This year, for the first time, I chose a guiding word for the year: space. But not the astronomical variety. Throughout the year, I’ve tried to do things like making my space better, both inside and out, as well as opening up more space for creativity.
In the last week or so I’ve taken a break from client projects to focus on my own creative writing projects and, in particular, making space for them. I refreshed my physical writing space, but also reflected on the types of space I need to write well.
A new space to write in
Making space for writing can relate to the physical space where writing takes place. Most often I’m writing at my work desk. Sometimes (like now) I’m on the couch with my laptop. Feeling like a change of scene, I’ve refreshed a small table near a window to set aside as my creative workspace.
Changing the orientation of the table gives me a new perspective on the room and a different view out the window. There’s lots of natural light. I’ve added a few things to live on the table, like my favourite pen and my ladybug lamp. These small changes make my writing space feel new and fresh.
I’m looking forward to writing in this space I’ve set aside for creative work. Enjoying the space I’m writing in, whether that’s a cosy corner at home, a nice library, or a green outdoor spot, can make the writing process more enjoyable as well.
The space you can’t see
I find I do my best writing when I also have enough mental space to think through the topics I’m writing about. This means not having distractions or the pressure of deadlines. It also means having space to reflect on research and consider different aspects of what I’m writing.
When I’m working on creative writing projects, I tend to prefer more mental space. Sometimes this looks like big chunks of clear time in my diary to explore an idea. Other times it involves making sure my schedule it not so full I don’t have time to think about my creative projects during the day, even if I’m not writing them.
For me, thinking is perhaps the biggest part of the work of writing. The actual production of words is relatively easy, but only after the right amount of thinking. When things get too busy, it’s harder to get the mental space I need: space to think, relax, explore and reflect.
Space in the week
There’s also the question of making space in the week for writing time. There’s plenty of advice floating around about how to create or protect regular time for writing. I haven’t yet found a writing time that has worked for me long-term. As very much not a morning person, it’s probably also a pretty safe bet I won’t be joining the 6am writing club any time soon.
What I have found is helping at the moment, however, is prioritising my creative work and being alert to opportunities for writing time. That could be blocking out a few hours between client projects. Or it could be seizing a quiet moment when I’m feeling ready to write (like now).
It’s also making sure there’s space for all the non-writing things that go into writing. For me, that includes regular exercise, lots of reading time, and plenty of time to think. Some things need scheduling (client projects, professional development, exercise). Other things work better for me with flexibility (reading, writing, pondering). Things may look different from week to week, but I’m getting better at making space for creative writing and the things that help me write well.
What space does your writing need?
Every writer is different, so I’d love to hear about what space your writing needs. You can let me know on Twitter or send me an email. If you’re still working out how space influences your creative writing, I hope my post has given you some aspects to consider. Thanks for reading!