- Jessica Sherry
15+ Writing Ideas on Giving Characters Security "Blankets"
One of my siblings *identity withheld for obvious reasons* carried a security blanket for more years than even Linus on Charlie Brown. Eventually, the blanket simply disintegrated from overuse, breaking into shreds until disappearing altogether. Even now though, blankets are a cornerstone of this person’s décor and comfort.
My mom’s comfort thing was flashlights. She bought them in bulk. Every drawer, tabletop, purse, car, and bedside had one and she could whip one out quicker than a gun out of holster.
We all have our things, don’t we? Things we carry. Things we check. Things we feel lost without.
Phones are an obvious choice these days, but for character development, think outside the tech boxes for other types of “security blankets.” Here are some writing ideas to get you started on thinking about character comforts:

Pets—a popular but appropriate choice and, bonus, it seems like you can take them practically everywhere these days, support animal or not
Planners, address books, schedules, itineraries
Plants—I talk to mine, don’t you?
CBD Oil, gummies, teas—very trendy nowadays
Luck charms—rabbit’s feet, dreamcatchers, religious symbols, jewelry
Essential oils—sprays, candles, infused jewelry, lotions, plug-ins, diffusers
Notebooks & pens *raising my hand*
Chewing gum, Chewing tobacco, toothpicks
Wallet, purse, backpack, fanny pack, messenger bag
Favorite sweatshirt, ratty college t-shirt, bathrobe, PJs, fuzzy bunny slippers
Chocolate or any comfort foods
Music—Alexa, play a Post Malone station
Lip balm, Strawberry Chapstick, fire engine red lip stain
Umbrella—a la Father Brown
Teddy bears, dolls, puppets, ventriloquist dummy
What could your character rely on for peace of mind? And what could that thing reveal about him? Share your comforting comfort objects below! Let's brainstorm together!
For more writing prompts and ideas, check out www.coffeebrained.com