Category: Professional development

What a Book Coach Can Do for You

~ The Regal Writer ~ Leave a comment
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For the last few years, I’ve been pushing my way through several novel drafts. By the end of the draft phase, I tend to lose interest in the story because it’s out of my system. Worse, I have to deal with the revision process, which is so daunting that I keep putting it off. Needless to say, I have several WIPs in my file drawers collecting dust. 

This year, I made it my goal to tackle a revision. I knew it would take a lot of work, but I wasn’t sure how to begin or what the process looked like. I knew I needed help.

So I bit the bullet and signed up for a three-month group coaching program, which includes writing sprints several times a week, craft lessons and live feedback sessions. It’s a small co-hort, only six of us including our coach, Karyn Fischer of Story and Prose. There’s comfort in knowing that other writers in this group are dealing with similar issues about plotting and revising that I am. And because it’s only for three months for several hours a week, it’s not a huge investment of time, and it will carry me through most of the summer. As you know, it can be tempting to slack off during the summer, so this program will keep me motivated. 

Entering the third week of the program, I see the following benefits:

1. Accountability. With summer fast approaching, it’s easy to slack off or find other things to do. A coach keeps you accountable for your own efforts. Whether it’s through weekly craft lessons, monthly feedback sessions, or writing sprints, having someone else to report to can help you make consistent progress.

2. Goal setting. During our first meeting, each member in my group shared what they hoped to accomplish during the three-month program. We do the same before each sprint session.  When I go into those sessions, I have to have a clear idea what I’m doing for the next hour. That goal setting keeps me accountable for my actions so I keep moving forward, even if they’re baby steps. 

3. Community. Being part of a small coaching group has its rewards. We’re all in the same boat, struggling with similar problems with our revisions. Knowing that provides some comfort and keeps me motivated to keep working.

4. Feedback. Before the group session began, I submitted the first chapter to Karyn for her review. It was a scary proposition because I hadn’t shown my work on that novel to anyone else. But I needed some direction and encouragement so I wouldn’t feel I was wasting my time. She pointed out details in my story that I had overlooked, and questioned the authenticity of the dialogue. (“Would her client have actually said that?”) Sure, it was a little hard to take the criticism, but she made good points and it gave me something to work around in my next revision. If you want to improve your story, getting feedback from a trusted beta reader or qualified coach is important.

5. Education. Since most book coaches are published authors themselves or have earned an MFA, they bring that knowledge and experience to the table. They’ve gone through the writing and publishing process before, so they can share their knowledge about craft issues, such as plotting, character development and story structure.

6. Writing progress. Several times a week, the group meets for one-hour writing sprints, though there’s flexibility about what group members can work on. No matter how we choose to use our time – whether it’s revising a scene, reading up on craft, or doing a beta-read of their manuscript – we’re all making progress on our story. By the end of that hour, I know I’ve made some progress, even if it is a small step.

A few final suggestions:
* Consider group coaching to start, which may save you a few bucks rather than working one-on-one.
* Many coaches provide short-term sessions or workshops so you can see how they teach.
* Sign up for their newsletters, which will reveal their expertise as well. You can always unsubscribe from the newsletter later if you find you’re inundated with material or their content isn’t helpful.
* To find a book coach, check out sites like Author Accelerator, which offers resources and certification for book coaches. Then check out their websites to see if they’re a good fit.

Writing is a solo endeavor. But working with a book coach, whether individually or in a group, can help you stay motivated and keep you focused on your writing goals. 

What about you? Have you worked with a book coach? What was your experience like? 

The Path from Journalist to Fiction Writer

~ The Regal Writer ~ Leave a comment
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Writers come from all walks of life. Many have had previous careers, such as lawyers, doctors and journalists. No matter our background, we have one thing in common: a desire to tell stories. However, the journey to get published isn’t the same. In fact, it’s a struggle for most. That shouldn’t stop us from trying however.

