Seven Tips To Get The Most From Your Precious Writing Time
What to consider ahead of a writing retreat
Today I’m sharing an updated version of a post from a couple of years back because, as we hit summer holiday season, we could all do with remembering these tips.
As you read this, I’ll be away on a summer writing retreat, taking ten days away from all other work to be alone with my novel-in-progress. This is something I’ve done every summer for the last few years, thanks to a friend whose house I get to stay in while I look after her very gorgeous ginger cat.
Solo writing retreats are something I’ve done ever since I started writing my first novel. Back then it was out of necessity, using annual leave from a stressful managerial job to carve out time and space where I couldn’t be reached, but it quickly became an important cornerstone in my writing life.
These days, options for writing retreats are as varied as the writers who take them, ranging from specialist centres offering workshops and feedback, and places that will feed you at regular intervals and provide opportunities to meet other writers and artists, through to isolated residencies offering little more than a bed, a desk and the promise of peace and quiet. There are online retreats offering structure and accountability. And of course, we can design our own. Over the years I’ve housesat for friends and family, rented holiday cottages, and participated in Arvon retreats. It’s always productive and always worth it. Sometimes it’s transformational.
But, when we commit time and expense for a retreat, it can come with a certain expectations and pressure – a sense that we have to make the most of it, get a certain number of words on the page, and spend every hour writing, to justify the investment. That isn’t necessarily helpful. So, today I’m sharing seven things to consider before and during a writing retreat, to make sure yours everything you hoped for.
Get honest with yourself
Are you a people person, an extrovert who thrives on making new friends, or do you work better alone? Are you looking for workshops and support from someone more experienced, or a community where you can meet others? How long can you realistically dedicate? A month in a castle might sound like your Harry Potter dream, but will it really work for your life? Think carefully about what kind of environment will best fit you and your circumstances.
Leave home
In my experience, staycation writing retreats don’t work. Distractions are inevitable — the floors are still there to be vacuumed, people and pets will demand attention, the recycling must be taken out. Because I work at home every day, it’s impossible for me to get the distance I need. Removing myself from my usual surroundings is essential. I realise that’s not possible for everyone, so how can you recreate this at home? Can you write somewhere else for a day? Is there a local library, community or co-working space that might be free or low-cost? Consider day-long and online retreats too, which can still go a long way to help with commitment and accountability.
Eliminate distractions
I talk a lot about protecting your writing time. This applies especially on a writing retreat. Do whatever you need to protect the precious time that you’ve clawed back from your busy life. This can be harder than it sounds. Do not bargain with your employer, family members or yourself. Do not agree to that one quick meeting, or that Zoom call, or the coffee with a friend. Treat your writing time as sacrosanct, because if you don't, others won't either. You are unavailable for the duration. This is non-negotiable.
Ask for help
I realise not everyone will have the financial resources to consider a residential writing retreat. But there are ways to prioritise time and reduce costs, and ways to create a bespoke retreat for yourself that doesn’t cost the earth. Look for funded retreats that offer support for those on low incomes, grants to cover travel and accommodation costs, and bursaries available through various writing organisations all over the world. If you’re in the UK, your regional writing centre or arts body can be a great place to start. But there are ways to create your own inexpensive retreat, too. Ask your support network for help with childcare or approach friends and family about housesitting for them while they’re on holiday. If you’re an animal lover, professional housesitting sites offer some amazing opportunities for free, or for a low joining fee. Late availability or out-of-season holiday accommodation can throw up some bargains and is my personal go to.
Do you really need the Internet?
Let's face it, the internet is one of our biggest distractions. While the idea of an off-grid retreat is alluring, it can be unrealistic these days. Instead, take some simple steps to avoid distraction. Delete social media apps off your phone (I always do this). Turn off all notifications. Put your phone in another room and leave it there. For those who must be contactable, set up your phone so that it will only ring for certain people. And if you really can’t trust yourself, investigate internet blocking apps and devices and release yourself from intent tyranny for part of each day.
Plan ahead
I frequently recommend that writers finish each day's writing by planning what they will work on in their next writing session. This is an extended version of that and it really helps to avoid resistance. Planning what you’ll work on during your retreat can help you focus once you’re there. But – a word of caution – be realistic. It's better to underestimate. What is the absolute minimum that you would be happy to achieve with the time that you have? Make that your goal. I usually aim for a certain number of scenes, based on the number of days I have available, and then halve it. I also plan those scenes just enough that I don’t waste time procrastinating when I’m there.
Plan some fun stuff too!
How can you reward yourself each day for a job well done? Go for a walk, make a nice meal, have a long soak in the tub, watch a cheesy movie with your favourite snack. Just because you're working doesn't mean you can’t enjoy yourself. In fact, I’d argue that grounding your retreat in simple daily pleasures makes for a more productive environment. I always plan at least one day for an artist’s date. I usually visit a new place or plan a nice activity. Getting fresh input helps with fresh output, and it ensures I return home feeling like I’ve had the mental break I need.
I hope that gives you some food for thought. As I’m away, and trying my best to stay offline, I’m turning comments off on this post.
P.S. Coffee & Co-writing will continue weekly while I’m offline for the next couple of weeks, hosted by Inkwell members Fiona and Natalie. I’ll see you soon!
