I wrote extensively in my short series on “spaceship you” the importance of separating spaces with intention. Over the last several months, I’ve struggled to get myself to work at the level I’d like. I think a large part of this has been a lacking structure in my new living space.
Changes in Environment
At the time of writing the spaceship you posts, I was living in a house with a few friends. At the beginning of our move, I was the only one working remotely full time, and so I was lucky to grab the largest bedroom consisting of the entire attic.
Since moving out of that space, I’ve lost the element of physical separation in living spaces. I spend a large amount of time in my bedroom, typically working my day job. Then, I tend to wind down watching videos in bed or sitting at the same desk further to play games. With so much time dedicated to other things in that space, it is challenging to focus on being productive.
Overall, my new living arrangements are great My roommate and I get along well. We spend a fair amount of time together, and have frequent plans with friends both online and off. However, I still wanted to find a space specifically for working on my own projects.
A Local Solution
Because I was failing to make this space at home, I decided to look outward. Luckily, the local library is close, just a few minutes walk. While certainly not as convenient as a solid workspace at home, given the limitations I have, I’m more than happy to get out for a few hours a week to really sit down and focus.
Lately, I’ve made an effort to go to the library at least once a week, though I want to get these numbers up. Once there, I find it easier to sit down and write, even if it’s just the outline or rough ideas I have for a post, as distractions are less intrusive. I know I’m there for a purpose and doing anything else feels wasteful.
This is far from the extreme changes of previous trials, but has a pretty clear cut benefit that I’m already seeing in action. My goal with this simple trial is to get the year started off in a better direction and rebuild habits that I’d lost in my move. One could say to build a foundation.
Trying Out Before Buying In 