When is the best time to write? It varies for people–can vary for a single person depending on the mood and the time of year. Most of what I read about writing is a reminder that the most important aspect of writing is BIC (butt in chair) on a regular schedule. I try to instill this philosophy in students, requiring they write 10 minutes each day. It is harder than it seems apparently. Most students fail to find the 10 minutes, let alone find a regular chunk of 10 minutes in which to be successful. Of course, I cannot blame them because I am still searching for my regular chunk of time. The perfect writing time and space can be as elusive and ephemeral as a Unicorn.
Alliteration aside, the ingredients of good writing are simple. You need time, space, and an opportunity to clear your mind. This is hampered by the daily trials of life and further dulled by television. For that reason your writing space should be away from the people and things that represent daily business as well as be devoid of any television, vimeo, snapchat, or other distractions. Preferably keep these things so far at bay that it is uncomfortable to have to leave your sacred writing space to go get them.
One of my biggest hurdles has been actually sitting down at my desk to write stuff. I’m being literal here. Sitting down properly also makes a big difference. If you’re laying on your side, casually pecking at the keys , you’re less likely to be fully engaged in the experience. It is supposed to be an experience. You are supposed to feel something (good, bad, otherwise) when your fingers fly across that keyboard.
Cleanliness and proximity of resources is the last issue I’ll bring up today. I, of the messy office association, recognize that cleanliness is next to godliness and when we write we are meant to be gods shaping and watching the worlds we divine be shaped. I’m torn on whether or not one writes better in a clean space. Once I actually get in the chair it doesn’t matter if my office looks like the victim of an F5. On the other hand, if my office does look a mess, it is harder to justify sitting in that mess.
No perfect answers today, just suggestions. After all, nobody knows the right way for you to do things and al any of us can do is figure out the best way to live and work with ourselves.
Some Thoughts:
- A concept I’ve recently become familiar with is the cordial silence. When you’re on the outs with people they’ll be kind to your face if and when they must but maintain total radio silence otherwise. This is new to me and rather interesting. Consider part of my adjustment to being someone who is spoken more about than to.