5 tips for a balanced creative life

1) Write it down!

Keep a mini note pad and pen with you at
ALL times. I know it sounds silly but there have been many times when I
was standing over a poopy diaper or washing bottles when a great idea
came to me. Then, just as easily it was gone because the next baby
thing took over. It's hard to keep a train of thought going when you
see your baby putting something they shouldn't in their mouth. So jot
it down, even if it's just a chicken scratch note. Then it will be
there for you when you have time to think about it more and add some
depth.

2) Let it go.

Yes, my house is a bit of a mess.
There are toys on the floor and laundry that needs doing but I've come
to realize that I can't do it all. So, if I'm going to make a go of
this blog and write then something needs to give. For me it's the
housework. Figure out what is important to you and what is not. If it
can wait, let it. I'm giving you permission.

3) Take time out.

These
days I can't even take a shower without dear hubby coming in to the
bathroom to tell me that little H has pooped or done something cute.
Now I lock the door. That time is important to me. It's time for me to
be me and to let my mind wander (I've got that pen close in case it
wanders somewhere important). Figure out when you can steal a little
you time and protect it like you protect your kids from danger. Shower
time, grocery shopping time, whatever. Make it work for you.

4) Avoid brain suckers.

Turn
off that TV. Put down that trash mag. Freeing your mind of mental
clutter will open the brain cells to what they do best. Create. As a
writer I've always been told to read, read, read and I love to do it
but, my time is limited and if I'm going to write something that is new
and fresh then maybe my time is better spent, oh I don't know, maybe
writing? If you work in visual arts then close your eyes for a minute
and see what appears there. It might be something great.

5) Get organized for nap time (or babysitter time, or school, whatever).

Nap
time is the best time to really get down to it. Get everything ready to
go so all that's left to do once the baby's head hits the mattress is
start on your project. Put some laundry in before hand, put the coffee
pot on, set up your workspace, make sure you are fed, go pee. Put the
baby down and get to work.

I hope you find your best way to keep creative AND be a great mommy. What works for you? Let me know in comments.

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