YOUR Way
Many, many moons ago, I met a YA author who also happen to be a teacher in my school board. I was enthralled with her success, and, I admit, vehemently jealous. How had she managed to find time to teach and write, when I struggled with that very balance?
I asked her. Her answer: “I make time.”
I appreciated it was her truth, but it didn’t help me in the least. I had two young children at the time, a husband who travelled constantly and aging parents to care for, not to mention the crushing load of a full-time English teacher. How the hell was I supposed to follow her advice?
Only, I realized, she hadn’t given me advice. I’d asked what worked for her, a young woman who happened to be single. She made time for writing in the way that suited her life the best.
I couldn’t follow her path. I found my own. I waited until my kids got older. I got babysitters specifically for my writing time. I took an unpaid leave of absence for one semester to concentrate on writing full time. That was my way forward.
So if you struggle with finding time to write, be careful not to compare your success or struggles with others. Their life isn’t yours. Your life isn’t theirs.
Life can get in the way of writing, true, but remember, it’s your life. Try to enjoy it, whether you’re writing or not. 🙂