Change of Scene may not change your life, but it can help.

Summer is a season that invites a change of scene. Regular routines fall away. New vistas, new places, new experiences, and new adventures take their place. Ideally, despite our individual me-ographies, we come away from all this “newness” refreshed and reinvigorated—ready to return to our regular life having escaped from it long enough to change perspective, awaken enthusiasm and to spark creative energy.

With a vacation from my teaching routines this summer, I find myself with a time window in which I hope to make great strides on my sci-fi novel. Sitting at my writing desk did little to engage with the work until I decided to change the scene. Without traveling, I’ve rented a spot in a co-working space within walking distance where I go to focus on the book. It’s an experiment that has helped build a productive routine so far. As inescapable as me-ography is, fleeing the multiple distractions I find in my tiny condo for a few hours a day helps me move this project forward.

What change of scene this summer can you make to restore your spirit and spark your creative fires?

Place Matters
 By Jan Caserio

The first weekend, I read every inspirational poster, wall hanging, and bathroom sign. Outside my office space, a wall plaque read: “live with intention, walk to the edge . . . live as if this is all there is.”  I knew I was in the right place.

With solitude and space, I settled down with a craft book, Crafting the Personal Essay, by Dinty W. Moore, to help generate ideas and start writing the next 750-word essay for my monthly writing group. After a few hours, I started one new essay, edited the current one, and made a list of possible ideas for later.

This rental provided time away from the demands and distractions at home and to think without interruptions. As writers, we know the setting in any creative piece: a novel, short story, memoir, or essay matters. So, too, for us.

Changing the Scene
By Katie Russo, Creative Assistant

Do you find a change of scenery helpful for problem-solving and thinking creatively? If so, how?
When it comes to problem-solving, a change of scenery can definitely be helpful. It is known that neurological pathways become rigid in routine, and exposure to new experiences such as a change in scenery help break that rigidity. Not to mention less scientific explanations such as drawing inspiration through observation or sensory actions.

Do you find other methods helpful for thinking creatively beyond changing your setting?
One can do many things to nudge creativity outside of changing scenery. Really doing anything outside of regular routine can be helpful. Exercise can be beneficial. Working on another problem can help generate new ideas. Even catching up with an old friend can lead to thoughts that wouldn’t occur otherwise. 

10 Reasons Changing Your Landscape Can Boost Creativity
From Forbes.com

You Can Rewire The Way Your Mind Works
Studies have shown that travel—either domestic or international—and the exposure to different environments can actually change the neural pathways in your brain. By immersing yourself in different cultures with diverse ideas, you can spark your own creativity and boost productivity. Read More. 

Why, yes I do believe so. I am a creature of habit. Even as I write this article, I sit in my usual spot for writing — I sit right in the center of the couch with a big pillow behind my back and a blanket covering my lap. Oh and my westie pups are within arm’s reach offering plenty of support and love. Read More.