Exploring the Impact of My Office Makeover on My Writing Journey
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Tim Denning, this is all your doing. Had you not shared your story about your ideal workspace, I wouldn’t have felt compelled to try to outdo you.
Your article, The Dream Home Office Setup for a Writer Working from Home, captivated me. You claimed that your straightforward arrangement enabled you to reach millions of readers.
Naturally, it seemed logical to think that if you could touch millions with your "simple" setup, I would need something far more elaborate to reach billions.
Before Tim Denning
Prior to reading Tim’s piece, I was satisfied with the workspace depicted in the image below.
In the “Before” image, my workspace was quite basic. I was a simple person, crafting straightforward stories that emerged from my uncomplicated yet creative mind. My tales reached a handful of readers before fading into obscurity. I felt content, productive, and somewhat happy.
Then, Tim's article appeared.
His setup descriptions, the visuals, and his impressive readership overwhelmed me.
So, I decided to follow his example, ultimately resulting in my own office transformation. But first, let's reflect on the “Before.”
Desk
Let’s discuss the foundation of my workspace. My desk was merely a folding table with half its veneer missing. As a tall person, I require ample space, but as many know, more space often leads to more clutter.
Indeed, several issues plagued this setup. Like many creative yet chaotic writers, I tend to be messy. Used napkins, remnants of meals consumed while contemplating my next great story, littered the surface. I often used them to wipe my nose and couldn't bring myself to dispose of them.
Other items cluttering the table included toilet paper (for my occasional digestive issues) and a neck massager that I had simply left there due to the available space.
Then there was the cowboy hat I purchased to channel P.G. Barnett. I’d wear it while writing, hoping to embody his charm and productivity. It served as a constant reminder of how far I have yet to go to become the "Dude The Ladies Find Attractive." Based on my lack of responses on dating apps, I’m nowhere near that mark.
Additional items included a decorative light for the photo and a printer that never functions properly.
Computer
Once, I subscribed to Tim’s philosophy: minimalism in computing was key for writing. Aside from the occasional research and articles, I mainly used my computer to keep tabs on various acquaintances.
Oh, my computer… I hid it because I borrowed it from my last job. It’s essentially a brick—heavy, clunky, slow, and adorned with a difficult-to-remove sticker from my former employer. Some secrets must stay hidden.
The Space
My workspace is essentially a storage room in my new place. It’s dark, cold, and lonely—much like my current existence. Sigh
After Tim Denning
As shown in the “After” image, I now resemble a writing deity. I’ve transformed from a simple man into someone struggling to generate ideas, despite my impressive array of tools promising power and glory!
Desk
Guided by Tim’s principles, I believed it vital to craft a distinctive writing environment. Everyone knows that the more writing-related items you possess, the more professional you appear, even if your writing skills don’t match.
With this in mind, I invested in a height-adjustable stand-up desk, made overseas from questionable materials. I couldn't afford the electric version from Ikea like Tim, so I settled for the manual crank model—a task my son helps me with during his visits.
Stuff on the Desk
#### Monitors
Tim mentioned he used two monitors initially but found his laptop more functional. To that, I respond, “Amateur!” I boast three monitors.
Admittedly, I haven’t quite figured out how to utilize them effectively, but their presence certainly makes me look like a serious writer—more so than even Tim Denning. Now, if only I could learn to write as well as he does.
#### Microphone, Boom, and Mysterious Gadget
Lacking these essentials, one can never achieve the pinnacle of their career—a podcast! More dubious merchandise from overseas, lacking instructions but looking impressive. I connected it to my computer, but its operation remains a mystery, leaving me uncertain whether it’s always active or not. Another task for my son when he visits. Once I figure it out, watch out, Joe Rogan!
#### Headphones
These used to be fantastic—great sound quality and noise cancellation. Unfortunately, they didn’t last long, as I lost the charging cable within weeks. Oh well, they’re on my Christmas wish list.
#### Computer
What an upgrade! I transitioned from a brick to a high-speed gaming rig. It was costly—well, it's on credit, so it will cost me in the future.
Regrettably, I don’t play video games. My son commandeers it during his visits, leaving me struggling to write. But when he’s not around, I can sit for hours, waiting for inspiration.
#### Webcam
The little brown box on my desk holds my webcam—yet another foreign product. I hesitate to connect it, fearing it could be remotely accessed. Given my office's proximity to my bedroom, I can’t have anyone spying on my personal life.
#### Tape Dispenser
A delightful find at the dollar store! It allows me to dispense that sticky clear paper known as tape. It feels so retro to have one on my desk, and I discovered that using it creatively can yield amusing results.
I suspect Tim doesn’t own one of these gems!
#### Journal
This is my treasure! The colorful little book next to my microphone is it.
Its leather cover features whimsical drawings by some fellow named Van Gogh. With practice, he might become quite skilled.
Many writers advocate for keeping a journal, but I prefer my computer for that purpose. I’m still figuring out how to use it, but it looks nice in photos. Currently, it serves as a coaster.
#### Cowboy Hat
Notice its absence in the image? My son was so mortified when I wore it out that he donated it to Goodwill, claiming I resembled a “roofing nail.” I have no idea what that means.
I’m now on the hunt for a replacement—this time, I’m considering a white one with frills, just like a true Texas cowboy! P.G. Barnett will be envious!
Location, Location, Location
I strategically positioned my desk near my bed and bathroom. The bathroom is where my best thoughts occur, making it easy to dash over with ideas while multitasking.
Being close to my bed allows for those necessary quick naps when my mind is overflowing with creativity.
Flow State
Tim talks about finding your “flow state,” describing it as “teleporting from consciousness to a dreamland where effort feels effortless.” While I'm unsure about the metaphysical implications, I grasp the concept. I believe Timothy O’Leary coined the term “flow state.”
In Tim’s article about this concept, he says, “Altering how you perceive time is a powerful concept. When time appears and feels different, you also look and feel different.”
Considering his article has amassed over 15k views (I’ve read it at least thrice), there’s likely something to it. Thus, I plan to work on teleporting and time alteration. I hope to return to that fateful frat party where I had a memorable encounter—better save that for my pen-name stories.
Conclusion
So there you have it. I now possess an inspiring writing space. My desk and computer are top-tier, I have a cool microphone for podcasts, three screens, and easy access to a bathroom—and my bed for those creative naps.
What’s the takeaway? Well, it’s clear that the more writing tools you acquire, the more you’ll embody the writer's spirit. If you possess more than Tim Denning, you should surpass his performance effortlessly.
As soon as inspiration strikes, Tim, I’m coming for you! Any day now, I expect to reach billions of readers with my writing, thanks to all this impressive gear. Just waiting for those ideas to arrive...
If only my tools could provide some writing prompts...
Charles Roast is a satirical writer known for his sharp wit and humor. He writes for himself to relieve the mental strain of his brilliance. Currently, he half-heartedly manages two publications: Dad-Bods, which welcomes submissions from other writers, and Voices In My Head, dedicated solely to his musings. Feel free to follow both.
Mr. Roast wishes to convey his appreciation to Mr. Denning for his insightful articles, which he reads in hopes of gaining wisdom. Thank you, Mr. Denning.
Mr. Roast welcomes feedback from readers and typically responds.
To reach him, email [email protected].