How important is your writing space?
Studies have shown that having a dedicated writing space makes for a more productive writer. There is no hard and fast rule as to what that space consists of or looks like. It can be as simple as a laptop at your local library or maybe just a clean desktop where your computer lives. Or maybe not a clean desktop at all. Maybe you write better surrounded by research materials or newspapers or yesterday’s mail. Whatever your space looks like, one thing that is consistent across the board is that every writer needs a dedicated writing space.
Rather than bore you with ramblings about the importance of a dedicated writing space, I want to share with you a product I purchased from Amazon that has literally transformed my writing space into a healthier and more productive atmosphere.
This is an adjustable ergonomic desktop work station that raises or lowers with a hydraulic handle. So, I can either stand to work or lower it down and sit to work. It has made a huge difference. Before I bought this, I sat for up to five or six hours at a time and that is not good for the body.
Now, I find that I can get more work done with the flexibility of standing or sitting. The picture above is raised. The picture below is lowered.
And the cost was less than $125. I have to say, I am thrilled with it and don’t know why I waited so long to purchase it. I have scoliosis (the double S curve) in my back and the pain level is greatly reduced by alternating between standing and sitting.
So, now my dedicated workspace is more flexible and conducive to my needs with one simple purchase.
Since I am talking about workspace, I’ll show some of the things that are important to me besides my new adjustable desktop.
I hope you’ve enjoyed the tour. If you’ve ever wondered about the adjustable desktop, wonder no more. It’s fabulous!
Whatever makes for more productive days is a good thing.
Jan, I love this visit to your writing space … and you describe it so well. My brother has been singing the praises of these variable height desks and it’s interesting that you are using one as well. It sounds like a great idea and as I’ve suffered from two slipped discs I’m always on the look-out for new ideas! My one concern would be could I be creative whilst standing??
I have two desks in my study … one for my computer and printer, the other a large one in front of the window which is perfect for all my books, paperwork and iPad. Often I glance up to the trees outside, looking at the birds, the varying colour of the sky! The last few days it’s been fantastic that it is still light after five pm!
Happy Writing! xx
Thank you for stopping by Annika. The answer is different for everyone as we are all unique. But, for me, the adjustable desktop has been wonderful! What a beautiful view you have out your window. Most inspiring!
That’s a wonderful space, Jan. I like to write in bed so my bedroom looks like a workshop. .
That’s interesting, Rob. I think I would have a hard time shutting off my brain to go to sleep if I wrote in my bed. Thanks so much for sharing!! Hugs!
I hear tell that they do make them for treadmills, but I’ve never seen one. It would be a great way to multi-task and stay healthy! Thanks for stopping by. I appreciate your comment!
Nice space, Jan. You’re so organized! And you’re right that sitting all day is terrible for the body. It should be a real concern for writers. Those adjustable tables are awesome. I need one for the treadmill. 🙂 Happy Writing.
Hi Jan! I love your adjustable desk top. What a great idea! I use an essential oil diffuser (mine does use water, but I’m careful) and I have a Himalayan salt lamp as well. This is a fun post. I’m always curious to see other authors’ writing spaces. 😀 xo
I love it, Vashti! Great minds think alike. 🙂 I’d be nervous to have a diffuser with water around my electronics because I’d surely knock it over at some point. But, I do love having the essential oils. I use two blends in this diffuser – Focus and Energy. I love both of them equally. I appreciate you stopping by and leaving a comment! Hugs!
That’s great, Jan. I recently bought a desk to use while riding my recumbent bike. It’s nice to be able to fuse some healthy alternatives into a sedentary job.
What a fantastic idea, Staci! Yes, I am all for healthy alternatives to our sedentary occupation. Thanks so much for stopping by and leaving a comment!
