I am a predominately right-brained person, and I thrive on ideas and dreams.
I am highly visual, creative, and impulsive, rather than systematic, logical, and analytical.
I am also easily distracted.
Unfortunately, I have discovered that my creative nature can result in big messes, if I’m not diligent.
I struggle with keeping a tidy writing area, and my research piles/books tend to take over my desk.
I’m a stacker instead of a filer, and sometimes I spend too much time looking for things.
On the flip side, if something is out of my sight—it is usually out of my mind.
I really need to be able to SEE my stuff or at least have it readily available.
Therein lies one of the biggest obstacles of organizing for the right-brained person.
So here is how to organize writing projects if you’re right brained.
Keep It in the Bag
Like most writers, I often have several projects going on simultaneously.
Each project requires its own set of resources.
Yet when I am trying to focus on one particular manuscript, having books and materials from other projects stacked around me can be a big distraction.
Now, I realize that for left-brained/naturally organized people, there is an obvious solution to this problem.
Simply clear away all materials/ books not related to the current project, utilize filing cabinets and bookcases for storage, and focus only on today’s work.
Such a quandary might seem silly.
But again, out of sight is out of mind for most right-brained people.
Therefore to combat too many piles from too many projects, I have started using large canvas tote bags.
I assign each bag to a specific project and put the books, materials, and other resources from that project inside.
The bags are then stored in my office closet.
When I need to work on a certain assignment, I grab the designated bag and set everything out on a folding table beside my desk where I can see it all.
Afterwards, I put everything back inside the bag and store it again.
I like the mental satisfaction (and security) of knowing I can easily access the materials as needed.
Color Code It
I also came up with the idea to color code my tote bags/projects—for an extra brain jog.
It’s a proven fact that color is an important organizing tool for the right-brained person.
Therefore, the most pressing project with the closest deadline goes into the red patterned bag.
My other bags in the line-up of rank are blue floral, black toile, and green striped, respectively.
Other writers might choose solid colored bags, but I like bright, fun patterns.
White Board Tickler
Another tip that works for me is to use my white board as a tickler and a reminder of what is due and when.
Again, using different colored markers, I list the name of each project/deadline.
If I need to make a call, renew a book, schedule an interview, confirm a fact, etc. I make a note under the corresponding project.
After each step is completed, I cross it off!
At the end of each week, I rewrite an updated list.
Again, I realize that using a calendar or a phone app would work just as well, and the writing space would appear less cluttered.
But for the visual organizer, this is a great solution.
Organization is personal.
But if you are a visual, right-brained person, you have probably already discovered your strengths and weaknesses in this area.
Perhaps these tips will help you become a more productive writer by knowing you can mentally relax with the assurance that ‘it’s all in the bag’—literally!
About Amy O-Quinn
Amy O’Quinn specializes in non-fiction for children, educational content, and articles for the regional (Southern) market. She is a pastor’s wife, former schoolteacher-turned-homeschool mom of six, and freelance writer.
Amy has been published in many magazines, anthologies, and on various websites.
She has also created educator’s guides for other authors, developed content for educational supply companies and individuals, and written monthly columns for several online publications. She is a member of SCBWI. You can find out more about Amy at amyoquinn.com or southerngracenotes.blogspot.com
