The Writing Parent

Finding time to write can be difficult enough. You have a full-time job. You have other responsibilities inside or outside your home. And that's BEFORE children come along!

How in the world do you find time to write as a parent? 

Whether you're at home with your kids, getting them each day for school or caring for a newborn; or if you leave each day for work, then come home to wall-to-wall kid time and family duties, you know the drill.

"I have to squeeze some time to write. Somewhere between changing diapers, helping with homework and making dinner. Oh, then there's the laundry."

Finding time to write is not as easy as it sounds. Sure, fifteen minutes sounds doable enough but once those kids are in bed, and you finally have some time to unwind, motivation may be a pipe dream.

How can you maintain motivation amidst your day-to-day parenting adventures? Here are a couple of suggestions:

* Utilize work breaks and lunches - Personally, this has been one of my most productive times to write. If you hold a full-time job outside the home, give it a try.

* Carry a mini-recorder so you don't lose any thoughts while driving or have forgotten a notepad.

* Shut off the Internet after the kids go to bed and hit it hard for at least 15 minutes. When there is finally quiet in the house, you never know how much you can accomplish.

* Schedule one night a week to write. I take one night and go spend anywhere from 3-5 hours writing at a coffee shop or the library. This is dedicated time where you can ensure no distractions, at least not from your kids.

What secrets have you found to finding time to write?