If you are a writer, chances are you are in the midst of this routine—write, read, revise, repeat. It sounds simple enough, right? You make time to write, let words spill out of you, and just like that you have a working draft.

After a day, a week, maybe a month you return to this piece. You sit down and prepare to revise it. You find yourself cringing at the endless rants or the empty descriptions.

You chip away at it—despite the frustrations—until you cannot bear to look at it anymore. Then it’s time for a break, and you do what you can to step away from your work at least until the next day.

The writing process is not easy. It takes a lot of patience and dedication. Chances are you are in need of a break, and nothing provides more solace than spending time outdoors. Not to mention spring is around the corner, even more reason to try something new.

Find time to step away from your routine to try a fun writing exercise.

For this exercise get ready to switch it up. You will have to leave your favorite coffee shop or trusty old desk. Set a date and time, and make sure to follow these three simple rules:

1. Pick a Spot

Spring in Los Angeles is a writer’s playground. Your goal will be to spend time in nature and marvel at its beauty. Have fun deciding where you will go. Los Angeles does not run short of options. Plan a visit to the beach soak up the waves under a sun-lit sky, go for a hike on your favorite trail, or have a picnic on a clear day.

2. Be Present

Nature has a lot to offer, if you just listen. If you allow yourself to soak it all in. Plan to take this adventure on your own. Where ever you go, do what you can to keep your phone out of sight. Even if it’s for twenty minutes, look around and pay attention to the world around you.

3. Reflect and Write

After the time you allocate for quiet observation, take out your preferred medium, set a timer and write. As you write, consider your senses. What did you see? How did the breeze feel against your skin? Were you struck by any familiar or unexpected scents? What sounds, if any, stood out the most? Explore how it made you feel.

It is easy to get consumed by writing demands. As a new season sets in, don’t miss all it has to bring. Take a break, get some fresh air. Make room in your life for leisure and adventure.

Do you have a favorite writing exercise?

Stuck in a Funk? Try This Fun Writing Exercise

1. Pick a Spot

2. Be Present

3. Reflect and Write