Normally, advice on how to be a successful writer centers on actually typing something, however, there are times when we need to consider what it takes to get to the point where you can actually type something.  I am talking about your writing environment.  That's correct, things like your desk, screen, and, most importantly, your chair.

Stage one of becoming a writer is to write wherever and whenever you can.  Sooner or later, you are going to grind out that first work and get rolling.  Regardless of the conditions, you just have to get it done.  Next is the hard part, finding a venue for your work.  If you cross that threshold, you still have a few more choices to make.  Was all that hard work and time worth it just to see your short story online or, if you were really good and lucky, in print.  Speaking as a writer, I can tell you that it was all well worth the effort.  Once you have decided that writing is something you are going to pursue, you need to make your life a little easier.

Nearly all writers do the bulk of their writing at home and we have all banged out work perched in an uncomfortable chair at the kitchen table.  Now that you are hooked, we need to look at not killing your body to be a writer.  The first question is what kind of space do you have?  Most of us have limited space to work with so be completely honest with yourself.  Since the computer has become the centerpiece of all media, is it time to rearrange the furniture to accommodate everyone's computer needs?  You may find that your family hasn't been in the dining room in a year.  In spite of what the relatives may think, it may be time to dump the traditional layout and set up the family cube farm.  While your household may not be that extreme you get the idea.

Pick a workstation or desk that fits your space and needs.  Forget matching the rest of the furniture, this is writing not decorating.  After you sell your first movie deal, you can a cool set of matching furniture made.  Until then, we are talking function not beauty.  Don't be afraid to try furniture on for size while you are at the office supply store.  That’s why they put all that furniture together in the first place.

Since you are going to spend hours staring at the screen, pick a good one.  Since writing is not exactly a difficult task for a computer, you don't need a wicked fast processor or other bells and whistles.  All you need is the basics for hardware.  Step up in quality on the screen.

Next to the screen is your precious keyboard.  Again, do not settle for any old keyboard.  This is the tool of your trade.  Try them on for size and pick what works for you.  Personally, I prefer the "wave" style keyboards.  They take a little getting used to, but they keep my shoulders from killing me after a few hours of work.  Don't hang on to a keyboard after it starts getting beat down.  If you have broken one of the support legs and worn the letters off, throw that poor wobbly thing away and get a new one.

Please make sure to protect yourself from carpal tunnel.  Purchase new pads as needed. Don't hurt yourself over a ratty old mouse pad.  They don't cost that much.

Now, we come to the most important thing you can do for your writing and yourself!  Get a good chair!  I don't mean steal one from the kitchen or go prop up in bed on ten pillows, I mean go try them on and pick a good chair that gives you the support you need.  Again, we are not talking leather, décor, or things that look good.  We are talking about a critical part of the process here.  If you can't sit in comfort, you can't concentrate.  You will be shocked at what a difference to your productivity a good chair will make.  Again, don't be afraid to re-invest every so often.  When your current chair starts to fall off the pace a bit, replace it.  Think of it as re-tooling the factory floor.

Get yourself into the write environment, then we will find out if you have the write stuff.