The Art of Juggling - And What You Can Do About It

No, I'm not talking about dating multiple people at the same time, although, there is certainly an art to that. Today, we're going to explore a day in the life of a writer who juggles the challenges of *gasp* a day job. And honestly, this applies to any creative pursuit, whether you're a writer, a painter, or an avid car enthusiast. From early mornings to late nights, carving out time to pursue your passions is crucial. Join me as we explore the creative journey of harmonizing work and creativity.

A Balancing Act

Balancing the demands of a day job while nurturing a passion for creativity is a delicate dance. Throughout the workday, your mind can't help but drift. In my case, it goes to plots, dialogues, and settings yearning to be captured on paper, all the while emails and Teams invites clog up the screen.

Lunch breaks are a great time to get in a little creative work. Sometimes I'll jot down notes and outlines on napkins or in the margins of my agenda. For others, you can sketch in a notebook or (if you work from home) head out to the garage and tinker with your motorcycle or car.

When the day comes to an end and my mind continues to burn with the flickering flame of storytelling, I try to zone out with a book or some games. It's good to take your mind off of things and return later. Balancing job responsibilities with creative aspirations means your brain never really turns off at the pursuit of creative fulfillment.

Tactical Breaks

Amidst the whirlwind of the workday, creative breaks offer a respite for the soul. Whether it's a walk in the park, a brief moment of meditation, or simply gazing out of the office window, these interludes recharge the imagination. (No doubt people picturing me staring outside a random window in the middle of the day. And you'd be right!)

Short bursts of creativity during lunch breaks or coffee breaks can infuse you with fresh perspectives and novel ideas. The mundane tasks of the day job can become springboards for innovation.

Creative breaks are the oxygen that fuels the creative fire, reigniting inspiration within the confines of the corporate world. These pauses are crucial for fostering creativity and preserving the balance between work and art.

Juggling Projects

A person with a creative side hustle and a day job has to be a master juggler of projects, being able to transition between corporate assignments and creative endeavors.

Each project is like a new adventure, bringing its own unique challenge that calls for a diverse set of skills and creativity. Juggling multiple projects at the same time not only enhances your adaptability but also sharpens your multitasking skills.

Embracing the juggling life with a day job demands dedication, perseverance, and a profound passion for storytelling, no matter what story you’re trying to tell. Always remember that your unique narrative is ready and eager to be revealed to the world.