One of the more common reasons why screenwriters fall short in their efforts to write their first screenplay is because they’re writing what they think they should be writing instead of what they want to be writing.

It’s sad really … it’s a parallel to working a job you don’t like.

When you first set out to create your next screenplay, whether or not it’s your first, ask yourself if it’s something you want to tell. If the story isn’t something you want to tell, then why tell it? Chances are you’re not being paid yet, so there’s really no reason. If you’re writing a romantic comedy because every screenwriter needs to have one of those in their arsenal of work, you’re wasting your time. Writers aren’t required to meet certain prerequisites — they simply need to do a good job telling a store for the screen.

The best way to focus your efforts and really find success with you writing and storytelling is simple: tell a story you wish existed.

This will enable you to cut the ties to what you think you’re supposed to do and free you to focus on what you want to do, which is tell a good story.

If you’re indifferent toward your story, how can you expect others to be any different?

cc image credit: Just one Moment