Slowly Getting The Hang Of This

I'm slowly getting back into the habit of writing every day. Here are a few things that I thought about to help me establish and maintain my new writing practice. I swore to myself many times that I would start writing regularly, and finally, I think that is happening to me. I want to publish at least one story daily and see what happens.

1. Choose the Right Location

First, I needed to find a space to work without interruptions. This space could be a dedicated home office, a quiet corner of our apartment, or even a local library or café. I try to maintain a calm space in the apartment, even if that means using headphones sometimes. Distractions will occur, but I try to alleviate them as much as possible. I am not a huge TV fan anymore, which rarely bothers me, but I use the headphones I mentioned earlier when Hal watches something.

I try to ensure my workspace is well-lit. Natural light is ideal, but I use a good desk lamp to reduce eye strain if that's impossible. My recliner is next to two large windows, so I get plenty of natural light during the day. An overhead ceiling fan light provides illumination at night. I keep my MacBook nearby for those times when inspiration suddenly strikes.

2. Organize My Space

I try to keep my writing area tidy. A clutter-free space can help me focus better. Honestly, this is a tool that I need to work on more. I cannot comfortably reach my iMac because of the junk that has accumulated around it, which is entirely my fault. Because of the insane clutter at my desk, I write in the recliner until I motivate myself to declutter my desk.

I try to keep all my writing tools within reach, including my computer, notebooks, pens, and any necessary reference materials. These items are in the space around the recliner, so I don't have to search for them while writing.

3. Minimize Distractions

To avoid interruptions, I should turn off my phone and computer notifications. I will also consider using apps that block distracting websites during my writing time. Unfortunately, I haven't done this, but I try to keep those distractions minimal.

• Sound Control: I use noise-canceling headphones or play background music if it helps me concentrate. Some people find white noise or instrumental music particularly helpful. I feel lost without my headphones. I have several pairs that I can use, so there is always one or more charged up when I need them. I have earbuds and over-the-ear headphones at my disposal to stay in my zone as I write.

4. Personalize My Space

Invest in a good chair and desk that support good posture. Comfort is critical to maintaining long writing sessions. A recliner isn't the ideal place to write, but I seldom spend long periods writing anyway. My inspiration comes in short, energetic bursts instead.

• Inspiration: I would love to surround myself with things that inspire me, such as artwork, quotes, or photos that motivate me to write, but that won't happen until I can get back to my desk and write there more often.

5. Set the Mood

Temperature is essential to ensure my workspace isn't too hot or cold, as it can be distracting. This is an issue during the winter because apartment windows aren't the best-insulated windows in the world.

Some writers find that certain scents, like lavender or eucalyptus, help them relax and focus. I want to do this but don't want to saturate the living room with those fragrances. I survive without those accouterments until my desk is habitable again.

6. Establish a Routine

• Consistent Schedule: I want to write at the same time every day to help train my brain to be ready to write at that time. I am still deciding what time of the day or night it will be; sometimes, I am more energetic during the day and completely exhausted at night. At other times, insomnia will keep me up all night.
• Pre-Writing Rituals: I want to develop a routine that signals my brain that it's time to write. This routine could be meditating, reviewing my notes, or responding to inspiration when it strikes unexpectedly.

7. Ergonomics

• Proper Setup: To avoid neck strain, ensure the computer screen is at eye level. The chair should support the lower back, and your feet should rest flat on the floor.
• Breaks: I take regular breaks to stretch and move around to prevent fatigue and keep my mind fresh.

8. Accessibility

• Easy Access: Keep frequently used items, such as reference books, notes, and writing tools, within easy reach to avoid interrupting my flow.
• Digital Organization: Organize your digital files and folders to quickly find my needs without wasting time.

Creating a conducive writing environment is about finding what works best for you and making your space as comfortable and distraction-free as possible. Do you have any specific challenges with your current writing setup?