Have you ever sat down to write only to be distracted by either background noise, or social media, or you just couldn’t get comfortable? You may not have been in one of the best places to write.
It’s important to have a place where you can write freely and without distractions. Here are some ideas to help with your writing!
Why you need somewhere great to write
Having a place to write and a writing routine is important for the creation process. It needs to be free of distractions and as a result, can help you get in the writing mood.
Virginia Woolf famously wrote that “A woman must have money and a room of her own if she is to write fiction."
While some writers like to have one dedicated writing space for their writing sessions, others may find it liberating to write from different places. Because sometimes, having one dedicated space may be limiting.
Identifying what type of space you like to write in can help you find the perfect place or places for you to write from.
Why does your writing environment matter?
Studies have shown that your environment can impact your creativity. Having a peaceful, distraction-free place to write can help you be productive, whether you are a full-time blogger or a first-time author.
Writers often overlook having a good place to write, but it can be as important as having an outline.
Our brains often associate certain areas with certain activities so going to a place where you write can put you in the right headspace to start typing.
12 best places to write
The best places to write are where you feel comfortable, motivated, and productive. Looking for ideas for new places to write? Here are some inspiring options!
1. On the couch
If you spend a few hours on your computer typing away, you might as well be comfortable doing it!
Writing from the comfort of your home is great. And you can cuddle up under a blanket and eat your favorite snacks while being in your PJs.
2. In your home office
Another great place to write is in your home office if you have one. Like writing on the couch, you don’t need to dress up or even shower when you’re writing from your home office.
You can even create a little writing cottage in your backyard if you have the room and means. Or just simply put your guest room to good use with a simple desk and chair.
The benefit of working from a home office is that you can close the door and let your loved ones know you’re working and not to be disturbed.
3. At a bookstore
A bookstore can be another good place to write if you’re looking for a good ambiance and like to write surrounded by books. Many bookstores also have cafes inside them, with free WiFi.
A bookstore is also a good place to check out the latest bestsellers and get inspiration for your own writing.
4. In a café
Writers have flocked to coffee shops for centuries. Ernest Hemingway was famously a big fan of writing in cafés. The noise and background chatter can help add to the ambiance.
In addition, a café has the bonus of fueling your caffeine habit and has lots of tasty snacks to keep you energized.
So look for a coffee shop in your area that lets people use laptops or take a notebook with you and write with a pen and paper!
5. At the library
Another one of the best places to write is at the library. What writer doesn’t want to be surrounded by books? If you are writing a book that requires a lot of research, you’ll have lots of resources.
Libraries are also free, although you’ll have to go elsewhere to eat lunch or have a coffee. And some writers love the quiet solitude of a library. Many libraries even offer study rooms for extra quietness!
6. In the metro or bus
Have a long commute to work? If you take public transport to work, why not take advantage of the time by writing on your way to work?
You don’t have to bring your computer, but can write in a notebook, on a tablet, or even just jot down ideas for a book plot on your phone.
7. In a park
Being in nature is not only great for your mental health but also a great place to write. So consider working in a park to get some work done and breathe in some fresh air.
Bring a chair or blanket to make yourself comfortable. You can even consider bringing a picnic basket and having your lunch outside as well.
8. At a museum
If you’re searching for one of the best places to write for you, why not check out your local museums? Sitting on a bench near your favorite painting may inspire you.
In addition, it could give you the break needed to get a fresh perspective on a particular chapter.
Check out the local museums near you to see if you can get a discount as a local or if they have free days. Or consider buying an annual membership so you can enjoy some writing time in peace any time of the year.
9. At the beach
If you like to spend time at the beach, why not bring your writing tools as well? Just make sure to include some sunscreen!
Writing by the beach can be inspiring, especially with the sound of the waves in the background.
10. By the pool
Another place to spend time writing is by the pool. You can get some fresh air and be outside while still working on your novel or short story.
Plus pool lounge chairs are very comfortable and can help you relax as you write.
11. At a coworking space
A coworking space offers similar resources as an office but is open to anyone. While some ask you to pay by the month, some are open to letting you work and pay by the hour.
Spending time in a coworking space is a great option for freelance writers and other creatives who need a distraction-free space to write and don’t have their own space at home.
12. On a long flight
Another great place to write is when you have a long flight. Many airlines offer free WiFi and charging ports, especially for long-haul flights.
If you’re flying across the country to visit relatives or going on vacation, instead of watching another movie, use those hours to write instead.
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You can find somewhere inspiring to write!
Whether you like being surrounded by nature, want to take advantage of a long-haul flight, or do your best writing in a home office, the best places to write are the ones that help you stay focused.
So try out a couple of options to see which type of writing environment you find the most productive. In addition, discover other ideas for your writer's toolkit and more thoughts about how to write well.