Hey writing friends,
I’m writing to you from southern California, where it is pouring rain. But over the weekend the sun shone and my heart did too. Both my kids were in the same place at the same time for the first time in a year. We took advantage of a break in the weather (weird in So Cal, right?) to walk the beach, eat good food and just be together.
At almost every stage of parenting since my kids graduated from diapers I’ve said “this is my favorite part” of the journey. Even the hard parts, like junior high. But this time it’s really true. I really enjoy my young adult kids. They’re independent adult humans, with jobs and responsibilities and a life apart from me, which is both amazing and bittersweet. I can’t help but wonder at them. As we sat on a bench overlooking the Pacific and eating amazing donuts from Super Donuts in Carlsbad, I just thought—I feel such joy right now. I tried to notice and savor the joy (and my glazed old fashioned donut). Sometimes we weave memories out of simple things.
Writers need to deliberately seek out joy. Writing, though fulfilling, requires emotional and creative energy, and smart writers build a habit of replenishing that energy. Seek out joy, my friends. Your writing will thank you. Because writing flows from the soul.
A writing community can bring you joy
Over the years, being a part of a writing community has helped me meet my goals, and brought me satisfaction and happiness. When I first “found my people” in a writing community, I felt this mixture of excitement and contentment. I felt at home. To connect with others who love words, to nerd out over grammar, or just talk about what we’re reading and writing—that also replenishes me as a writer.
I want to give that experience to you—the joy of finding companions for the journey, and the satisfaction of actually achieving your goals. I want you to be able to finish that book you’ve always told yourself you’re going to finish.
I talk to so many people who want to write but feel stuck. Even calling themselves “writer” feels daunting. They keep intending to write, but don’t actually do it. Maybe that’s you?
Maybe you want to write your book this year. It’s a great goal. But just having a goal may not move you closer to achieving it. Author and coach Kathi Lipp notes that a great way to move off the starting blocks is not just to write down goals, but to schedule time to actually do specific things that will move you closer to that goal. What could you put on your calendar this week that might help you move forward?
A group can help you achieve your goals
One way to achieve your goal of writing a book: schedule writing time and join a writer’s group that holds you accountable and cheers you on. In my own writing journey, being part of a writing community has helped me achieve my goals (and write two dozen books).
The Powerful Story Writers’ Group provides a schedule and accountability, along with teaching and individual feedback. There are only a few slots left in the group, and right now registration is half off the normal price. But after this weekend, the price doubles. So if you think this might be the right community to help you get unstuck, and to find your writing joy, you can apply here.
If you are working on a nonfiction book, or want to write one, this group can help you complete your manuscript in six months.
Here’s what’s involved:
Monthly gatherings (which start Feb. 3).
Connect between meetings via private Facebook group.
You’ll write 7,500 to 10,000 words per month for six months.
Each month you’ll get individual manuscript review and feedback from me.
Cost is normally $199 per month, but until January 15, early bird registration is just $99 per month.
Registration includes one half-hour individual coaching session with me.
You can apply to be in the group by filling out this Google form.
If you’re hoping to finish your nonfiction book by summer, this writing community can help you achieve that goal. Be sure to apply today to get the early bird discount. Want more details? You’ll find FAQs and more on my blog. Or jump to the application here.