Have you ever thought about making a living as a writer? That thought has been a constant companion of mine for the past 25 years. Yes, 25 years, and it was just about exactly one year ago that I actually started doing something about it.
Now with a little one on the way, I wondered if that dream would need to be postponed yet again. I really shouldn’t be so quick to sacrifice my dreams yet again to cater to the needs of everyone else around me. One of the things I most want to provide for my daughter is a good example. I want my daughter to grow up looking up to a mother who is loving and kind and attentive, yes, but also self-actualized, intellectually stimulated, self-sufficient, engaging, happy, and living up to her potential. I want to provide this example to my daughter because I wish these traits for her (in addition to the fact that I’m worth it, dammit).
Writer Mama
Topics covered in the book include (among many others):
- how to manage writing time around caring for children
- how to deal with the “clips catch-22,” or how to get published if you’ve never been published
- the business of writing: queries, article submissions, contracts, negotiations
- managing your home and while managing your writing business
- how to conduct interviews
- editing and polishing your work
One of the hardest things to deal with for many who work from home, not just moms, is the fact that others tend to disrespect the time of the home worker. When people pack up their briefcase and head off to the office, that work time is respected and to some extent, even sacred. Those working from home seldom get the same respect unless they are very clear about setting their boundaries with others in advance.
Because of People Who Don’t Get It, if you are not good at setting boundaries with adults and children, you’re going to need to start practicing. I suggest you start sooner rather than later. If you wait until you have a deadline looming to try to convince family members that your work matters and that you deserve support in gettting it done, you will be sorry (and probably late with your work too).
I’m really appreciating this book. It is well organized so specific topical information is easy to find. I suspect I will be consulting it regularly over the coming months and years.
Judy,
How interesting that I got this today….I have been seriously thinking today about how to get started with writing on a normal basis. Some days I do well, then someone needs something that “just can’t wait”, so I put of my needs for theirs like most Moms I know.
I do think that you’re right….we need to be good working examples for our children. I respect the fact that you want your daughter to see you reaching for your dreams and getting them so she knows that it’s possible.
Excellent post! Thanks!
Stephanie’s last blog post..Mama’s Online Cafe Membership
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How exciting, Judy. You’ll be a great writer and a wonderful roll model for your daughter. It’s incredibly challenging to work from home with a child, in-tow, but it’s possible, especially if you have a supportive spouse who shares as much as possible in parenting. At least that’s my experience.
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As I’m typing this I’m nursing my 18 month old, my 6 year old is reading himself a book, and my 4 year old is coughing and snotty and feverish and sick. By its very nature, motherhood requires some self-sacrifice.
BUT!
that doesn’t mean a mom must give up her self, hopes, dreams! I’m wishing you success as you find your balance!
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Writer Mama is such an excellent resource and motivator. I was lucky enough to be included in her blog tour this spring and participate in some great discussions with moms in all stages of the writing process.
Your goals are to be commended! I think they seem grounded and achievable! And one thing’s for sure, motherhood gives you lots of material!
~Katie
.-= dundee writer´s last blog ..they say patience is a virtue =-.
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