Whether you’re an established professional writer or just trying to break into the industry, having your own dedicated writing space is essential for optimal creativity and productivity. Being able to feel inspired by your writing space can help prevent writer’s block, and it can give you something to look forward to every time you sit down to create.
If you already have a dedicated space, is it giving you the environment you need to truly elevate your writing?
If not, there are things you can do to optimize your space — and your creative process, as a result. Sometimes, a few simple changes can make a big difference and offer you a fresh perspective.
Let’s look at a few concrete examples of how those changes can make a significant difference, and what you can do to elevate your writing by transforming your space.
Image Source: Pexels
Transform Your Existing Space
If you don’t have the time or budget to completely renovate a writing space, don’t worry. A few upgrades and additions are often all it takes to improve creativity and inspiration. Your environment can have a direct impact on your creativity, so surround yourself with things that make you think and that spark your imagination.
One of the easiest ways to start is by upgrading the lighting in your workspace. Utilize natural lighting as often as possible by opening up your space, using window treatments that allow light to come in, or moving to a different room in your home with more windows. Natural light can boost mood, creativity, and cognitive performance. If you’re not able to increase the amount of natural light, introduce artificial light to fill the gaps.
You can also transform your space by making it more organized. Clutter is often a source of stress and can distract you from the work you want to get done. Having a clean, organized writing space is a great way to stay focused and on task so you can be more productive.
Another way to boost creativity is to add personal touches. Your writing space shouldn’t be bland and boring. Decorate it with things like:
- Personal photos
- Artwork that inspires you
- Vibrant and interesting colors
- Attractive decor
- Books and work from writers you admire
If you’re feeling stressed about your work (or lack thereof), consider bringing a few houseplants into your writing office. Not only can indoor plants improve the air quality of a room, but they can boost creativity and help you stay focused – largely thanks to their green color.
Head Somewhere New
Sometimes, a change of scenery is the best thing you can do when you want to feel inspired. Some of the world’s greatest writers lived in small towns, and there are plenty of stories and poems set in rural communities. Moving to one of those small communities can provide you with peace and quiet and can set the stage for a life of tranquility and creativity.
But, don’t let yourself fall victim to isolation. One of the “cons” of living in a small town is that things might not be as readily available or accessible as they are in a city. There also might be fewer people to get to know. But, the ones you do interact with are likely to become closer companions, and you can enjoy a greater sense of community, which can boost your mental well-being and reduce stress. Staying social is incredibly important for a writer, not only from a networking standpoint, but for your mental well-being.
Moving to a different area isn’t the solution for everyone. If you’re not considering a move but you’re feeling a little stuck, think about taking a vacation – somewhere away from common tourist traps. Visit a small town or travel somewhere on the coast where you can enjoy a more peaceful way of living for a while. Even a short trip can influence the way you think and might inspire you to change the way you write.
Establish Productive Habits
Your writing space should not only inspire you to be creative, but it should inspire you to take care of yourself and develop healthy, productive habits every day. If your space is uninspiring and unimaginative, you’re less likely to utilize it as often as you should. Things like ergonomic furniture can add comfort and make your space more inviting. Good lighting – especially at certain times of day – can help you develop a writing routine so you have something to look forward to each day.
Even if you love everything about your writing space, get in the habit of taking breaks throughout the day. Set a timer or regular reminders throughout the day so you can get up, stretch, spend some time outside, and do other things away from writing. It might seem counterproductive, but it’s one of the best ways to keep stress at bay and keep from getting burnt out.
As you can see, it doesn’t take much to transform your writing space or your perspective. Keep these ideas in mind and consider making a few changes to your space. You might be surprised by how quickly they get your creative juices flowing.
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