Moment Of Weakness

The moment of weakness can be the most pivotal point in our characters' lives. It is that place of despair, of hopelessness. It is when they question the most core principles they have always held. It is the moment when they need something new to grasp onto, even if it is something they would never have done before.

People may decide they need to stop being so impatient. They may decide they need to stop biding their time. They may think that maybe taking that first drink isn't that big a deal. They may decide that maybe their ex wasn't that big of a bitch after all.

Sometimes, people come up with these decisions on their own, but often it is with the help of another that they come to these conclusions. People who are exceptionally skilled at manipulating people are well aware of the value of a moment of weakness. Sometimes they are aware when the opportunity presents itself, so they take advantage of a person they find in a moment of weakness. But the most haunting stories are when the manipulator orchestrates the events that cause the character to reach that level of hopelessness, all in order to take advantage of them.

Of course, as the writer, it may take a good deal of mental energy to orchestrate the plan yourself and to have it all make sense, but if you can pull it off, then congratulations.