A Change In View
Cincinnati, OH | Posted: 04/01/2016 | Author: April Koenig

All venues are not created equal, especially when the weather gets nice. Being stuck working from home is manageable during the cold winter months, but gazing out the window can be a big distraction during springtime. So what can creatives do to fight these urges? Here’s a novel approach – give in to temptation! Why deny yourself a refreshing setting when working on a project or deadline? As long as you can get work done, a creative change of locale once in a while makes for renewed inspiration and fresh perspective. Here are a few keys for making the most out of a change in view.
Good Distractions – Obviously you need to pick a spot that won’t impede the project at hand (it is work after all), but sometimes a change in scenery can provide a good distraction. Taking in a new landscape or interesting setting can not only provide a refreshing moment’s break from the task at hand, but also can prove to be inspiration for new creativity that can directly apply to your project. As a creative, you should be able to draw on the world around you for new thoughts, so why not make that world a little more diverse in atmosphere? Good distractions can make for great ideas.
Tailor It To You – Pick a spot that will best suit your personality. Are you a nature person? Do you prefer the steady traffic of interesting patrons at your local coffee shop? Taking your work outside the home and into the world should be a stress reducer, so make sure the environment is comforting as well as inspiring. You left your home office chair for a reason, so find a natural habitat in the wild that suits your style.
Seating Optional – A change in view doesn’t have to just mean going from sitting inside to sitting outside. A comfy blanket laid out in the park can make for a fine ‘desk’ to take in the day’s work, while breaking up the day with a walk keeps both mind and body moving. An occasional trip out of the house to work makes it much more likely you’re active, attentive, and getting things done.
Make It Tech-Friendly – Even the most natural venues need to keep a bit of civilization, so make sure your new sunny setting has the right specs for your tech. Check to see that your laptop is fully charged, and find a nearby power outlet just in case. It’s also a good idea to check your city’s park sites for wireless internet availability. One remedy is to use your cellphone as a wifi hotspot, but that can drain precious battery and data plan usage.