Stories don’t require a lot of material to work well. Do not underestimate the simple power of playing host to a cast of likeable characters all in conflict with one another. Most of us feel timid in our daily lives, afraid to rock the boat—this may work in real life, but in storytelling it is suicide. The most reliable way to improve any story is to dial up the conflict between its characters. No one wants to read a story about sweet characters on the same wavelength who agree on everything. Create sparks and don’t be afraid to start a fire.