As a Christian author and mama to two energetic boys (under 4), I’ve learned that writing between rounds of “Baby Shark” requires more than just determination—it demands grace, strategy, and sometimes, the acceptance that your manuscript might have sticky fingerprints on it.
When I first began this journey of writing while mothering, I made every mistake in the book (pun intended). Through tears, triumphs, and many interrupted writing sessions, I’ve discovered what doesn’t work—and more importantly, what does. If you’re a mama trying to nurture both children and creative dreams, this one’s for you.
Mistake #1: Waiting for the “Perfect” Writing Time
The Fantasy: “I’ll write when the house is quiet, the laundry is done, and I have three uninterrupted hours.”
The Reality: My boys are currently in the living room performing their 27th rendition of “Baby Shark” today. The laundry? Mount “WashMore” is thriving.
What to Do Instead:
- Embrace micro-writing sessions (yes, even 10 minutes counts)
- Keep your phone or a notebook handy for sudden inspiration during snack time
- Write while they nap, even if it’s just 200 words
- Accept that messy house + written words often equals a successful day
Remember: God can multiply your small offerings of time just as He multiplied the loaves and fishes.
Mistake #2: Trying to Write Like You Don’t Have Kids
The Fantasy: “I’ll maintain the same writing schedule I had before children—complete outline, three drafts, specific editing phases.”
The Reality: Pre-kids Linda could write for hours. Now Mama Linda celebrates finishing a paragraph between fixing snacks and negotiating toy disputes.
What to Do Instead:
- Adjust your daily word count expectations (aim for consistency, not volume)
- Create a flexible writing routine that adapts to your family’s schedule
- Use voice-to-text while folding laundry or preparing meals
- Write during kids’ screen time (Baby Shark has given me countless paragraphs!)
- Batch similar tasks together—answer emails while kids eat breakfast
Mistake #3: Neglecting Self-Care
The Fantasy: “I can juggle writing, mothering, and household responsibilities without rest.”
The Reality: The day I fell asleep mid-sentence while writing my devotional “Grace for the Gig Life” was my wake-up call (literally).
What to Do Instead:
- Schedule writing breaks just as you would writing time
- Practice the Sabbath principle—even God rested!
- Take walks with the stroller (great for working through plot problems)
- Accept help when offered (yes, it’s okay if grandma watches the kids)
Remember: you can’t pour from an empty cup!
Mistake #4: Comparing Your Journey to Others
The Fantasy: “That author-mom on Instagram wrote three books this year while homeschooling five kids and growing organic vegetables.”
The Reality: Comparison is the thief of joy—and creativity. My journey with two “Baby Shark”-obsessed boys is unique, and that’s exactly how God designed it.
What to Do Instead:
- Celebrate your small wins (finished a chapter? That’s huge!)
- Find your own rhythm and stick to it
- Connect with other writing mamas for support, not comparison
- Remember that social media shows highlights, not daily struggles
- Trust God’s timing for your writing journey
Grace in the Process
Here’s what I’ve learned: God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips the called. Some days I write 2,000 words. Other days, I write 20. Both are victories when you’re raising little humans.
“We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
A Prayer for Writing Mamas
Father, thank You for the gift of words and the blessing of children. Help us to balance our callings with grace, write with purpose amid the beautiful chaos, and trust Your timing in all things. When deadlines loom and little ones need us, remind us that You are the Author of our stories. Give us wisdom to know when to write and when to rest, when to push forward and when to play. May our words honor You and our children see Your faithfulness in our journey. Amen.
Your Turn
What’s your biggest challenge in balancing writing and motherhood? Share in the comments below—let’s build a community of mama writers supporting each other! And remember: someday you’ll miss writing to the soundtrack of “Baby Shark.” (Okay, maybe not, but you’ll definitely have great stories to tell!).
Blog Cover Photo by Mahmud Ahsan on Unsplash
Author Profile
- Hi there, this is Linda Eva, a bilingual (EN/FR) Christian fiction and non-fiction author, mother of two, and firm believer that some of the best plot twists happen between rounds of “Baby Shark.” When I’m not writing, I’m probably reading, exploring nature with my family, or enjoying pineapple slices.
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