. As I read, I get worked up and start judging myself. Comparing how perfect they write to myself. 😨

[@BeanKally]

I’m making a short story about my friend’s cat as a gift for her, and this was very helpful!

[@diazmarkvinceb.1738]

I am currently writing my first novel and I have been adviced to turn it into a short story then submit it to the monthly contest. Heck yeah, that gave me profound excitement.

[@Titere05]

I can relate to your phrase 'not all writers are big readers', because I'm a musician, but I'm not a big fan of musicians, if that makes any sense. When there's a meeting with my fellow song writers, they are all so knowledgeable about the lives and deeds of their favorite musicians! They can talk for hours about their lives, their works, anecdotes, etc, whereas I know very little or nothing about all that stuff. I just enjoy listening to music and writing it, I don't care about the people who wrote it, their lives, their entire discography. At times this feels like a big disconnect with that world, like something's wrong with me, but it is what it is, I cannot fake interest in something that just doesn't interest me.

[@renatal.129]

this literally came in the right time, i need to write a short story for my literature class. Thanks, Abbie :D

[@l4l01234]

Not all writers are readers, just the great ones. Self criticism is important if getting recognition or having other people appreciate your work is important to you. Of course you can always write for yourself and then throw it away or have your writings filed away never to see the light of day. But I think most people aspire to at least have others read their stuff and feel something, and for that you need perspective, which requires both self criticism and being able to learn from more experienced writers (by actually reading)

[@JonathanTash]

I'm not sure if I learned more about story writing or about vocal performance. I'm in love with how professional and yet emotionally invested you sound when explaining this stuff. You shine with confidence that borders on being egotistical and I love it! After listening to so many dry speakers, hearing yours felt like having a long standing itch finally be scratched.

[@DNA912]

"everything is practice" is a great way of looking at it, I haven't really written anything, but I'm curios to start. but I have been making music on and off for the last 10 years. And it really is just me, experimenting, something interesting sometimes emerges. I make some a intro, or melody I like that's like 40 sec long. 10% of the time, that 40 sec thing becomes a full song. but the majority of stuff just falls flat withing 5 hours. and the good stuff just emerges some times

[@thebobman1834]

Im literally in the middle of writing one. This could not have come at a better time.

[@blshouse]

I thought I wanted to write a novel. I've been beating myself up for years trying to hammer my ideas into two or three novels. Watching this video made me realize I have a whole bunch of short stories instead. And that is not a disaster, but rather it is okay. Thank you very much for this video.

[@elizabethgrace9092]

*SLAMS LIKE BUTTON* 💛✨(this is absolutely what i've been dyyying for, no kidding. bless you, dear Abbie :D)

[@kennedypatton7874]

The moment you realize that your sci-fi duology is a short story and short story is actually meant to be a novel.

[@elisesilverfire8587]

I'm just looking and writing at my story with your Live Stream in the background and this comes up. Just HAVE to see this after I'm done with the writing sprints!

[@rital9535]

I’m supposed to be writing a short story, but I think I’m writing a novel instead....😭

[@clareparker9617]

Same here..

[@whatMezLearn]

yeah same here i already make a plan but writing not really good.

[@hrithikbiswas4424]

Yeah same here though

[@scouttheboston3005]

Just realised that whatever amazing Abbie wears, the thumbnail matches

[@katnissgrace1017]

I really liked this one Abbie because it’s so true that your “best” is only subjective to where your at and how much time you spend on each story editing, fixing etc. if you spend a lot of time on something be it short story or novel it may be your best because it’s getting most of your time and consideration. I’m trying to write a short story now that takes place between novels and gives more insight to details later on in the series

[@D.M.S.]

The first KZbin writer with actual good advice

[@isamaria5569]

I think this is a sign, I was just thinking about write or not a short story hahah

[@KutWrite]

Wow! You got me re-fired up. I started with short stories decades ago, mainly due to my short attention span. Now I write them as a respite to the novel I've been working on. I've gotten about 3/4 of them published with minor editing. Kudos on you production values. Your diction, lighting, composition and especially the audio are great. I love your use of music and pauses in same to emphasize your points. As you like to say, "Rock on!"

