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I am lucky enough to live in Portland, Oregon, home of all things coffee. A perfect city to explore amazing local coffee shops, and do my work (writing and illustrating) in the most pleasurable way possible.

Working in a Coffee Shop is an Easier Way to Get Things Done

Inside of a coffee shop, I can do most anything. I am transformed into a superhero of sorts.

From the most mundane to the exciting, I am somehow able to do my work without the struggle that can sometimes occur at home.

In an environment where I am not concerned about the piling up of dishes, I find myself able to relax enough to get down to business and do what matters.

Emails that would take me ages to get back to are expediently sent out, bills paid, and, of course, sketches are drawn and stories written.

And while it is not always necessary for me to leave the house to do my work, sometimes, it is a way that involves the least kicking and screaming. Going to a coffee shop is akin to me getting out of my head, and escaping the voices if you will.

In the mix of the music, talking, coffee grinding and clinking of cups on saucers, I am somehow able to tune into the most important voice. The voice that calls me forward to do what I most want or need to do.

Exploring Local Coffee Houses to Find a Perfect Fit

If you have the time or the inkling, I’d urge you to try out the local gems and find that one special coffee shop that was made for you. Within the local shops there is such a variety of environments that you are sure to find a perfect fit, making it completely worth the effort. As for me, I prefer coffeehouses on the quieter end of the spectrum, adult libraries of sorts where people come to work and speak softly. I have found a couple in Portland that completely cater to this need, and butter my nerdy biscuits regularly.

Changing Your Environment is Key to Getting Unstuck

And, though you may not be a writer, I have a suspicion that you may have a list of things you want to do, yet haven’t managed to accomplish within the confines of your own home. So, consider this your official invitation to explore how a little caffeine and change in environment could be just the ticket to beginning to cross off your to do’s with greater efficiency and ease. Just don’t forget to bring your headphones.

Illustration courtesy of the (multi-talented) Colleen Overman.