Author and mother of six, Marybeth Mayhew Whalen, recently shared her inspiring journey to rediscover her passion for writing while managing a bustling family life. In an exclusive piece, Whalen reflects on how a friend’s encouragement and her own resilience led her back to her childhood dreams.
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Reflecting on her aspirations, Whalen recalls a time when, as an eight-year-old girl, she confidently declared her future plans: to be both a writer and a mother with a large family. Those dreams seemed entirely possible at the time, a belief she carried into adulthood. However, the reality of raising six children brought with it a whirlwind of noise, chaos, and fatigue that gradually pushed her creative ambitions to the sidelines. Although the ideas for stories and characters remained vivid in her mind, they failed to materialise on the page.
“I can’t write novels! I’ve got six kids!” became her refrain whenever someone would inquire about her writing. This sentiment resonated with many, but not with one particular friend—an accomplished mother with four young sons who had just completed her first novel. When Whalen expressed her doubts, this friend smiled knowingly and insisted, “Of course you can. If you want to bad enough.”
Whalen was intrigued yet apprehensive and pressed her friend for guidance. The response came with an unexpected twist: “I got up every morning at 5 and wrote until the boys got up at 7.” Whalen felt a wave of deflation wash over her. The thought of waking up at such an early hour amidst the demands of motherhood felt overwhelming, but the challenge was set, and she was determined to confront it.
Channeling the memories of her father’s words—“Can’t never could do anything”—Whalen began to realise that her belief in the impossibility of being both a mother and a writer was limiting her. Inspired by her friend’s success, she returned home with a renewed sense of determination. Rather than succumb to her excuses, she resolved to carve out time for her writing.
Rather than following her friend’s early morning routine, which felt unattainable, Whalen devised a plan that suited her lifestyle. She found pockets of time throughout the day, often seizing quiet moments when her children were engaged with a movie or an activity. On occasion, she would take an afternoon to herself in a nearby café or library, where she could immerse herself in her writing without distractions.
Whalen’s dedication paid off, and her efforts began to bear fruit. Stories once relegated to the back of her mind started making their way into tangible form. Her first novel was a testament to her perseverance, and since then, she has continued to write prolifically, with her eleventh book set to release in April. Yet, she acknowledges that the journey remains a continual evolution of self-discovery.
“Even as my children grow older and the household dynamic changes, the unpredictability of life persists,” Whalen reflects. “It’s essential to remember who I was before life’s challenges emerged, and to strive towards who I know I can become.” As a mother, she aspires to instil this same sense of confidence and determination in her children.
Over the years, Whalen has observed that many children come into the world with a clear sense of identity, only to see that certainty wane as they grow older. She emphasises the importance of recognising and nurturing these intrinsic qualities while supporting her children through life’s uncertainties, assuring them that their dreams can still be realised.
Ultimately, Whalen’s story is one of resilience and empowerment. She encourages others to embrace their aspirations, regardless of the challenges that life may present. Just because one feels daunted by the prospect of pursuing their goals does not mean they shouldn’t set out to do so. If there is a deep desire to achieve something, finding a way to make it happen is entirely possible.
As her next book, “Handle with Care,” prepares to hit the shelves, Whalen’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that with determination and a supportive community, it is never too late to pursue one’s passions.