I practice lots of different ways.. getting an idea in my head by drawing with a pen on paper.. talking to my self etc. has helped me get into the motion. Watching lots of free motion demos on youtube inspired me to try different things..
I do not do as well with straight lines or trying to follow a set pattern. My favorite is a vine with flowers and leaves.
"Yes you can quilt "(I think) on Youtube shows her method of meandering. She uses words to keep her fills and lines going in a flow. I will try to find a link to her site.
Nichole Webb Rivera. Nichole has music playing and I find that helps to make the stitches smooth