Writer’s Tool # 3: Keeping a Tidy Workspace

A lot of people say that having a cluttered workspace is a ‘sign of genius’ or ‘creativity’. I say they’re probably right because my desk can sometimes get very messy, and let’s face it… it’s obvious I’m a genius.

But in all seriousness, when my desk gets too messy, more often than not I can’t work there until it has been straightened up. Take 15-20 minutes today, and thoroughly organize your workspace. If you’re anything like me, you’ll have to make 3-4 piles of paper of things to sort or throw away.

I usually have to make one pile for the new material I’ve written or I’m working on. I have another pile of old material that may not be very good anymore, but I’ll keep it for archive purposes. I make a third pile of random ideas for other scripts/novels that have popped in my head but don’t belong in the first two piles. Lastly, I’ll make the most important pile, the garbage pile (or recycling if you’re awesome.)

It’s important to remove the clutter from your life. How can you think clearly, when the very spot you’re working in, is cluttered?

Which area would YOU prefer to write in?

This one?

Or this one?

Task: 15-20 minutes of ‘organization’ and ‘clean up’ time for your workspace. Find an appropriate spot for everything. Don’t worry, having a clean desk doesn’t make you any less of a genius.

You can find other tools like this in the Writer’s Toolbox link, at the top of the page.