"Required reading" for today's smart writer.

"Required reading" for today's smart writer.
Information & inspiration to hone your craft and increase your cash...Since 2009

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Could Your Writing Career Use Training Wheels?


Most of us can remember riding our first bike. How our fear of falling and skinning our knees was cushioned by big training wheels that supported us, gave us balance, and courage.

As we grew in maturity and got a little experience under our belt, the wheels were removed and the level of speed increased, as did our level of excitement.

With the progression of time, we even learned to ride without holding on to both handlebars. But it took some time and effort.

In a similar way, aspiring and novice writers could benefit from a little “training and support”.
Unfortunately, many seeking to travel the creative path, mistakenly believe that all that is needed is to simply “suit up” and mount, and they will be able to navigate the road to success based upon sheer desire. Though it‘s not entirely impossible to do, these eager beavers will often encounter bumps, bruises, detours, and being “grounded“ literally and figuratively.

There’s a better way. There are many sources of support to today’s scribe to go the distance. Here are a few resources:

1. Mentors or Creative Coaches
Athletes hire coaches and trainers to achieve optimal levels of performance. Some singers do too. These individuals have experience and expertise that can guide students and help identify needed areas of improvement. Objectively.

2. Online Creative Classes
Writing classes are a way for writers of all levels to learn more and ultimately earn more. Teachers are often published authors themselves, who know the ropes and can provide insider’s tips, answer questions, and provide needed information and inspiration.
Check out www.Coffeehouseforwriters.com/ for current listings.

3. Writers’ Groups
No matter what your area of interest, or level of experience, writers groups boast an array of benefits. Whether online or in your local area, many offer job banks, insurance plans, meetings, events, publications, and networking opportunities to enhance your efforts.


According to editor Drew Tewksbury, "No matter where you are in your freelancing career, everyone needs a little help sometimes."

Don't let your ego get in the way of your excellence.

Thoughts?

ImageStock Illustration

10 comments:

  1. Hi, my name is Janette, and my writing career can use training wheels. (Hi, Janette.)

    At what point can someone say he has no more room for growth in his craft? I don't know--maybe it's the school geek in me, but I look forward to learning because I tend to presume most things I do have room for improvement, especially my writing.

    We're told to be humble and teachable, and that's probably the most useful attitude we can have toward the writing world.

    Thanks for the reminder that there is always room for growth, no matter the level.

    Be well. :-)

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  2. Jennifer:
    I once heard it said that the largest room in the world is room for improvement. I have taken two online classes this summer. I was a part of a writing group for several years.
    I grew as a writer with both of these resources. I'm following God and His leading as I consider my goals and paths for the coming year.

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  3. Hi Jennifer,
    I always enjoy your articles. We are often published in the same venues, Funds for Writers, Writing for Dollars and others. You give sound advice and are a boon to fellow writers. One of these days I'm going to get a blog going, but right now my non-writing duties keep me hopping. Keep doing what you do!

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  4. Great post, thanks! I try new stuff all the time. Although I basically write non fiction, I have tried short stories, scripts, poems, etc. I am always learning...

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  5. It is a blessing to have all these resources. I especially appreciate the support and friendships I've gained through writer's blogs and blogging. Drew is right, we can all use assistance. I am always learning something!

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  6. Hi Janette,

    My name is Jennifer, and I'm still learning too. :-) Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your perspective.

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  7. quietspirit,

    Great to hear from you and learn of your progress. May God continue to be your co-pilot and may you soar new heights! Keep me posted.

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  8. Susan,

    How wonderful to have you here. Welcome! Indeed you are right--I have read your work and have enjoyed it @ WFD and F4W. Thanks so much for your kind words, and for connecting. I'm sure I'll be "seeing you around soon." :-)

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  9. Hi Marja,

    Thanks so much for stopping by and adding to the mix! Much continued success to you!

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  10. Hi Karen,

    Couldn't agree more...the support and friendships are definitely a blessing! Have a good weekend.

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