balancing work and writing

How do you do it?
This has been a question I have been asked quite a few times when it’s come to writing or even while I was in school completing another degree. Everyone was always curious as to how I managed to finish assignments so early or in this case, publish not one but two books in less then 5 months and still manage to work full time as a Fraud Investigator.
To be honest, the question stumps me every single time. It’s not as if I plan ahead and know how things will turn out, but I have been known to have a killer sense of self discipline especially when it comes to something I am passionate about. Luckily enough for me I have not one but two careers I absolutely love so that to me if half the battle. Though being stuck at home during a pandemic does offer more free time then I could have ever imagined I’d like to think I was making the most out of a bad situation.
As with anything, my planning isn’t always perfect. There have been times when I’ve felt the tug of burnout waiting in the wings and seriously wondered if I could get everything done in time. These days I have taken to scheduling my time more - similar to when I was in school - having learned that it truly does help to have a game plan, and especially time to dedicate to myself and the ever important ‘days off’.
It has been my experience that when it comes to success, one must always schedule time for themselves. Take a night off, read a book (that has nothing to do with yours), go outside and look at anything but a screen! Honestly anything that will allow you to take a pause. It’s in these moments that I not only feel myself recharging but I can even find my best inspiration when I - quite literally- step away from writing. When it comes to work itself, that’s a little easier. Having a job that keeps me busy Monday to Friday from 8-4pm definitely helps with my scheduling as I know I can’t have anything planned during that time when it comes to my book. It sounds strange but I love that I have an excellent excuse to step away from writing and focus on something else that is so far from what I am working on. I’ve also found this to be an excellent way to get over writers block as well!
So when it comes down to it, I’d have to say that self discipline really plays a large role in being able to balance the both. That, and loving what you do. If you find something that you truly love to do you’ll set aside time for it. Whether it be an hour after work, or even more depending, or writing down some notes on your break which even I count as writing, it all comes together in the end. So for those wondering “how she does it?” The takeaway here isn’t some master plan which anyone can copy I’m afraid. In the end, it’s just loving what you do and making the time for it every single day. And yes, this can look different for just about anyone and that’s okay too.
I never imagined that I would have two careers before the age of 30 but you can’t put a price on living outa dream you’ve had for years. I am so lucky to be able to do not one, but two jobs that I’ve dreamed of doing - even if one came out of nowhere lol.
I can only hope that the rest of you manage to find the same, in your own time, and in your own way.
Best of luck!


All the best,
Céline