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How to write a convincing character profile in 5 easy steps

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By J.E. Nickerson  Writing a convincing character arc is more than just showing what the character did. It means getting into the mind of the character and knowing their why. Motives are more than just “He did it because he wanted to”. It means understanding the psychology of your characters. Knowing how they think and what they crave.  Start by writing 5 things your character wants, cares about and what makes them unique. Dig deep, these are people with inner worlds and a life of their own. The more you discover about your character, the more captivating and lifelike they will be on paper.   What’s one thing you discovered about your character this week? Unlocking Your Character’s Inner World Writing a convincing character arc is more than just showing what a character does. It means getting into their mind and understanding their why. Motives aren’t just “he did it because he wanted to.” True character depth comes from knowing their psychology, what they crave, and how ...
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Heart of Writing S1 E3 Staying Focused on Your Writing When Life Feels Overwhelming

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Struggling to find time or focus for your writing? Learn practical tips to reclaim mental space, write in just 15–30 minutes, and keep your creativity flowing—even when life is overwhelming.  
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Just Because They Can Doesn’t Mean They Should: Writing Morality That Makes Audiences Think

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  Part of the series “How to Write a Book from Start to Finish” By J.E. Nickerson | Wise Thinkers Help Desk In two of the most iconic blockbusters of the 1990s, a single line from each film stands the test of time: • “You can’t go around killing people.” —  Terminator 2: Judgment Day • “Your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn’t stop to think if they should.” —  Jurassic Park At first glance, they’re just quotes — simple, memorable, even humorous. But at their core, both speak to the same truth:  power without morality is dangerous . And as writers, that truth should shape how we build our stories. ⸻ The Gap Between Ability and Ethics How many stories have you read — or written — where characters are given incredible power, skills, or knowledge, but are also forced to navigate what’s right and wrong? As the group Crosby, Stills & Nash once sang: “You who are on the road must have a code that you can live by.” In  Terminat...
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Thought of the Day: It’s Not Your Fault

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  By J.E. Nickerson   Sometimes, no matter how hard you try to be there for someone, your words just don’t land. Not because you failed. Not because you didn’t care. But because they’re tired. Stressed. Overwhelmed by their own storm. And it hurts — deeply — when your love meets a wall instead of a heart. But hear this: It’s not your fault. You showed up. You gave. You tried again. And that matters. It’s okay to feel worn out when love feels one-sided. It’s okay to need rest, too. Let this be your reminder:  even the strongest hearts need room to breathe. If today has left you feeling unseen, give yourself the grace you would give someone else. You’re allowed to need care, too. For more reminders like this, explore my books or visit the blog. If today has left you feeling unseen, give yourself the grace you would give someone else. You’re allowed to need care, too. For more reminders like this, explore my books or visit the blog. 📚 And if you’re new here, I’m J.E. Nicker...
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How to Create a World for Your Characters

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  By J.E. Nickerson  We all live in a familiar world of our own making—our homes, our neighborhoods, our routines, and the people we hold close. Just as you have a world you’re at home in, the characters in your books need a world that feels natural to them, too. Whether you’re writing a standalone story or a series that follows the same characters, building a world around them helps readers connect. A strong setting grounds your characters, deepens your plot, and makes your story more memorable. When I was writing the  Eddie and Freddy’s Adventures  books, I started by imagining the world from Eddie’s perspective—a little boy with endless energy and curiosity—and his puppy Freddy. Each story takes readers through a day in their life, weaving in interactions with Eddie, his mother, other family members, and new characters introduced across the series. It feels natural to readers because they’re watching a Eddie move through a world that fits him. ⸻ What I Learned Abo...
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💡Thought of the Day Jun 18, 2025💡

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  I take full responsibility for my health and wellness. Even if others don’t understand my routine or lifestyle choices, that’s okay. What matters is that I stay committed to self-care and consistency. By showing up for myself every day, I build the energy and strength to show up for the people I love. Your WordPress plan may be full — but your creativity doesn’t have to be boxed in. Download this free checklist and free up space in just  5 easy steps . 📚 And if you’re new here, I’m J.E. Nickerson — children’s author and inspirational storyteller. You can check out my books  here  or follow me on  YouTube  for more inspiration and encouragement on this writing life.
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5 Evening Affirmations for Writers: Reflect, Reset, and Reignite Your Creativity ✨🖋️

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  When you’re finally finished with the day’s work and you are ready to unwind, it might be hard to turn off your writer’s mind and allow your body to relax and transition into your evening routine. Sometimes it might feel as though you haven’t worked enough on your project to earn a rest. But resting isn’t something you earn, it’s an essential part of your writing journey. One of the best ways to unwind and show yourself care is to calmly rehearse these 5 affirmations for writers.  Evening affirmations help you release self-doubt, celebrate small wins, and reset your mind for a new day of storytelling. Whether you wrote one sentence or ten pages today, these affirmations are designed to support your journey as a writer—gently, truthfully, and powerfully. Here are five evening affirmations to speak over yourself before you rest: ⸻ 💤  1. “I honor the words I wrote today, no matter how many or how few.” Every word is a step forward. Progress is not always measured in page ...
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