I originally posted this back in July 2012 for my critique group’s site, but I wanted to share it here because I sometimes find myself falling off the writing wagon and need a reminder. Hopefully, I’m not the only one . . .
I think many writers relish in the idea of a secluded place to work; a long retreat, free from interruptions and time to master our craft. However, this concept never seems to end well for Stephen King’s writer characters. Before you head to a vacant mountain hotel, or a remote cabin in upstate New York, consider these work-from-home tips that won’t involve axes, poltergeists, or dead bodies.
First, Take Care of Distractions
I’m easily distracted, whether it’s something shiny or a pile of laundry. Sometimes, no matter how determined I am to get several pages written, even small things can veer me off the creative path. Working from home poses a plethora of distractions that can keep you from settling into work mode. Combat them by dealing with those things before you flip on the laptop. Wake up early and take care of that load of laundry, pile of bills, or a sink full of dishes. Schedule your chores and writing time. Perhaps designating one day to household tasks can enable you to work the rest of the week. Another distraction is the internet. Aren’t you curious about your blog stats, Twitter updates, or the latest viral Facebook video? If you don’t need internet access to write, then turn it off. What about noises? One word: Earplugs.
Get Organized
Treat yourself to a shopping spree at an office supply store. They say if you buy great workout gear, you’re more likely to get your butt to the gym. Same goes for writing. If you want that fancy pencil holder, get it. Do what you need to do to create a productive work environment. For my first book, organization was critical for me since I had 93 dead guys to keep track of. I bought a few file boxes with hanging folders and together, my label maker and I went to town. Each inmate had his own folder containing absolutely everything pertaining to him: transcripts, newspaper articles, and even critiques from my writers group when I submitted his story to them. If your work is disorganized, you may not feel motivated and driven. Get the right tools to help you.
Go To Your Room
If I had known how much I could have accomplished as a kid when my parents sent me to my room, I’d have a seven-book series by now. Today, I treasure alone time in my room where instead of plotting revenge on my sister, I actually get quality time to write. Claim your own space, whether it’s a room, a corner, or a table. Your area should also consist of only what you need to write. Don’t work at a desk where you pay bills, or do other hobbies. You need to focus on writing. My area is the guest bedroom. I found a small desk at a flea market, painted it and parked it by the window. The closet, situated behind the desk, houses my weapons of writing: reference books, research, and all those extra office supplies I stocked up on. (You can never have too many Post-Its.) Make the space inviting—but only to you. You need to be left alone, so politely inform your spouse, your kids, and your dog (who’s holding the leash in his mouth) to not bother you while you are in this special space of yours.
Break it Down
I tend to freak myself out thinking about the amount of work I have ahead of me. Nothing like a bit of fear to kill your motivation. I must remind myself to take baby steps. I tackle one task at a time, sometimes two. If your project feels like deciphering the Dead Sea Scrolls, then break it down. Work on one scroll at time—or half a scroll. Don’t put more pressure on yourself than you need to. Shoot for a certain number of pages a day to get done. Maybe it’s one chapter at time, or one article a day, or the introduction of your book proposal. You will feel more accomplished and productive if you take on only what you can handle that day. When I applied this method, I had those scrolls deciphered in no time.
Reward Yourself
What does your little heart desire? (Think small for this, okay?) Maybe it’s a new book, a nice bottle of wine, or going to the theater to see a movie. Now, choose the task or project you need to do and set a deadline. When you meet that deadline, reward yourself. I know this may sound simplistic, but it works. Yes, you could give yourself the reward anyway, but show some willpower, because trust me, that reward is way less satisfying if you truly didn’t earn it. Write your deadline and reward on a board or post it on the refrigerator to keep you motivated. Get the family involved to help support you on your journey because it’s even more rewarding when others can share it with you.
With a bit of creativity, it’s possible to be a productive writer without fleeing to deserted beach house, or a lonely cabin in the mountains.
A fellow writer recently asked me what I need to write. I need to channel Stephen King or Ivan Doig and write as often and as well as they do. But alas, that ain’t gonna happen. For now, I’ll take my little rituals and little space in our guest room and click-clack away. Notice the space heater . . . this is Colorado and The Husband and I are on opposite ends of the thermometer. I keep my room at a roasty-toasty temp and no one can tell me to turn it down. (It also keeps anyone from bugging me while up I’m here writing.) I found a table at a flea market, painted it, and wedged it in the corner. On the oppose wall, is a closet full of supplies and books.
On my crookedly hung bulletin board (I have no idea how I managed that), I have notes, a picture my niece drew, a newspaper photograph I’d like to paint someday, and various little things. (Yes, that’s me on the Big Wheels.)
These are a few things that I don’t necessarily need to have in order to write, but they make me smile: a ceramic bird I received after my father passed, my prayer flags from the Shambhala Center, and the creepy, faceless figurine called the “Angel of Hope.”
I don’t know that I really need anything other than a pencil (mechanical, please) and paper, in order to write, but this space works for me. It’s peaceful and allows me to do what I love. The rest is up to me.
