Workspace options

Another week, another post. I may actually pull off weekly posting this time!

This week I thought I'd talk about workspace options when you're a work-at-home author and maybe touch on why I don't actually have a designated "office" anymore.

Obviously, you can write anywhere and in any manner you prefer, (I even know of writers who handwrite their first drafts, though I can't imagine doing that myself.) As with everything else in life, you will ultimately want to find out what works best for you no matter what anyone else says; and trying a couple options is one of the best ways to figure that out. 

I'm going to touch on some of the spaces I have used to write and the pluses and negatives but if you already know what works best for you, feel free to ignore everything I'm about to say. If you feel it helps your writing to exclusively write in coffee shops, go with that!

4. A specially designated office space.

This does NOT need to be an actual room, it can be as simple as a wall-mounted or portable desk and a chair that you can sit in for hours at a time. 

Pros:

Having a truly dedicated space set aside, can really shift you into a "work" mindset rather than a "home" mindset. If this is a big problem for you, you'll probably want to stick with something like this. Also, this was quieter and less distracting than the rest of the house, and I could assure I was alone with my work regardless of who else was home.

Cons:

The "set apart" nature of an office means you may need to regularly leave your desk to make sure you have everything you need, (paper, books, snacks, etc...) especially if you're forgetful (like me.) It can be pretty isolating to sit all on your own wherever you set your office, though pets or even plants can help with this.

Why I no longer use it: Honestly? Two big reasons. 

I was actually homeschooled, so I don't have a huge issue with work/home separation. I can usually be in the living room working on my book, without losing the plot (literally or figuratively.) And far more crucially, my wall-mounted desk actually fell off the wall while I was working on something one day, crashing into my knees and only narrowly missing smashing my toes into oblivion on the way down. That kinda wrecked it for me.

3. A blanket fort.

Yes, an actual blanket fort. No, I'm not kidding, I have actually done this before.

Pros:

Blanket walls block out distractions without requiring full-on isolation. Very comfortable. Great for fighting writer's block.

Cons:

You need to set it up every time you want to use it. It's just not that practical for everyday use.

Special note: I ABSOLUTELY wouldn't actually recommend using a blanket fort for writing every day, BUT if you are having problems with writer's block, this may just help break you out of it.

3. An informal office space.

A standing portable desk/table, and comfortable chair, in a quiet corner, ideally with a hot cup of tea!

Pros: Can be as isolated or centrally located as you like. Works well for any living situation. 

Cons: You need to move the desk whenever you stand up or sit down. You may kick the desk if you are prone to fidgeting.

Special notes: This is one of my two go to options, BUT it is not my absolute top, because I fidget a lot, and regularly kick the desk by accident; and my chair creaks, which drives me crazy when I'm trying to focus.

1. A lap desk and whatever seat is most comfortable.

Literally anywhere, you can even set up the desk in bed.

Pros:

The most physically comfortable position. Easily movable, can be used laying down if you aren't feeling well.

Cons:

May be too informal for some people, as it lacks the "office" feeling.

Special notes: This is my main workspace option. Even as I write this post, I'm actively sitting in a comfortable chair with my trusty lap desk. I don't really talk about this much here, but I have Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome; a rare disorder with tons of issues including chronic pain and premature arthritis. By using a lap desk, I can write no matter what hurts, or how I'm feeling for the day.

That's about all I've got for the day. I hope this was helpful, or at least entertaining!

Have a good day, and keep writing!