Nola Studiola Question Two: How do you feel when you start a new project? When are you afraid? How does it feel  different from being in the midst of a project, and at the end of a finished project?

I never feel afraid to start something new, which is probably both a gift and a liability. I’m obsessed with the new, with pushing forward, with change. New projects excite me — so much that I sometimes don’t think through all of the potential obstacles. Sometimes, mid-project, I can get bogged down by the number of options and communication that need to happen, but I like to complete projects, so I eventually get through. At the end of a project, I’m never that interested in enjoying the moment. I really want to move onto the next project.

I’m most creative when walking. Before writing, or when I have a business problem to solve, I like taking a walk. I’m also very clear-headed and creative in the shower, and in bed before I fall asleep. I always keep my phone or sticky notes by the bed so I can jot down notes.

I pride myself in being able to work anywhere, however, when given the luxury of choice, I’m very particular about my spaces, and especially about the light in these spaces. I like wood surfaces, warmth, no clutter, and natural or lamp light. I cannot work with overhead light.

But I also need the spaces to change over time, and I need several at once so I can move between them. In our apartment, I like to use our dining room table, our sofa, and a small armchair in our kitchen. I’ve worked on a laptop since the mid 1990s, so I’m a transient worker, always looking to satisfy my next need.

And while this makes no sense from a sleep standpoint, I’m most calm and focused at 8:30 am and midnight to 2 am.