From having enough storage for your notepads and pens to boosting your mood with a houseplant or two, here are some top tips for sprucing up your writing space.
And it doesn’t have to cost a thing!
Limit distractions:
The latest episode of your Netflix binge may be calling, but it’s important to distance yourself from distractions, even if it’s just for a set period of time.
Not everyone has the luxury of a dedicated office space at home. The good news is – you don’t need a huge desk, the latest stationery, or a bookshelf-lined room to get that word count up. What you do need, however, is a way to focus in the space you have.
Switch off the tv, and put on some noise-cancelling headphones if outside distractions are disrupting your writing process.
Some writers have writing playlists. I’m more of a ‘sit alone with my thoughts’ kind of person. But do whatever works for you.
Let there be light:
Natural light in office spaces is said to improve worker satisfaction and productivity. Indirect light is best, and having light sources that mimic natural light is preferable.
In saying this, you don’t want glare on your screen putting unnecessary strain on your eyes. Avoid cool fluorescent bulbs that emit harsh lighting and opt for LED instead.
Consider your space and furniture orientation, and whether you’re using a screen or paper.
Adjustable desk lamps are a practical and affordable solution, as you can move them around depending on your work. You ideally want your lamp placed so shadows don’t streak across your work, and so it doesn’t reflect on the computer screen.
Storage and organisation:
A clean and inviting desk is a must-have for writers (at least, it is for me).
I find that having a blank canvas helps to avoid distracting thoughts (see point #1) like ‘I really should clean that’, and allows me to focus on the task at hand.
When you’re only given snippets in a day (or in your busy 9-5 working week) for writing sprints, it’s especially important.
So, how does one keep an organised WFH office or writing space?
- Keep your desk clutter-free by utilising wall space (whiteboards, corkboards etc)
- Cheap and cheerful magazine files and trays are great for those loose bits of paper and notepads
- Save receipts electronically – gone are the days of faded receipts stashed in old shoe boxes. There are plenty of free apps available to store your receipts for easy reference come tax time. It also means less desk clutter!
- If you’ve seen my Insta posts on getting back to school-ready, you’ll know I’m a big fan of labels. Whether it’s DIY, personalised and pretty, or the trusty Sharpie, a clear labelling system makes for good organisation
- And, finally, be prepared with your devices and electronics. This is important if you’re travelling, utilising a co-working space, or hot desking. Ensure your laptop is charged and cables in order, so you don’t lose any precious drafting or editing time.
Going green:
Many studies show that simply looking at a plant or being in an environment with green plants can help to reduce stress and boost creativity.
Not exactly a green thumb? Here are great low-maintenance options to liven up any office.
- Hanging air plants – they just need a spritz of water now and then
- Peace Lily – a beautiful, indoor flowering plant
- Snake plant – another low-maintenance option with a bit of personality
- Cactus – perfect to pop on a windowsill
- DIY terrarium – these mini-ecosystems may take a little planning to set up, but are mostly self-sufficient in terms of upkeep aside from a little watering.
While these handy office storage and organisation tips may be useful in setting up your writing space, remember that you don’t have to be behind the desk to be creating.
I prefer to edit manuscript drafts using pen and paper, and this can often happen on the knee while watching kids sports on the weekend.
Writers’ block? No problem. I take my dog for a walk and see if I can untangle those plot holes with the help of a little fresh air.
The creative process is much more complex than having a streamlined filing system, perfectly sunlit room, or a monogrammed notebook.
In saying that, if a strategically placed plant here or energy-efficient lamp there makes your home office (or writing nook) that little bit more comfortable and inspiring, go for it!
Where do you write? #whereIwrite #Auswrites #amwriting #middlegradefiction