Over at A Writing Journal, Bethany was discussing her need for a critique partner/beta reader/blogging group. And I found myself nodding (emphatically) in agreement. I have a fantastic crit partner, but right now, neither of us are motivated to work on our WIPs and we’ve kind of sunk into a “woe-is-me” period – my writing is never going to be good enough, I’ll never find an agent or get a publishing contract. I should just give up now and learn to knit.
Sound familiar to anyone?
It’s not a pretty place to be, and with both of us living there, it’s hard to scramble out of that hole. But I think Bethany has something – when you have a group of people you’re accountable to, or even inspired by, it can be easier to stay excited and motivated about your writing. When someone is waiting on your critique, or is anxious for your next chapter, it can be an additional motivation to get things done – and when it’s a group, you even have that additional pressure to kick your ass into gear.
So what do you think? Are you part of a critique group? Have you found it helpful? What motivates you to keep going when you’re in the writing doldrums?
And of course – if you’re looking for a group, check out Bethany’s blog – as she’s trying to pull one together.
I love my critique partners. I would never have improved as much as I have without them.
The best thing for motivating me, though, is usually music. If I play the right songs, I’m there.
Hmmm…I’m not much of a music person while I write, but I may have to try it again and see if it helps. I would imagine if you find the perfect music everything would just flow…LOL
How very true! I think it’s always great to have someone behind you, cheering you on as they push you forwards. Critique partners are wonderful 🙂
I agree! I don’t think I’d be where I’m at today without my crit partners, that’s for sure!
I was in a crit group but I went rogue. Actually we ended the group because it wasn’t working for us anymore. We didn’t crit regularly. Just when someone had a book they wanted feedback on.
I have writing friends who keep me motivated. Plus I love my books and characters, which is all the incentive I need. 😀
I think that’s the challenge with crit groups – you all have to be on the same sort of schedule and at a similar level. Hmmm….that’s a great way of thinking about it – your books and characters *should* motivate you!
We can all relate! I do belong to a critique group, and yes, it keeps me motivated and accountable. It keeps me hopping, producing new pages and revising along the way. It helps when I remember to first get it written, then get it right. Knowing I don’t have to be perfect the first time around is a big relief.
Hello, I found your blog from Grab a Pen. I really enjoyed the sample for Princess for Hire and I look forward to reading more your awesome writing. Congrats on being published!
Thanks so much for visiting, Marjorie! I’m glad you stopped by and liked Princess 🙂