I came from a professional background in association publishing. I knew how to string together complete sentences to present clear ideas. But how that would translate into a fiction writing career remained to be seen.

For me, writing an 85,000-word novel was a huge challenge. But did I have the patience and determination to see it through? That was the question. One I was itching to find out.

I started on this writing journey for several reasons.

* To determine the next chapter in my career. I was at a crossroads and wasn’t sure what was next for me. I had just left a full-time job after eight years and I wanted to take time out to consider other options. One thing I knew for sure was that writing was the core of my being, and it would play a significant role in my career in some shape or form.

* To fulfill a fantasy. I had toyed with the idea of writing a novel earlier in my life, but did nothing with it, likely because I didn’t know what I was doing. I knew nothing about story structure or scene development back then, nor were there the amazing number of sources available to help a newbie like me to learn the ropes.  

* To meet my accountant’s challenge. While getting my taxes done about 10 years ago, I updated my accountant on my job search woes. I confided that I wasn’t sure what to do next in my career. Her response? “I think you should write a book.” The challenge was on. My dear accountant has since retired, but I still hear her words of encouragement in my head.

* To sow the creative seeds that were sprouting in my brain. I don’t know if it was all the free time I had after I left my job or the writing classes I took, but my creative muse started working in earnest, spitting out story ideas like a factory. I had no choice but to work with them. I started to see story ideas everywhere, and there were too many to ignore. I saw them as a sign to take my dabbling to the next level.

Even though I wanted to take my writing to the next level and explore different genres, I knew there was plenty of work I needed to do. How did I move from corporate writer to aspiring novelist?

* I signed up for writing workshops and classes. It was at a local writing studio that I was able to unleash my creative writing juices. Being around other writers and getting their feedback helped me to hone my craft. 

* I subscribed to Writer’s Digest. Each issue is chock full of articles about the writing process, author interviews, agent profiles, news about the publishing industry, and tips for new writers. It also explores different genres, and gives a clear-eyed view of the writing life. There are other similar publications, like The Writer, Poets & Writers, Publishers Weekly (about the publishing industry) and Script Magazine (about script writing).

* I ramped up my novel reading. Since I had more time on my hands, I dove into my favorite hobby in earnest. I had forgotten how much I enjoyed reading. The more I learned about the writing process, the more I started paying attention to how the stories played out in the books I read. Reading was part of the self-education process.

* I started reading books about writing. The two best I’ve come across are by Stephen King (On Writing) and Anne Lamott (Bird by Bird). Though there were two very different approaches to writing, both provided the inspiration and motivation to support my writing goals.

* I started following authors, editors and publishing pros via newsletters and social media. I especially enjoy the insights shared by Jane Friedman, a former editor of Writer’s Digest, and book coach Janice Hardy. There are plenty of blogs and writing communities online covering the publishing business too.

* I joined a writer’s group. Though our group is small, only three people, we meet monthly to share best practices and motivate each other. The group is more about accountability and socializing than anything else. Still, it’s fun to talk shop with people who share my interests.

Though I started this journey in 2014, I’m still learning and growing. The more I have learned about writing fiction, the more I realize I need to learn and the more it feeds my determination to succeed. I hope one day to become published, and while I have accomplished a lot, that first completed novel to show editors and agents remains elusive.

For my readers and fellow writers who are in the midst of their own transitions or are considering one, here are a few tips based on my experience:

* Learn about creative writing and story structure as much as you can. No matter how much you think you know, there will always be something new to learn.

* Read as much as you can in your preferred genre. Notice how those authors crafted their stories and learn from their writing styles. It also helps you see what people are reading in that genre.

* Be patient with yourself. Learning about the writing process takes time and you will certainly make missteps along the way. Don’t beat yourself up when that happens. Instead, take a deep breath and start over. But don’t give up.

* Ask for help and support when you need it. Find a support group, not necessarily a writer’s group, but one or two people who will listen to your writing woes and be your biggest cheerleaders.

