Where Do You Work?
May 31, 2009 by Allison Boyer
Filed under Jobs
A writer’s space is often a snapshot of just how successful they can expect to be during their work time. Need convincing? Just look at my workspace evolution:
- I started writing when I was in college. My workspace was a desk where I also did homework, and I shared the room with one of my friends – though it was an actual apartment, not a dorm room, so we had a separate living space. I only did freelancing part-time, and my success was mild. Often, I was a bit overbooked and unorganized.
Image: sxc.hu
- I then moved to my own bedroom in an apartment I shared with three other girls. We had a big living space, and my room was, for the most part, only for sleeping, work, and private phone conversations. I was much more organized, but also stressed out often.
- After graduating, I got a one-bedroom apartment. The living room and kitchen were a little awkward, and I had to set up my work space in my bedroom. I actually got a laptop that year, but was short on space, so if I wanted to use it, I had to do so on the couch or bed. It was the worst work environment possible. Beds are not good for writers! I was successful as a writer, but definitely stressed out to the max and worked all the time for lower pay than I probably should have accepted.
- I then moved into the house where I am currently living. I have my own office, and also can take my laptop outside to my porch, or to the dining room, or even to the living room or bedroom. The freedom is nice, but if I was smart, I’d spend more time in my actual office.
Over the past month, I did a little experience. Instead of spending so much time outside or in my living room, I spent more time on the desktop in my office and on my laptop in my dining room, where there are fewer distractions. I’ve been much less stressed, much more organized, and happier with my work overall.
I highly recommend having an office space if you can. It’s just the best way to go. Right now, my office is also my work out room and guest room, so in my next place, I hope to find a space that can be fully devoted to an office/library.
Where do you work? Are you productive, or do you wish you could make some changes?
Wow! Quite a progression! Sounds like mine. I agree – desktop is more productive. However, I recently renovated my van and plan on becoming a full-time “Road warrior” next month. My “office” will become whatever space I can eck out in the van (I’m planning now) and any desk space in public libraries or hospital waiting rooms and cafeterias. I actually am MORE productive doing the “public office” routine. It forces me not to be distracted. Either way, a plan, a place for everything and focus are all critical!
Oh, how I wish I had an office space. Or a van, ’cause that sounds like a lot of fun! Right now I’m stuck with a dining room table and a laptop. I’ve tried working from the recliner, and while that’s more comfortable, it does tend to lead to more naps and less writing. Our next house is some years down the road, but I’ve already informed by husband that it will include an office space just for me.