Many authors find that, when it comes to writing, starting and finishing one’s manuscript are the two most challenging parts of the whole ordeal. But with so many distractions around, it’s possible that you’re finding any part of your project difficult! If that’s the case, a writing residency may provide that much-needed push in the right direction.

First of all, what exactly is a writing residency? In short, it’s a program in which a group of writers stays at a particular location for a set length of time, usually between a few weeks and a few months, with the sole purpose of working on their manuscript.

Unlike events such as conferences and retreats, there is rarely a particular structure to each day, and the location is often a secluded one. (Check out this blog post that breaks down in detail the differences between residencies, retreats, and workshops for more information.)

The idea is to devote large chunks of time to writing, either in an assigned room, the common space, or perched out in nature overlooking the retreat’s peaceful surroundings.

Read on for some reasons why a writing residency may be the thing you need to finally see your manuscript come to fruition.

It offers a window into guilt-free writing.
Many authors, especially new ones, are forced to squeeze in their writing between normal work hours, taking care of the kids, right before bedtime, et cetera. Writing residencies offer an unprecedented opportunity to Just. Write. No other responsibilities. Did I mention meals are usually provided?

Most hours of the day are completely open. Just you and your story, together, for days and days on end. No one is going to be there to distract you—after all, the other authors at the residency are also there to work—and there is no deadline or specific word count to hit.

The freedom from expectations and the normal tasks of everyday life that come from physically removing yourself to a new, often remote place can be downright liberating for anyone who just needs space and time to see their work come to life.

It offers connection.
Writing in and of itself can be a somewhat isolating practice, but writing residencies give you a chance to connect in person with your fellow wordsmiths. While everyone there will be busy doing their own thing during the day, there are treasured pockets of time in which all the residents come together, usually during mealtimes, and share in the common experiences—both good and bad—that writing brings.

Writer’s block? Exciting breakthrough? Unexpected character direction? Being able to share it all with others who are going through the exact same thing can be a powerful, humbling thing. A residency is a special moment in time, one that may only happen for a brief few weeks or months but that will instill memories and even friends for a lifetime.

It offers uninterrupted you time.
In a world where everyone and everything seems to have a claim on your time, writing residencies can feel like a real luxury. Uninterrupted quiet time, a serene location to commune with nature, a solitary chance to reconnect with who you are as a person and a writer . . . These things are hard to come by, but a residency makes it possible.

The most independent route compared to writing workshops or retreats, these getaways represent an ideal way to focus on your book and see it through till the end. While the programs are notoriously competitive, it is well worth the time it will take to research and apply—even if you’re not a published author! And while writing residencies are certainly not necessary to finish your book, they are a fantastic way to make it happen.

One final note to remember: A writing residency is a golden opportunity to work on your writing all day, every day. Just remember that, even in such idyllic surroundings, you can’t force the writing to happen. Often, the residency simply provides time to sit and think about your work in a way that can only come from completely unstructured days.

So don’t feel guilty if you’re not constantly tapping away at your laptop all day. Make time to simply look around. You may be surprised at what you find.

Andrea Moran lives outside of Nashville with her husband and two kids. She’s a professional copywriter and editor who loves all things books. Find her on LinkedIn.