Balancing a technical career with my passion for writing isn’t easy, especially when you have a family and life’s everyday challenges to consider. I’m lucky to be married to my wonderful wife in Italy, and we have an 11-month-old son who keeps us on our toes. I also have my family and friends in Gambia who I stay connected with, even from far away.
In this post, I want to share how I manage to juggle my career, my writing, and my family life. If you’re also trying to find a balance between your personal passions, work, and the people you love, I hope my experience can inspire and help you.
1. Setting Clear Priorities: Family Comes First
The foundation of balancing writing, work, and family starts with clear priorities.
While my technical career as a back-office commissioning expert and technical translator is important, my family always comes first.
My wife and son are the heart of my day, and I ensure that they have my attention when I’m home. Even when work or writing demands a lot, I make sure I spend quality time with them.
I also make time for my family in Gambia, whether it’s through video calls, messages, or sending updates. These connections are vital to me, and they remind me of the importance of community and shared support, no matter the distance.
2. Dedicated Time for Writing – Even If It’s Just a Few Minutes
Writing is my passion, but I’ve learned that it’s okay if I don’t have long stretches of uninterrupted time to write. With a busy schedule, I can only spare small chunks of time, and that’s okay.
I often use early mornings or late evenings to write. These moments of quiet, after my son has gone to sleep or before he wakes up, are when my mind is most creative.
I don’t put pressure on myself to write a masterpiece every time. I aim to simply get the words down. Whether I’m working on a blog post, a short story, or brainstorming for my next book, each moment counts. Over time, these small writing sessions add up.
3. Flexibility is Key – Life Happens
As a father, husband, and professional, life is unpredictable. There are days when work takes more of my attention, or when my son needs extra care, or when I need to be more present for my wife.
On those days, my writing takes a backseat—and that’s okay.
I’ve learned to be flexible. There are days when I only get an hour to write, and others when I have to postpone it altogether.
But I don’t beat myself up over it. I adjust my schedule and pick up where I left off the next day. Flexibility allows me to balance everything without feeling overwhelmed.
4. Family Time Is Sacred – But Writing and Work Can Be Too
One thing I’ve realized is that balancing work, writing, and family isn’t about giving equal time to each—it’s about giving the right time when it matters most.
When I’m with my wife and son, I’m fully present with them. I try to leave work and writing aside during these precious moments.
Similarly, when it’s time to work, I focus entirely on my technical career.
When I’m writing, I do the same.
This focused attention helps me stay productive without feeling like I’m constantly splitting my time.
I’ve also found that when I make time for writing, I’m more energized for my work and family. Writing is an outlet for creativity and self-expression that recharges me and keeps me grounded.
5. The Importance of Self-Care
With all the responsibilities I have as a husband, father, professional,
and writer, it can be easy to neglect my own well-being.
I’ve learned that taking care of myself is crucial for balancing everything.
I make time for small things that keep me healthy—whether it’s a walk in nature, reading, or simply getting enough rest.
Self-care helps me maintain my energy levels so I can be the best version of myself for my family, my work, and my writing.
Plus, taking breaks and reflecting on my experiences helps me find new inspiration for my books and blog.
6. Stay Connected with Family and Friends in Gambia
Living in Italy, far away from my family and friends in #Gambia, can sometimes feel isolating.
But I stay connected with them through regular phone calls, messages, and video chats. They remind me of where I come from and why I write.
My family’s support, especially from my Mom, motivates me to keep pursuing my passions and finding balance in all aspects of my life.
The stories I hear from my family in Gambia, and the warmth of their presence even from a distance, are often the inspiration behind my writing.
Gambia will always be a part of me, and the lessons from home shape my work and my perspective.
7. Embrace the Journey – There’s No Perfect Balance
Balancing writing, work, family, and life isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about embracing the journey.
There will always be challenges, but with patience and flexibility, you can find a way to make it work.
For me, writing is a way to share the stories that matter most to me: the experiences of migration, identity, and the search for freedom.
Whether I’m writing about these themes or simply sharing my daily thoughts in my blog, I’m grateful for the chance to create and express myself.
And with the support of my wife, son, and family in Gambia, I feel motivated to keep going.
Final Thoughts
Finding balance between work, writing, and family is a challenge I continue to navigate, but it’s a rewarding one.
If you’re trying to balance your own passions and responsibilities, remember that it’s okay to take it one step at a time.
Prioritize what matters most to you, embrace flexibility, and don’t be afraid to lean on your loved ones for support. (something i’m learning to do)
Thank you for being a part of this journey with me and i would love to hear from you and how you navigate the balances of the difficult to balance parts of our live!
