Hindsight is 20/20

I will be participating in a writers’ panel next month. We will be speaking to a group of writers on the benefits of belonging to a professional writers’ organization. I of course represent the writer on the road to publication. I started thinking about what experience (not wisdom) I might impart to the group. My first thought was – if you are a serious writer, join with other writers.

I joined the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) after I had completed a few children’s stories and started attending local chapter meetings. I joined Romance Writers of America (RWA) and my local RWA chapter after completing a draft of my first novel-length manuscript. I thought that a completed manuscript was required to join!

My writing skills were not improving while I sat at my computer and wrote in a vacuum. I started to fill my writer’s tool chest when I talked with other writers -- one-on-one, in small groups, and at large conferences.

My writing tip of the week: Join with other writers. Not only will you improve your craft, but you’ll meet some really cool people.