the craft. creating a space that inspires.

Sometimes I think we underestimate the importance of space in our writing process. Writing is a craft all about the brain. Our imaginations, our curiosity, so much of the work lives in our heads. And I don’t know about you, but what surrounds me impacts my ability to think, greatly. It’s a little difficult to build worlds or follow our research and discovery when we’re hunched over a laptop in an uncomfortable space. Where you write can definitely impact your final product.

I know that we’re all working with different life situations, but this week, I wanted to talk a little bit about some of my go-tos when it comes to creating a space where my writing can thrive.

First thing’s first. Make a space. I don’t know how people can write from their couch all the time. I do it sometimes when I need a break from my desk. But it’s always been important for me to have a designated space to work. Now, we all have varying home lives, but there are some great space saving options when it comes to desks. I recently downsized and no longer have a designated office, but I set up shop in my dining area with a much more modest desk. Even a lap desk can help if you are writing from the couch. But there is something about having a desk that tricks my brain into thinking that writing is serious work and helps with my productivity.

Don’t skimp on the chair. Now, I am fortunate enough that my job purchased the office chair that I work from. My “writing space” also doubles as my “job that pays the bills'' space.” However, even if you’re working on a budget, make sure that you grab a chair that’s actually made for sitting. We spend so much time sitting, that you want to ensure that you have something ergonomically sound as well. Cheat code: places like Marshalls, HomeGoods, and TJ Maxx sometimes have cute and budget-friendly options.

Adding some décor. On my desk I have a Rae Dunn pen holder that says “Write.” Simple and one of my favorite things I have in my space. I also bought a bright floral mouse pad. I’ll also put a few of my favorite books on the desk. What greater inspiration than looking at folks who actually finished their books all day. LOL. Sometimes you need those small pieces of motivation.

I’ve also started utilizing my essential oils, incense, and candles a lot more. It really sets the mood for me. I may have been lackadaisical about it before, but now, I make it a priority to get those things going before I start a writing session. Certain scents like eucalyptus, lemongrass, and tea tree seem to help me focus.

Visuals. This may seem odd for those of us who prefer the written word. But, having visual things around me is also helpful. I have a cork board with all types of sayings, quotes, photographs, cards, and textures that I feel drawn to. When I’m sitting around waiting for the inspiration to hit in front of me, it helps to have some pretty things to view.

Your tools. I’ll chat more about some of the things I utilize to organize my writing life. But if you’re planning and creating, it helps to have those things at an arm’s reach. Maybe a whiteboard for all those characters. Or if you’re like me, some wall space for post-it notes. You want to ensure that you can contain all your writing tools in one area or space.

You all know by now that I love to set the mood with some music. It has single-handedly been one of the best things that I’ve added to my writing practice. There is something about it that helps me focus and also helps me get into the mind state of what I’m writing. It may be a movie soundtrack with just instrumentals. Other times, it’s full on albums that give me the vibes I’m looking for. I tend to make playlists for novel projects. It can be distracting for some, even for me at times, but for the most part, you will catch me with some tunes going in my writing space.

Lastly, try to keep it neat. When you are in the throes of writing, there might be papers and pens everywhere. But make sure that when you’re done, you tidy up. Sitting down to a clean space when you want to start a session is imperative. A cluttered desk will only lead to a cluttered mind in my humble opinion.

And ultimately, if you can’t create a great environment in your own home to write, by golly find that favorite café that you love so much. Back in Philly, Uncle Bobbies had such a great vibe. Surrounded by books and other creative people. It felt nice to be able to go there from time to time and make progress on word count. I’m still looking for that type of place here in LA. Maybe I’ll be able to create it.

In either case, I hope you find ways to make your writing space a place where you want to be. Sometimes you’ll sit down and be overflowing with ideas. Other times, you might just be looking at the pretty things you’ve surrounded yourself with. But that’s writing, right?