Professional development

For writers, self-care has to include learning and connecting

Hello Powerful Story Newsletter readers!

Just sending you a quick mid-week note to let you know about an opportunity that ends tomorrow.

I’ve written to you before about the West Coast Christian Writers Conference coming up in October. (See details here.) I’m on the faculty and I’d love to see you there—but you should know that early bird pricing ends tomorrow (August 31)! You’ll save $50 on registration

Whether you’re a new writer or a published author, you need to continue to learn and hone your craft. A writers conference is hands down the best way to do that. Much more fun and interesting than webinars or just reading a book, conferences allow you to not only learn but connect with other writers. And probably more importantly, they provide a chance for you to pitch your ideas to agents and editors. It’s a place to find your tribe—to enjoy community, friendship, and encouragement on your writing journey.

Almost every career benefits from professional development: advanced training, continuing education, seminars, whatever.

At a writers conference, you have the opportunity to become a stronger writer, and to better understand the world of publishing. First, by learning in seminars and discussion groups, but second, by getting feedback on your work. When you pitch your book proposal or show an editor a page of your work (an admittedly very vulnerable proposition), you receive feedback that will help you grow and improve as a writer. And that’s what we want, right?

As writers, we often work alone. We need to connect with other people—specifically, our people. People who share our quirky obsession, who feel compelled to put our thoughts down on paper and share them with the world.

West Coast Christian Writers Conference will be held October 18-20 in beautiful Roseville, California, just outside Sacramento. It features:

• Over 40 workshops to help you grow your writing craft

• Coaching and Critique appointments with experienced writers

• Round Table Sessions where you can ask your questions

• Powerful keynote speakers who will encourage and inspire you

• Worship and fellowship with other writers

If you can’t travel or your budget is tight, there’s also a virtual option.

Learn more and/or register here.