Finding or creating the perfect writing space can be the key to unlocking creativity and productivity. You might think that, as a writer, you can work anywhere – writing is portable, after all. But the truth is, not every space will allow you to write well. Sure, you could try to scribble down notes in your living room while your kids are playing nearby or the TV is on, but let’s be honest: you probably won’t get much done. Distractions will constantly pull your attention away from your work, and finding that perfect flow will seem impossible.
To really get into your writing, you need a space that’s convenient, comfortable, and productive (i.e. free from distractions). You should be able to write without censorship in this space. This is important because writing is an intimate process for many people. Some may feel judged or vulnerable if their laptop screen is visible to others in the environment. But ideas flow best when unhindered.
A designated writing space isn’t just necessary for writing freely, though. It’s also important for motivation and attention. Once you have a set space (or a handful of spaces), your brain will begin to associate writing with it and click into creative mode once you sit down to write.
Key questions to start
Before you go out and find your writing space, think about what you want. Consider what the space should look like, feel like, and contain. Ask yourself these questions:
- What does my ideal writing space look like?
- What does it sound like? Is it loud or quiet? Is there music in the background – which kind?
- What materials do I need to have on hand for every writing session? Are these portable or do they need to stay at home?
- Do I need the same space every day or can I switch it up?
Now that you’ve answered these questions, you probably have a good idea about what kind of writing space you need. Next, we’ll look at making space at home or in public.
Creating a space at home
The first step to creating your own writing space is to identify an area you can use regularly. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy – try the spare bedroom, the kitchen table, or a wide closet somewhere. The important thing is that it’s somewhere you can use regularly and without too much interruption (if any).
After you’ve located your space, consider your organization. To feel ready to write, do you need to set-up the space a particular way or are you comfortable if there is some clutter? For example, if your space is the extra bedroom, where you have boxes of storage against one wall, will you be able to write in peace or will you feel called to open those boxes up and sort them?
Here are some other things to think about:
- Lighting: Natural light or a desk lamp? If a window is nearby, do you want to be able to look out of it or should you face away from it to limit distractions?
- Furniture: Investing in a comfortable chair is a must. You will be spending ours in it, do your back some favors. Also think about whether you want a desk, a laptop or PC setup (or pen and paper, whatever works for you), a bookshelf, and any other embellishments.
- Resources: Sticky notes, a mood board, pen and pencils, notebooks, books, reference material, and emergency snacks all need places to go.
- Environment: Do you need noise-canceling headphones?
Once you’ve finished setting up, make sure the people around you – family, roommate, friends – know that this is your writing zone. Once you’re in it, you shouldn’t be disturbed unless there is an emergency. Many well-meaning loved ones think “I’ll just pop in for a moment to say something,” but those add up. Every time you’re interrupted, you have to spend valuable time getting back into the flow. If it’s a bother, you could also put up a sign that reads “Writing, keep out” or “Do not disturb.”
Finding spaces away from home
What if you can’t always write at home or you prefer getting time away? Some writers find it easier to write outside of the home in places that inspire them to be creative or productive. Some popular spots are coffee shops, libraries, parks, public gardens, college campuses, malls, and even museums. These places often offer just the right amount of background noise to help you focus, while still providing some level of privacy.
No matter where you end up, make sure you have a designated writing bag prepped for the occasion. This should be a bag that fits all of your writing necessities, from your laptop to your notebook. Keep everything important in here so that you’re always writing for a productive creative session.
The only downside to writing away from home is that you have to take time and energy getting out of the house, traveling to your spot, and setting up your tools before you can get anything done.
Things to keep in mind
Whether you’re at home or out and about, using your writing space routinely can be made easier by adding small signals that your brain will associate with writing. Maybe it’s having a special mug for your coffee, which you only use when it’s time to write. Or perhaps it’s carrying a pet rock with you and setting it beside your laptop before you begin. Over time, this kind of routine conditions your mind to shift into writing mode as soon as your signal appears.
You should also think about what kind of traffic you’ll run into. At home, your space should be someplace that the people you live with won’t invade. This could depend entirely on timing. For example, you wouldn’t want to use the dining table at dinner time, but you could use it after dinner when it’s been cleared. In public, prioritize a space that’s off to the side or in a corner so people won’t bump into you.
Also consider the time of day you are most creative. Are you a morning person or a night owl? What time do you feel most energetic and motivated to get things done? Try to schedule your writing sessions during these windows.
Take time to test things out
In the end, creating your writing space is about finding an environment that helps you feel focused and inspired. It can take some time, so have fun experimenting with locations. Some people enjoy hopping from place to place, while others prefer the consistency of writing in the same spot every day. Pay attention to what works best for you. Once you find it, stick to it and enjoy writing!