* Be consistent with your writing practice. That way you won’t lose momentum. Take breaks when you need it or when you feel stuck. Most importantly, have fun.

For more about this topic, check out these articles:

Navigating the Road from Journalist to Novelist
From Astrophysicist to Author: Tips for Making the Transition to Career Author
15 Tips for Starting Your Writing Career Later in Life

I’ll leave you with this wonderful tidbit of wisdom from science fiction author Mark Alpert: “Don’t worry about how long it takes to reach your dream. The long road just gives you more life experiences to enrich your fiction.”

Helpful Websites and Resources for Writers

~ The Regal Writer ~ Leave a comment
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If you read my blog, you’re likely embarking on a writing journey, whether it’s toward publishing success or simply trying to finish your first draft. Wherever you are on your journey, there’s plenty of help and advice from writing and publishing professionals. We’re all here to learn from one another.

Over the years I’ve followed numerous writers and editors to understand how to navigate the publishing world. Even though I’ve learned a lot since my own journey began, I still turn to the experts for guidance whenever I feel stuck.

I’ve compiled a list of my favorite experts which I follow regularly on social media or subscribe to their newsletters. No doubt you’ve heard of most of them or even already follow them. If you haven’t, feel free to check them out to see what they offer. Every little bit of advice helps, and reminds us that in our solo writing journeys, we’re never completely alone.

Jane Friedman (www.janefriedman.com). Jane is a former editor at Writer’s Digest, so she is well connected in the publishing industry and has a good, strong handle on the latest trends and news. While she writes some of the posts on her blog, most posts are provided by regular contributors such as Tiffany Yates Martin and Allison K. Williams. Best of all, she hosts numerous online workshops at reasonable prices, some as low at $25.

Janice Hardy (www.janicehardy.com). Janice is another writer I follow regularly. She’s an award-winning author of teen fantasy books as well as the Grace Harper urban fantasy series for adults. She has also published several non-fiction books about writing, revising and plotting. Sign up for her newsletter, and you’ll get something in your inbox every day, from writing tips to guest posts. 

K.M. Weiland (https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/). If you want a deep dive into plotting, story structure and character arcs, Weiland’s website and newsletter is the place to go. Her specialty is archetypal characters, which may be more detailed that you might need for your own writing projects, but they might be worth a look to see if her insights work for you.

C. Hope Clark (https://chopeclark.com/). Clark is a veteran mystery writer and speaker with a weekly newsletter that is chock full of helpful insights about the writing life. The newsletter also includes resources, such as writing contests, fellowships, freelance opportunities, and publishers. While I have not directly benefited from any of the listings, I do find her insights and support inspirational and uplifting for those times when I feel discouraged.

Kat Boogaard (https://katboogaard.com/). If you’re serious about starting a freelancing business, check out Kat Boggaard, a veteran freelancer who has earned six-figures most of her career. She is incredibly down-to-earth and practical about the business. In her  newsletter, (now distributed monthly) , she is very open about the ups and downs of a freelancing career as well as work-life balance issues while raising a family, which makes her relatable. Check out her website, where she offers numerous forms and checklists that she uses in her own business. Sign up for her newsletter or follow her on LinkedIn.

Brooke Adams Law (https://www.wearewritingbrave.com). Author and host of Writing Brave, Law occasionally hosts a free online summit focused on the emotional aspect of writing, working through fear and self-doubt. It’s a topic that’s rarely touched upon and one that most writers I know deal with frequently. If you’re looking to Write Brave, check out Law’s site.        

Writer Unboxed (https://writerunboxed.com/). This community of writers offers an array of perspectives about the writing business. I especially enjoy the insights of Kathryn Craft and Donald Maass, who are masters of storytelling. Check out the weekly Flog a Pro feature, which highlights the opening page of a current bestseller and asks readers if they would read the book based on the those opening paragraphs. (More often than not, it’s a resounding “no.”) If you’re serious about writing fiction, this is the place to go for valuable tips and motivation.