[@anjusibi8424]

"We all are this journey together'',this hit my heart.❤️

[@happyfellowship4291]

Abbie pulling out all the stops of her crash-course in storytelling here! Love it!

[@Lokis_Tea]

I was totally doubting myself on writing something, because I thought it wouldn’t be good enough even if it were not meant to be shared *But this drew so much insight and I feel like I have learned things!*

[@brianmalaquias9425]

I love your enthusiasm. I love how you broke down the myths. Just write. I love it. I have many story ideas in my head, and this helped tremendously.

[@Amanda-gv4zg]

Yesss thank you!! We write short storys in school all the time. I think it's really hard to write it short and interesting at the same time

[@insightful_fairy8743]

I started writing a story during lockdown (first one ) but felt it wasn’t getting anywhere, I sent it to a few friends to ask their opinion, they all enjoyed it and wanted to know what happens next! This gave me the confidence and inspiration to write more!

[@jacobpage8028]

Not all writers are big readers, but i think youll find all the best are. At least most of them.

[@anandahuja4319]

Amazing Abbie, as always! Loved the video, and all that you said. Makes me feel more confident of my unusual short stories - you instil the confidence, that they don’t necessarily have to follow a pattern. Thank you Abbie - keep sharing more. I learn a lot from you. Highly appreciate!

[@inglestherightway]

I see the day is not too far off in the distance when we'll be signing up for your course on Masterclass, Abbie! You are THAT good!

[@rwanahmed3643]

My dream career that I’m wanting to be is a Journalist and I want to start by practicing on writing short stories RIGHT THIS SECOND FROM NOW ON. When I start doing this, I really want my stories to be entertaining and interesting for anyone to read and I don’t want it to sound or be boring at all and also even if I do write a book too. I really love your video and it did help me A LOT as well.❤️📓📖

[@saisri.justbeing]

Thank you soo much! Needed to hear this! I've always been trying to write a novel not because I've wanted to, but because I've always has this misconception that short stories are not as great as novels. Well now I know better, and I realize some of my best works were short stories, since as you said "they really allowed the character to shine". So thank you SOOO MUCH once again! Lots of love from India 🇮🇳

[@KaylaMoorcroft]

Thanks Abbie! I came here from your newsletter. I didn’t really think of it as me “not being qualified” to write a novel. It was more that I wasn’t sure if I wanted to spend so much time writing something if I don’t know if I actually enjoy the process. So, short story writing it was for me :) I also have many “simple” stories that I want to get out into the world. Many of these are following the protagonist’s development after an event and I didn’t think it should be dragged out into a novel. Just my thoughts on it 🤷‍♀️

[@novemberninth4392]

Just a few days ago I submitted my short story to a competition and after watching your video, I'm glad my short story matches the requirements you described!

[@Inemin27]

I CAN'T BELIEVE IT! I'm learning to literally adore you with every video I discover. I wish I had known about you since you started posting.

[@georgez9897]

Thank you Abbie, your advise is great. I'm writing a musical stage play, and your information is helping me to write a better story.

[@elliemarten2746]

Your videos are so inspiring! I feel much more confident about writing my short story now.

[@ChangesOfTomorrow]

The mention of fanfics made me so happy 🥰

[@kwabuaappiah-danquah6440]

8:10 This is my favorite footage of Abbie now. I have nothing else to say.

[@tiffscozycloset]

This video was amazing! I’ve always wanted to write short stories but believed so many myths, that I was stifled. But, no more! Thank you.

[@JonathanPongratz]

Thanks so much for the great advice! I'm working on a short story and nearly forgot about the main character's internal struggle. Definitely need to emphasize it more and give it depth. Maybe I'll have a novella instead of just a short story now!

