Many writers out there today are like me, stay-at-home-moms or dads. We are at-home superheroes but how do we keep everything in check? We share our experiences and our thoughts with complete strangers every day. Some of us have even turned our love of writing and sharing into an income. However, I know many of you have gotten stuck once you monetized your abilities. It is the same issue I had when I began. Here are the five tips that will help you keep focused on your writing but also make time for your little ones.
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One thing at a time. This is a big one. You should only focus on one project or assignment at a time. Multiple jobs can quickly become overwhelming especially with kids in the house.
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Take breaks often. When you get on a roll and are going strong, just go with it. However, if you are doing research or working on piece that feels exhausting you need get up and walk around or play with the kids for a few minutes. Taking frequent breaks and help reduce the stress that comes with writing at home. It also helps to keep you focused when you are at the computer.
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Snack a bit and drink plenty of water. This is one that most people over look but it can save you from a headache and a stomach ache. Sitting for long periods of time can cause a bunch of health problems, most are temporary but still very unpleasant. One of the biggest health issues people come across when writing is headaches and stomach aches. You can prevent both by keeping healthy snacks near by and bottled water. The more comfortable you are the better writer you are.
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Distract the kids. If you are writing during the day when kids are up, you need to set some ground rules for them. You can stash coloring books and crayons or puzzles for times when you need a little more focus. Kids can often get antsy and loud but if you make a designated quiet time where they can unwind and relax it will allow you time to put more focus towards your own work.
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Don’t over load yourself. Some writers take on too much and with kids running around it is really easy to do. You need to start out by taking on one assignment with a deadline at a time. Don’t accept multiple assignments if you work while kids are up. Kids will be kids and accidents do happen. If something pulls you away from your work for an extended period of time you may have too much to do in order to catch up before deadlines start to pass.
These are are many more little tricks you can use when writing at home with kids but these 5 should get you off to a great start. Just remember to breath and relax. The worse thing that you can do is freak out and panic. That will just destroy your schedule and your focus.
