How To Stay Safe When You're Writing In A Public Place

Writing in public spaces can offer a change of pace that restores your creativity and allows you to see your work with fresh eyes. Many writers find the hum of distant chatter and background noise helps keep them in the zone. And, hey, people-watching can be a plentiful source of inspiration for characters and dialogue!

Between my schedule at my day job and other factors, I do a lot of my writing on the go, and that's led to me writing in some unusual spots. But no matter if you're writing in your local public library, the park on a sunny afternoon, a bustling coffee shop, or the food court of the mall you work in, staying safe is vital.

In this post, I'm sharing a handful of the measures I take when I'm writing out and about.

Location, Location, Location

We all know the cardinal rule of blind dates: agree to meet in a well-lit public place. It's also a wise approach to adopt when choosing a writing spot on the go.

Secluded corners with limited lighting may add a feeling of brooding and mystery that many writers thrive on, but they can put you in a vulnerable position.

While I prefer an out-of-the-way table when I'm in the food court, for instance, I'm still in a well-lit area that's in public view. I also tend to choose a seat that's facing the food court rather than sitting with my back to it, which helps with staying vigilant (more on that in a moment). But on days the food court is too crowded for my liking, there's a windowsill not far away and wide enough for me to sit on comfortably, plus it's a well-lit space near some escalators with steady traffic so I'm not entirely out of sight.

This should go without saying, but make sure you're only writing in places you're allowed to be in. Don't try to sneak into a restricted area to write. Rules are rules for a reason, so be respectful of the space you're using and abide by any posted signs.

Safety In Numbers

I do a lot of my writing solo, in part because the vast majority of my writing friends are long-distance or internet pals I've never met in person.

But if you've got writing friends in your area, why not make a day trip of it? It can not only make for a fun and productive writing session, but add another element of security. Having others around tends to deter unwanted attention.

And you may be able to try new coffee shops in your area or discover your next favorite drink by trying something new every time you get together!

Keeping It Together

When you're writing on the go, chances are you've got some accessories with you, like your pens and notebook and gadgets like a laptop and your phone.

No matter what you're bringing with you, make sure you're also leaving with it.

Invest in a sturdy bag that's large enough to fit all of your belongings, one that's easily identifiable as yours and has a zipper or other secure closure. Keep it close to you and don't leave it unattended.

It's easy to get lost in your writing, and the last thing you'd want is to return to reality and find your things missing.

Taking Charge

Speaking of belongings, I recommend getting backup chargers for your electronics and keeping them with your writing gear. This reduces the risk of your device powering down while the words are at last flowing but in the case of your phone allows you to get in contact with people should the need suddenly arise.

I'd also suggest getting a power bank for writing spots where there isn't an accessible outlet to plug your things into.

Stay In Tune With What's Around You

Longtime readers of the blog know that music is a significant part of my writing process, from playlists inspired by my current WIP or instrumentals to help keep me focused. But the way I listen to music when I write depends on where I am.

At home, chances are I've got my trusty headphones on and the music turned up. However, in public spaces, I usually opt for only using one earbud and keeping the other ear open—which is also good for keeping my Bluetooth earbuds charged—allowing me to stay aware of everything happening around me.

If I am using both earbuds or headphones, I tend to have my music at a lower volume, again for the sake of my own awareness but also so I don't disturb others nearby.

And I can't forget the number-one tip I took away from Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide and still use to this day: when you just don't want to be talked to, wear your headphones but don't connect them to anything. It's just another form of noise reduction without noise cancellation.

Trust Your Instincts

Lastly, remember that your instinct is a powerful thing. If something about a situation or location feels off or unsafe, trust that feeling and act on it. It's better to be rude than dead.

Writing in new places can be exciting and offer a change of pace that refuels your creative energies. However, when your writing takes you out and about, it's important to make sure you're staying safe.

By taking these measures, you'll be able to write with the utmost confidence that the only ones in any peril are your characters!