“I need to figure out a way to get away from my family for a week–or at least a weekend–so I can delve into the deeper thinking I need to do for my book,” one of my writing coach clients announced to me. “Or maybe I can just add a day to the trip I’m taking in two weeks and do it then.”

I totally understood. The daily distractions of running a household, dealing with kids (or dogs), interacting (or not) with a husband, partner or friends all suck time and energy. On the other hand, my client’s writing getaway was shrinking rapidly, which actually seemed like a good thing to me. I knew the chances of her being able to step out of her life for a week—or even a weekend—were slim. Even if she could, that would only help this time around. What she needed was a way to step out of her life for short, regular intervals.

“I have an idea,” I said. “Maybe I’m suggesting this because I feel like we could both use a spa day, but how about booking yourself for a  massage or some other kind of body treatment? Once it’s over, stay in the big terrycloth robe nice spas inevitably provide, curl up in the usually lovely and tranquil waiting room with a cup of tea or water, and just think and make notes for the next couple of hours.”

My client started to laugh. “That sounds dreamy,” she said. Actually, she probably didn’t use that exact word, but you get the idea.

When I need a getaway that I don’t have time to take, I head to one of two golf clubs east of town. That probably sounds weird since I don’t golf, but they’re both gorgeous. Whether I choose the club with the natural high desert look or the lushly planted one with over-sized water features at every turn, I feel my heart expand and my pulse mellow every time I drive up. I leave an hour or three later feeling restored even when I’ve brought work with me. Something about writing in such a stunning, tranquil environment adds up to quiet productivity.

Figuring that such a getaway would benefit my client, I suggested that she find a couple of local oases that she could escape to at least twice a month. “This is the best assignment ever,” she exclaimed. “I feel better just thinking about it.”

Maybe you should think about identifying your own local writing retreat (or two) as well. If you do, let me know what you come up with.