After penning 10 children’s books, I found myself unexpectedly pregnant at the age of 41. Now, with my son just 20 months old, I expected my writing career to suffer, but surprisingly, I’ve become more productive than ever. It seems that the skills and lessons learned from parenting have translated beautifully into my creative endeavors.
Here are seven insights I’ve gained:
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Be Present.
The cornerstone of effective parenting is simply being there for your child. In the same vein, I commit to being present for my writing. After my son sleeps, I carve out two hours dedicated to my craft. If I skip this time, my “other baby” goes neglected, and I refuse to let that happen. -
Embrace the Chaos.
Perfectionism used to rule my life, but I’ve come to accept the inevitable messiness that comes with having an active toddler. My home may not be Instagram-ready, and my laundry often piles up, but I’ve learned to be okay with this disorder. Similarly, I’ve welcomed the initial messiness of my writing process. It’s liberating to allow both my son and myself to create without fear. -
Take Breaks.
For both my son and my writing, breaks are essential. When my child needs a timeout, I also step away from my work when it becomes frustrating. This pause often results in a fresh perspective when we return to our tasks. -
Master Multitasking.
While I strive to stay focused on the moment, I’ve significantly improved my multitasking abilities. Whether I’m composing grocery lists in the shower or brainstorming story ideas while changing diapers, I’ve found that inspiration often strikes when my mind is engaged elsewhere. -
It Takes a Community.
Just as I want my son to interact with a range of people, my writing flourishes when it receives diverse feedback. I rely on my monthly writing group, trusted friends, and editors to enrich my work-in-progress. -
Banish the Tears.
I used to let every minor setback affect me deeply; however, I’ve recognized how my stress can impact my son. I’m learning to manage my emotions better for his sake and for my writing. Positivity fosters creativity, while negativity stifles it. -
Hope for Tomorrow.
As I tuck my son in each night, I sing him “Tomorrow” from Annie to end the day on a hopeful note. Each new day brings opportunities to learn and grow, both as a parent and a writer. When he falls asleep, I find a blank page awaiting my creative touch.
For more insights on the journey of parenthood and writing, you can explore this article on couples’ fertility journeys. If you’re interested in health during pregnancy, Healthline offers a great resource on this topic. Additionally, you can dive into plant-based diets during pregnancy and breastfeeding for further exploration.
In summary, the journey of parenthood has not only enriched my life but has also profoundly influenced my writing habits. The lessons of being present, accepting chaos, and embracing community have transformed my approach to creativity.