Finding Focus: Some things that might help you finally get writing

Being a writer can be frustrating. On one hand we feel compelled to write, and on the other, we’ll find literally anything to do but write. Spot of window cleaning, anyone?

Through trial and error in our own writing, and talking to our guests about their struggles, here’s some suggestions that might help you get those writing dreams out of your head and onto the page…

Hide your phone

For us, and many of our guests, digital distractions are some of the most insidious. In fact hiding your phone is probably the single most important thing you can do. If you’ve ever dared look at the screen time count on your phone, you’ve likely been horrified by how much time you spend daily staring at your device. If you’re anything like us, you’ll pick up your phone and start scrolling without even consciously knowing you’re doing it.

The only solution we’ve found is to get it well out of sight before getting to work. The more unappealing the location, the better (your drawer of doom will do nicely). Thanks to the suggestion of one of our lovely regular guests, Jenny @silverscreensuppers, we now have lockable phone jails in each cabin. And we’d also recommend the book How to Break Up with your Phone by Catherine Price, which is full of tips to help you liberate your precious time and attention.

Get a writing partner(s)

Many of our guests have told us that having a friend to write alongside not only helps them commit to regular writing sessions but also keeps motivation high. It transforms writing from a purely solitary pursuit into a more social activity, connecting you with supportive, like-minded people,

If you prefer virtual company, you could try an online writing session. London Writers Salon offers two hour-long writing sessions daily. Although these are in silence, just knowing others are also writing at the same time can help you get in the zone.

And if you find it helpful and reassuring writing in the company of others, but don’t fancy shared facilities and want the freedom to eat meals whenever you feel like it, our self-catered small group retreats include walks, cake breaks and bonfires with other writers. This year they’re also themed, so you can write alongside people with similar interests, whether that’s travel, memoir or historical non-fiction.

Have a writing ritual

The more exciting/calming/enjoyable the better. Whether it’s making a cup of coffee or arranging your stationery, create a unique ritual that will make you want to keep returning to the page. Sensory queues can be very compelling and form pleasurable associations - try a putting cosy blanket over your knees or some essential oil in the diffuser before you start. Our writing retreat massage therapist, Mollie, uses a frankincense blend for hand massages, to help inspire creativity.

In the cabins, we place a carefully arranged vase of our garden-grown flowers on the desks to bring the room to life. As well as adding visual beauty, and a touch of elegant luxury, floral scents can also spark long-forgotten memories.

Take regular breaks

We all know we think better when we’ve had a break, but that doesn’t mean we always take them. Factor breaks into your writing time, and set an alarm if you need to. Even if it’s getting up every hour to make a cup or tea or do few star jumps, you’ll feel better for it. Or lie down and stare up at the clouds through the stargazing window - giving our brain a real rest helps it work better for us when we return to the page.

If you’re stuck with a plot or a character detail, getting out in nature is sure to help. The combination of fresh air, green and exercise always gets ideas flowing. Take a notebook to jot things down so you don’t get dragged back into the online world. We always start our retreats with a walk via the 1066 Country Walk, via Powdermill Woods, so writers known where to go when they need a refreshing stroll.

Set small goals and rewards

If you aren’t a big planner when it comes to writing, but get a dopamine kick from ticking off a to-do list, try setting a series of small things you want to achieve during your writing session or retreat. Make them really small and achievable to keep up motivation, and don’t write too many - five max.

Once you’ve achieved them, reward yourself with something you love, like a couple of squares of chocolate - or even a mindless scroll on Instagram. Sometimes writing gets tough and, dare we say it, boring, so if we really want to write, we need to constantly make it an attractive activity we want to return to. That’s why our retreats are peppered with nurturing treats, from dark chocolate bars to decadent cakes and chair massages.

Write in regular short bursts…

For some of us, writing in short bursts is not only more manageable in our lives but also helps us focus in on what we’re writing. Set a timer for twenty minutes - you might be surprised how much setting clear boundaries to your writing time can enhance productivity. Over time, a short but regular writing practise can get us where we want to be.

…Or more sporadic larger chunks

Or course everyone works differently, and has different commitments in their daily lives. If you have young children who’re early risers or need getting off to school, daily morning writing may just not be feasible right now - even if that’s when you know you write best. But a weekly lunchtime writing session in your favourite cafe could be, or an annual writing break. Whatever works best for you in this season of your life.

We’re open year-round, and offer everything from small group retreats to independent writing breaks, so you can find time and space to write whenever you need it.

Be clear on why you want to write

Do you have some expertise or a message you want to share with the world? Do you want to bring a character from the past, or your imagination, to life, or make people think about the world in a different way? Or is it a childhood dream to live and work as a writer that moves you? Whatever it is, keep reminding yourself of it. And consider how you’d feel if you didn’t ever write that book too.

Write a note and stick it to your desk for that moment we all have when we think ‘why am I even doing this anyway?’

Of course there is no single action that will miraculously help us get that book written. But if you love writing, or have something you want to share with the world, it’s worth making space for it and trying whatever you can to make it happen.

Starcroft Farm Cabins offers various experiences for writers, from small group writing retreats, to independent writing breaks and creative days. You can also rent out all three cabins for your writing group and create a bespoke retreat. And we can put you in touch with a writing coach suited to your particular project. Get in touch and we’ll help you arrange a stay that’s right for you.