Learn from the chefs to boost your writing

Whenever I plan to embark on a writing project, I apply the “Mise en Place” concept, a French culinary term that means “everything in its place.”

It’s a strategy that world-class chefs swear by when they do the setup required before cooking and is often used in professional kitchens to organize and arrange the ingredients.

Imagine a bustling kitchen. The head chef, calm and collected, and isn’t frantically cursing (a la Gordon Ramsey) while he searches for ingredients. Everything — from chopped vegetables to precisely measured spices — is meticulously arranged and ready for action.

Similarly, as a writer, your “Mise en place” involves setting the stage for a productive and enjoyable writing experience.

It’s not just about organizing your physical workspace; it’s about pre-planning, organizing, and preparing your environment and mind for the creative task ahead.

Here’s how I apply “Mise en place” to enhance my writing outcome:

🎯 Preparation is key: I meticulously prepare my physical workspace, ensuring a tidy desk and a clean, focus-friendly room. I even sometimes vacuum the room before I get started.

And if you don’t believe me, listen to the experts. Research published in Harvard Business Review highlights the…