Struggling to Write Your Novel? 3 Steps for Moms With No Time

Tell me if this sounds familiar:

You want to write, but between your day job and kids who always need something, it feels impossible.

You love your life—your kids, your work (well, except for Susan in Accounting)—but you keep dreaming about writing a novel.

You squeeze in time to think about your book. You listen to writing podcasts, watch author YouTube videos, and jot down ideas in a notebook. But…you’re not making progress.

Your outline keeps expanding, your character sheet is never quite right, and you’re still debating first-person vs. third-person POV.

The problem? You haven’t carved out real time to write, and the guilt of stepping away from your kids holds you back.

It doesn’t have to be this way. Here’s how to actually write your novel:

1. Shrink Your Writing Goal

Forget the idea that real writers need an hour a day. Start with 5–15 minutes. That’s enough to finish a novel in a year.

By writing daily (even in short bursts), you build a habit and start seeing yourself as a writer.

2. Focus on the Essentials

Stop getting stuck in endless world-building or plotting. Your novel needs just three things:

• A main character

• A goal

• A conflict standing in their way

Bonus: Make sure each event leads to the next in a cause-and-effect chain.

Example: Harry Potter just wants to find where he belongs. Voldemort wants him dead. Every decision Harry makes pulls him toward their final showdown.

3. Ditch the Mom Guilt—Involve Your Family

Tell your kids and partner about your book and why it matters. Ask for their support.

Prioritizing your writing doesn’t mean neglecting your family—it shows your kids that their dreams matter, too.

Even if other moms spend all their free time on their kids, you’re teaching a valuable lesson: It’s okay to pursue your passion.

Want Support? Let’s Get Your Novel Written—Together.

I help working moms finally write their novels—without overwhelm or guilt.

Book a free consultation call here to learn how coaching can help you finish the novel you’ve been dreaming about.