The Q Factor

As I mentioned in a previous post about NaNoWriMo, the Q factor is a semi-surprise element that the main character of a story can use to solve a problem or escape a trap, especially in the final act of the story. The term comes from James Bond movies where the character known as Q gives James some techie gifts early in the story, like a car that turns into a submarine, and then much later James uses those toys to his advantage. Even though these gifts were introduced earlier, the audience won’t likely consider them cheats because we knew James had them in his possession, but we probably forget about them by the time they’re used. Lots of stories use this technique, and once you’re aware of it, you’ll start seeing it everywhere. So often you’ll find the hero pulling out something in Act 3 that was introduced in Act 1 and maybe briefly mentioned in Act 2. Just as the hero of a story may have a Q factor, you can also create one for yourself. Then when you find yourself in the clutches of a Bond villain (or in some other kind of trouble), you can pull out your Q factor and use it to create a quick turnaround. Here are some examples of Q factors that you can develop: Money – If you have plenty of money (like savings), you can spend your way out of a wide variety of problems.A resourceful friend – Phone a friend who’s really good at devising creative solutions to difficult problems.A coach – Enlist the help of someone whoR...
Source: Steve Pavlina's Personal Development Blog - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Abundance Source Type: blogs