Juggling Words and LEGO: Navigating Writing as a Parent
Parenthood is a rollercoaster of emotions, especially when your copassenger is an energetic six-year-old. From dance parties to pretending to be Pokémon and impromptu math quizzes, every day is an adventure.
Creating Writing Spaces in Shared Time
Finding time to write amid LEGO towers and online schooling is no small feat. I’ve discovered early mornings are golden hours for stealing quiet moments with my novels. It’s amazing how a few uninterrupted minutes can lead to literary breakthroughs.
But as any parent knows, plans often go out the window. My son sometimes wakes up early, meaning I have to embrace the unpredictability. Sometimes I work on my novel at night or during the weekend, and that’s okay too. Flexibility is key.
Incorporating National Novel Writing Month
One of my favorite discoveries has been NaNoWriMo’s Young Writers Program. My son has grown up with me doing NaNoWriMo in November, and in 2022, he joined me. Sitting together and writing is a fantastic way to bond while nurturing creativity.
Setting Realistic Writing Goals
Setting realistic writing goals is crucial. Instead of aiming for a marathon, I’ve embraced writing sprints—short, focused sessions with my accountability buddies that keep the creative juices flowing without overwhelming my schedule or the attention span of my six-year-old.
Building connections with other writer parents has been a game changer too. Sharing tips, commiserating over challenges, and celebrating victories create a supportive community that understands the balancing act.
In the end, that balance between parenthood and writing is a dance I’m still learning as I go. It’s both messy and beautiful, and it’s uniquely mine. The journey may be unusual, but it’s filled with love, laughter, and the occasional sticky key on our laptops.
I’d love to hear your stories and tips on balancing jobs and hobbies with parenthood. Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Raine