I am often bopping in and out of websites in search of resources and ideas for new aspiring writers.

I’m sure I’m not the only one searching, so I thought I’d share some things that have helped me up to this point.

Writing groups

I joined a writing group this past summer. I was blessed to have been directed to a group of experienced writers, and let me tell you, these women are showing me the ropes. I’ve learned so much from them.

I had heard the pros and cons (mostly cons) of joining a writing group and was reluctant at first about joining. One con was that the beginning writer has delicate skin when it comes to their writing and all that critiquing can leave bruises and deter writing. If you hang in there though, you will certainly toughen up over the months from the feedback and editing, and, with polished manuscript in hand, you’ll realize that it was worth the effort.

This is the second writing group that I’ve taken part in, and have learned that each group has its own vibe and its own set of expectations. I love the informal approach of this particular group; it’s informal, but structured.  The deadlines and having to bring in new material bi-weekly keeps me writing, and I need the discipline.

At first I was a little intimidated by the talent and skill of the other writers in the group; one woman in the group has been writing for over twenty years.  But everyone brings something to the table. They keep me motivated, expose me to different styles of writing, and have offered a pool of resources. In addition to my feedback, I’ve shared any technology information on networking or social websites, software programs, helpful websites, etc.

The most important thing that I’ve gotten from the group though, is a set of new friends!