The Brevity Blog (https://brevity.wordpress.com/). So you say fiction isn’t your thing, but narrative non-fiction is? You should feel right at home at The Brevity Blog. Similar to Writer Unboxed, it’s a community of writers that specialize in writing memoir and narrative non-fiction. Many of the articles, submitted by members of their community, deal with the challenges and triumphs of the writing life. Even if you don’t write literary non-fiction, this site is worth checking out.  

Writer’s Digest (https://www.writersdigest.com/).  WD is the go-to resource for any kind of writing you care to pursue. While they offer numerous online classes and webinars, they can be a bit pricey, and if you sign up for their newsletter, you’ll get a lot of promotional ads for their products. Still, the magazine is top notch and their weekly Monday Motivation is well worth reading.

Reedsy (https://reedsy.com/)  You don’t have to use Reedsy’s online writing app to take advantage of its various publishing resources, such as a weekly writing prompt. Check out their YouTube channel for their backlist of webinars and online discussions about the publishing business. They also lead live write-in sessions, editing sessions and first-line critiques, so even as they assist other writers, you can learn too.   

Writing and Wellness (https://writingandwellness.com/). Writing isn’t just about getting published. Sometimes, it’s also part of a wellness plan, to deal with emotional and mental health. Activities like journaling, writing poetry or personal essays are outlets to deal with anger, grief or sadness. Writing can also help you deal with physical pain, backaches and burnout. Freelance writer and author Colleen Story hosts this site to help writers deal with these issues, and put fear and self-doubt in the rearview mirror.

Hope you find these sites helpful in your own writing journey.

Helpful Resources for Freelance Writers

~ The Regal Writer ~ Leave a comment

Like most professionals, freelance writers don’t work in a vacuum. They have to surround themselves with a supporting cast to help them succeed. They also have to arm themselves with knowledge and skills to win new client business.

In my freelancing journey, I’ve relied on several helpful resources to refine my craft and stay motivated, especially when I feel stuck or discouraged or filled with self-doubt about the wisdom of my career path. Here are my go-to places for inspiration and skills development.

Websites/Blogs:

Funds for Writers – If you have ever wondered how to earn a living from a writing career, check out this site by mystery writer Hope C. Clark who shares tips and advice for finding sources of income. In her weekly e-newsletter, she compiles lists of writing contests, literary agencies, freelance opportunities, writers’ retreats, grants and fellowships, and more. There’s plenty to read and learn from her site, and you’ll walk away feeling inspired.

Make a Living Writing – Carol Tice’s site is a go-to place for writers of all levels of experience. The blog covers tips and advice for getting published, how to find good-paying writing gigs and how to avoid  content farms. You can download a free e-book about how to avoid scams and browse lists of freelance writing jobs.

The Muse – While The Muse is primarily for job seekers, freelancers can find helpful tips for working with clients or finding career opportunities if the freelance life isn’t working out. Sign up for the news alerts about companies that are hiring, get insights from people who work at these companies, and get advice on how to approach a hiring manager.

Media Bistro – I’ve taken several of the online courses from Media Bistro, and they are well-paced, detailed and practical, covering everything from social media, advertising and copywriting to marketing communications and journalism. There’s also a job board for full-time gigs and a freelancer marketplace called Freelancer Connect where you can look for contract opportunities.

Writer’s Digest magazine – Whether you freelance for businesses or write fiction, Writer’s Digest offers the most comprehensive information, no matter what kind of writing you do. Find out about writers’ conferences, read interviews from successful authors, or take any one of hundreds of online courses. If you get writer’s block, they also offer writing prompts to get unstuck.

Jane Friedman – Friedman, a former editor at Writer’s Digest, has developed a loyal following among creative types who want to know how to get published. While Friedman reports on the publishing industry, she also shares guest posts from successful authors and editors who discuss everything from starting an author platform and how to pitch to a literary agent to how to start a blog and how to find beta readers for your novel. The online workshops are inexpensive too – about $25 for a 90-minute presentation.

