Mystery Shopping to Make Me a Better Writer « Writing Exercises

Mystery Shopping to Make Me a Better Writer

Posted on April 21st, 2010 jean 4 comments

Yes, that’s what I said. I am mystery shopping as a way to make me a better writer. (Because having two paying jobs isn’t enough to keep me insanely overloaded that I am doing some mystery shopping as well.) Shhh! Don’t blow my cover.

The irony is that I HATE to shop and I am not always the most observant gal on the block. Only recently did I realize that 99.9% of the female population plucks their eyebrows. I’m serious. I didn’t even notice my front teeth are slightly at a tilt until my mother mentioned it to me–last year.

So why the heck am I mystery shopping? Well, I can’t resist a challenge. I am always looking for new adventures. Plus, I am such a reluctant shopper and get so easily turned off shopping, stores, over-eager/apathetic employees and the way they make me feel that I ROCK at getting that whole shopping experience vibe thing companies are looking for in their mystery shoppers.

But what it all really comes down to is that I am intuitive and I don’t always see those details. Yet, every time I have a mystery shopping job, I am given a little lesson in observation before I go out. I am given a list of things to look for. And so, when I am out, it is like I am flexing that muscle and collecting sensory details that I normally overlook.

And guess where I am putting all those little observed details like gum wrappers on the floor, eye rolls, and homemade retail signs? That’s right, I’m putting them in my writer’s arsenal.
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4 responses to “Mystery Shopping to Make Me a Better Writer”
- Cat Woods April 21st, 2010 at 12:41
  
  We are soul sisters! Unobservant in the real world. It drives my DH crazy. I also hate to shop. But I can see how having a list of things makes you better at eyeing up the scene.
  
  When I am determined to pay attention for the next what if scenario or character, I am far better at noticing my surroundings.
  
  Good luck in getting the great-shop vibe!
- Jemi Fraser April 21st, 2010 at 18:08
  
  I match too I hate shopping and tend to totally and completely ignore the details. I’m all about the big picture. Drives my family crazy too.
- TK Richardson April 21st, 2010 at 18:23
  
  Okay, ladies I think we are related because I hate to shop, too. As far as real world details, well I lack in that area, too. My brother saw me while we were out and he waved (like a maniac), but did I see him? No. *sigh* It drives my family crazy, too.
- jean April 21st, 2010 at 19:31
  
  I love it! What a wonderful lot of soul sisters!
  
  My husband says I get a certain look on my face when I ‘check out to go visit some other world.’ I’m okay with that. However, I wish I didn’t inadvertently look grumpy when I concentrate.
  
  Here’s to not shopping! Or, er, shopping for money and improving one’s writing skills.
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Welcome to my Website and Blog

I am an aspiring fiction writer (children's, women's and commercial) and a represented nonfiction writer. I am also a member, critiquer and site moderator over on AgentQueryConnect.com. Thanks for stopping by. Feel free to jump in the conversation and leave your thoughts in the comment section.

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