We here at Bibliocrunch are thrilled to feature this guest post with fabulous ideas to create a writing room that rocks from the folks over at Modernize! Taking some time to design a space to foster your creativity is important and fun. Read on and be inspired!
Creating a Writing Room that Invigorates Creativity
By Kelley Reno Walters
Award-winning novelist Thomas Mann famously lamented, “A writer is someone for whom writing is more difficult than it is for other people.” In the face of such drastic expectations of what it means to be a writer, one of the most momentous gifts you can give yourself is an inspiring space in which to compose your best works, from blogging to balladry.
Windows: Not Just for the Soul
Even if you fancy yourself the easily distracted type, having at least one window to the outside is a boon to your creative juices. The occasional outward gaze can shimmy loose a stuck word or character, and what appears beyond the walls of your private chamber might just inspire a plot twist. The benefits of natural light extend beyond being a pretty, inspirational setting, though. Exposure to sunlight boosts mental clarity, helps you sleep better (this is especially helpful if you endure the occasional all-nighter typing away!), and furthers overall happiness. If you’re already destined to suffer for your art, you’ll want to be as happy as possible at the outset.
De-Clutter and Organize
But I’m a writer, and my mind is forever cluttered with ideas. True—and all the more reason you need to keep your environment relatively spic and span. You don’t need to adopt a minimalist writing space à la Jane Austen, but you should devote your space to what makes your mind tick. Your creative haven is not your kids’ playroom, your husband’s man cave, or your home office. Limit furniture to what makes your body comfortable and your thoughts fruitful. Do be practical, though. Paint an entire wall with dry erase paint (or chalkboard paint, if you like keeping it old school) to keep notes about plot, character, and for jotting down ideas as you pace the floor. If your prose demands it, keep family trees or timelines drawn on your wall for quick and easy reference. The less time you spend trying to remember or find the little things, the more time you will have for typing up some sensational moments.
Personalize It
Whether your retreat is a custom-built loft or a shed in the backyard, make certain your space is all your own. For some, being surrounded by books—both creative and reference—is an inspiration all in its own. Even in small spaces, you can build in shelves or racks to fit your chosen decor—one of our favorite hacks here at Modernize. If art inspires you, don’t hesitate to scour flea markets, local art shows, and street festivals to dress up your den. Hang a few framed quotes from inspirational writing volumes like Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird for an innovative touch. Whatever strikes you, don’t forget about starting with a strong foundation. Color experts suggest painting your walls in colors that elicit a particular mood: blues and greens for tranquility, reds and yellows for vitality, and purples and grays for power and success.
Much like your writing itself, your writing room will likely evolve as you do, so don’t be afraid to experiment with color or white noise or low music until you find the balance that suits your vision.
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Feeling inspired! We hope so! Check out our courses over at Learn Self-Publishing Fast for some great info to get your marketing up to speed in How to Master Social Media as an Author!
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