Balancing Parenthood, Writing, and Everything Else: A Reflection

“The quickest way for a parent to get a child’s attention is to sit down and look comfortable.”

Lana Olinghouse

Being a parent and a writer is like trying to juggle flaming torches while riding a unicycle—on a tightrope. Add in family commitments, catching up with friends, a full-time job, and the never-ending quest to keep the house from looking like a tornado swept through it, and some days, it feels downright impossible.

Do I have a secret formula for making it all work? Not at all. If anything, I’m just lucky to have a supportive husband and an extended family who understand my need to disappear into fictional worlds every now and then.

What I’ve learned, though, is this: don’t put too much pressure on yourself. The world won’t end if your writing goal for the week takes a backseat to a sick kid or an unexpected work crisis. And whatever you do, resist the urge to compare yourself to other writers, especially on social media, where everyone’s life looks like a highlight reel. Trust me, you’re doing an amazing job—even on the days when it doesn’t feel that way.

Motherhood has a way of creeping into my writing, too. My debut novel, Bonds of Blood and Duty, explores the complexities of motherhood, as does my current work-in-progress. It’s fascinating to see how the challenges I live out daily shape my characters.

So, to anyone feeling the weight of it all: breathe. Celebrate the little victories, whether it’s writing one perfect sentence or just surviving another chaotic day. And remember, you’re not alone in this beautifully messy balancing act. You’ve got this!