Walking with Prince: Writing, Balance and Book Goals

Every morning, just before the sun rises, I go for a walk. It’s my quiet time to think, dream and plan my day. But I’m not alone. A regal striped feline named Prince joins me, not on a leash, but by choice. He waits near the front door, poised and ready, his green eyes alert to every sound. Once we step outside, he gallops ahead with such gusto that “gallop” truly is the only word to describe his confident stride.

We live in a large complex and the tarmac of the parking area stretches long. The perfect runway for Lord Prince, as we sometimes call him. He is more than a pet. He is the family’s self-appointed protector. Prince checks in on the kids at night, waits outside bathroom doors to ensure we’re safe and loyally walks beside me in the morning chill like a furry little bodyguard.

But lately, our routine was challenged by a new goal… getting back to the gym. I had set a clear priority to rebuild strength, something Prince unfortunately can’t do for me. However, my loyal walking partner didn’t approve of the change. Each time I tried heading to the gym alone, he followed me. No matter how lovingly I tried to coax him home, Prince was determined to accompany me on every leg of the journey.

I faced a dilemma. Do I give up my health goal to make Prince happy? Or do I abandon the precious connection we’ve built during our morning walks?

My eldest daughter, wise beyond her years, offered the perfect solution, one that reminded me of the advice I give my book coaching clients.

“Mom,” she said, “Use your walk with Prince as your warm-up. Spend time with him, walk, then hand him over to Dad and head to the gym.”

Brilliant. A compromise that honoured both relationships and goal setting.

It reminded me so much of what I see with aspiring authors. Many believe that if they want to write a book, they have to sacrifice something important. Their business, their family or their rest. But what if writing didn’t have to be another stressor on the to-do list? What if it could fit into your current life?

When someone first decides to write a book, there’s often a quiet storm of emotions. They feel excited but unsure, hopeful but unqualified. Thoughts like “Who am I to write this?” or “What if no one reads it?” creep in. Some wrestle with impostor syndrome. Others feel guilty for taking time away from their families or businesses. And often, the fear of failure and the fear of success sit side by side.

In my book coaching programme, we talk about these emotions upfront. I run a speed typing test to assess how many words an author can realistically produce. And time after time, we discover the same truth: People do have time to write. It’s not about becoming superhuman. It’s about aligning your priorities with your purpose and building momentum in manageable ways.

📝 Takeaways for Aspiring Authors:

• You don’t have to sacrifice your life to write a book. Small, consistent actions matter.
  
  
• Writing can fit into your current routine when you align it with your values and goals.
  
  
• Guilt, imposter syndrome, and overwhelm are normal, and they can be managed with support.
  
  
• Creative balance is possible when you nurture both your relationships and your writing rhythm.
  
  
• You already have more time than you think. You just need a plan that fits your life.

Whether you’re walking with your cat, managing a household, or juggling a full-time career, it is possible to write and self-publish your book without sacrificing what you love.

So, if you’re wondering how to write a book amidst the chaos of modern life, consider this your sign. Start small. Walk with your own version of Prince. Let the ideas flow as you move, reflect, and make space in your day. Your book is waiting, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Need help making your book a reality?
I’d love to walk with you (cat optional). As a seasoned book coach, I help legacy-driven leaders craft powerful, publishable stories without losing their balance or burning out.
Ready to take the next step?