When creating any type of art (paintings, sculptures, writing, photographs) there is always the challenge of distractions. From outside influences, like noisy cities or interruptive friends, to your own thoughts straying you away from the task at hand, it can be difficult to completely focus on your imaginative side and create something special and unique to you. Although it can get frustrating, there are some simple, yet effective, steps that anyone can take in order to make a distraction-free environment.
I know when I’m trying to write, the biggest obstacle I face is dealing with my roommates. Living with multiple other people, especially when they are all your close friends, can be extremely distracting when it comes time to focusing on creating. That, on top of the busy Boston streets right below me, make for a difficult environment to think creatively. Because of this, I have found a few tactics that are crucial to building a quiet, imaginative space for when I’m feeling inspired.
Wear headphones. Listening to quiet and non-invasive music can be a big help in drowning out the outside noise and keeping your thoughts in line. Even if music is another distraction for you, simply wearing headphones without playing anything is a good signal to others that you don’t want to be bothered.
Stay as far away from your phone as possible. Technology is perhaps the biggest source of distraction when it comes to working and creating. As long as your art allows, try to leave your phone in a different room, keep it on silent, or even just turn it off when you are trying to concentrate on the task at hand. Believe me, your social media accounts can wait.
Give yourself allotted break times. This may sound counterproductive, but allowing yourself to have a quick break from your art will greatly improve your focus and drive when you are working. Letting your mind relax for a few minutes will make you better at combatting distractions and make your mind sharper when creating. Walk away from your project, get a snack, and come back with a refreshed body and mind.
Communicate with others around you. If you are working in a place with others constantly around you, be sure to set some ground rules early on to prevent them from interrupting. Make sure they know exactly when you want to be left alone or need a more quiet environment, and politely ask them to respect your focus by minimizing communication during those times.
Clear visual clutter. Clean off your desk or any area where you work of distracting notes, trinkets, and unnecessary items. If anything is there that you don’t need and will grab your attention when trying to focus, put it out of eyesight until you’re done working.
Following these easy steps will get you into a distraction-free, creative environment in no time. Start working more efficiently and see your best pieces emerge!