[@chiaallen2227]

I love how all comments are so long and well written it just makes them a better fit for this Chanel

[@rickybarack1623]

Hey abbie love your personality I can literally feel your energy and passion for writing. I used to write small storys of how my day went, My English teacher told me to do that as practice, I also love to write in my spare. But have not for years.All my time go's into my job, ministry work, which i love to do, and the cares of life. When i write out my thoughts i feel a inner peace and weight being lift off. I am going back to that mind set. By the grace of God.

[@IamTia]

I literally clicked this video because a writer said to write short stories before a Novel😂😂😂 you give me life! Lolll

[@genecuban6517]

Do you want to be a boxer? Go and fight with the pros right away, don't train, don't spar, just be yourself there.

[@soniapakem9741]

Thank you Abbie❤for your word. I used to feel doubt about myself whenever i started writing.But now ,your word make me feel confident. Such a great inspirational i have ever heard ❤

[@janel34]

Henlo Abbie. I’m on chapter 5 of my book. Red the Fox. Yayyyy!

[@shaylacox1489]

THIS all makes so much sense! Glad to see like minded people say ans think outside the box.. I have distance myself from 1st manuscript, but I had an idea for a short story. I am really enjoying and getting and education from your videos and will look into this patreon community I seen you talk about. Mahalo Nui Loa!

[@mischakirishima454]

Every time I try to write something I always hesitate so I end up not writing anything and then I have the perfect idea in my head but the minute I start writing I don’t have motivation anymore

[@elyworks2564]

Thank you Abbie! you just answered the questions I've been searching for! I'm not a writer or a big reader but I do want to learn making up stories though animation and comics

[@nabilamiah3814]

Writing a short story right now! Perfect timing.

[@MG.dreamgirl]

This video is pure gold. I love it. Because (in my opinion), the point here is to be creative and do what feels good for YOU. Not about trying to fit into structures that limit what you want to explore. Just saying ❤

[@salmajm4630]

Thank you Abbie, I've never written a short story before but was able to write one inspired by a song "Another Love" that just touched me deeply. The video helped a lot.

[@3000RP]

I really enjoy Abbie's videos, however I do think she needs to realize that not all readers or writers are driven by the same needs/wants in their reading/writing choices as she is. It would be far to easy to take way the idea from her videos that it is only the character driven plots that matter when in fact there is plenty of works that are written for the plot first and the character's growth second or not at all. Sure, those stories may not be as 'lasting' in memory as other stories where there is a deep connection to the reader and character(s) but those stories can be just as enjoyable and I personally read many stories like that to just enjoy without needing or seeking some fundamental connection to the characters. Do I feel those stories with only a plot and little to no character plot could be better with a bit more, perhaps... but there are far too many types of readers' and writers' tastes to judge what works for one person vs another

[@sherimartin3110]

I was about to say something similar. Also, I like to read stories that are just for enjoyment and fun and don't have a deeper meaning. Writing to create something fun or funny is worth it to me.

[@juliepettigrew8797]

Thanks for all your help Abbie, love your videos.

[@aname4700]

Yep... I love her and her content but this video sound a little preachy and judgemental, literature is much broader and complex than just saying "if your novel isn't character driven then it doesn't matter" as an English major... that statement doesn't make sense 😳

[@lordathenapretty7935]

Can you recommend some plot-driven stories? They sound pretty interesting.

[@jerelo175]

For me the plot/setting is the most important thing to get me started, because otherwise I feel bad about my story and have no idea what I’m doing. Once I have that figured out though, then I feel like I can make more detailed characters. Then I may have to compromise between the plot and the characters

[@LoveYourself70282]

I am confident in my writing skills after watching this video. Thanks for comforting and boosting my courage.

[@Ghostrob2023]

Good morning, Abbie! I have enjoyed watching this video of you explaining on how to write short stories, but in a comedic way. You're like a comedy commentator in writing when you create these videos and give good advice. Have a wonderful day, happy writing and since your saying is, "Rock on," well mine is, "Party on or keep jamming!"

