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Introduction
As a parent of two young children and someone juggling a full-time job, carving out time for my creative pursuits felt unattainable. Yet, I’ve discovered ways to balance my passion projects—whether it’s my Etsy shop or blogging—while also fulfilling my responsibilities as a mom and professional. This journey has taught me valuable lessons about prioritization, self-care, and the importance of flexibility. Here’s how I navigate this challenging yet rewarding path.
The Necessity of Balance
At the heart of my balancing act is the understanding that nurturing my creative side is essential for my well-being. Creativity is not just a hobby for me; it’s a vital outlet that helps me process my thoughts and emotions. After a day filled with parenting duties and work commitments, I crave that time to create and reflect. However, I’ve also learned that my energy levels fluctuate, and attempting to create every night can lead to burnout and frustration.
Acknowledging My Sleep Needs
One of the first things I had to accept was that I have a significant need for sleep. Being sleep-deprived impacts not only my mood but also my productivity and creativity. I am just a better person, a better mom, and a wife when I get good sleep (I mean, who isn’t?!). I’ve found that when I don’t prioritize rest, I become irritable, unfocused, and uninspired. To combat this, I’ve established a nighttime routine that allows me to recharge while still making time for my creative outlets.
My Evening Routine
The Magic Hour
My evening routine begins after my kids are down for the night, usually around 8:30 PM. This is my time. The time has come where I can breathe a little and take things at my own pace. It’s my window of opportunity to dive into my creative projects, whether it’s curating new items for my Etsy shop or drafting a blog post. I’ve set a firm limit of two hours for this work. This time constraint forces me to focus and prioritize what I can accomplish, helping me maximize my productivity.
The Every-Other-Night Rule
To maintain a sustainable routine, I established the rule of working every other night. On the nights I choose to create, I give my all for those two hours. On the alternate nights, I prioritize rest, quality time with my husband, or simply indulging in mindless entertainment—like watching a funny show. This alternating schedule is crucial for preventing burnout and keeping my creative spirit alive.
Prioritizing Rest and Self-Care
Listening to My Body
A key lesson I’ve learned is the importance of listening to my body. If I feel exhausted or overwhelmed, I allow myself to rest instead of pushing through. This could mean curling up on the couch to watch a light-hearted movie or simply taking a night off from creative work. Listening to my body helps me recharge and return to my projects with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
Setting a Sleep Schedule
On the nights I don’t work on my Etsy shop or blog, I aim to be in bed by 9 PM. Establishing this boundary ensures I get enough rest to function well the next day. Prioritizing sleep enhances not only my mood but also my focus and creativity during my working sessions. I’ve found that a well-rested mind is far more effective, allowing me to make the most of my limited creative time.
Nurturing My Relationship with My Husband
Quality Time Together
Amid the chaos of parenting and work, it’s essential to carve out time for my relationship with my husband. We prioritize having at least one or two date nights each week, which might involve having snacks while watching a show on Netflix, or even just sitting next to each other while scrolling through our phones. We love food-related shows and recently finished Culinary Class Wars on Netflix which had us drooling the entire time. These moments of connection are vital for maintaining our bond and ensuring we’re both emotionally connected amidst the demands of parenthood.
Involving Each Other
We also make a point to involve each other in our individual interests. Sharing our thoughts and experiences regarding our creative pursuits helps us feel connected and supported. It’s reassuring to have someone to bounce ideas off or share the highs and lows of our respective journeys.
Embracing the Seasonal Nature of Life
Understanding Different Seasons of Parenting
One of the most important things I’ve learned is that each season of life brings its own challenges and rewards. When I had a newborn last year, my days were filled with feedings, diaper changes, and trying to sneak in a hot shower. I often felt overwhelmed, and social media became a double-edged sword; I found myself comparing my reality to other moms who seemed to be thriving. If you told me a year ago that in just one year, I would have started a blog and an Etsy shop while working full time job and still spending quality time with kids, I would have said that you are crazy. So trust me when I say that whatever the season of motherhood you are in, it will pass 🙂
The Importance of Community
Through conversations with other moms, I began to realize that there’s no perfect way to navigate parenthood. Each family has its own rhythm, and what works for one may not work for another. This insight has been liberating. Instead of striving for an unattainable ideal, I focus on what works for my family.
Learning from Each Other
Embracing Our Differences
Imagine if every parent approached parenting in the same way. It would be a dull world! One of the most valuable lessons I want to impart to my children is the beauty of individuality. We are all unique, and our differences enrich our experiences. By embracing this diversity, we can learn from one another and grow together.
Building a Support Network
I’ve found that connecting with other parents—whether through online communities or local meet-ups—has been incredibly beneficial. Sharing experiences, advice, and even struggles creates a sense of camaraderie. It reassures me that I’m not alone in my journey and allows me to draw inspiration from others who are navigating similar challenges.
Staying Consistent Without Burning Out
Finding Joy in the Process
One of the most effective ways I maintain my creative outlets without burning out is by finding joy in the process. I remind myself that creating isn’t just about the end product; it’s about self-expression and personal growth. Embracing the journey allows me to enjoy the act of creating, regardless of the outcome.
Celebrating Small Wins
I make it a habit to celebrate the small victories along the way. Whether it’s completing a blog post, or listing another product on my Etsy shop (at this point in time, I have made 0 sales! But I would like to give myself a pat-on-the-back for the consistency!), or feeding our kids 3 meals a day, acknowledging these moments keeps me motivated. They remind me that my efforts are worthwhile and encourage me to keep pushing forward.
Navigating Challenges
Embracing Flexibility
Despite my best efforts, challenges are inevitable. There are nights when the kids are sick or work demands require extra hours. In those moments, I remind myself that flexibility is key. If I can’t stick to my routine, I adapt rather than stress. Embracing imperfection allows me to maintain a positive outlook and avoid feelings of guilt.
The Rewards of Balance
Fulfilling Personal and Professional Goals
While balancing creative time with parenting and a full-time job can be daunting, the rewards are immense. I find fulfillment in my creative projects, a sense of accomplishment in my professional life, and deep connections with my family. By nurturing my passions while respecting my need for rest and quality time, I can live a balanced and enriched life.
Conclusion
Balancing creativity, parenting, and a full-time job is undoubtedly challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. By prioritizing sleep, setting boundaries, and embracing flexibility, I’ve found a rhythm that allows me to thrive both personally and professionally. This journey is an ongoing learning experience, but with each passing day, I become more adept at managing my time and energy.
So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the demands of life, remember: it’s possible to pursue your passions without sacrificing your well-being. Embrace your needs, listen to your body, and carve out time for what truly matters. You, too, can find your balance and celebrate the unique journey of parenthood, creativity, and self-discovery.
If you are in a season of parenthood where you feel alone and don’t know when this season will end, I see you and hear you. I have been there and it is a lonely place. You are doing a great job and you will get through <3
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