Stories are everywhere if you know where to look.
Start by paying attention to the people around you.
Notice the small details in their lives.
A neighbour’s hobby, a friend’s habit, a colleague’s unusual day.
Ask gentle questions and listen more than you speak.
Everyone has a story, but not everyone tells it the same way.
Record moments carefully in a notebook or on your phone.
Observe reactions, expressions, and pauses…they often say more than words.
Remember the context. A memory shared in laughter differs from one shared in worry.
Collecting stories is about capturing truth, not changing it.
Respect privacy and trust when someone shares personal experiences.
Over time, you’ll build a collection of real voices, emotions, and events.
These stories will become the heartbeat of your writing and help you connect with readers.