How to Participate in a Writing Group

Participating in a writing group can be a valuable and helpful experience for the new or seasoned writer. Writing groups have different personalities and getting the most out of your group has a lot to do with how you participate and interact.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Attend writing group meetings and events regularly. Writers often experience some nervousness about letting others read or hear their work and it will be difficult for you to help others or let others help you if a certain comfort level with each other hasn't been reached. Attending meetings will help establish relationships with your fellow members.

2. Understand the purpose of your group so you can get the most from the experience. Writing groups are formed by like-minded people for many purposes including encouragement, critiquing, support or learning new techniques through workshops and classes.

3. Be open minded. Writers are one of the most varied and interesting groups around and writing groups will bring many different kinds of writers together. Some members may be wildly different than you. Learn to love the differences. Writing is about experience and meeting these new people will add to your life experience.

4. Add your ideas. Don't be shy about giving your input to the writing group. Full participation means you get what you need from the group. When suggestions are asked for or if you have a great idea for a class or workshop let someone know. All input is valuable.

5. Appreciate social support from the group. Frustration and self-doubt plague writers and the support of a writers group can boost your confidence, foster motivation and help you become a more productive writer.

Tips & Warnings

• If your writing group spends the majority of meeting times harshly critiquing writing from each member you may want to consider joining another group. Writing groups should be fun and relaxing not demeaning and stressful.