I belong to a writer's group, a small one through the local library, and have considered joining others.
But what I have learned so far, having been involved with this one for about a year, is how valuable it is to find yourself in a community of writers.
Everyone I have met in my group is at different stages of the whole process. We have an editor and published author leading the group and she gives great guidance and helps direct the focus of the group. We have short story writers, poetry writers, humorous essay writers and novel writers. Everyone has their own style and their own place in the process.
It helps to be surrounded by others with a similar passion. A similar calling. A similar need to write.
I find I often end up listening, more than contributing, but I always walk away having learned something and feeling a bit encouraged about the whole process.
It's nice to know you're not alone.
It's also helpful to get other's perspective on what they've been through, what they like and what has or has not worked for them.
And as I write more and get my work to come together a bit more I will submit for critique. It is scary, but it is helpful. It's that first step towards letting it go out into the world and away from me.
If you are not already a part of a writer community, I would suggest that you look for one that is right for you.
A note on my writing commitment - I have continued with my commitment to write every day. I have been working on a short story I began writing. I am not certain if it will ever really be publishable but it has been something from my heart, so I figure it can't hurt. It's still great practice and keeps me to my promise of writing every day.
For my blog - I am still a bit overwhelmed by the process. But I have gotten some good tips and may be making some more changes soon. Stay tuned!
Hope everyone has a great week! :)
Hi CJ. This is Jessica. I met you yesterday at the writer's group. I know exactly how you feel that you wrote about here. I sometimes still feel that way about my writing. I used to think of my writing as my children but for me it's so much more personal than that. It's a piece of my soul, those secret thoughts you don't share with others, and it's hard to put it out for others to see. But, the one thing I'm starting to realize is that if it scares me, I should do it. I've gotten so comfortable in my little life that I need to push myself out of my comfort zone. And that's what I'm trying to do now. If I am to become the woman I want to be I have to show the world who I am. I can't wait until the next meeting. I'm so excited about it. I really enjoyed meeting you and I plan on reading your blog every post. Keep at it. It's a baby step but before you know it, you'll be running.
ReplyDeleteI've stepped away from two groups this year, but still in touch with fellow writers - like yourself. Whatever works best - go for it. And indeed, I found I learned a lot early on by just listening to other critiques and absorbing information. I do think Writer's Digest magazine is useful early on - they have it at the library. Read, write, practice, and have fun with it. That's the joy.
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