I’ve been writing for fun since I was twelve. I can’t even begin to count the number of stories I have started over the past twenty years. I rarely finished things because I “pantsed” these stories, starting with a small element of inspiration and going until it wouldn’t go anymore, which usually happened before I’d reach the end.

I had a problem with finishing stories. I would write myself into a corner or grow bored with the plot because I didn’t have enough conflict or goals.

I started rea...