Internal conflict is when a character faces struggles within themselves. It can really help make characters more interesting, but it can also be tricky to write. Here are some common issues writers face with internal conflict and some ways to fix them:

Difficulties in Showing Internal Conflict

1. Lack of Clarity:

   • Sometimes, it’s not clear what a character is struggling with. This confusion can make it hard for readers to connect with the character.

2. Too Much Explanation:

   • Writers often use too much explanation to show a character’s inner problems. This can make the story feel heavy and slow, which might bore readers.

3. Slow Pacing:

   • Internal conflicts can slow down the story. If they aren't balanced with outside challenges, the story can feel like it's not moving forward, which can lose the reader's interest.

4. Unresolved Conflicts:

   • If a character's internal struggles aren’t solved by the end of the story, readers might feel unhappy. This is especially true if the conflict seems important for the character's growth.

5. Stereotypical Tropes:

   • Writers might fall into clichés, where the character's internal struggles feel predictable. This can make the character seem less interesting.

Solutions for Better Internal Conflict

1. Clarifying Character Goals:

   • Make sure your character has clear dreams and fears. This helps readers understand what the character is going through. Adding key moments where the character faces their fears can make this clearer.

2. Show, Don’t Tell:

   • Instead of just explaining the character’s struggles, show them through what the character does or says. Using symbols or imagery can add depth to the character’s feelings without needing long explanations.

3. Balance Internal and External Conflicts:

   • Mix internal conflicts with outside challenges to create excitement. For example, if a character feels self-doubt, put them in a tough situation that pushes them to face this fear. This keeps the story moving and engaging.

4. Create Resolutions with Depth:

   • Make sure the way internal conflicts are resolved connects closely to the character's journey. Changes in the character should show up in their actions or decisions during important moments, giving readers a satisfying ending.

5. Subvert Expectations:

   • Try to avoid predictable portrayals by looking into unique internal struggles. Challenge typical story patterns and introduce surprising outcomes that show the complex nature of human feelings and choices.

In short, internal conflict can make characters more complex and relatable, but it needs to be handled with care. By focusing on clarity, balance, and creativity, writers can turn potential problems into opportunities for richer storytelling. This can take your writing to the next level!