Writing is, for the most part, a solitary endeavor. Writers spend a lot of time alone in front of the computer or page, brainstorming, researching, writing, and editing. But it does not have to be lonely. Finding a writing community not only fosters relationships with fellow writers who get you and understand all you go through as a writer, but also can help you shoulder the burden of the writing life and take ground on your writing journey.
I found my writers group through the annual writing conference I attend, the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. I love that this community is made up by members from all over the country (and beyond!) who stay connected through regular online meetings and an active Facebook group. A bonus of this group is that I get to hang out in person with many of them each year at the conference. But attending the conference is not required to be part of the community. Our members write fiction and non-fiction in a wide variety of genres. Everyone brings something to the table, and the perks of belonging to this group are myriad. Following are five benefits I have found by joining a writing community.
Encouragement – for you and for others
I have often heard it said in the context of spiritual growth that everyone should have a Paul (mentor) and a Timothy (mentee). This idea works well in the writing life as well as the spiritual. Every writer should seek a “Paul” – a mentor further along in their writing journey willing share their wisdom and encourage and challenge aspiring writers. After gaining experience, writers should look to pay forward what they’ve gained from others, by keeping an eye out for a “Timothy” just starting out in their writing career. Right now, my writing life is filled with amazing Pauls who cheer me on and share their wisdom. But this past spring at a writers conference, I was able to be a Paul to a few newbies. It felt great to finally be able to start sharing what others have poured into me and cheer newer writers (Timothys) on.
Accountability
Nothing gets my butt in the chair at my computer easier than knowing I’ve got an online write-in to join. Four of the five weekdays, I log in at the same time each morning with others across the country to do writerly things. Sometimes I’m writing, whether on my current WIP, my blog, an article idea, or possibly just journaling/brainstorming story ideas. Other times, I’m researching or outlining. By treating that community writing time as sacred and keeping it on my calendar as a standing appointment each day, I’m sure to carve out and protect the time necessary to keep writing.
Grow in knowledge
I’m still fairly new to the writing industry, and I learned early on, it’s a whole different world that I knew very little about. One-sheets, synopses, loglines vs. taglines, proposals, platforms, hooks, queries, tropes, clips…it’s a lot, to be sure. In my writing community, I have the opportunity to learn about these concepts and many others without anyone treating me like I’m clueless. Everyone is so encouraging and generous in sharing what they know, it’s easy to learn. My understanding of the industry is growing, and I look forward to furthering my education each time I interact with my writing community.
Grow in confidence
Naturally, a boost in confidence follows increased knowledge. By showing up day after day to put words on the page and growing in my skills and knowledge of what I’m doing, my confidence as a writer has grown. Commiserating with other writers who share the same struggles helps, too, because I know I’m not alone. Shared struggles deepens our sense of community and reminds us it’s normal to encounter setbacks. When you know you’re not the only one facing difficulties, it helps you feel better about yourself and your writing journey.
Networking
As in many industries, networking is key in the writing and publishing world. My wonderful writing community is full of seasoned writers and editors. Each week, an industry expert speaks in a special evening meeting in an educational session. We’ve covered topics such as character development, establishing your writer brand, escaping the comparison trap, article writing, the spiritual life of a writer, realistic dialogue, marketing, using emotion in writing, and countless other valuable writerly subjects. Not only does the group provide interaction with experienced writers, but also knowledgable industry experts. I’ve not been able to make as many of these as I’d like due to our busy family schedule. But I do my best to attend the topics that are crucial to where I’m at and appreciate the opportunities to connect with these experts.
Do you belong to a writers group or community? What benefits have you found as a member?