Parenting is not an easy job to do. Even the most easy-going child can be a challenge at times, and most parents will tell you that they child is not exactly easy-going anyway. While many people view freelance writing as a rather cushy career option, experienced freelance writers know that it takes a lot of effort to remain focused and keep your nose to the grindstone. Even in a perfectly quiet house, there are constant distractions that can pull a freelance writer’s focus and attention away from the work at home. In addition to these distractions, however, freelance writing parents must overcome significantly more challenges.

An Accommodating Work Schedule

Some freelance writing parents will attempt to dictate that their home remains quiet and mausoleum-like while they work. However, given the fact that most freelance writers do work a full-time schedule, asking your family to tip toe around you for eight hours a day is fairly unreasonable. Another option to consider to develop an accommodating work schedule. As a freelance writer, you do have the ability to control when and even where you work. You can get up a few hours before your family does to enjoy the ability to work in a quiet house. You can pack up your laptop and take it to the park while your kids play and so on. When you are more accommodating with when and where you work, you will find that your entire house may be a happier place.

A Quiet Space

Another way to overcome the challenges of being a freelance writing parent is to find a quiet space that is all your own. If you are trying to find some peace and quiet by working at the kitchen table or in your living room, you are no doubt trying to fit a square peg into a circular hole. These are often the most used rooms in the house, and they are certainly not the most ideal place to find the solitude that is needed to focus on your assignments. Instead, if you are trying to work at home while kids are at home, consider retreating to a quieter space in the house like a home office or even your bedroom.

Plenty of Down Time

The fact is that you cannot expect kids to leave you alone all day long. Kids crave the attention of their parents, and you no doubt want to spend plenty of time with them as well. With this in mind, plan to spend quality time with them when you aren’t working. Make the time you spend with them really count and fairly special. For example, you can head to the park, play a board game, take them to a movie or something similar. Make your down time away from the computer time that is truly focused on them and that is quality time they will enjoy and get something out of.

Freelancing writing and parenthood individually can be very rewarding aspects of your life, but together they can be a source of stress and challenge in your life. Consider applying these tips to your life today to maximize your enjoyment of being a freelance writer and a parent at at the same time.