When I let the character tell the story, he reveals more about himself. Stuff not shown earlier or in the preparation of the story material. For me, this makes the character alive, not bland information on a sheet of paper or in a form or chart. The character is more human because he or she has the opportunity to do something unexpected. If it surprises me, it will surprise the reader and make the story more dynamic. — Henry McLaughlin
We can spend hours outlining backstories, defining personality traits, deciding likes and dislikes, and defining weird quirks. Is that a good investment of our time, or is there a better approach?
The Ever-Changing Character Mind
In each chapter, characters learn something that changes who they are and what they want. Arbitrarily defining a character is next to impossible because every chapter should begin with a reformed character facing unanticipated challenges with unpredictable reactions. The only way for the scene to feel “real” is to let your character act and react naturally to each obstacle as it comes.
When you free your characters to act and react naturally, they reveal aspects of themselves that will be different from your initial planning. This organic development makes them feel more human, less predictable, and ultimately, more engaging for readers.
Let the Unexpected Happen
A character chart may identify your protagonist John as brave, but that’s only in the fearful moment of decision when that bravery is tested. Does he charge forward, hesitate, or look for a better way? When might he be cowardly? If you, as the writer, are surprised by his reaction, your readers will be too. These unplanned moments create depth and authenticity.
Consider the detective Susan who is investigating a murder. She is defined as methodical and emotionally detached, but what if a situation reminds her of a personal trauma? Will she break protocol, make a rash decision, or struggle with self-doubt? Such surprises make her feel real, adding layers beyond what was originally imagined.
Immerse Yourself in the Character’s Mindset
One of the most exciting parts of writing is stepping into the shoes of someone vastly different from you. Rather than dictating characters’ actions, you get to experience the world as they do, making choices different from what you would, and for good reason, based on their perspective, not yours.
If your protagonist is a warrior, how does he feel after a battle? Does he relish the fight, or is he haunted by what he’s done? If he’s a con artist, does he justify his actions, or does guilt creep in?
By immersing yourself in your characters’ emotions, you allow them to tell you who they are rather than forcing them into pre-planned roles.
Minimize Character Development
Understand what drives your characters, but not so much that you stifle their change from one chapter to the next chapter’s challenges.
A character sheet should merely be a starting point, not a mold that forces characters into strange, unnatural reactions. Invest time in understanding what makes your characters unique—their motivations, their fears, their moral boundaries. But here’s the crucial part: Be willing to adjust as they grow.
Ask yourself:
- What are my characters’ deepest fears, and how might they appear unexpectedly?
- What situation would challenge their beliefs, perhaps leading them to do what they otherwise never think of doing?
- How do they respond under extreme stress? How would it make sense for them to react differently?
- What is one trait they don’t realize they have but will make perfect sense to the reader?
Characters, like real people, evolve through experience. While it’s helpful to map out their history and personality, don’t be afraid to let them stray from the plan. That’s where the magic happens.
Enjoy the Adventure
Storytelling is about discovery. Let your characters lead you down unexpected paths. If they surprise you, they’ll surprise your readers too. And that’s what makes a story truly unforgettable.
For a practical guide to storytelling, check out Storytelling at Its Best
