Many writers talk about attending a writing retreat. A writing retreat is usually conducted at a college or other location that is usually very peaceful, solitary and beautiful. During these retreats, writers are encouraged to attend group writing sessions as well as spend time alone writing. Regardless of what writers do during these retreats, one thing’s for sure, they’re spending time writing.
These retreats are held in beautiful locations, such as the Rocky Mountains or Napa Valley, for about a week and are intended to be inspirational and tranquil. It’s definitely worth the experience for any writer with the time and money.
Unfortunately, these writing retreats can be upwards of a thousand dollars (sometimes more!).
But rather than spend the thousands of dollars to go far away from home, why not create your own writing retreat? Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Gather all your writer friends for an afternoon of writing. Invite them to your house, make some delicious, energy-sustaining snacks and sit around together and write. Play some soft music or light some candles. Make the room as tranquil and inspiring as possible.
- Create a private retreat somewhere in your house. Find a place that you’ve never written before–the back porch, the closet under the stairs, the laundry room–and try writing there. You’ll be amazed how a change of location can spark your creativity.
- Make your home office a daily writing retreat. Set up your desk with things that inspire you, such as flowers or photos or quotes. Cover the desk with your favorite table cloth or buy some fabric from your local craft store. Buy a Betta fish or a plant to place on your desk. Hang beautiful photos or images on the walls surrounding the area.
If you make your writing space as inviting and retreat-like as possible, you just may find yourself spending time there more often.
By creating your own writing retreat–whether that be alone or with other writers–you’ll be able to kick-start your creativity and get your writing done.
