It’s a question I get asked surprisingly often, especially by people who know me well: "How on earth do you find the time to write a book?"
I think sometimes people imagine authors have endless quiet days just to write. Maybe you picture me with my feet up, pondering plot twists all day? If only! The reality is quite different.
So, I thought I’d share a little glimpse into what a typical week looks like for me, and maybe you'll see why people ask that question!
My "Day Job": Not Just a Caretaker!
By day, I'm a Site Manager at a Primary School. Now, some might hear that and think, "Oh, he's a caretaker." And while there are overlaps, the traditional idea of just opening/closing up, sweeping floors, and polishing halls with a big buffer machine doesn't really fit the modern reality.
Nowadays, running a school site (or any facility, really) is heavily focused on statutory compliance. Think risk assessments, method statements, organising essential servicing and repairs, managing permits to work… the list goes on. On top of that, I manage a team – cleaners, a housekeeper, and an assistant – plus handle all the necessary compliance checks and, yes, lots and lots of paperwork. It’s a busy, demanding role that requires constant attention to detail.
Adding Layers: Coaching, Family, and Fur
My week doesn't stop when the school bell rings. I'm also a Level 2 Rink Hockey (or Roller Hockey, as we often call it in England) coach. What's that? Think fast-paced quad skating, sticks, a ball, and minimal protection – except for the goalie who's kitted out! It's a sport I'm passionate about, and it takes up a significant chunk of time. I'm coaching at the rink for three hours every Tuesday and Wednesday evening after work, plus another five hours on Fridays. Add to that games around the country on various weekends.
Then there's family life! I'm married, we have adult children and a wonderful grandchild (with another on the way – exciting times!). And let's not forget Bear, our American Akita, who definitely requires his share of time and attention.
 |
| My son in goal Vs Sporting Lisbon, 2019 |
So, How Does the Writing Happen?
Seeing all that laid out, you can probably understand why friends wonder where writing fits in! There’s no magic wand, unfortunately. My approach is about consistency and flexibility:
* Aim Small, Aim Daily: I try my best to dedicate roughly an hour to writing and an hour to reading each day.
* Progress Over Perfection: Some days I manage more, some days less. If all I achieve in my writing hour is editing a single page of a finished manuscript or writing one solid paragraph – that's still progress. If I only manage to read two chapters before falling asleep – that's still two chapters read!
* Finding Hidden Moments: I grab opportunities where I can. For example, I walk to hockey practice on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. It’s about a 20-minute walk, but I often read on my phone as I go (okay, maybe it stretches the walk to 30 minutes!). That's nearly an hour of reading squeezed into travel time right there.
* What "Writing" Means Now: Lately, that "writing hour" has often been filled with editing Book 2 of the Newman Adventure Series, drafting blog posts like this one, or working on social media content. It all counts towards building an author platform.
Sign up to The Newman Chronicle - And Keep up with all things D.C. Salmon HERE!
Connecting and Creating
Speaking of social media, if you enjoy these updates and want to follow the journey of "An Irish Mystery" and beyond (and maybe see the occasional picture of Bear!), I'd love it if you connected with me on Instagram, Facebook, X (Twitter), or Bluesky. Connecting with readers truly means the world, especially for new authors trying to get their work noticed. Every follow, like, or share really does help!
The Takeaway
Hopefully, this gives you a clearer picture! It might seem like a lot, and sometimes it feels like juggling too many things. But my main message is this: even with a demanding job, family commitments, and other passions, it is possible to carve out time for your creative pursuits. Whether it's writing that book, creating art, learning an instrument, or any other hobby – start small, be consistent, and celebrate the progress you make, whenever you can find the time.
Visit my website: dcsalmonbooks.com
Comments
Post a Comment