**The following is part of a series comparing writing a book to being a mom. These things are based on my experience and may not apply to all parents and writers. But, I’ve decided to share these occasional observations.**
One reason having a baby is like writing a book is both writers and babies respond to sensory cues. Not all, but many writers I’ve talked to use cues in their workspace to signify it’s time to get to work.
Now, I’ve had to adapt to work just about anywhere sometimes but, when I actually get to sit in my office, this is what I do. 1) A hot drink (usually coffee because I have a 4 month old) in one of my big mugs. Usually something with a snarky or motivational quote on it. I recently received this gorgeous mug from the Happy Planner. (Picture to be added later) It’s white with black text and handle. The inside is a pretty pale pink. It says “This is a reminder that you can handle whatever this week throws at you.” I’ve used that almost every day this week. I also have to have a big jug of water because I’m really trying to drink more of that regularly. Not just for a while here or there until I get a charlie horse cramp. 2) Music- I highly recommend the Focus Playlists on Spotify. They’re mostly instrumental without sounding like elevator music that can put you to sleep. 3) Candle and/or oil diffuser- I have a few candles and oils I like to have going just to set a nice writing mood.
Once I have all this set, it’s time to get whatever project together and get to work.
Similarly, my daughter has a bedtime routine that seems to be working for us. 1) Dim the lights- We have this star projector light that gives just enough to see but dim enough to be relaxing 2) Diaper change and jammies- Because who doesn’t love fresh pants and cuddly jammies before sleep 3) Final bottle and 15-20 minutes of snuggles in the rocker- The snuggle time can vary. Sometimes eating gives her this crazy energy boost. One night I sat with her for an hour and a half, and she eats every 2-3 hours so you can bet I didn’t even bother to sleep. I wrote in my notebook until I heard cries for another bottle. I’ve also been known to nod off in the rocker because it is very comfortable. 4) Carefully get up and lay baby in the crib, tiptoe out of the room, and shut the door.
So, tell me, writer parents. What are your routines? Writing or with your little ones? Have either of these changed as your kids grew? How? Let me know in the comments! I’d love to hear. As a first time Mom, I love hearing experiences from other parents.
Have a great week!