Writing Groups: How to Pick the One For You
Writing can be a lonely business most of the time. It’s just the writer typing words on the computer screen. Sometimes I can’t handle the isolation and turn to the writing groups I am a part of to get the extra push. I consider myself extremely self-motivated and all successful writers share this trait. There is value in joining the right writing group.
A writing group at its best motivates the writer, provides direction on their work and is great for networking. I really like the two groups I attend regularly. We all share our work and offer constructive criticism. I like the groups because I get a break from writing but I am still connected to my work. I enjoy hearing what my fellow writers are working on.
For the most part my writing group experiences have been positive. However I have had a few negative experiences with a writing group making it necessary to sever the relationship. Read on for the signs that you should part with your writing group.
#1 The Feedback You Receive in Negative
I’m all for constructive criticism no matter how painful it can be to hear. The only way we grow is to learn from our mistakes. The members of both groups I am part of come from a diverse background and they give feedback that is very helpful. At times my writing has caused debates within the group. I cherish those moments. However, not all criticism is helpful. I was a part of a group that where some members were overly critical. I had someone tell me they could write my article better.
This type of criticism was not helpful to me. I didn’t want someone to rewrite my story. I wanted to be in an environment where I could improve.
#2 Writing Group Participants Didn’t Bring Work to Share
The whole purpose of a writing group is to bring work to share for other to give constructive criticism. What is the purpose of meeting if no one has any work to share? When I was working on my first novel, What Goes Around Comes Around, I met with my writing partner once a week. I made sure that I had a least 3 pages to share during those meetings. The result was that I completed my first novel and got halfway through to my second book.
Writers must be self-motivated and actually write. A writers must write through self-doubt. Everything I put on paper wasn’t great and my writing partner helped me discover what I should keep and what I should let go.
#3 Writing Group is Too Large
I would recommend that a writing group have 5-10 writers. A group larger than 10 will not give enough time for everyone to share. I like small groups of no more than 5 people. In a small group everyone gets to share their work. There is time for everyone to provide comments and feedback.
The ideal meeting time should be at least 90-180 minutes and meet twice a month. It is hard to remember a story if a group only meets once a month.
#4 The Goal of the Writing Group Doesn’t Meet Your Objectives
Why are you part of this writing group? What are the goals of the other writers in the group? I like to join a group where the goal is to complete a book or other projects. A serious writer needs to be working on a project. It could be an article, contest entry or book. I am not interested in just doing writing exercises
I hope these tips helped you. What are your must haves regarding a writer group? Please share your feedback in the comments.
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