After penning ten children’s books, I found myself unexpectedly pregnant at 41. Now, with my little one just 20 months old, I initially believed balancing my writing career with parenting would be a challenge. However, I’ve discovered that I’ve never been more prolific. Many insights from my parenting journey have directly benefitted my creative endeavors. Here are seven of those lessons:
1. Be Present
The cornerstone of effective parenting is being there for your child. In a similar vein, I dedicate time to my other passion—writing. I aim to write for two hours each evening after my son goes to bed. Missing those hours means neglecting my creative work, and I refuse to let that happen.
2. Embrace the Chaos
I once sought perfection in every facet of my life, but I’ve learned to accept that my home will often be a bit chaotic with a toddler around. Laundry may pile up, and gourmet meals are a rarity. This acceptance has also extended to my writing; I’ve learned to embrace the messy first drafts. Both my son and I can make our messes—and that’s perfectly fine.
3. Take Necessary Breaks
Just as my son might need a short timeout for his mischief, I too require breaks when my writing isn’t flowing. Stepping away from a problematic piece can provide a much-needed fresh perspective when I return to it.
4. Master the Art of Multitasking
Being present is important, but I’ve also honed my multitasking skills. Whether I’m jotting down grocery lists in the shower or brainstorming plot ideas while changing diapers, I find that inspiration often strikes when I’m engaged in other activities.
5. Community Matters
My husband and I believe in the value of diverse interactions for our son, and similarly, my writing benefits from feedback from various sources. I rely on my critique group, trusted readers, and editors to enrich my work.
6. Let Go of the Little Things
I used to let small setbacks derail my mood, but I’ve learned that my emotional state can affect my son. This awareness has led me to adopt a more positive approach in my writing, as negativity can stifle creativity.
7. Tomorrow is a New Day
Every night, as I tuck my son in, I sing “Tomorrow” from Annie. This ritual reminds us both that each day is a new opportunity to improve and explore. As I sit down to write after he falls asleep, I look forward to the possibilities that a blank page offers.
In reflecting on these experiences, I realize that my journey as a parent has profoundly shaped my writing life. If you’re interested in exploring more about home insemination, check out this blog post. For those seeking resources on artificial insemination, Cryobaby provides reliable products. Additionally, UCSF offers excellent information on fertility and insurance options.
In summary, the lessons learned from parenthood have enriched my writing habits, proving that creativity and caregiving can coexist beautifully.