We’ve all seen it -- the person anxiously typing away on their laptops amidst a crowded coffee shop. As people call out their orders and chatter with friends, the writer remains stoic and glued to his computer screen. But there are better places for writing.
First, coffee shops are loud. There is ever-present background music. You’re always forced to listen to something that sounds like smooth jazz and that you’ll never hear outside of the coffee shop. On top of that is the sound of people ordering. It’s usually not short and to-the-point. You’ll hear them ordering complicated drinks while the baristas pour ice and steam milk. Sure, you can try to put in headphones to drown out the sound. But let’s face it: that’s just never good enough.
They’re usually very crowded, especially in New York where people love coffee. You’ll never be the only person who’s sitting down. The seating is never ideal. There might be only one open seat. When you need a table, they could all be full. And one of the most frustrating aspects: finding outlets. They’re prized by all café-goers because you’re all going to need them eventually.
One of the most frustrating moments for any writer is when a “low battery” signal interrupts your incredible and eloquent prose. It leads to a dramatic search for power and you either need to weave your cord around someone’s legs or head home to recharge. And by the time you’re ready to start writing again, your flow has ended.
But again, this is the difficulty of being a writer. Some people need to be “in the zone” to write. They need caffeine or a break from sitting at home to get the creative juices flowing. This is fair. Many people go to coffee shops because it’s easy. It’s not home and there’s always one nearby.
The main reason you need to try somewhere else is because it will help you break the cycle of monotony and it may actually help you write something amazing. From one writer to another, try a different place. Instead of going to your local chain coffee house, mix it up. If you want to write something unique or something that shows off your specific talents as a writer, you need to go somewhere else that only you would think of.
Think of it as environmental determinism. To make something special, go somewhere special. Maybe it’ll be a hidden corner in the library that only you would think of or maybe it’s a bench in the park. Find your special place because t’s incredibly unoriginal to sit in a coffee shop.
So the next time you’re looking to write, grab a coffee, sure. But then leave the coffee shop and head out to somewhere adventurous.
