Writing without interruptions and distractions--a fact or a life long dream?
If you have a full time day job (me) it is difficult to snag writing time. While signing up for the book in a month writing challenge may work for many, it only creates additional stress for me. Weekly critique groups were helpful when I was a novice writer. Now I find attending a critique group results in giving up writing time and ending up with several hours of additional home work.
So how do I get support, without taking on additional duties?
One answer: Hold a Write-in.
What is a Write-in?
A write-in is a gathering of writers at a predetermined place, within a predetermined time period--who work quietly and independently on his or her own project.
Is a Write-in like a Critique Group?
No. Write-ins are only for writing. Writers arrive and leave at any time during the scheduled time periods, no pre-work is required. Any numbers of writers may participate.
Critique groups are for discussing manuscripts previously submitted and studies by group members. Attendance is expected, and group membership is small and closed.
How Do I Organize a Write-in?
A Coordinator. Our network chair coordinates suggestions for write-in locations each week and posts information on our weekly email list. We could set up a yahoo group, but that seems too labor intensive. We rotate between several locations: a reserved library room, local coffee shops, homes.
Since I like to keep my weekends free, I usually attend the coffee shop group 2 evenings a month. Other members meet after a RWA (Romance Writers of America) Chapter meeting, or a book club event held at the local library.
A Consistent Time Frame, with Exceptions. Saturday groups favor 9 AM to 3 PM with a break for lunch. I favor the 6:30 - 8-ish group with multiple coffee refills, situated in several large booths at a quaint (aka: somewhat dated) coffee shop.
This is a welcoming, open, supportive atmosphere. The only rule is to avoid talking, so writers can write. It is during lunch time or during the first ten minutes that we play social catch-up or discuss publishing news.
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Happy Reading,
Connie
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