Thanks for the tour, Jan. I really like your desk-top thing. I’ve been thinking about what I will do when I get moved (which is coming right up). I’m not sure I can make the photo show but…
https://teagansbooks.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/workspace-1-blog.jpg
I’ve enjoyed my tilt-able computer table, which I can easily roll behind the sofa when I’m not using the computer. Now I’ve donated all the books, and won’t be taking the bookcases of the computer table (or any furniture). Yes, I really like the idea of this adjustable one.
Thanks for sharing. Hugs!
Thanks for sharing, Teagan! Anything that makes our lives as writers easier is wonderful! I hate to say it, but it makes me sad to think you won’t be moving your books with you. 🙂 But, that’s just me and books. When I moved from the home I shared with Rick, I donated boxes of books, some I wish I’d kept. I appreciate you stopping by and sharing your work accessory!
Jan, I had to choose. Give up my books, furniture, dishes, and wardrobe to get away from DC… Or keep them, keep my job, stay in DC and… Well another coworker passed away last week. Staying an environment of bullying and disrespect kills people.
Oh my goodness, Teagan! YES! No choice! So glad you are getting out!
I was surprised at how inexpensive the desk is, Jan. Thanks for sharing. Your space looks like a talented writer works there.
Lol! You are too kind, John! Thank you!
😄
Oh, awesome, Mae! I am participating in the upcoming Pitch-Fest at Savvy Author this month and taking the class to help me craft my pitch this week. 🙂 I will check out Carina Press. Thank you!! And, yes, the adjustable workstation has been a godsend! I can’t believe I waited so long. PLUS, they say that standing to work burns more calories. Maybe I’ll lose a pound or two. 🙂 Hugs!
Fingers crossed for you, Jan. A pitch-fest at Savvy was how I got my first publishing contract.
Also wishing you the best with Carina, too. I love that there are resources like these! {{hugs}}
Thank you, Mae. I put my pitch up at Carina. We shall see.
YES!!!! Fingers (and toes) crossed. It’s only a matter of time until you land a publisher, Jan. I’m cheering you on!
Jan, this sounds like a great idea. I have a dedicate office for writing, but there are days that I would love to stand and work for a time rather than constantly sitting. I’m going to head over to Amazon and check this out.
I also love how you’ve surrounded yourself with things that inspire you. I do the same 🙂
Finally, did you know that Carina Press is holding an open pitch fest from 9-9 EST on Twitter today? Not sure if you’re interested but I think you may be shopping an ms. Use the #CarinaPitch on Twitter for all the info if you’d like to check it out!
That’s pretty nifty there. Glad you found something that works so well. Oh, and LOVE that salt lamp, I have them in every room in the house, including the bathrooms!
Lol! Great minds, Annette. Thanks so much for stopping by!
I have to squeeze into the living room when I can. I’d love to have a dedicated writing space. Some people a t work have gotten those adjustable desks. Most use them once or twice and that’s it. Others regularly adjust them and make use of them.
I am loving the flexibility, Craig. It helps so much to be able to alternate between sitting and standing. When my feet start to ache, I sit and when my butt goes numb, I stand. 🙂 I appreciate you stopping by!
That’s a good plan.
Thanks for the tour, Jan! Those devices work great!
Thanks for stopping by, Mark! Yes, they do!
JAN- Thanks for sharing your personal office with us and giving us tips. I’ve heard about these and have seen some that others use and they rave about them. All I can say is whatever inspiration you authors need to get your wonderful books written, I approve. LOL!!!
You have a great day. Love you!
Lol! Thank you, Tonya! I’m trying. 🙂 Hugs!
I have to check this desk out Jan. I can’t sit for long periods of time either. I have to stand or lay down. I was surprised when I doctor told me my sociolis was getting worse, I didn’t even know I had it. I thought my curve to the right was normal…lol. I love my salt lamps too…very relaxing. You have a great office:)
Thank you, Denise. I think you will really enjoy the adjustable workstation. And they say that standing to work burns more calories, so maybe I’ll lose a pound or two. 🙂 Hugs!
Even better reason to get it:)