How to write a book while working full-time

The UAE’s growing publishing industry is inspiring more aspiring authors to pursue their passion projects and bring their stories to life. But how do you turn that dream into reality?

Most first-time authors juggle writing alongside their day jobs, and only a fraction see their work published. Three such authors, represented by Dubai-based publisher The Dreamwork Collective, have successfully navigated this journey — all while working full-time. Here, Amandeep Ahuja, Helen Farmer, and Musata Matei share their inspirations, writing processes, and the lessons that fueled their success.

Political economist, fitness professional, and author of The Frustrated Women’s Club, Amandeep Ahuja, says, “For me, writing and my full-time work are both passions. Despite the challenges of balancing both, it made sense to pursue them simultaneously. There will never be a perfect time to start a passion project, so I just took the leap.”

She continues, “I schedule time to write. Focus is easy when creativity flows and the plot thickens, but setting a target keeps me accountable. Writer’s block happens, but I find that simply writing whatever comes to mind or working on a different project helps. I’m also part of The Dreamwork Collective Writer’s Circle, where members set monthly targets, which keeps me motivated.”

On writing while working full-time, Ahuja says, “It’s not easy and requires discipline. I advise against starting with a publication deadline in mind, as that adds pressure. Instead, set aside 30 minutes daily for writing. Once it becomes a habit, you can pick it up effortlessly whenever inspiration strikes. I also recommend connecting with fellow writers; having a support network makes it easier to stay in the creative zone.”

Radio broadcaster Helen Farmer published her first children’s book last year and launched My Family’s Secret Superpowers at this year’s Emirates Airline Festival of Literature. She believes the best writers are avid readers, emphasising the importance of reading for research and inspiration.

“If writing brings you genuine joy, you’ll find time for it. You don’t need four hours a day, stories can develop gradually with whatever time you can spare.”

Explaining why she started writing while working full-time, Farmer shares, “My background is in journalism — initially print, now radio — but I’ve always written fiction, short stories, and poems since childhood. It may seem odd to go from one screen to another after work, but while I write interview questions for my job, creative writing is a completely different escape. Both my children’s books stemmed from identifying stories my family needed. I realised if we felt they were missing from bookshelves, other families might find them helpful too.”

On her writing process, Farmer says, “I keep notes on my phone — ideas, funny situations, things my kids say — which inform my storylines. When it’s time to write, I work on my laptop at home. Mornings are more creative, and I edit in the evenings. Staying focused is tough — family, pets, and notifications can be distractions — so sometimes, I shut the door and turn off my phone.”

Fintech professional Musata Matei, author of an upcoming book for working mothers, describes writing as a lifelong passion. “Writing has been part of me since childhood — a form of self-therapy, a mirror reflecting my thoughts, emotions, and struggles. It wasn’t just an escape from corporate life; it was an existential need.”

Initially writing sporadically, Matei found that committing to publishing required structure and discipline. “The key is to integrate writing into your lifestyle,” she says. “I set deadlines and made a conscious effort to carve out dedicated writing time. The hardest part isn’t staying focused; it’s getting focused. With a full-time career and two young children, I’ve learned that creativity doesn’t just happen — it requires space, stillness, and the right mindset. Stepping away from work and daily distractions is essential.”

Sharing her lessons, Matei advises, “Make time to write and treat it as a non-negotiable appointment with yourself. Find your tribe — join a writers’ group or attend workshops. I run a monthly writers’ salon, which has helped me break through writer’s block multiple times. Create structure; even if you prefer free writing, setting small goals keeps you accountable and prevents procrastination. If long writing sessions aren’t feasible, write in short bursts throughout the day. ”