Balancing family life with a product launch schedule

The biggest question I get about this 12-in-12 challenge is: "How do you find the time?" With a full-time job and a family, it's a valid concern. Here's my approach:

Timeboxing is Essential

I dedicate specific hours to development – typically 5:30-7:30am before my family wakes up, and occasionally 9-11pm after everyone's asleep. These sacred time blocks are non-negotiable.

Quality Over Quantity

When I'm with my family, I'm fully present. No checking emails or thinking about code problems. This mental separation actually helps me be more efficient during my designated development time.

Weekend Sprints

Once a month, my partner takes the kids for a full Saturday, giving me a solid 10-12 hour development sprint. These days are crucial for tackling complex features.

Involving the Family

My older kids are interested in what I'm building. I've started explaining concepts to them and even letting them test features. It's become a family activity and educational opportunity.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Each product doesn't need to be perfect at launch. I focus on solid MVPs that I can iterate on based on user feedback. This approach reduces the pressure of perfection.

Self-Care Isn't Optional

I still maintain my exercise routine and ensure I get enough sleep. Without this foundation, both my development work and family time would suffer.

The challenge isn't just about building 12 products – it's about proving that indie developers can create meaningful products while maintaining a balanced life. Some weeks are harder than others, but the system is working so far!