Kat Boogaard – Boogaard is a successful freelancer who offers helpful resources to writers of all levels of experience, whether you’re a beginning freelancer or an established professional. Her weekly e-newsletter written in a cozy, conversational way, gives readers a peek into what it’s like to be a freelancer. She also shares freelance opportunities that she’s gleaned from social media. Check out her site at www.katboogaard.com.

Reynolds Center for Business Journalism – I recently came across this site while doing some random research about a topic I was writing about. The weekly e-newsletter called Tuesday’s 2-Minute Tip  provides ideas and advice about covering business topics, such as politics, cyber security, and supply chain businesses. Each article shares resources on where to find key data for business stories, statistics, and industry research.

Reedsy – Reedsy is an online marketplace for creative professionals who help businesses and individuals write and publish books. Reedsy also offers free online workshops via YouTube about the writing craft. You might find workshops about character development, working with an editor, or creating tension in  stories. If you’re interested in self-publishing, Reedsy offers a platform to help bring your story to life.  

Networking:

American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE) Monthly Freelancer Networking Group – Each month, freelancers meet online to talk shop. In addition, ASBPE lists job openings and news about writing for business trade publications. If you write long form articles for the business trade, this group is for you. Best of all, membership is free.

Freelancers Union – Your business is more than writing; you need to understand the financial side too. At the Freelancers Union, you’ll find numerous resources to help you operate your writing business as a business. Create contracts for your clients or learn how to manage your invoicing. There’s also an insurance marketplace for health, term life and liability insurance (among others) because well, writers need insurance too. Sign up for alerts to stay abreast of developments on laws that can affect writers. The Union may not be the most glamourous of writers’ sites to know, but it is probably the most important one.
 
Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) – As writers of fiction and/or nonfiction, there will be a point when you need to hire an editor. One of the best places to find one is the EFA. You can post a job or browse the member directory to find a match. Also check out the editorial rates page to know what you can expect to pay a freelance editor, or if you’re a freelancers, what to charge a client. There are numerous chapters throughout the country, so you can be sure to connect with other freelance editors wherever you are, and many of their events are online.

Books:
In addition, I have found the following books to be not only helpful but essential for developing my writing business.

  • Arts & Numbers: A Financial Guide for Artists, Writers, Performers and Other Members of the Creative Class by Elaine Grogan Luttrull
  • The Ultimate Guide to Marketing Your Freelance Writing by Linda Formichelli
  • A Step-by-Step Guide to Freelance Writing Success by Laura Spencer and Carol Tice

No matter where you are in your writing journey, whether you write for business clients or write fiction, these resources will help you stay on the leading edge of industry trends.

How Writers Can Create Their Own Self-Study Course

~ The Regal Writer ~ 4 Comments
Photo courtesy of The Regal Writer.

This is part of my series on training and education for writers.

Several months ago, I wrote about MFA programs and how to tell if they’re right for you. This week, I’m focusing on self-study options.

An MFA is not for everyone, and some experts believe that it does not guarantee that you’ll be published. What it does do is provide an intensive training opportunity to learn everything about the writing craft. You’ve got a built-in network of fellow writers who are going through the same program and you learn from each other.

Self-study offers its own advantages. Students have more control over the content and direction of their training. You control what you study, when and for how long.

Whatever your preference – MFA or self-study – will depend on your studying style.

If you prefer to immerse yourself in a structured program where you learn everything about the craft of writing in a concentrated period of time, then an MFA is probably best for you.

However, if you don’t have the money or the time to concentrate on an intensive program like an MFA, self-study is the better option. In this route, you can pick up knowledge as you go along by taking workshops and classes on your own time and on your own schedule and reading every blog, magazine article and book about some aspect of writing.

