Two Years After Giving Birth, I'm Ready to Start Writing Again
I never thought that anything could stop me from writing. Ever since I got my first MacBook Pro, I’ve been typing away. Becoming a parent is an extraordinary journey, filled with adorable moments and a lot of new challenges. Amidst all the joy and chaos, finding time for your passions, such as writing, can be a rewarding and therapeutic endeavour.
Here are some tips that I’ve found helpful when trying to get back into writing after giving birth.
10 Ways to Start Writing Again After Giving Birth
1. Embrace the New Routine
Adjusting to life with a newborn can be overwhelming, with sleepless nights and constant demands. Embrace the new routine and accept that your writing schedule may need to be flexible. Set realistic expectations and be kind to yourself when things don't go as planned.
2. Find Short Bursts of Time
Recognize that you may not have long stretches of uninterrupted writing time. Instead, discover the power of short bursts. Utilize those precious minutes during naptime or when your partner or family members take over baby duties. These small pockets of time can add up and help you make progress.
3. Create a Dedicated Writing Space
Designating a specific area in your home as your writing space can help create a conducive environment. Even if it's just a cozy corner with a comfortable chair and a small desk, having a dedicated space will help you focus and signal to others that you're in "writing mode."
4. Start with Shorter Projects
Jumping back into writing after giving birth may feel daunting. Begin with shorter projects, such as blog posts, journal entries, or short stories. These smaller endeavors allow you to regain confidence in your writing abilities while accommodating the limited time you may have.
5. Prioritize Self-Care
Remember to prioritize self-care amidst the demands of parenting and writing. Take breaks, practice mindfulness, and invest in activities that rejuvenate your creativity. Self-care is not selfish; it's essential for your well-being and will ultimately benefit your writing.
6. Connect with Other Writers
Building a support network of fellow writers, especially those who have experienced parenthood, can be invaluable. Seek out online writing communities, join social media groups, or attend local writing workshops. Sharing challenges, triumphs, and tips with others in similar situations can provide inspiration and motivation.
7. Use Technology to Your Advantage
Take advantage of technology to enhance your writing process. Consider using voice-to-text software or dictation apps that allow you to capture your ideas while multitasking. Additionally, utilize productivity apps or online writing tools to help you stay organized and motivated.
8. Give Yourself Permission to Experiment
Embrace the evolving nature of your writing style. Parenthood brings about a myriad of emotions and experiences that can shape and enrich your writing. Give yourself permission to explore new themes and experiment with different genres. Trust your instincts as a writer and let this transformative period inspire your creativity.
9. Learn to Let Go
Accept that you may not be able to achieve the same level of productivity as before. Be gentle with yourself and let go of any guilt or pressure. Remember that each word you write is a victory, no matter the quantity. Celebrate each milestone, no matter how small.
10. Celebrate the Journey
Lastly, celebrate the incredible journey of parenthood and your writing accomplishments along the way. Cherish the moments of joy and embrace the challenges, knowing that they contribute to your growth as an individual and as a writer. Be proud of all that you achieve, both in writing and in nurturing your precious little one.
Writing after giving birth requires patience, adaptability, and self-compassion. With these tips in mind, you can continue to pursue your passion for writing while cherishing your new role as a parent. Enjoy this remarkable chapter in your life and savor the beautiful stories that are yet to be told.
—ᴍᴍᴍ