Find Your Champions

Hello and welcome!

Last week, we talked about starting BIG to begin your writing journey. And, after BIG, the small should follow. So, what's the small?

If you ask writers what their most valuable writing tool is, most will answer you with four simple words: my writing critique group. Oh, I saw that face! I made the same face many years ago. Just the thought of reading what I had written to people other than my family was frightening.

Believe and Be Brave

To get anywhere in the writing business, one must be brave. You also need to believe in yourself. This is not easy for some people, and that's okay. You need people who will believe you and cheer you on. That's where a writing critique group comes in handy. Meeting with people who are all striving toward the same goal is invigorating.

How Do I Find My Group?

If you're wondering where to find those magical champions, you're not alone. Remember the BIG? Once you join a writing organization and start attending meetings and retreats, your critique group could be standing right in front of you. I met my group over twenty years ago at a local writing meeting. You can also check with your library. Some libraries have writing groups. And, don't forget social media. There are many writing groups on Facebook and Instagram. Search "writing groups near me" for your best chances of finding a writing group in your area.

Take Time to Think

Once you decide that you want to find a critique group, you need to ask yourself some important questions:

1. Do you want an in-person group, or a Zoom group?
2. How often would you like your group to meet?
3. Would you like for all the members of your group to write in your genre, or are you open to a mixed-genre group?
4. Would you prefer a big group, or a smaller, more intimate group?
5. Do you need a structured group, or a casual group?

Keeping all this in mind will help you find the best group for yourself.

Be Prepared

While doing your research to find a critique group that works for you, there is something important to remember: continue to write! You will want to have at least one manuscript finished before you join a group. It's perfectly okay if it's your very first draft, but it is crucial to have something to read. Then the magic can begin!

Next week, we will visit what it's like to be a part of a writing critique group: the good, the challenges, and how to overcome obstacles.