For those who like aspects of both, you might appreciate the hybrid model. The hybrid is a do-it-yourself program that combines the independent learning of self-study with the intensive focus of the MFA. Whereas the typical self-study route can be haphazard in its approach, the hybrid is focused on mastering areas of competence in a given time, usually about a year.

Author James Scott Bell calls these areas of competence “critical success factors” or CSFs. Bell has identified seven CSFs that he recommends writers should master: plot, structure, characters, scene, dialogue, voice and meaning (theme).

(Personally, I would add three more to this list: pacing, setting and revision. However, in a hybrid self-learning model, I suppose you can create as many or as few CSFs as you want. It’s your self-study program.)

Bell’s idea is based on the work and writings of Benjamin Franklin. In his autobiography, Franklin described his desire to master 13 moral virtues. He tracked his progress using a chart with the seven days of the week. He focused on improving one moral virtue each week. Writers, Bell says, can use a similar checklist for each of the CSFs he described.  

By concentrating on one CSF over seven weeks, Bell believes you will have covered all seven within one year with three weeks to spare. Of course, if you add others to your list, that time frame will be extended. Count on spending eight weeks – comparable to a college semester – learning about one CSF. By the end of one year or longer, you will have completed your own self-study program.

Bell also offers suggested readings for each CSF. You can find them on his website. Other helpful resources can be found on DIY MFA and Writer’s Digest magazine.

Of course, there are no formal hybrid educational models offered for writers. So you may have to create your own self-study course, says writing coach Ann Kroeker. “In this way, any of us can identify an area to improve in and find instruction pertaining to that exact skill or technique.”

Kroeker adds that this self-study approach isn’t limited to fiction writers, but to poets, essayists and non-fiction writers too.

It’s an interesting concept, and one I wished I had come upon when I embarked on my writing career. No matter how far along you are in your development, you can always test out Bell’s self-study concept.

Self-study tips

If you decide to go the self-study route to learn more about the writing craft, here are a few tips to get the most out of the experience, according to the Learning Agency Lab.

  1. Set goals for yourself. Decide what you want to learn and the measurements for mastering them.
  2. Schedule your self-study time. Self-study takes time, perhaps not as much as a formal MFA, but time that you could be doing other things. With busy schedules, you’ll need to set aside time each day for self-study, whether that’s reading, taking a class or completing writing exercises.
  3. Make sure you complete the exercises you learn in workshops or in the texts you read. This gives you valuable practice on technique. You may not use them all after the training ends, but some will likely stick.
  4. Don’t be shy about marking up articles and books. You’ll likely find key points you want to remember, so grab that marker and highlight it. Better yet, use a post-it note to mark the page so you can refer to it easily later.
  5. Celebrate milestones. For each CSF you master after seven or eight weeks, do something special to mark the occasion.
  6. Apply your skills. As you gain experience with each CSF, look for ways to expand your skills. For example, once you’ve mastered character, begin to apply those lessons to your own writing. Look at your own characters to see if they measure up.
  7. Find a study buddy. (This is my personal suggestion, btw.) Self-study, especially about writing, means you’re working on your own. By finding a study buddy, you can go through the self-study process together.
  8. Reflect on your learning. When you’ve completed each phase, reflect on what you’ve learned. Is there more you need to learn?

Writers are lifelong learners. No matter where you are in your development as a writer, there are always resources to help you improve your craft.

Is an MFA Program in Your Future?

~ The Regal Writer ~ 1 Comment
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Like many writers, I’ve often wondered if I would benefit from attending an MFA program to boost my writing capabilities. An MFA degree – Master of Fine Arts – gives writers an intensive educational experience about the writing craft. Did I have the desire to go back to school, to go through the application process? And did I want to spend money I really didn’t have on a program I wasn’t sure would help my career?

For me, the answer was no. I’ve been fortunate to find numerous workshops and classes about writing so I never felt compelled to apply for an MFA program. Other writers I know have found the MFA to be a valuable asset in their careers. BUT an MFA is not for everyone.

