You don’t need to do it all on your own!

Writing is a solitary process, by nature.

It takes a lot of tapping away at your computer to get the words down, not only to write the story but then with edits and rewrites. But that solitary process can be helped by joining others who are all doing the same, in many ways.

Getting words down: While it might not seem that getting together with others can actually help with the writing part, it really can. Writing sprints are the perfect way to do this. Set a timer and everyone writers for the allocated time, breaks for a chat, then repeats. I’ve been in groups where we’ve done 20 minute sprints, others up to an hour. I can tell you, as much as you might want to stop and do something else, hearing others still typing away is great peer prerssure to keep going. It even means you might get more writing done at home if you have someone you have to report back to on a regular basis.

Seeking advice: Just being in the room with other writers can be a great souce of inspiration. Got a plot problem? Just ask the group.

Swapping notes: Fellow authors are great early readers of your work. Make sure to return the favour though.

Exchanging skills: Some of my writing buddies have been great helpers with other parts of the writing journey. It could be social media, cover design, blurbs… anything really. This writing gig is more than just writing a book no matter if you are traditionally or self-published.

So where do you find fellow writers?

Getting together with other writers can take many forms. It could be online, or in person. It could be once a week, once a month, or even once a year. There is something that will suit your needs.

I do suggest seeing if there’s a writing organisation in your state. When I was in Brisbane I joined the Queensland Writers Centre, and now in Victoria I have joined Writers Victoria. These groups offer workshop and online resources but often have other services for writers.

I also recommend if you write in a certain genre, you see if there’s other writing organisations that focus on that genre. I have been a members of Romance Writers of Australia for years (and recently joined Romance Writers of New Zealand) but early on I was also a member of Sisters In Crime when I had delved in that direction in the beginning. These groups are not only a great way to learn about your genre, they have great competitions and conferences.

Even further to that, you might have other organisations a little closer to home. I also joined the Melbourne Romance Writers Guild and the Gippsland Writers Network, but I also went one even closer, and checked out my local library.

When I inquired at Warragul Library if they happened to have a writing group they said no, but because I said I was keen, they started one. Now we meet once a month for writing sprints and a catch-up. We are an eclectic mix of those just starting out through to others who have had several books published, but we are all focused on the same thing. To write.

Now I have a number of in-person and online writing groups that help me keep my writing on track! Some have regular courses and guest speakers, others are focused on sprints or social events, but all are worthwhile!

Let me know if there’s a way to find fellow writers I haven’t mentioned!

NOTE: Some dates for the Warragul Romance Writers have changed. Please check with the library for current meeting dates!