#227. 5 Tips on Pursuing Your Writing While Holding Down a 9-to-5 Job

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Previously titled “227. 5 Tips on Pursuing Your Writing While Holding Down a 9-to-5 Job” — renamed by the publisher on Aug 3, 2026

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Recorded06 Jan 2026

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Show notes

If you've been trying to write a novel with a full-time job, family, and everything else life throws at you, this episode is for you.Maybe you squeeze writing into nights or weekends. You may start strong, then lose momentum when things don't go as planned. Or perhaps you keep telling yourself you’ll take your writing seriously when you have more time.In this episode, I’m sharing five practical shifts to prioritize your novel and start making steady progress, even when your time is limited and unpredictable. These shifts help you simplify your writing process, reduce decision fatigue, and use the time you already have more effectively, so your draft keeps moving forward instead of wobbling every time life gets busy.You’ll hear me talk about things like:[02:40] Why jumping between plotting methods can quietly stall your draft, and what really helps move the needle. [04:30] How indecision eats up your writing time before you even start, and what to clarify before you sit down to write.[06:33] The mistake most busy writers make when setting goals, and how to choose targets that actually fit your real life[08:44] How to spot hidden pockets of writing time and why you need to protect them before your brain talks you out of it.[10:50] Why isolation kills momentum, and how the right support system keeps you writing when motivation disappears.[13:01] BONUS: Two real examples of busy writers who used the same approach, finished their drafts, and signed with agents.And so much more…You can finish your novel with a full, busy life. The time is already there. You just need a better plan. Listen in, choose one tip to try this week, and keep your first draft moving forward without waiting for perfect conditions.🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:Sign up for the Writer Breakthrough BootcampGet on the Notes to Novel Waitlist⭐ Follow & ReviewIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week!Ready to make 2026 the year you finally finish your novel? Notes to Novel is my signature program that walks you through brainstorming, outlining, and writing a first draft that works—so you always know what to do next. Click here to get on the waitlist →Support the show👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.

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