If you’re like most writers, there aren’t any other serious fiction writers in your circle of family or friends. Writers just aren’t that common.
And, like most writers, you may be an introvert who’d rather stay home and interact with the characters in your head.
So why seek out other writers? Why make the effort?
Other fiction writers can energize you, advise you, prod you, critique you, and be blessed by you as you do the same for them. They can encourage you in a way that your family can’t, and they can tell you things you need to hear in a way that your family can’t.
You may think of the great writers of previous generations who just seemed to sit in their studies and produce great books. If they can do it, you can certainly try, you may think.
But if you look into their lives a little more closely, you’ll no doubt find an editor who saw talent and taught them. Publishing houses no longer employ people to do that; you have to fill the gap on your own.
How do you find other writers?
1. Join a writers’ organization and start networking. Go out of your way to build relationships. Maybe you’ll even find writers in your own town.
2. Read in your genre and reach out online to the authors of these books. Ask for advice. Offer online reviews.
3. Don’t make the mistake of overlooking rookie writers. Many of them will mature into successful writers quickly. Others, not so fast. But all can help form the support group you need.
Here’s the key: reach outside your comfort zone!