One of the most valuable things you can do as an author is to surround yourself with creative people.

It’s fun to talk about stories with your roommate, or about the latest movie with your buds. But, talking about the craft of writing with other authors who are in the trenches will inspire and encourage you like nothing else can.

You need people who you can ask specific questions like: does this dialogue sound clunky? Or, is this cliche?

Not to mention the practical help you’ll get from asking that group to beta read your stuff (see more about beta readers here).

There’s merit to having an online group and an in-person group. For some good online groups, I suggest joining 20Booksto50K and IndieAuthorCoalition on Facebook. And this group on Goodreads.

For in person groups, a quick google search will probably reveal some groups that meet regularly. If not, start your own! (If you’re in the Joplin area, I co-lead a group called Joplin Limner Writers. Join here!).

Find a group and get connected. You can’t do this writing thing alone, as much as you want to, you need help. You need creative and emotional help.

Your writing community can be that for you.

Jump. Build, Fly.
F.C. Shultz