Writing Groups

My writing group meets this evening. So, I thought it would be a good time to post a few words about writing groups in general. When I joined my group, we were about fourteen people strong. Each member had a unique writing talent dissimilar to the others. It was a great group, a fun group.

Then, some of us wanted to do our own thing, and my writing group came together. We had high hopes and set some goals. Writing goals, publishing goals, bonding goals, conference goals. We held a successful open mic.

You might be thinking about joining a writing group. Well, here's a few things to consider before you make a commitment.

1) Diversity within the group is important, but so is commonality. Make a list of individual differences and common goals / interests. Make sure you can live with both lists.

2) Consider personalities. What are the chances yours will clash with a group member's? Is the group cliquish? Staying with a group, when you feel like an outsider, may not be worth the benefits your group provides.

3) Expect a leader to imerge. Desire it. Just make sure you're willing to follow whoever rises to the challenge.

4) Voice your opinion about the group's direction or lack of it. Keeping a group on track is challenging.

5) Keep your individual goals in sight and pursue those goals, which might differ from group goals. Don't forsake your goals to chase a group dream, unless you are 200% certain the dream will be a reality.

Group dynamics are important and the group's achievements will hinge on each member coming together as one. The writing and critiquing will fall into place.

There's a lot to consider before jumping into a writing group. Any questions?