Writing is by its nature a lonely business. We spend our time organizing ideas and fighting back self-doubt, so getting feedback from others can be helpful. Unfortunately, friends and family are not good candidates for this. They mean well, but we need help from other writers who understand the creative struggle. But where do you start your search for an online writers group?
Brooke McIntyre of Inked Voices got it right in the introduction of her guest post on Jane Friedman’s blog.
Finding a writing group or partner is a lot like dating. There’s an element of searching and an element of matching. You’re looking for people you can share a piece of your creative self with, for people you want to spend time on, for people who can help you become a stronger writer — a tribe or community. So a good fit is important.
A writers’ group is a good fit when members are
- actively writing on a project, not just in the group to lurk
- willing to give honest feedback with kindness
- willing to accept honest feedback
- able to support their critiques with examples
- able to see their own weaknesses
- at varying levels of writing experience
