1) Write it down!
Keep a mini note pad and pen with you at ALL times. I know it sounds silly but there have been many times when I was standing over a poopy diaper or washing bottles when a great idea came to me. Then, just as easily it was gone because the next baby thing took over. It’s hard to keep a train of thought going when you see your baby putting something they shouldn’t in their mouth. So jot it down, even if it’s just a chicken scratch note. Then it will be there for you when you have time to think about it more and add some depth.
2) Let it go.
Yes, my house is a bit of a mess. There are toys on the floor and laundry that needs doing but I’ve come to realize that I can’t do it all. So, if I’m going to make a go of this blog and write then something needs to give. For me it’s the housework. Figure out what is important to you and what is not. If it can wait, let it. I’m giving you permission.
3) Take time out.
These days I can’t even take a shower without dear hubby coming in to the bathroom to tell me that little H has pooped or done something cute. Now I lock the door. That time is important to me. It’s time for me to be me and to let my mind wander (I’ve got that pen close in case it wanders somewhere important). Figure out when you can steal a little you time and protect it like you protect your kids from danger. Shower time, grocery shopping time, whatever. Make it work for you.
4) Avoid brain suckers.
Turn off that TV. Put down that trash mag. Freeing your mind of mental clutter will open the brain cells to what they do best. Create. As a writer I’ve always been told to read, read, read and I love to do it but, my time is limited and if I’m going to write something that is new and fresh then maybe my time is better spent, oh I don’t know, maybe writing? If you work in visual arts then close your eyes for a minute and see what appears there. It might be something great.
5) Get organized for nap time (or babysitter time, or school, whatever).
Nap time is the best time to really get down to it. Get everything ready to go so all that’s left to do once the baby’s head hits the mattress is start on your project. Put some laundry in before hand, put the coffee pot on, set up your workspace, make sure you are fed, go pee. Put the baby down and get to work.
I hope you find your best way to keep creative AND be a great mommy. What works for you? Let me know in comments.
you are amazing if you can jot quick notes down while changing poopy diapers.
Now it’s like wrestling an octopus when I’m trying to change my daughter’s diaper.
great blog! jessica
Great advice. I remember having to work this way a lot when my son was a little thing. I remember, also, how important a few minutes to oneself can be.
good advice for sure!
Babes – well, ok. I finish with the poop and then I jot down my note. Little H is a MONSTER to change these days
Charles – yes, it’s impossible to create unless you have quiet time to think.
Jennifer – thanks!
Great tips! I have to write myself notes so I remember what I’m going to do. Sometimes I forget while walking from one room to another. LOL
My getting organized for nap time consisted of me taking a nap.
Great suggestions. I do have a cute notebook I keep with me. My shower time is also precious. It is the only time I really feel alone. I need to take your get ready for nap time advice!
Fake trackback: http://aliciafarrell.com/blog/archives/2008/04/01/5-tips-for-a-balanced-creative-life/
Your words have inspired many.
Jo – that’s all it takes for me too…something gets lost in the hallway.
meno – I’ve been known to nap too
30 min – all notebooks should be cute, there really isn’t an excuse to have an ugly notebook.
Alicia – I’m glad you enjoyed the post!
Nice advice, thanks for sharing!
you’re welcome Femme!
totally agree with all of these tips! especially the one about letting it go. Glad to know i’m not the only one with a semi messy house!