Why you need writing allies

Jennifer Richardson - Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Claire Scobie shares why allies are so important in helping us keep on track with our writing.

When my new novel was launched at Gleebooks in Sydney I had the chance to thank and acknowledge some of those people who’ve helped me along the way. Even though it’s just my name on the cover, when you write and complete a big project like a book, it’s always a team effort.

So who are your writing allies and friends? Here’s a list of mine:

A mentor: when I started out in journalism I worked alongside the brilliant writer Mick Brown. He coached, coaxed and inspired me in those early years.

A writing group: if you can find a group that encourages and supports your writing, all the better. Joining a writing retreat will instantly help you connect with a group. Singabout has several writing retreats on the upcoming events list.

A writing buddy: this subject is a favourite of mine. A writing buddy usually isn’t your partner or spouse, nor your best friend. It’s someone you can trust to give you critical feedback and who’ll tell you to keep going during the dreary and sludge times.

Writers’ centres: you can never stop learning. I regularly attend courses to hone my craft.

Writers’ festivals or conferences: whatever genre you write, there’s always an event you can attend, mingle with fellow writers and hobnob among editors and publishers.

Writing tweeps: I’m new to the twitter world but there is a very supportive group of writers out there. It’s a great way to access writers who you wouldn’t normally connect with. Check out these writing hashtags: #authors, #fictionfriday #pubtip (publication tips) #writegoal #wrotetoday #writetip (writing advice), #writeabout

My family & close friends: support me and keep writing in perspective.

Scrivener: this software makes the job easier.

Mindmaps: I use Novamind to create colourful mindmaps when I am mapping out a new project.

Favourite books of the moment: to remind me why I do it.

My blog followers: all of you help too! Every time I get a comment from a post, it encourages me to keep blogging.

So share who and what helps keep you writing …

Add hashtag #writeabout and it will help to find our allies.