Writing Getaways: Reset Your Creative Mind with a Change of Scenery

When you’re stuck in a writing rut, changing your space can change your story. These writing residencies, coliving spaces, and DIY retreat tips can help you recharge and refocus.

Ever feel like your writing has hit a wall? You’re not alone. Creative burnout often comes from feeling stuck in place, tangled in routines that zap your mental energy. A change of scenery can do more than refresh your eyes—it can unlock new ideas and ignite your creativity.

Our daily lives are full of a thousand tiny decisions: what to cook, when to clean, where to sit, how to structure the day. These constant choices clutter our mental space, leaving less room for creative thinking. When you stay in the same environment, your brain falls into autopilot, managing tasks without much thought—but also without much inspiration.

Stepping into a new space disrupts this pattern. Suddenly, your surroundings demand fresh attention, making your mind more alert and open to creative possibilities.

Changing locations also lightens your mental load. Writing residencies, retreats, and coworking spaces often handle life’s logistics—meals, cleaning, even a dedicated workspace. I’m at one right now, and have been reminded of the power of freedom from everyday decisions. A change of scenery takes you out of the daily grind of decision-making, allowing you to channel your energy into your craft.

New settings bring fresh stimuli, too. The hum of a busy coliving space, the focused hush of a library, or the stillness of a remote cabin can spark unexpected ideas. When your environment shifts, so does your perspective—sometimes in exactly the way your writing needs.

You don’t need a big budget to make a substantial change in your perspective, either.

Easy Ways to Shake Things Up

• Low-Cost Escapes: Head to a local coffee shop, library, or park. A couple of hours away from your usual writing spot can reset your focus. Bonus: The background buzz of a cafe can create just the right atmosphere for deep work.

• Micro-Retreats: Book a weekend Airbnb or a budget-friendly hotel for a DIY writing retreat. I did this recently in Northern Ontario with a friend, and the total cost came in under $300 each. A few days of uninterrupted writing, free from chores and distractions, can work wonders for your productivity and creative flow.

• Join a Coworking Space: Many coworking spaces offer affordable day passes, letting you plug into a creative community without long-term commitments. The change in energy and professional atmosphere can be just the motivation you need.

• Nature Reset: Visit a nearby hiking trail, beach, or nature reserve. Being outdoors can clear mental clutter and spark inspiration. Bring a notebook—or record voice notes if inspiration strikes mid-hike.

• Art and Culture Breaks: Hit up a museum, art gallery, or cultural event. Surrounding yourself with creativity in other forms can inspire fresh ideas in your writing.

• House-Sit or Pet-Sit: Offer to house-sit for friends or family while they’re away. A temporary change of environment (especially one with a built-in pet companion) can make writing feel like a creative adventure.

• Campus Libraries or Cafes: Many universities have public-access libraries and student cafes. The academic vibe can be motivating, and you’ll usually find quiet study spaces perfect for focused writing.

• Writing Meetups or Workshops: Attend a writing event in a new location. Whether it’s a workshop, writing circle, or open mic night, being around other writers in a different space can reignite your passion for your craft.

• Take a Train Ride: Grab your notebook or laptop and take a train trip with no set destination. There’s something about the steady rhythm of travel that invites introspection and storytelling.

Each of these shifts, big or small, can reset your mind and revive your creativity. Try one the next time you feel stuck—and see where your words take you.

Writing Getaways: Colivings, Writing Residencies & Resources for Curating Your Own Adventure

Feeling ready to dive deeper? I’ve curated a list of my favourite coliving and coworking resources for premium subscribers, plus where to find writing residencies designed to recharge and inspire while eliminating the hassle of everyday logistics.