Writing tip: What is a good place to write?
Dear Writers for a Reason,
A little while ago I gave you a writing tip that suggested you choose a regular time and place for your writing.
I was talking to a writer recently about this – and she asked why. Good question!
Most of us probably have our Quiet Times with the Lord in the same place at the same time every day.
Why does this work well?
Well, our brains are great at being able to ignore familiar noises and scenes, so we can concentrate better on the task at hand. So if we want to concentrate on prayer, and on God’s word, the fewer distractions, the better. It really does help if we are in the same place at the same time. All the familiar sights and sounds wash over us, and we can more easily concentrate on the Lord, and listening to Him.
It’s the same with our writing. If we want to get into the flow, the best thing we can do is find a place that is so familiar that the surroundings do not detract us. If we’re used to writing with the washing machine going, we won’t notice it. If we’re used to noise from the road, we won’t notice it. If we are used to someone clattering pots, we won’t even notice that.
This regular space doesn’t have to be a desk – make it your own space where you feel comfortable and at peace with your story. Apparently Mark Twain wrote in bed!
Perhaps a particular spot at the kitchen table is the best place for you. You might be fortunate enough to have a proper desk that no one else uses, in a dedicated study! But don’t worry if you don’t – find the best place that works for you.
Sometimes you might have to be creative. I was talking to a friend recently who had decided to take her writing out to a coffee shop once a week. It’s not easy for her to carve out a time and a place where she can be undisturbed at home, as she has four children, two dogs, a cat, and a husband who works at home!
I trust that you, too, will be able to come up with a good place to write, even if it’s round your mum’s, or in the library, or …. well, you choose!
After all, what you are doing is important. Don’t let anything put you off.
Blessings,
Janet