We whiz through life, totally focused on "What's next? What's next?" We don't pay attention, and this shows in our writing.
Take a day once a week to practise your observation skills. You'll be surprised at what you get out of the exercises. You'll discover that your life is much more interesting than you realize. :-)
Close observation will improve your writing, whether you write fiction or non-fiction.
Take yourself to a coffee shop, or your local park. Just sit quietly for ten minutes, absorbing the scene around you. When you look at people, observe how they're dressed; try to memorize each person that you see. (Imagine that you'll be asked to describe them to a police artist.)
After ten minuets, start to write. Write at least 300 words, describing the scene. Use all your senses: sight, hearing, smell, touch etc.
Observation is hard work, but it's worth it. Take observation breaks during the day. Here's how. Wherever you are, look around for half a minute, then jot down what you've seen. Keep your notes.
Paying attention in this way will make you more creative. Have an "observation" day once a week.
