The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Novel While Juggling a Full Time Job

"I don't have time to write my novel. I have a fulltime job/business/kids/partner..."

I've been there and I am here today to call you out on all those excuses!

My twins were toddlers when I started writing my first novel. I also had two boys at primary school, and I did all the mum duties, including volunteering at their school and handling the admin for my (then) husband's business.

I mean, I know exactly how crazy busy and tired can get. Trust me.

As writers, we often find ourselves struggling to prioritize our craft, caught in the never-ending cycle of balancing our full-time jobs, family obligations, and household chores. The dream of writing that coveted full-length novel feels like a distant horizon, drifting further beyond our reach.

Have you ever had a time when you wished you could take some time out and put some words on paper?

Fear not, fellow wordsmiths! Conquering the challenge of writing a novel amidst the chaos of daily life is no small feat. It requires resilience, dedication, and unwavering passion. Let's embark on this journey together, defying all odds and bringing our novel to life, one beautiful word at a time. Are you ready to make your mark on the literary world?

With the right mindset, strategy, and time management, anybody can write that novel they've always wanted. In this blog, we'll be discussing just that.

1. Plan Your time

Writing a full length novel can be a long and tedious process, which is why proper planning is a crucial step. Start by analyzing your routine, determine how much time you spend on your job, housework, familial obligations, and leisure activities. Then, set aside a specific time block or two each day to focus purely on writing. Stick to this schedule strictly.

2. Good Time Management

In general, writers who work on other tasks during their allotted writing time tend to be less productive. This can be resolved by having excellent time management skills. Prioritize your daily tasks, ensuring that you accomplish the significant tasks before you focus on the trivial ones. Also, keep in mind that writing is equally important as everything else, so set aside time and manage it appropriately.

3. Single out a Writing Environment

Getting into the mindset of writing can be challenging. A good way to train your brain is by creating a specific writing environment. This can be a designated room, a café, a garden, etc. It should be a place that's quiet, free from distractions, and entrancing. Spend time in your writing environment regularly and train your brain to begin writing every time you enter that space.

4. Change the way you Write

The old-school technique that works for most writers are the daily 2000+ words written per day. However, if you're juggling other responsibilities, this can be a bit challenging to achieve. Switch your mentality and start writing small, measurable, and consistent chunks. That could be 200 words a day, but the goal is consistency. When you finally reach 75,000 words, you'll look back and be proud of the consistency and persistence.

5. Get a Writing Buddy

Writing a story can be a lonely process, and without motivation, it's easy for you to stall. Find someone to support you along the journey and hold you accountable, or join a writing group. It's an excellent way to get feedback, support, and motivation.

But wait, did that holiday away sound exactly like what you need? Then come and join me and a small group of other authors on our exclusive writing retreat.

Join us 23-28 July 2024 in Seminyak, Bali, for an unforgettable journey of creativity and inspiration.

LEARN MORE

Writing a full-length novel can be done even when you have a full-time job and family responsibilities. The keys to success are to adopt proper time-management skills, plan a set schedule, establish reasonable goals, create a writing-friendly environment, and find support in friends and online communities. Remember to maintain writing consistency, break down tasks into smaller bits, and stay motivated. These tips can all work together to help you complete your brilliant novel and fulfill your writing dreams.

Happy writing.