Make Your Writing Space Work For You So That You Can Get To Work
Nearly a year ago, though I think we can all agree it feels like much longer, when the COVID-19 pandemic first started in March 2020, I, along with the whole of New York, and most of the world, packed up my laptop and took the train home to begin a stint of remote working. I believed it would only last for a month, maybe two, yet I found myself into the dog days of summer STILL hunched over my laptop on my couch in a non-air conditioned room in Manhattan. It was not an ideal setup to say the least. Creating a writing space, or a working space in general is vital to a creative’s creativity and productivity.
One day, this pandemic will end, but there’s no question that it has already altered the way we work and will continue to do so. Offices will likely downsize or move to remote-only work altogether. Employees will advocate for remote work or flexible work schedules for themselves more often, now that the entire world knows they can successfully do it. In fact, companies like Spotify and Twitter have already made the announcement that employees will always be able to work from home throughout the pandemic, and after. For writers, this remote working space was something we were already used to, but there are ways to improve upon it and give your writing space an upgrade.
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First thing’s first. Do not wait six months to upgrade yourself from hunching over on the couch to setting up a proper writing space. By simply buying a proper desk and chair, I found myself ten times more productive, and more comfortable, during the Fall than I ever was throughout the Spring or Summer. It’s the little things, but they are important. This guide from the Mayo-Clinic properly explains the science of ergonomics, including correct desk chair height, proper monitor distance, and more. Additionally, think about what kind of environment you work well in. While many of us had limited options in the rooms we set our make-shift offices up in, consider if there is a room that lets in better natural light, is less inundated with the noise of traffic from the street outside, or has more privacy from roommates, partners, or children. These small decisions and changes can improve your writing space and make you more productive from the jump.
Next, get down to the nitty-gritty. What does your desk space actually look like? Is it cluttered? Does that work for you? Would you feel a bit lighter and more connected to your work if you had a leafy plant greeting you every morning? Take these questions into consideration when setting up your writing space. If clutter distracts you, it’s time to Marie Kondo your life and clean it out. If a bit of clutter makes you feel more grounded and centered, then let it be. There’s no right or wrong answer to what your personal writing space should look like, just make sure it works for you.
Another important part of your writing space is to make whatever does live on your desk important and impactful for you. Know what motivates you and what keeps you the most productive and incorporate those pieces into your space. If you need a desk calendar, add it. Do quotes and personal photos keep you on task? Tack those up on the wall. Are you able to fit the luxury of a second monitor? I envy you, but don’t deny yourself. Also, do not forget to factor in storage. Keeping your space organized, in whatever way makes sense to you, will keep you more focused and more productive. When thinking about storage space, think beyond physical drawers and shelves. Don’t neglect your computer desktop and file system. If your freelance copy and unfinished manuscripts are jumbled together, you will be by-and-far less productive than if your writing pieces are in the proper folders and if those folders are organized in the best way for you.
For all those writers not on a 9-5 work schedule, pick the schedule that works for you! If you’re a morning person and need that early morning glow to get the day started, then ensure you stick to a schedule that gets you up and moving with the sun. If you feel more productive when the sun goes down, adjust your schedule as needed. What’s important is that you are getting enough sleep, maintaining a healthy and productive schedule, and making it consistent.
If you are an extrovert by nature, remote working and writing can sometimes feel a bit isolating. Joining a writing community, like Write or Die Tribe, can help you connect with other writers, hear their feedback and insights about your work, suggestions on writing craft, writing exercises, and other tips. Plus, that connection, even if virtual for now, can make you feel a bit less alone while writing at home. If you’re having trouble finding a writing group to join, consider creating your own.
Finally, know when to leave your writing space. Walks around the Upper West Side saved my sanity in the early days of the pandemic. Weather permitting, allow yourself the grace to step away from your desk, from your office, from the writing itself and get outside to clear your head and breathe life into your lungs. In my opinion, mental wellness is the first step toward better writing, so take care of yourself when you need to and feel the sun on your skin. That will be the best and most impactful writing space of all.
