Writing Groups

For the last two Novembers I have participated in National Novel Writing Month (NANOWRIMO). As a result of the group of people I met last November, and the lack of writing groups in my area, I started Topsail Writers.  It was began for the purpose of providing a safe place for creative people to come together, share ideas, discuss problems with their craft, or to just write.
The group began with setting up standing monthly meetings.  Over time it has morphed into monthly meetings with occasional pop-ups in between.   We tried Sundays but attendance tended to be limited to two of us.  We have found Saturday mornings to be best, but occasionally we meet on Wednesday or Thursday after work.
We have met in a bookstore once or twice (the drive is a bit too far). We met in a bakery (great vibe but in “season” it is too noisy).  Lately we have been meeting in a charming little coffee shop.  There is a great little space with a table for up to six people to sit and write. They have lovely coffees and teas along with a few little snacks if you need something to get you through til lunch.
When we meet after work I have found a little cafe in my town that stays open until 830. There are other restaurants we could go to but this little place, like the coffee shop,  is quiet and up lifting.  
We have writers of all skill levels in our group – from professional to just beginning.  We have bloggers, editors, journalists, fiction and non-fiction.  Currently we do not review one another’s work (unless specifically asked to).  So what is the point if we are not critiquing each other’s work?

• Community.  Writing is a solo activity and can be lonely.  Talking to other people who have experience writer’s block, fear of their work not being enough, or just trying to figure out a title or plot twist is invaluable.  It’s recognizing you really aren’t alone on this journey.
• Focus. Life gets busy. It’s easy to say “I’ll work on that later” and then later never comes.  It gives the writer permission to do nothing but write for at least 1-2 hours a month.
• Brainstorming.  It’s great to talk to people who write differently than you do.  Maybe one of your writing partners is an outliner and you are a freeform writer – sharing how they outline, or why, may help you find a balance between the two methods. Everyone has ideas and things to contribute – seeing things from another’s perspective will only enrich what you are doing.
• Motivation.  I leave our group meetings feeling accomplished and inspired.  I often find myself wanting to continue working long after the meeting.  They spark a creative fire.
• Accountability. I have found I don’t want to let the group down. Knowing someone is going to ask how my writing is coming along ensures I am going to actually do some writing.

Regardless of where you are in the writing process I recommend finding a writing group to join. There are online Facebook groups you can join, but I find having the in-person meetings are so much more beneficial.  Check out your local area and try a few.  If they don’t fit your needs, consider starting your own.  Writing groups are not one-size, fits all.  Find one that works for you!
Happy writing!