Where do you plan to write? Finding a place, or several, where you feel comfortable can boost the creative process. Many songwriters talk of hot spots, places, or rooms where they write well. Some successful writers have getaways in the mountains or by the ocean where the peace and beauty of the surroundings brings out their best work. Some find they do their best writing in the car, on a walk, in a coffee shop, or on a city bus. Find out what works for you.

Caffeine and Snacks

Coffee and other caffeinated beverages can be a songwriter's best friend — or worst enemy. Caffeine makes the brain work faster, effectively raising the IQ. Some songwriters find that ideas flow more quickly after a cup of coffee, tea, or other caffeinated beverage. However, some people get jittery and have trouble focusing. If you have high blood pressure, heart problems, or any condition that might be affected by caffeine, drinking coffee may not be the best thing for you.

Blood sugar also affects the mental process. What you eat before and during a writing session can influence your creativity and productivity. A low blood sugar level, as you might have after a heavy meal or several hours without eating, can make you feel tired. An especially high blood sugar level, like you get after your fifth candy bar in a session, can make you feel euphoric, fidgety, or even sick. Many songwriters are compulsive snackers who work with a pen in one hand and a bowl of goodies in the other. Healthy snacks like fruit will boost the blood sugar without the burnout factor of processed sugars. Veggie snacks like carrot sticks and celery are perfect for the songwriter who just needs something to chew on — and you'll still be able to fit into your tux when the Grammy people call.

Consider the Lighting

Light level and type can affect the mood. Many songwriters find that diffuse light — like that from lamps, track lights, and upward-facing halogen lamp — is better than bright overhead lights.

As a general rule, try not to use older-style fluorescent lights in your writing environment. Many writers report a drop in creativity when working in settings with this kind of light. Regular light bulbs, halogen bulbs, and the new “natural” fluorescent lamps all get high marks from most writers.

You will also want to find out what time of day works for you. Some people are at their creative best in the morning, some in the afternoon or evening, and some late at night. You may find that you have one peak time, that you have two or three spots that work well, or that any time is a good time to write a song.

The Pitter Patter of Little Feet

Here's a common complaint: “I had this great idea going and I was just starting to write it down when … ” A ringing phone, a knock at the door, a barking dog, or a child attempting to set the dog on fire can all interrupt the creative process.

What can you do about it? Usually, a little planning and some help from a spouse, family member, or friend can prevent these problems before they occur. If there's someone in the house who can screen calls, watch the kids, and answer the door, ask them, beg them, pay them if you have to. It'll make your writing time much more productive.

Otherwise, turn off the phone, put a note on the door, put the dog out, and send the kids to the movies before you get started. Distractions don't just cost the time they take up, but also the time spent regaining focus and finding the groove to get the feel of that song again. If you can't remove distractions, do your best to ignore them. Getting mad will only make things worse. Interruptions happen. Sometimes you just have to grin and bear it.