DEV Community

Discussion on: How many dads here? How do you find time to work on your side projects?

Collapse
 
jacobdanner profile image
Jacob Danner

I do something similar. My time is early hours (4 AM) before the kids get up. It works far better for me to get in bed early rather than burning the midnight oil to get things done. The other trouble with trying to do side projects at night is kids don't always get to sleep as you'd like them to. My brain doesn't have the same focus as first thing early in the morning.

I also try and set out some goals for allotted time blocks so I don't just waste cycles 'researching'. Even if I don't complete everything I've set out, making small wins over time is much more satisfying.

Waking up early took some getting used to but pays huge dividends. I complete my personal development goals before everyone is awake, don't feel guilty after the work day ends and feel more present during family time. Sure, I can't tell you about the latest binge show on Netflix but I've found much more fulfillment in these early am pursuits.

Collapse
 
coen163 profile image
Marvin

Great advice, maybe I will do that too, I find my self exhausted by the end of the day and I don't feel like sit in front of the computer even if I'm motivated to create something.

Collapse
 
j3ffjessie profile image
J3ffJessie

Definitely. Those tiny wins lead to larger success and being present with family and feeling the fulfillment of being present is what matters most.