Writing in a Writer's Group
I had been writing for two decades before I realized how much I needed the companionship of other writers with like minds. All that time, I was thinking how neat it would be to talk to other writers, but I had no idea that writer's groups even existed. Since the advent of computers and my own education in using one, I now realize what I was missing all those years. Only when I am with other writers do I feel really understood.
There are seven good reasons to join a creative writer's group:
Finding other writers is extremely encouraging. You can talk in forums, by email, or chat privately.
You will find a plethora of activities to engage your talents.
There will be lots of writing contests, and this is one of the best motivators there is.
You can get creative and make greeting ecards, banners for others who have a business, and unique graphic signatures.
You can strike out on your own by creating a business, or help someone else in theirs.
Being part of a writing community gives you awesome opportunities to search out latent talents and bring them to life. You can create contests (or help others who create them). If you like graphics, you will have a wonderful opportunity to sell them and gain exposure.
You can post your stories on the net. Other writers will critique your work, and you will critique theirs in return. The more detailed your critique, the more they will appreciate it. Tell them if they miss a comma, or should have used a semi-colon; tell them if their plot was thin or the scenery didn't convert to an image in your mind. This is what they need to know to improve their performance. By interacting in this way, you will soon learn what is good and bad writing, and what you want to emulate, and what you should avoid.
By this simple but effective method, you can improve your writing by leaps and bounds. When receiving critiques, remember that the person giving it is trying to help you. Don't get your feelings hurt by someone criticizing your favorite story. On the contrary - use 95% of their suggestions for editing, and then put the story out again for more reviews.
The largest majority will thank you and invite you back for more reviews. Others will get their feelings hurt, so be tactful and gentle. If you don't know how to review stories, the site will have a guide for you. You'll be reviewing like a pro within a month.
I have visited many writing sites. The one I endorse is Writing.com, as it is one of the best established writing groups on the net. Membership is free. It won't take you long to settle in, as you will have lots of help.
The Bible says if a person would have friends, he must show himself friendly. Whether or not you believe the Bible, that's good advice, so don't wait for someone to reach out to you. You reach out to them.
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