Creating a Productive Writing Environment: 5 Factors to Consider
We have all experienced the frustration of not being able to write... or even think in different places or time of day. It's extremely irritating trying to get work done when there is noise around you, whether its people or animals or even the sound of vehicles. I even have trouble (being the introvert that I am) when people are near me. That's why it is so important to find or create a place you can go to get shit done.
Personally, before I had a designated office, I would simply let myself not write. If you are a writer, I'm sure you can understand how difficult that was for me. I constantly had ideas, script, and dialogue running through my mind, but I wasn't able to concentrate enough to express my thoughts on the page.
Some people say that if you are a "real writer" you can write anytime, anywhere. I used to think that because I couldn't do this, I wasn't a writer, not really. Thankfully, I grew out of this naive mindset and continued writing, as much as I could. here are a few things that I've learned along the way about creating an effective and productive writing environment:
Location
The first thing you want to do is figure out where you want to write and, more importantly, where you would be most productive. This could really be anywhere, whether it's your office, your living room, a coffee shop or a local book store. Some people find it most productive to go to the park and write while they people watch, whereas others try to avoid people at all costs...like me. Wherever you choose, I suggest sticking to that place as much as possible. Often, if you write in one location, after a while, it'll be like flipping on a switch when you go there. You creative juices will start flowing without much effort at all.
My husband and I recently moved into a three bedroom townhouse, offering us plenty of space to have our own offices to do with what we chose. My hubby could see that I was struggling with not being able to write even though I wanted to, so as soon as he could, he went out and bought me a desk from Ikea and put it together himself. I couldn't be more pleased and grateful. I have spent at least a little time in my office everyday since then (usually a few hours).
Time
The time in which you are able to write can sometimes be a little difficult to balance between your sleep schedule and work/school/kids. You need to figure out what time of day you are most productive and creative as well as when you can physically write. You may get most of your inspiration in the afternoon but don't get home from work until late evening. Luckily, if you stick to your location and try to create a routine, often times you can develop alternative times that work just as well.
For me, I'm a night owl, through and through. I tend to stay up until 2 or 3 in the morning. I am lucky enough to have a day job in which I work until midnight, so when I get home I can head straight for my office and get to writing.
Lighting
Most writers spend hours and hours staring at a computer screen, never taking into account the lighting around them. This is especially important if you wear glasses. The glare on your glasses from overhead lighting or even a bright computer screen can cause you to strain your eyes, often causing headaches or migraines. Nothing halts creativity like a throbbing head. If you notice that you consistently have to stop writing because of the pain, I suggest making some changes.
I always write in a notebook first (yes, with a pen and paper) and often like to have my overhead light on so I don't have trouble seeing what I am writing. However, when I type everything on the computer, as I am now, I usually do it at night, with just my floor lamp on giving off a soft yellow light. My advice, play around with different lighting to find what you are most comfortable with. Trust me, it will make a world of difference!
Messiness (or not)
If you opt for a home office, then it is up to you to figure out the best creative environment for you. While some people find it hard to work while there is a single thing out of place, others bask in the mess, claiming it helps their creative process.
This may sound odd, but I am a little of both. While I am actually writing, I usually have the entire contents of my office splayed out on my desk with barely any room to move. There's notebooks, pens, pencils, markers, sticky notes, my bullet journal, my laptop, my water bottle and usually some snacks, all over the place. However, when I am finished for the night, I always put everything back where it belongs. I wasn't aware, for a very long time, how nice it feels walking into a clean office every day. It's very refreshing.
Clothing
I know, you're thinking "what the heck does clothing have to do with writing?". You are right. Most people don't usually think about clothes when they are writing. I cannot stress enough, however, the importance of being comfortable while you write. It helps the creative mind flourish. Don't get me wrong, if your favorite writing spot is Barnes and Noble, I don't suggest showing up in pajamas or a robe. Just try to wear something loose and comfy. Let your hair down.
Having a home office and no kids, I can literally wear whatever I want. Sweatpants and camisoles for the win!
These are some of the main things I look at when finding what works for my creative process. What does your writing environment look like and how well is it working for you? I'd love to know!
I hope you enjoyed. Thanks for reading! If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me! Be sure to follow me on Twitter, Instagram, Tumbler, or Pinterest @StephanieNBolla!
Bonus: My Office, including my cat, Hodor. Yes. I know what you are thinking. His name is really Hodor. I have had him for four years now, and I couldn't look at him for a week without crying after Hold the Door.
