It’s time to spring clean your writing nook!
Spring is here, and while many of us will be focused on scrubbing floors and organizing closets, as writers, we also have another version of spring cleaning to tackle.
You’ve probably heard that a cluttered writing space—either physical or digital—can stifle creativity and productivity. So consider the following tips to give your writing space a little spring refresh.
It’s time to clear the cobwebs—both physical and mental—and set yourself up for success!
Spring Clean Your Writing Nook: Declutter Your Writing Space
A messy workspace can lead to mental clutter, making it harder to focus and create. Refresh your desk with a few simple changes:
Desk Organizers & Storage Solutions: Keep your notes, pens, and planners neatly stored with desktop organizers. Pretty mugs work great for storing pens, eye drops, and lip balm. A multi-compartment desk organizer or a rolling cart can help keep essentials within reach.
Ergonomic Upgrades: If you’re spending long hours writing, consider a comfortable chair with a good lumbar support and a standing desk option so you’re not sitting for too many hours at a time.
Lighting Matters: Harsh lighting strains your eyes. Swap out that harsh overhead light for a soft, adjustable desk or floor lamp. Position floor lamps at an angle behind you and choose a soft light bulb.
Whiteboards & Corkboards: Use a whiteboard calendar or pinboard to visually track your goals and deadlines. I have a combination whiteboard/pinboard that’s really handy.
Clear Your Digital Clutter
Your computer is probably overflowing with old drafts, random idea notes, and downloads you no longer need. A few simple steps can help:
Sort and Organize Files: Use cloud storage solutions like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Evernote to keep your writing safe and easy to find. Or simply go through your files and organize them to be up-to-date. You’ll probably find a lot of things you can dump into the trash.
Back Up Your Work: Invest in an external hard drive or an automatic backup service like Backblaze to prevent data loss. I like to use a physical hard drive to store all my extra files. I feel like that’s more secure than any Cloud service.
Unsubscribe & Clean Up: Reduce email distractions by using Unroll.me to unsubscribe from unnecessary newsletters. You can also dedicate a week or two to examining any email that comes into your email box for usefulness, and unsubscribe to those that no longer serve you.
Spring Clean Your Writing Nook: Refresh Your Mindset
This is one we don’t normally think about when spring cleaning, but it’s just as important, if not more so! Think “reset and refocus” to get started.
Journaling for Clarity: A fresh guided journal can help you clear your mind and refocus on your goals.
Meditation & Mindfulness: Try a mindfulness app like Headspace or Insight Timer to start your writing sessions with a clear mind. Or simply pull up YouTube and search for “10-minute guided meditation.” I use these often and find them really helpful.
Reading for Inspiration: Choose a book on creativity, like Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert or The War of Art by Steven Pressfield (a personal favorite), to refresh your motivation. Or think about a part of your writing life you want to improve, and search for a book that will help you do it.
Spring Clean Your Writing Nook: Revamp Your Writing Routine
Spring cleaning isn’t just about physical clutter—it’s also about shaking up your habits to create a more productive workflow.
Set a Writing Schedule: Use a planner for writers or a simple bullet journal to map out daily or weekly writing goals.
Create a Writing Ritual: Light a scented candle, make a cup of your favorite tea, and play a focus playlist to signal to your brain that it’s time to write.
Try a New Productivity Tool: If procrastination is an issue, experiment with tools like the Pomodoro Timer or Focus@Will to boost concentration.
Spring Clean Your Writing Nook: Refresh Your Writing Community & Goals
Spring is the perfect time to reconnect with fellow writers and realign with your long-term goals.
Join a Writers’ Group: Whether it’s an in-person writing meetup or an online group like Writers’ HQ or Facebook writing communities, fresh connections can boost motivation.
Reevaluate Your Goals: Are your writing goals still aligned with what you truly want? Use a vision board or a goal-setting journal to reassess and refocus.
Celebrate Progress: Treat yourself to a new notebook, fancy pen, or a book from your wishlist as a reward for staying on track.