I love working remotely, but at times it can get rather isolating. One thing that keeps me sane is the window immediately to my right in my office (i.e., the smaller bedroom in my condo which serves as my office). Some editors might not prefer a window in their office because they find it distracting—and I admit it can be that way sometimes. However, I love having a window next to me. “Why?” you ask.

I love sunlight. If I did not have the sunlight coming from the window, I would have to light up my office completely with lamps. I do use a few lamps in the office to supplement the natural light from the window, but I would rather not rely on artificial light completely. Besides, sunlight is much brighter and much more cheerful.

A window can also be opened, provided there is a screen. This gives me the scent of freshly cut grass, which I love (I am blessed enough not to suffer from allergies—and you have my sympathy, dear reader, if you do). It also lets in background sounds, such as those of airplanes and lawn mowers, that let me know there is life outside of my building. (However, one sound I never want to hear from the window is Bzzz, because that means a wasp or yellow jacket has found her way in. I am terrified of those things.)

At times, I turn off my Toggl timer and look out my window for a minute or two before going back to work. One thing of which I always take note is the greenery outside. I feel so lucky to live in a community that has a plethora of trees. My husband and I previously lived on a city block where there was nothing but concrete and vinyl siding; during this time, I missed trees very much.

Do you prefer having a window where you work? Why or why not?