Traditionally, writers have always had the flexibility of being able to work creatively in their own personal space. Now, they are joined by almost 4 million Americans who choose to work from home for at least some of the working week. Writing doesn’t necessarily require all the same equipment and connections as the more traditional office jobs that are being undertaken at home. In fact, with a good functional writer’s laptop, it’s possible to research and write anywhere in the house, or even when you are out and about. However, as many home workers have discovered, a dedicated space in which to concentrate removes frustrating distractions, improves creative flow and leads to greater productivity.
Adding Extra Room
Since many writers are happy to make notes at the kitchen table, or research an article while traveling on the train, it may seem extravagant to create a whole separate room just for writing. However, if you struggle to concentrate while the TV is on, or friends keep dropping by, using any available funds to extend your home could prove to be well worth the investment. With so many more employees and freelancers choosing to telecommute, an extension that houses a dedicated and spacious home office with a good wifi connection can significantly increase the desirability of a property.
Avoiding Distraction
If you live in an open plan apartment, finding any place where you can remove yourself from the central living area is important. Being able to close the door on distracting clutter and noise will help you concentrate, even if this simply means setting up a small desk in the corner of a bedroom. After every interruption, it can take 25 minutes for the mind to refocus and return to the original task. Hampering thought processes in this way can lead to reduced productivity and, especially when rushing to complete a deadline, increased irritation and stress. By also letting your family and friends know when you are working, or planning your schedule around quieter times of the day, you can limit disruption and allow the creativity to flow.
Designing a Comfortable Space
Once you have designated a room or space for writing, it still needs to be made comfortable and inviting if you are to spend any length of time there. Look out for ergonomic furniture designed for comfort and practicality. By keeping the space a pleasant ambient temperature and ensuring that there is adequate task lighting for reading, your mind and imagination can work freely without being troubled by physical inconveniences. It’s important not to let distracting clutter build up, but adding a few objects that spark inspiration, or a few favorite books for reference, can make your workspace more appealing.
As a dedicated writer it is possible to write anywhere and, when you are on a deadline or have an inspiring idea on the train, it often becomes necessary. However, a quiet dedicated space is certainly more conducive to creative writing. Whether it’s a purpose built office or a quiet well lit corner of a bedroom, a space where you can close the door on distractions will make you more productive and so enhance your writing.
