365 days of writing prompts

Ten Writing Prompts about Conflict and Motivation to figure out what drives your characters.

Welcome to day 3 of your 365 days of writing prompts. These prompts aim to guide you while you explore what drives your characters. What keeps them moving toward their goal? And to see what stands in their way.

Without conflict, motivation has nothing to push against

Here is an article on creating conflict in your stories.

This article is about a character’s motivation.

1. The Want
   What does your main character want more than anything? Why does it matter so deeply to them?
2. The Secret Fear
   Every goal has an opposing fear. What’s your character most afraid of losing or facing along the way?
3. The Choice that Costs
   Write a moment where your character must choose between two things they value. What does their decision reveal about them?
4. The Everyday Conflict
   Not all tension is life or death. Write a small, relatable disagreement that shows personality and stakes.
5. The Opponent Within
   Explore your character’s internal conflict. Delve into the battle between what they want and what they believe is right.
6. The Unexpected Obstacle
   Introduce a challenge that catches your character off guard. How do they adapt or crumble under pressure?
7. The Moral Dilemma
   Write a scene where your character’s values are tested. What line are they unwilling or too willing to cross?
8. The Power Struggle
   Show a clash of wills between two characters who both believe they’re right. Let dialogue and action reveal who wins.
9. The Breaking Point
   Push your character to their emotional or physical limit. How do they react when they’ve had enough?
10. The Reason They Fight
    End with purpose. Why does your character keep going, even when everything is against them?

Conflict isn’t just about chaos; it’s about truth. When your characters face obstacles, their deepest selves are revealed. Today, write boldly. Let tension pull your story ahead and show your readers what your characters are made of.

Feel free to share in the comments. Tell us which of the ten prompts helped you to understand the conflict in your story. Share how it helped with your character’s motivation.