As I sit down to write this, my kitchen table is adorned with crayon doodles and sticky fingerprints, Peppa Pig is playing in the background, a testament to the beautiful chaos that is parenting. Being both a writer and a parent is a rewarding but intricate dance, a delicate balancing act between crafting words and nurturing little hearts. In this blog post, I invite you to join me on a journey through the joys, struggles, and valuable lessons learned while navigating the terrain of parenthood alongside the pursuit of a published novel.
Along the way, I’ll probably have to take multiple breaks—perhaps even while giving birth to unicorns by caesarean section (my daughter’s fascination with all things related to babies, combined with a recent stray cat giving birth in our garden, certainly adds to the adventure). And, of course, there will be snacks.
1. Embracing Imperfection
Parenthood and writing share an innate imperfection. We, as parents, are not flawless, nor are our stories or first drafts. It’s about accepting that sometimes, the storylines of our lives will be filled with plot twists we never saw coming. Embracing imperfection in both our parenting and writing allows us to grow, learn, and adapt with grace.
2. Time Management Magic
One of the first lessons I learned as a writer-parent is the magic of time management. The ability to snatch precious moments for writing amidst diaper changes and playdates becomes a valuable skill. Set aside dedicated writing time and make the most of those windows of opportunity. It’s amazing what you can accomplish in twenty focused minutes. Remember to make sleep a priority, I spent too long writing until the early hours as it was the only time I had peace, now I am writing when I can, regardless of the chao around me.
3. Cherishing the Chaos
Children have an uncanny ability to turn the most orderly schedules into joyful chaos. Instead of resisting it, I’ve learned to cherish these unpredictable moments. Some of my best story ideas have emerged during toddler tantrums or bedtime giggles. Life’s unpredictability often fuels the creativity within us.
4. Involving the Kids
Introduce your children to the world of words and imagination. Reading bedtime stories together not only strengthens your bond but also nurtures their love for storytelling. Involving them in your writing process, even in small ways, can ignite their curiosity and creativity. I now have the outline of a few children’s stories thanks to my daughter.
5. Seek Support
Don’t be afraid to seek support. Reach out to fellow writer-parents who understand the unique challenges and triumphs you face. Whether it’s joining a writing group with childcare options or sharing your experiences online, connecting with others can be both comforting and inspiring.
6. Prioritize Self-Care
Remember, you are not just a parent or a writer; you are a whole person with needs and dreams. Prioritizing self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. Take moments for yourself, whether it’s a walk in the park, a quiet cup of tea, or simply pausing to breathe. Recharge so you can give your best to both your children and your writing. Some people even manage to exercise…
7. Celebrate Small Victories
Parenting and writing are both marathons, not sprints. Celebrate the small victories, whether it’s completing a chapter or witnessing your child take their first steps. Each step forward, no matter how small, is a testament to your dedication and resilience.
Balancing the roles of a writer and a parent is a unique journey, filled with its own set of challenges and rewards. Through imperfection, time management, cherishing chaos, involving the kids, seeking support, prioritizing self-care, and celebrating small victories, we can find a harmonious rhythm that allows us to excel in both domains. So, here’s to all the writer-parents out there—may your stories be as beautifully imperfect as the love you share with your children.
And if you’re managing a full-time job alongside, I salute you! I took a break from writing for two years because I found it challenging to juggle work, commuting, family time, and self-care while still making time to sit and write. Perhaps, I prioritized sleep a bit too much. But now, during the summer holidays, I’ve relished the return to the worlds I created.
How do you manage to balance real life with writing?
