Writing is a solitary sport.
But even an introvert like me (I scored {I I I I} on my Myers-Briggs test the last time I took it*) needs to interact with like-minded folk once in a while. That’s why I suggest you join…something.
Join a writing workshop. Here’s where you can learn some writing fundamentals and see how a wide variety of writers might approach the same topic in different ways.
Join a critique group. Here’s where you can get some specific feedback on your work. You can also learn a lot critiquing other writers’ work.
Join a professional organization (I belong to MWA and ITW). Here’s where you can network and learn about publishing as a business.
All are valuable. All are good excuses to leave your writing cave.
Sometimes, just being around others with the same “affliction” can be comforting and inspiring.
Join in the fun!
*I might have misinterpreted the results slightly.
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6 comments:
All very good suggestions, Alan. Now if I can make myself leave the house. hmmm
Do I have to Alan? It's really tough for me. You've been so good to do as much as you do with groups and touring, considering how much you like to stay in!
Alan - Those really are good suggestions. But I'm with Elizabeth: do I gotta?? Really?? ;-). I'd also add, by the way, online groups. It's kind of a nice balance between the hermit-ness writers seem to like, and the mind-feeding and wonderful company we get from interacting. And you can wear whatever you want.
This is excellent advice. Unfortunately, my track record for taking excellent advice is rather bad. This time, however, I'm going to try to actually do it. Maybe. I hope.
Great suggestions, Alan. I'm a loner and introvert by nature, so forcing myself to get out and be part of the writing community has been difficult. The rewards have been worth it.
Mary - Leave! Get out! Scram! (Just trying to help.)
Elizabeth - You too. Get out! Actually, you are quite a joiner--I read about all your activities on your blog.
Margot - Don't be a hermit, Margot! Get out there and mingle with your own kind.
Elspeth - Are you going to make me come all the way up to Canada to get you to join something?
Patricia - Finally! Someone who took the plunge and is now reaping the rewards. May you be a role model to us all.
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