For writers, inspiration often strikes at the most inconvenient of times.
The perfect line to close out the chapter? You brainstormed that on the commute to work. And that gaping plot hole you’ve been staring at all week? Yeah. You figured that one out as you were crawling into bed to (finally) get some shut-eye.
It’s never convenient. But we don’t write because it’s convenient.
If you’re suffering from a bout of Writer’s Block, you may need to shake up your daily writing routine (or bi-weekly writing routine…there’s no judgement here). And while that sounds intimidating, all you really need is a change in scenery.
Below are some of the best places for authors, journalists, and bloggers alike to kick writer’s block in the ass.
1. Coffee shops
Cliche or not, coffee shops and local cafes are a haven for writers – and for good reason.
The relaxed ambiance. The unlimited energy juice (read: coffee). The elbow room. All reasons to choose that cozy little coffee shop around the corner for your next writing stint.
2. Your local library
The next best place for a writer: a hub of literature.
You’ll have all the quiet you need to dial in and focus. And who knows? Maybe you can even grab an old favorite from the shelves for inspiration.
3. A park bench
As a writer, you probably spend a lot of time indoors.
Go outside and get some Vitamin D! Slather on some sunscreen, find an empty park bench, and get to work. You’d be surprised how the sounds, sights, and smells of nature can inspire.
4. A busy food court at the mall
It’s proven: people-watching can help your writing immensely.
I’m serious! Find a busy food court (the busier, the better), take a seat, and observe. Keep your computer, notepad, or other medium close. Take a look at the people around you, and write down as much as you can. Or, better yet, envision the lives of the people you see. Give those people a backstory. Jot down their hopes and dreams and failures and quirks. You just might find your next character standing in line at Chick-fil-A.
5. An art museum
Creative minds express themselves in a variety of ways.
Staring at a page full of words – or worse, an empty page – can be maddening. Head out to a nearby art museum for a change of pace. You’ll get a chance to view the world from a visually creative standpoint. Those sculptures and paintings tell a story. And if they can manage that – well, so can you.
6. Poolside
Or along the beach. Whichever you prefer.
The point? Pools and beaches are associated with relaxation. Try to incorporate that sense of freedom back into your writing routine. Basking in the sun with a margarita in one hand and a pen in the other sounds like a fantastic way to do just that.
7. The subway
Why limit yourself to one change of scenery when you can have a variety?
Public transportation gives you the chance to immerse yourself in a crowd, with the advantage of city skylines and park greenery scrolling past your window. If you write best with a bit of background noise and have a long commute after work, this might be a perfect option.
8. At the end of a long walk
Don’t just go outside. Go outside – and go explore!
Movement will help get your heart pumping, and it just might trigger your creative flow in the process. Whether you choose to stroll around the block or take a more taxing hike through the park, bring your writing necessities with you and find a spot to sit and write near the end of your journey.
9. Hotel lobby
Not a fan of large crowds, but not quite up for a stroll through nature?
Try a hotel lobby. They’re usually fairly quiet, with just enough bustle to give you some much-needed background noise. As a bonus, you’ll probably find a pitcher of fruit-filtered water for your enjoyment.
10. Home
Home sweet home. There’s no place like it.
If this is your usual writing spot, don’t worry – you can still transform your space into something new and inspiring! A pop of color can be all the difference. Or incorporate a few house plants (thank God for the faux-plant trend) to bring some greenery into your home. Light a candle. Pull up your favorite playlist. And voilà.
Writing magic.
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