How to Balance Blogging with a Full-Time Job

I started my blog over a decade ago, and have always done it alongside a full-time job. But for many it can feel overwhelming to start, maintain and balance blogging with a full time job. Between work commitments, responsibilities and life, finding the energy and time to blog is a challenge a lot of people face. But, with the right approach and mindset, it’s absolutely possible to juggle both successfully.

Here are practical tips to help you balance blogging with a full-time job without burning out.

Set realistic goals

It’s important to be clear about what you want to achieve with your blog and set realistic expectations based on the time you have available.

When I first started blogging it was purely for enjoyment so I had little expectations. But as time went on my expectations changed. Whether it’s publishing one post a week, or slowly growing your audience, setting achievable goals will keep you motivated.

You also need to think about what you want to achieve from blogging. Are you blogging to make an income, or to gain certain opportunities? Or are you blogging for the love of writing and creating?

Balance blogging with a full-time job with a schedule

Planning your blogging tasks ahead of time is key.

Use a calendar or planner to block out dedicated time slots for writing, editing, and promoting your content. Even 30 minutes a day can add up. When I wasn’t on maternity leave I would dedicate half an hour before work for emails and admin and then an hour after work for writing. Doing this meant I had to spend less time working at the weekends.

Use your commute or lunch breaks for smaller blogging tasks like brainstorming ideas, reading relevant articles, or replying to comments. Audio tools like voice memos can help capture ideas on the go. And try to schedule your most creative tasks for times when you’re naturally more focused, such as early mornings or weekends.

Prioritise your tasks

Focus on high-impact activities like writing quality content and engaging with your audience. You might find hiring a virtual assistant or paying for help can move less urgent tasks out of your workload.

Balance blogging with a full-time job by batch creating content

Batch creating means writing multiple blog posts or social media updates in one go when you have the time and energy. This approach can help you maintain consistency during busy work weeks and reduce daily pressure.

I like to do this on days I have off when I have no plans. And it’s exactly what I’m doing in my two weeks maternity leave before baby is due. So this post was written in early June when I’m off work, but you’re probably reading it in late July or even August.

Use tools to save time

Take advantage of tools designed to streamline blogging tasks:

• For content management use platforms like WordPress or Squarespace to organise posts. I’ve used WordPress for a long time now and love it for writing, drafting and scheduling content.

• For social media scheduling tools like Buffer or Hootsuite can help you plan in advance.

• For productivity use apps like Trello or Notion help track your ideas and progress.

Balance blogging with a full-time job by setting boundaries

It can be tough to both blog and work full-time, and there have certainly been times when I’ve thought enough is enough.

Avoid burnout by setting clear boundaries between your day job and blogging time. Try not to check work emails or take job calls during your blogging hours. Equally, give yourself time to rest and recharge outside of blogging and work. Make sure doing both doesn’t impact your enjoyment, and relaitonships.

Be kind to yourself

Remember, balancing a full-time job and blogging is no small feat. It’s okay if progress is slower than you hoped or if you need to take breaks. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small.

You can balance blogging with a full-time job

Balancing blogging with a full-time job in the UK requires planning, discipline, and patience. But it’s perfectly possible, and a lot of bloggers do still work.

By setting realistic goals, organising your time efficiently, and using the right tools, you can grow your blog without sacrificing your work-life balance.