Pursuing a writing career is a dream for many, but juggling that dream with the demands of everyday life — jobs, families, errands, relationships, and rest — can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a full-time parent, working a 9-to-5, or managing multiple responsibilities, carving out time to write often feels like a puzzle with no extra pieces.

The good news? You don’t need to write eight hours a day to be a real writer. You just need consistency, flexibility, and a realistic view of what you can actually commit to.

Writing Isn’t All or Nothing

One of the biggest myths about writing is that it has to consume your entire day or it’s not worth doing. The truth? Many successful authors build their careers by writing in small, regular chunks of time. You don’t need to write 3,000 words a day. Even 200 words a day adds up to a full novel in a year.

Set yourself up for success by asking: What’s realistic for me in this season of life?

Know Your Life Season

Some seasons are busier than others. If you’re in the middle of moving, planning a wedding, raising young kids, or working overtime, now might not be the time to shoot for daily 2-hour writing sessions. That doesn’t make you less committed — it makes you human.

I’ve felt this firsthand. Since I started self-publishing in 2022, I’ve published three books — but life has been moving fast: I got married, bought a house, and now have a baby on the way. That meant writing and marketing took a backseat for a while, and that’s okay. Creative careers are flexible for a reason.

Find Your Writing Window

You don’t need endless hours — you need a consistent routine that fits your lifestyle. That could mean:

30 minutes before workWriting during your lunch breakOne focused hour on Saturday mornings10 minutes of journaling before bed

Find a window that works for you and protect it like you would a meeting or workout. Even a small, regular habit builds momentum.

Set Manageable Goals

Instead of aiming to “finish a novel,” try setting micro-goals like “write 200 words today” or “brainstorm chapter ideas this week.” Small goals build confidence and make the process feel achievable, even in the middle of a hectic schedule.

Balancing a writing career with real life doesn’t mean choosing one over the other — it means making space for both in a way that works for you. Writing is a long game, not a sprint. You don’t have to write full-time to be a writer. You just have to keep showing up, even in small ways.

Because the truth is: even 15 focused minutes a day is enough to keep your writing dream alive.