For one productive (and very blissful!) week in October, I had the pleasure of staying at Varuna The Writers’ House in Katoomba, Blue Mountains.
This was part of a Residency Callout Program for authors to work on their project of choice.
I was in the company of some fantastic writers from right across Australia, all at various stages of their careers.
For me, the week-long stay not only saw me knock out a decent word count on a brand-new magical middle-grade manuscript but generally work on my craft, find inspiration, step away from my marketing role and home commitments for a short while, and really ‘fill my cup’.
On our final night, I mentioned to the other writers that leaving my day job and family for a week was ‘a bit selfish’ but they insisted I reframe it as ‘being kind’ to myself. Here are my top thoughts on why writing retreats/residences are beneficial for writers.
Top 5 reasons why you should go on a writing retreat or residency
- Creative and safe space: That feeling of ‘writing solo’ in your own, quiet study while knowing there are other creatives nearby doing the same makes for a motivational yet ‘unrushed’ experience.
- Reduce distractions: I stayed connected on socials, because that’s part of my process, but not having the usual distractions of home, family, day job etc. was beneficial to my productivity.
- Make connections / find support: I love that at Varuna this is done at your own pace. You can choose to make connections or take part in a one-on-one consult, but none are mandatory.
- Find inspiration: whether it be at your desk or, in my case, exploring the nearby walking trails and mountains. If I ever hit writer’s block, I could simply step away to the nearby Katoomba Cascades, take in the views of ‘The Three Sisters’ mountains from Echo Point Lookout, or wander the Varuna gardens.
- Time to write: having your whole day freed up to focus on writing is truly a rare thing! Write. Drink coffee. Write. Drink tea. Read. Write some more. It’s a very nice feeling.
I will add that I’m very fortunate to be able to take a week off work and day-to-day family life/kids. This was a self-funded exercise and I plan to make it a yearly activity (if I can).
Get social – an introduction to Threads, plus follow me on Instagram or connect on LinkedIn
You will find me sharing my journey to publication on Instagram, and my marketing highlights on LinkedIn. I’ve also jumped on the Threads bandwagon to see what all the fuss is about.
What I write: emerging middle-grade Aussie voice, bringing magic to the everyday
I write magical middle-grade manuscripts (for readers aged 9-12 years) set in uniquely Australian landscapes. Full of mystery, exploring friendships and family groups, sprinkles of Aussie folklore, and a bit of ‘Round the Twist’ whimsy, my stories will entertain, educate, and enchant young readers.
Jayne McIntyre Author 