November is a great month because of Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday because it focuses on family, food, and gratitude. What can be better than that? I am thankful for many things in my life, including my family, my friends, and my home. Today, I’m going to write about something else I am grateful for: my writing groups.
I belong to several writing groups, including 49 Writers, the Alaska Writers Guild, RWA (Romance Writers of America), SCBWI (the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators), and local chapters AKRWA and SCBWI-AK. (Full disclosure: I’ve been active in RWA’s reformation toward a more inclusive writing community, and I am the President of AKRWA.) While my participation varies now and then, all of these groups have helped me grow as a writer.
Writing groups give many benefits to writers. They provide information about the craft and business of writing through programs such as classes, webinars, and conferences. Many host critique groups, which in my experience is one of the best ways writers can enhance their writing process and improve their writing. And I am thankful for the camaraderie—I love to hang out with other people who have characters running around in their heads and understand the highs and lows of the writing life.
If you don’t have one now, I encourage you to look into writing groups to find one that suits your interests. Here are a couple links for ideas:
Whether you’re just starting out on your writing journey, or you’ve been on the path for years, I encourage you to create your own writing community. Find a writing group that supports you, and you’ll have much to be grateful for.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Lynn Lovegreen has lived in Alaska for most of her life. After twenty years in the classroom, she retired to make more time for writing. She enjoys her friends and family, reading, and volunteering for her local library. Her young adult historical romance is set in Alaska, a great place for drama, romance, and independent characters. See her website at www.lynnlovegreen.com.
4 comments:
Lynn, I know having encouragement and support of their writing is critical for every writer I know. It had just dawned on me as I came into my office to check emails that the first three books in my Sacred Women's Circle series were published in 2014! How time flies!
I'd seen that RWA was reorganizing with a focus on being more inclusive and supportive. While the national organization is, of course, important, when I was a member, it was at the chapter level that I got the most benefit.
Thanks for the comment, Judith. Local writing groups are very important.
Lynn,
I enjoyed your post. Writing groups, clubs or just a group of writing friends getting together has always been encouraging to me. And I have learned so much through those venues.
Me too, Diana! :-)
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