I think a writing group is a great idea (assuming you get generally supportive people). Accountability is good. Nothing like having a meet-up to make you keep to a deadline. Plus feedback (and, of course, networking).
My experience with writing groups is obviously very limited, but the experience was really positive for the most part. I found the other writers very supportive and encouraging. When they did offer constructive criticism, I always knew it was because they were trying to help me improve the piece I was sharing with them. And, as you say, accountability is good. A deadline is always a great motivator. Same goes for feedback and networking. The more research I do on writing (and the need for self-promotion), the more I realize how important networking can be. Even something as basic as word of mouth can make a huge difference.
I think it was very brave of you to go and talk to people! Talking to people? Not my best thing.
I have to admit that I came close to chickening out, but I knew I'd regret it if I didn't take advantage of the opportunity. Even with the courage I did pluck up, I know I could have done better. However, you can only get so much time with an author before someone else shows up for an autograph or a friend wants to chat. At least I got some information out of it, not to mention the anthology itself. I'm really curious to study how it was put together and see the range of stories that were written.
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timeasmymeasure
no subject
Date: 2013-09-09 01:17 am (UTC)My experience with writing groups is obviously very limited, but the experience was really positive for the most part. I found the other writers very supportive and encouraging. When they did offer constructive criticism, I always knew it was because they were trying to help me improve the piece I was sharing with them. And, as you say, accountability is good. A deadline is always a great motivator. Same goes for feedback and networking. The more research I do on writing (and the need for self-promotion), the more I realize how important networking can be. Even something as basic as word of mouth can make a huge difference.
I think it was very brave of you to go and talk to people! Talking to people? Not my best thing.
I have to admit that I came close to chickening out, but I knew I'd regret it if I didn't take advantage of the opportunity. Even with the courage I did pluck up, I know I could have done better. However, you can only get so much time with an author before someone else shows up for an autograph or a friend wants to chat. At least I got some information out of it, not to mention the anthology itself. I'm really curious to study how it was put together and see the range of stories that were written.