Dreams and Deadlines: Life of an Indie Author with a Full-Time Job

Balancing a full-time job with the dream of being an indie author feels like juggling flaming torches while walking a tightrope. Every day, I wrestle with the challenge of finding time to write, manage my books, and promote my work. The results often feel small compared to the effort, but the drive to keep going never fades. This post shares my journey, the struggles, and the motivation that keeps me writing despite the odds.

My writing space where ideas come alive

Finding Time in a Crowded Schedule

Working full-time means my weekdays are packed with meetings, deadlines, and tasks that demand my full attention. After hours, the last thing I want is to stare at a blank page. Yet, the desire to write pushes me to carve out moments, even if they are brief.

I learned to use small pockets of time effectively:

• Early mornings: Using travel time on the bus route to work to jot down ideas or write a paragraph.

• Lunch breaks: Reading or brainstorming storylines.

• Weekends: Dedicating longer stretches to writing and editing.

  
  

This routine isn’t glamorous. It means sacrificing some leisure time and sometimes feeling exhausted. But those small steps add up. For example, writing 300 words a day might seem minor, but over a month, it’s nearly a full chapter.

Managing Multiple Roles as an Indie Author

Being an indie author means wearing many hats. I’m not just a writer; I’m also an editor, cover designer, marketer, and sometimes customer service. Balancing these roles alongside a full-time job can feel overwhelming.

To stay organized, I use tools like:

• Trello: To track writing progress, deadlines, and promotional plans.

• Google Calendar: To block writing sessions and reminders.

• Writing apps: Such as Google Docs for easy access anywhere.

  
  

One challenge is switching mental gears quickly. After a day of work, I need to shift from professional tasks to creative thinking. Sometimes, I set a timer for 25 minutes of focused writing, followed by a short break. This Pomodoro technique helps me stay productive without burning out.

The Emotional Rollercoaster of Writing and Promotion

Writing is deeply personal. When I publish a book, I expose a part of myself to the world. The excitement of releasing a new title is often followed by the anxiety of whether anyone will read it.

Promotion is another hurdle. I try to connect with readers through social media, newsletters, and book events. Despite these efforts, sales can be slow. It’s easy to feel discouraged when the numbers don’t match the effort.

But I remind myself why I started: the joy of storytelling and the satisfaction of creating something meaningful. Every positive review or message from a reader fuels my motivation to keep going.

A clean and organized desk setup featuring a person typing on a laptop, accompanied by a plant, glasses, a notebook with notes, and a cup of cereal, all bathed in natural light.

Staying Motivated When Results Are Small

The hardest part is staying motivated when progress feels invisible. Writing a book while working full-time is a long game. Success rarely happens overnight.

Here are some ways I keep my motivation alive:

• Setting small goals: Finishing a chapter, completing edits, or reaching a word count.

• Celebrating milestones: Treating myself after completing a draft or launching a book.

• Connecting with other indie authors: Sharing experiences and advice helps me feel less alone.

• Remembering the passion: Focusing on the love of writing rather than just sales.

  
  

For example, after months of slow sales, I recently received a heartfelt email from a reader who said my book helped them through a tough time. Moments like that remind me why I keep writing.

Balancing Work, Writing, and Life

It’s easy to let writing consume all free time, but balance is crucial. I make sure to:

• Spend quality time with family and friends.

• Take breaks to recharge creativity.

• Maintain physical health through exercise and rest.

  
  

This balance helps me avoid burnout and keeps my writing fresh. Sometimes, stepping away for a day or two brings new ideas and energy.

A quiet corner filled with indie books and comfort

Final Thoughts on the Indie Author Journey

Being an indie author with a full-time job is a test of patience, discipline, and passion. The path is filled with challenges, from finding time to write to managing promotion and dealing with slow results. Yet, the key is to keep trying, no matter how small the progress.

Stacey Lannigan

Author of Fantasy & Folklore Fiction for YA & NA Readers

@authorStaceyLannigan