Why Slower Days Make Better Words – A Lesson from Spain

We don’t often mix holidays with work; after all, a break should be a break. But when we headed out to Salou for a couple of weeks, something quite unexpected happened. The sunshine, the slower pace of life, and that famously relaxed Spanish rhythm all seemed to nudge us gently into writing mode.

A relaxing morning copywriting

Mornings on the Balcony

Most days began in the same easy way. We’d wake around 8 or half past, brew a coffee, and enjoy a light breakfast as the town slowly came to life. With a soft sea breeze drifting over the balcony, it felt like the perfect moment to open the laptop. The atmosphere was calm, unhurried, and without the usual distractions of phones and chores, writing came surprisingly naturally.

Those early hours were often our most productive. The combination of warm sunshine, quiet surroundings, and a fresh head meant ideas flowed freely. Before we knew it, a couple of hours had slipped by.

Finding Balance in the Day

By late morning, the lure of the outside world took over. Some days it was a dip in the pool, other times a walk into the old town, where narrow streets and hidden cafés rewarded slow exploration. Afternoons were never about rushing. We’d pick up fresh fruit and salads from the local market, enjoying simple lunches that somehow felt restorative as well as delicious.

Interestingly, this lighter, more plant-based diet seemed to boost creativity. Whether it was the Mediterranean produce or simply the effect of eating well, our energy and focus both felt sharper. Occasionally, if inspiration struck, we’d do another hour of writing after lunch. But never after 3pm.

Afternoons of Rest and Recharge

We made a rule not to work beyond mid-afternoon. The rest of the day belonged to relaxation, swimming, strolling, people-watching along the promenade, or just soaking up the last of the sun with a cold drink in hand. These slower hours gave us space to reset, and that sense of balance made the time we did spend working all the more rewarding.

By the time evening arrived, we were ready to switch off completely. The Spanish approach to dining, long, unhurried meals stretching late into the night, suited us perfectly. It was a rhythm that encouraged living in the moment.

A Way of Working We Love

This holiday reminded us of something we already knew. Stepping away from the everyday routine often brings out our best ideas. It’s not unusual for us to take long weekends in the UK, Hela the german shepherd happily in tow, just to find that same balance of work and rest. These quieter escapes, whether in the countryside or by the sea, tend to fuel our writing better than busy city breaks ever could.

Salou simply confirmed it: creativity thrives when life slows down. With sunshine, good food, and time to breathe, we came home with pages of notes, fresh drafts, and a renewed love for the work we do.

The Takeaway

Sometimes creativity isn’t about forcing yourself to sit at a desk. It’s about changing the scenery, finding a slower pace, and giving your ideas room to stretch.

We often take time out during the day for a walk, spot of gardening, reading, or chilling with friends or family to get a little creativity back.

For us, Salou delivered all of that in spades, plus a fresh sunny glow for good measure.