[@TheSelkie1990]

Whenever I try to write short things, it ends up being a book....writing short is a lot harder than writing a book...I love your advice! :)

[@johnwilson3375]

I love these videos and your no BS approach! I need to start taking notes because you provide so much useful information! Thank you so much!!

[@JonTopping]

In terms of not all writers being big readers, I'd be really interested to hear some examples of this. It seems like this would have to be obviously true. Reading a lot helps you get a hold of the language, and you end up being able to see how writing actually works. For example, imagine an athlete that never watches their own sport. Yes, they "could" still be good at the sport, but obviously not observing the sport is going to be a hinderance to them. If they were to watch other people play, they would see how the overall game works, other people's style, and it would put ideas in their own head. I would think it would be the same thing for writing. If you don't read, it's "possible" to still somehow manage to be proficient at writing, but it's probably going to be a huge hinderance.

[@neverforgetpapa5386]

think it’s something you understand when that’s how you’ve always been. as a kid i would write endlessly but read far less. i still would much rather be creating something just because that’s where my energy naturally goes. but personally, i love observing people and seeing how different minds work outside of the pages of a story. there are plenty of resources to hone the skills of a language without it being accompanied by a story, and for some that also comes quite easily. at the end of the day it’s a creative thing and it’s not always referential or relying on what you’ve seen others do to build your frame of knowledge. but i’m sure for a lot of people reading is what helped propel them forward and expand their horizons. everyone functions uniquely. i do agree with sports though, because that involves a great number of people functioning as one or being able to predict the actions of others. i think that expansion can be seen as more vital because it’s for the sake of a team, not just an individual vision being shared. then again, i can’t speak for all people in absolutes. maybe it would be a hinderance, or maybe it’s the fact you and i or any other person might not understand what it’s like to be in a mind that finds a different route suitable. for one person it can be a hinderance to not do something, but for another doing that thing could be a distraction or unneeded delay

[@Jazzes.official]

I am so happy! I was gonna practice on writing a news article based on the facts in the board right now! I am practicing by making up my own story. HUGE THANKS!

[@CarlosLindao888]

thanks so much for teaching us that the story (internal conflict of the main character) is more important than the plot.

[@KekeLivin]

Where have you been all my days!? I love you and I want to be in your circle! Thank you for this video☺

[@claypunk7718]

hi abbie, just discovered your channel. you're a fantastic teacher with some very wise things to say. thank you for your work.

[@percyokoben6270]

Oh my gosh, you READ MY MIND! I needed this so much!!!

[@whitrobinson]

I'm so glad I found your channel! This advice was great and much needed for me. Thank you!

[@alexsalikovnz7530]

Great video, Abbie! I love the way you gently, and with a pinch of fun, pour your ideas into the watchers’ minds. I love it and it’s really helpful! Subscribed, and will start exploring short stories writing, with the help of your videos! Thank you so much!!! Cheers.

[@nirmaljeetkaur3791]

This video is very helpful. I literally come to write a short storie before starting a novel. But this video clear all my myths. Thank you

[@MotivatedDevilHunter]

AAA Getting some of the more chaotic and energetic Abbie vibes from the older videos with this one! I've missed this! Love it!! Anyway - Thank you for the great advice!! As always! lol

[@jessicamorgen1815]

YES!!!! Not all writers are big readers. If I am bring honest, I am so picky about books, I almost never read. However, I have read 100 Days of Sunlight, and, it was so good, that I read the entire book in a day (and I am not even a fan of the genre, either)!

[@motivity5053]

your voice modulating is a talent haha

[@raewynrose4372]

This is great. I love your explanations. I am a reader and a writer. I am struggling with writing short stories because I just have too much story to put into a small space. But you gave me some great ideas on how to make that work. Thank you

[@felicityfender-ye9xn]

This video is literally perfect!! It has helped me so much with my short story along with many others by this wonderful person. Thank you so much!!!!