How to Create Your Own Writing Retreat

Are you struggling to find time to write? Stuck on your manuscript? We’ve all been there. It can be hard to remove distractions and create a writing-only space.
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But don’t worry; read on for our tips on creating your very own writing retreat, all for free and from the comfort of your home. 

​Find your writer’s cave.
First, figure out where you’d like to camp out and write the day away. Maybe you want to use your home office or rent a room at your public library. Either way, make sure you can be alone and undisturbed for the length of your retreat. You can always ask your family or roommates if they wouldn’t mind heading out for the day.
 
Pick a time and day.
When can you embark on your writing retreat? Be mindful of your schedule.
 
For example, you might not want to plan the retreat right before a busy week at work. Find the time when you can focus solely on your writing. Then, inform your friends and family, so they know why you’ll be MIA for the day. And remember, you can make your retreat as long or as short as you want! You might start with a few hours or even take an entire weekend if you’re feeling particularly inspired.
 
Don’t budge.
Once you plan the retreat, stick to it! You might find yourself wanting to cut the length short or spend the day doing other things. Be firm with yourself and commit to the retreat. That way, you’ll make the most of the experience! This dedication will shape your mindset and benefit the quantity and quality of your writing.

Don’t go into your retreat blind. Focus on what you want to accomplish instead. Maybe you want to perfect a certain scene, hit a word count, or brainstorm your next chapter. Either way, have these ideas in your head before you hit the keyboard. You don’t want to waste your retreat time thinking about your goals instead of hitting them.
 
Remember breaks are your friends.
Make sure you’re looking forward to and not dreading your writing retreat. Fun break ideas will keep you motivated and focused during your writing shifts. Maybe you can go for a walk or bike ride. You might also prefer to kick back and watch some TV. These breaks will give you something to anticipate as you work on your manuscript.
 
Bring goodies.
Don’t go it alone. If you’ll be writing outside of your house/normal writing space, bring some mementos and snacks. You might want a cute stuffed animal by your side or easy access to your favorite snacks. Remember, it’s a retreat! You can and should treat yourself.
 
We hope these steps will help you plan the perfect writing retreat. You’ll be a regular writing machine in no time!

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By Sydney Meve, Intern