SAHM Writers: 5 tips for finishing your novel

I started my writing journey when I was a SAHM. Was it crazy? Yes! Did I hate it at times? Of course! But, it did show me how motivated I really was to finish. You can do it too. Here are a few tips I would offer any SAHMs struggling to write their novel.

1. Carve Out Time Every Single Day

Waiting for a big, open afternoon of free time may happen when you have kids. Instead, look for a consistent daily window, even if it’s small.

Whether it’s waking up before the rest of the house, writing during naptime, or writing on your phone in the school pickup line, simply showing up beats intensity every time. Ten pages a week is still fifty pages in a few months. Just show up every day.

2. Invest in "Writing-Only" Special Toys

If you have toddlers or younger kids at home, getting them to independently play is key. The trick is to buy a few engaging, special toys or activity kits that only come out during mommy’s writing time.

Because these items have an air of exclusivity, they keep your kids occupied and interested way longer than their everyday toy box. When you close your manuscript, the special toys go back into hiding until your next session.

3. Try Writing Away From Home

Sometimes, the walls of your own house are the biggest distraction. If you have a partner who can take over for an hour, or a grandparent nearby, physically leave the house.

Head to a local coffee shop, a quiet corner of the library, or even just sit in your parked car at a nice park. Removing yourself from the physical space of your "to-do list" does wonders for unlocking your creative focus.

4. Be Kind to Yourself About Slow Progress

There will be days when the baby is teething, the house is a disaster, and you only manage to write two sentences. That is completely okay.

Remember: a novel is a marathon not a sprint.

5. Put Your Blinders On (And Ignore the Mess)

This is perhaps the hardest rule of all. When you stay at home, the physical reminders of your chores are always staring you in the face. There will always be a basket of laundry to fold and dishes in the sink.

You have to learn to put your blinders on. For the 30 or 60 minutes you’ve dedicated to your book, those chores do not exist. The mess can wait; your story shouldn't have to.

You’ve got this, mama. Happy writing!