Being a full-time writer is a dream job for many, but it’s far from lounging around in pajamas and waiting for inspiration to strike. It’s a balancing act between creativity, discipline, and the everyday responsibilities of homemaking. For me, every day is a dance between writing deadlines, caring for my family, and managing a high-energy border collie named Scout. Here’s a look at a typical day in my life as a full-time writer.
4:30 AM – Wake Up Call
The world is still and quiet—a perfect time for creativity. I’m up at 4:30 AM, often before the sun, to carve out time for my writing. It’s not easy to wake up this early, but I’ve found that the peace and stillness of the early morning hours are ideal for getting into a creative flow. I get my pre-workout and bake something to eat for my family later in the day before I sit at my desk and open my laptop.
5:00 AM – Writing Session
By 5:00 AM, I’m fully immersed in my current project. Whether I’m drafting new chapters, editing, or outlining my next book, these two hours are sacred. It’s my most focused time of the day—no interruptions, no emails, just me and the story. This is when I’ve written some of my best work, including large chunks of my books in the Seasonally Spellbound series.
7:00 AM – Get Ready for the Gym
By 7:00 AM, it’s time to switch gears. I get myself and my little one ready to head out the door. This means packing snacks, getting gym clothes on, and making sure we’re both prepared for the morning ahead.
8:00 AM – Workout
At 8:00 AM, I’m at the gym. Movement is essential not just for my body but for my mind. Exercise keeps me energized and sharp for the rest of the day. It’s also a chance to clear my head and let story ideas percolate in the background. I’ve solved more than one plot problem while doing a set of squats.
10:00 AM – Walk Scout
Back home by 10:00 AM, it’s time for Scout’s walk. Our border collie has boundless energy, so this walk is non-negotiable. We stroll around the neighborhood, and I’ll often use this time to brainstorm scenes or listen to audiobooks related to writing or storytelling.
10:30 AM – Morning Snack
After the walk, it’s snack time. A quick, healthy snack gives me a boost before diving into the next phase of my day.
11:00 AM – Clean or Dog Park During Child’s Nap
At 11:00 AM, my child goes down for a nap, and I’m faced with a choice: clean the house or take Scout to the dog park. On cleaning days, I’m tackling laundry, tidying up toys, and doing small household tasks that keep everything running smoothly. On dog park days, it’s a chance for Scout to run off her energy while I get a mental break.
12:00 PM – Writing Session
Once the cleaning or park trip is done, I’m back at my desk for another writing session at 12:00 PM. These early afternoon hours are quieter but often less focused than my 5:00 AM session. I’m juggling ideas and pushing forward on chapters, but I’m also mindful that the day’s responsibilities are piling up.
2:00 PM – Lunch Break
At 2:00 PM, it’s time to pause for lunch. It’s a chance to refuel, check in with my family, and take a breather before the afternoon push.
3:00 PM – Playtime with Scout
After lunch, I’ll spend some time in the backyard with Scout and with my son. We play fetch, chase, or practice training exercises. It’s a chance for us to get some fresh air, and it’s another moment of “active brainstorming” for me—where story ideas come together when I’m not actively thinking about them.
4:00 PM – Writing Session at the Gym (With Childwatch)
At 4:00 PM, it’s time for the second workout session of the day—but for me, it’s less about exercise and more about childcare. While my child is in childwatch at the gym, I’ll find a quiet spot to write. I’ve learned to be adaptable during this window, knowing that interruptions can happen. But having this dedicated block of time helps me stay on track.
6:00 PM – Dinner and Bedtime Routine
By 6:00 PM, it’s dinner time for the whole family. We sit down together to eat, talk about our day, and unwind a bit. After dinner, it’s time to get my child ready for bed—bath, pajamas, bedtime stories, and snuggles. It’s a cherished part of my day, and I’m fully present for it.
7:00 PM – “Closing Hour” Cleaning Session
Once the little one is asleep, it’s time for my “closing hour”—an hour of straight cleaning. I’ll tackle dishes, organize toys, fold laundry, and reset the house for the next day. It’s part of my “clean slate” philosophy: waking up to a tidy home makes it easier to focus on writing in the morning.
8:00 PM – Wind Down
At 8:00 PM, I’m officially done with household tasks. It’s time to decompress. I’ll read a book, watch a show, or simply relax. I’m mindful not to bring any more “work” into this space. This hour is sacred and sets the tone for a good night’s sleep.
8:30 PM – Lights Out
By 8:30 PM, it’s lights out. I’ve learned that to maintain my 4:30 AM wake-up routine, I need to prioritize rest. Sleep is non-negotiable. I’ve also learned that it’s not just about the quantity of sleep but the quality. A full night’s rest ensures I’m ready to do it all again the next day.
Being a full-time writer requires discipline, but it’s also a job filled with joy, creativity, and flexibility. Every day looks a little different, but this schedule keeps me grounded. Balancing writing, homemaking, and family life isn’t easy—but it’s worth every early morning and late-night cleaning session. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live the life of a full-time writer, know this: it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
to for the past few months. Have laundry to do? Get it done while painting your nails. Go grocery shopping. Do something productive other than what you are trying to write.
Elizabeth Yuen 