Space To Create

Like most creative people, I believe in the power of spaces. It’s been scientifically proven that the space you work in will determine a lot of the strength of your work. So why don’t we put more effort into the space we create in?

I believe there are five reasons (probably more) why creative spaces matter.

Energy. It can be draining to sit in a blank, drab, dull space and try to create something unique. Your space should give you the energy not just to create but to thrive. What brings you energy in a space? Lighting? Coffee? Music? Candles? Add those in to give you the boost you need.

Motivation. Let’s face it, some days, it’s hard to muster up the courage to create. Your space should motivate you toward your creative goals. Vision boards with a clear picture of what “done” will look like are a great place to start. Maybe you need words to motivate you. Write those on your whiteboard, a sticky note on your laptop, or buy one of those cheesy motivational posters you see in doctors’ offices.

Inspiration. It’s essential to stay fresh in our creativity, so what inspires you the most to create your best work? Is it reading a great article? There are many great writers out there that spur us on in our creativity (Austin Kleon, Toddy Henry, and Anne Lamott, just to name a few.) Fashion? Maybe what you wear while you create matters a bunch. I know it helps me feel more confident. What inspires you? Surround your space with it.

Observation. If possible, you need to have a space to be observant. A window in an office provides more than just the vitamin D natural light offers; it also gives a chance to stare out and observe a bit of nature or humanity that’s going on while we plug away. If this isn’t possible for you, take a 5 min walk break outside or in a space with lots of windows and see what it does for your creativity. A fresh perspective goes a long way.

Humanity. Let’s face it, as much as they can aggravate sometimes, people can equally spur us on to greatness just by being around us. Find the people that make you feel like you could run through a brick wall and stick around them while you create. Also, invite them in; we can always create better in groups rather than silos, even if it’s just for editing or feedback.

What’s one thing you can add to your space this week to make it work for you?

*If you’re mobile and don’t have a defined space that you can make your own, get to the closest town or city and search for “the spot.” You’ll know it when you find it.

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