When the Sunshine is Calling

I don't know how the weather is where you live, but in Southern California we've had a real treat this week and should continue into the weekend. It has been sunny, blue skies and in the high 70's to low 80's F. The birds are singing and the air smells fresh. The trees and flowers are blooming, especially with all of the rain we've had recently (my allergies aren't very happy about this one). Spring is definitely in the air.

That's great, but how do I concentrate and motivate myself to write when the outside is calling my name? That has been the issue. Here are a few ways to keep your mind on your work, and not on what you could be doing in the great outdoors.

1. Reward yourself. Whether you weakness is swimming, hiking, taking your dog out for a walk or even washing your car, give yourself a goal and if you hit it, do something you love outside. A break is a health way to get a new view of your WIP.
   
2. Write outside. Take your laptop, Alphasmart or even a notebook and pen outside for some rays (just don't forget the suntan lotion and in some cases, the bug spray).
3. Research. Is there a place your book takes place that you can research while enjoying the outdoors? Walk the neighborhood your fictitious characters live or maybe your neighborhood. You never know where you will get ideas.
   
4. Observation. I know we've all done it. Sitting at the next table listening to a group of teens talk about their problems, or watching them walk through the mall. Instead of finding a local teen hideout that's inside, take it outside. Try to find a cafe or restaurant that has outdoor seating. Or a local hangout for teens like a skate park that you can pull up a bench and take a few notes. If you live near the beach, that is a perfect place to people watch.

How do you find a way to work when the sunshine is calling?