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DON'T IGNORE THE MUNDANE WHEN SEEKING ARTICLE IDEAS
By Mike Sturman

Writers who say they can't find ideas need to remove their blinders. Stories are everywhere. All you have to do is look.

And once an idea is found, it must be remembered. Writers should carry some sort of device to keep track of ideas that pop up out of nowhere. Thanks to modern technology, many types of devices are available, including palm-size computers, tiny tape recorders or small voice-activated electronic gizmos. Or, there's the old reliable pencil and paper.

When trying to come up with an idea, don't forget people. Each person has his or her own story. It might not be earth shattering or Pulitzer material, but it might be just what a certain publication is seeking.

Many stories are simply inspirational. What about someone who is dealing with a fatal disease? Or someone who has just overcome a great obstacle? Or your neighbor who recently returned from an unusual vacation? Everyone has had an adventure that would make a good tale.

The trick is to not ignore the mundane.

Following are just some of the resources writers have at their fingertips:

1. Senior citizens. Today's elderly, those 70 and above, were alive during Word War II, the Great Depression and possibly even Word War I. Each has a story to tell about life back then. When this generation is gone, it's gone. The history books and newsmagazines are fine for the official versions, but
these people have stories that have never been published.

2. The phone book -- Yellow and White pages. Almost every page of business listings has fodder for stories. Just keep in mind that a magazine, Web site, newsletter or trade publication exists for virtually every industry. For example, recycled oil may not be the most exciting topic, but it's one
that garners industry and general interest. In the industry, those involved need to know about new technology, competition and equipment, while the
public would love to know why a "recycling fee" is tacked on to every oil change. Think of every business as a story possibility. In fact, the
business of doing a certain business can be a valid idea. As for the White Pages, look for people who have the same names as celebrities, or whose
names correspond to their streets. Does Jeffrey Tree get teased about living on Wood Street? These may not make full-scale articles, but can result in
sales to publications seeking brights.

3. The mall. These shopping Meccas are chock full of ideas. All you have to do is walk around and look -- and listen. What about fashion trends? You
just might spot something weird enough to become the latest fad. What about an article on how teenagers speak? Or how mothers keep -- or can't keep -- their crying children quiet. Include a list of tips, and you've got a saleable article. Keep an eye out for interesting ways retailers display
merchandise. Retail trade publications are always looking for stories about new and innovative ways to show off a store's wares. Write reviews of the
eateries in the mall's food court and try to sell them to a local newspaper. Find unusual items being sold in home furnishings stores, write a series of briefs, take some photos and try to sell them as a package to a local lifestyle magazine or a newspaper's home section. Shopping for story ideas at the mall is easy and fun.

4. Street names. How many Broadways, Main Streets and Maple Avenues are there in your city, county or state? What about the nation? Where do
developers or cities come up with street names? After whom are some of the streets in your area named?

5. House cleaners. Many real estate agents hire people to clean abandoned houses. They must find all sorts of strange -- and awful -- things. Their
experiences could make for some interesting reading. And, some stories may even come out of what was found, including antiques and collectibles.

6. High fliers. Hang out at your local municipal airport and ask about the youngest pilot or the oldest pilot; interesting or unusual aircraft; or pilots who fly in for a day trip instead of drive. Many people fly just to relieve stress and get away from the daily grind. Find out what it's like up there and how flying eliminates tension.

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Mike Sturman, a 25-year veteran journalist, has held writing and editing
positions at newspapers, magazines and a startup Web site. He also is the
owner of CONTENT ASSOCIATES (http://www.contentassociates.net), which offers writing and editing services. He believes that good writing is the missing link between success and failure for many Web site owners. Contact Mike at content@contentassociates.net

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