Being a writer is not easy at all. It requires a lot of time sitting at your computer, plotting out scenes, being on a high, and being in the dumps. It's always nice to have those wonderful people you can rely on every step of the way, even when you think you're taking 500 steps backwards at times.
I was tweeting back and forth with someone a while ago. She was struggling to find the support needed during her writing journey. I gave her some suggestions on how to find the support. By golly, it's what I had to do. But it's not easy at all to obtain the people you rely on through the ups and downs.
Here are my ideas:
- Use your family or friends as a support system. My very first critiques of my book, FÉLICITÉ FOUND, were my good friend and my sister-in-law.
- Actively use Twitter - Start up conversations. Find people you get a long with and have the same interests. Be their friend and they will be yours.
- Join Facebook writing chats groups.
- Go to writing events - Book tours, writing groups, book/writing conferences, etc... You will definitely find people who are looking for support just as you are.
- Comment on people's blogs. It'll get your name out there.
- Start your own blog. Likewise, it'll get your name out there.
- Become a beta for other writers.
- Ask people if they want to be CP's. It never hurts to ask. I'd suggest you have already built rapport with the person before you ask.
- Eat lots of chocolate. You'll need it.
- And most of all, be patient. These things won't happen over night. But your outside support system with writers WILL come.
Today, I want to thank one of those many people I count as my supporters!
My Dad!!!
It's his birthday today, so I thought it only right to share my love and gratitude to him for all of his support, not only with my being an author but EVERYTHING he's ever done for me. I love you, Pops!
What are your suggestions to find your writing support system?
Writing. Jewels.
