One of the most frequently asked questions I get is how I find time to write with my three kids and church stuff I usually have going on. Sometimes I stay up really late, get a babysitter for a few hours, convince my husband to play Mr. Mom on the weekends, but those things don't happen very often. Instead, I have to find little chunks of time throughout my week, which means giving up something else that used to fill that time.
A few things I’ve had to give up so I have time to write...
- Television.*
- Folding Laundry. Really, why does it need to be folded, if we are just going to wear it within a couple of days anyway?
- Scrapbooking. Thank goodness for digital albums, or else my kids pics would still be on a roll of film in a box somewhere, I’m sure.
- Most of my hobbies. I have been working on an afghan for two years, I have two quilt tops done that need batting and backing and tying, and a Welcome Bear I’ve been painting outfits to go with each month—still have a few outfits left to paint. I work on a little bit every time I get a chance, but at this rate, it’s going to be another couple of years before I’m finished with any of them.**
- Exercising at the gym. I go for a walk every morning to get out of the house and see my friends/walking buddies, but I’ve given up going to the gym I’m already paying for with my HOA fees. The only time I could get down there without kids is in the evening and that is prime writing time.
- Naps.
*Except for Bachelor/ette because everyone needs some veg time in the week
**Since I only work on these things while I'm watching Bachelor/ette--heaven forbid I just sit and relax. :)
The next question... Is it worth it? YES!
Are there things you've had to give up in order to find time to write?
The next question... Is it worth it? YES!
Are there things you've had to give up in order to find time to write?
ditto, ditto, and ditto.
ReplyDeleteI still find time for some sewing, but yeah, digital with photos all the way. Now that my daughter is getting better on her bike - my runs are sometimes done with her, which is nice. So yeah, my house isn't as clean as I'd like, my brain is a little more muddled than I'd like, but I'm okay with that.
Movies, except the prime date time with my hubby. Of course, I pass off grocery shopping whenever I can. My garden is one thing I will not forgo, but basically, I'd be happy to write, garden eat and sleep.
ReplyDeleteKaylee, when people ask me "where do you find the time?" sometimes I want to scream! I feel like they are secretly asking "do you neglect your kids" or "do you have the TV babysit your children"?
ReplyDeleteI say we MAKE time for the things that are important to us. I write from 5-7 in the morning and any other time I get little tidbits of time.
Things I don't do: cook anything that takes longer than 15 minutes prep time; deep clean very often; garden; or do PTO, or city council or things like that. Those things simply aren't important to ME (although they are great things for other people to do!)