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How To Create The Perfect Writing Space

By on February 5, 2016

Finding the perfect place to write productively is so important. As writers I am sure we have all fallen foul of those two evil monsters; distraction and procrastination, and trying to write under the wrong conditions probably has a lot to do with it.

If, for example, you switch on your computer, still in bed, with the radio on it is so easy to get distracted and not focus on the task at hand. If you worked in an office you wouldn’t turn up in your pyjama’s would you? And while admittedly the flexibility and freedom of being a freelance writer is brilliant if you are not the sort that likes to don a suit, carry a briefcase and work 9-5, you should still respect what you do, take it seriously, and for goodness sake put some pants on!

You need to find a writing space that works for you, where, upon entering, your brain immediately knows it is time to settle down, focus and get into ‘work mode.’ We are not saying you need to rush out and rent an office space, or indeed, that you need a home big enough so you can dedicate one room solely for your writing. You do however need to think about how you write most productively, what you need in order to make that happen and how you can create a space where you feel relaxed and creative.

Here are some tips on how to achieve just that.

Get rid of distractions

Before you start writing you need to eliminate distractions, and we mean all of them. Whichever room you chose to work in, try to keep it as clutter free as possible. Turn off the radio. Make sure that any niggling chores are either completed, or allow them to remain on your to do list but firmly tell yourself that your writing is more important (it is!). Turn off all your social media notifications and close down your email. You only need a couple of things open to write, a window for research and a document to type into. Everything else can be shut down.

Be Comfortable

Work in a space where you can relax, at the same time you need to remember that you are here to work, not to take a nap! Avoid places like your bedroom or the living room unless you have a proper desk or table to work from. Keep the room well lit, and if it feels a little stuffy, who not open a window to let some air in? Make sure you wear something comfortable and appropriate for the temperature - the last thing you want is to be distracted by the cold. Try to treat the environment as a work environment and be professional. Sit up straight and get to it!

Have refreshments at the ready!

Whether you are a caffeine addict or just prefer drinking gallons of water or juice, make sure you have whatever you need close by. Snacks and drinks are necessary if you plan to settle down for a good writing session that lasts a few hours. If you don’t have these available and have to go out to get them, this is going to break your focus, and make it difficult for you to get back into it.

Take regular breaks

We all know how difficult it is to stare at a computer screen for hours on end, so there is nothing wrong with taking a break every now and again. If you feel yourself flagging then stop and go and make a cup of tea, or better still, get some fresh air. Taking a walk can really help get the creative juices flowing, and you never know, you might come up with a brilliant new angle, or idea for your story while you are out and about.

Creating the perfect writing space can be done using a few simple steps, and once you have yours ready, and sit down to get to work you are sure to write productively and creatively, and finish the day feeling satisfied that you have done a good job!

Bethany Cadman -contributor

Bethany Cadman -contributor

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