Before you take that leap, there are several factors to consider, such as costs, location, and the type of program. As of 2019, there were 158 full residency programs in the U.S. and 64 low-residency programs, according to Poets & Writers magazine. Full residency programs require students to be on-site and attend classes full-time. In a low residency program, students might need to attend sessions at the university location over a 10-day stretch twice a year while they work on their own the rest of the time. Some programs even offer class sessions abroad.

Every year more programs are launched. With so much to choose from, it can be difficult to know what to look for. Worse, there are tons of articles written on this subject. I’ve done some initial research for you here so you can sort through the key points. I’ll also share some valuable tips and resources to help you decide if an MFA program is right for you. But the rest is up to you.

Why would anyone want to pursue an MFA?

People decide to pursue a master’s program for a number of reasons. They may feel they lack proper knowledge about the writing craft or feel uncertain about their technical skills. Maybe they seek feedback for their writing, or want to be part of a community. For others, it’s learning to teach others, since some programs require attendees to teach classes. Whatever your reason may be, the long-term benefit is learning and growing as a writer.

When searching for a program, there are several questions to ask yourself.

* Do you plan to attend full-time or part-time? If you already work full-time, a full-time program may be more than you can handle, unless you are willing to quit your job for it. Full-time residencies may require you to live near the campus to participate in writing workshops and teach classes. Part-time programs don’t have nearly the time requirement that full-time programs do. Some of the classes may also be delivered online, which makes it more flexible for some students.

* What size program do you want to be part of? Depending on the school, you may attend small group sessions of less than 10 students, or larger programs with more than 30. Then there are programs with medium-sized classes.

* How much money are you willing and able to spend? While some programs are fully funded, meaning they offer all students in the program with financial assistance, others are not funded at all or are partially funded. That means you will have to find ways to finance your education. MFA programs aren’t cheap. Some can cost more than $20,000 a year.

* Do you have any desire to teach? Full-time programs that offer fellowships may require you to teach classes in exchange for income. That’s great is you want to work on your presentation and teaching skills. But if you have no interest in teaching, the full-time programs may be a waste of time.

* What kind of writing do you want to do? As Jacob Mohr writes on the TCK Publishing blog, most MFA programs frown on commercial and genre fiction. So if you want to publish your collection of horror stories, don’t expect a lot of support from program faculty. Most programs lean toward poetry, non-fiction and literary fiction.

Pros and cons of writing programs
Once you have these answers nailed down, you can examine the pros and cons of MFAs.

Pros:

  • You get feedback for your work from instructors and fellow students.
  • You can sharpen your writing skills so you write, edit, and critique more efficiently.
  • You receive intensive training on the writing craft, learning everything from plot structure, grammar and punctuation, and character development. You learn a lot in a short amount of time.
  • You have a chance to work toward a final project, usually a book or performance.
  • You can join a community of fellow writers who are working toward similar goals.
  • You don’t need to take the GRE or other standardized test to gain acceptance into a program.
  • Some programs are fully funded and provide financial assistance to support your education.

Cons:

  • Most MFA programs are pricey, unless you find a fully-funded program. Not everyone can afford to attend an MFA program, not even on a part-time basis.
  • MFA programs can be time-consuming and too intensive to fit into your schedule. Most programs are a 2-3 year commitment, which most people may not be able to give. In addition to attending classes, you may be required to teach classes or fulfill other obligations.
  • There’s no guarantee that you’ll find writing success after you complete the program.
  • Most MFA programs do not address the business side of writing, such as submitting work to editors, marketing yourself, how to get published, finding a literary agent, etc. It’s up to you to learn these hard skills.
  • MFA programs are highly competitive. Many universities receive hundreds of applications for only a handful of students, as few as 10 or 20. So the chances of being accepted are slim.
  • As Mohr mentioned above, most programs focus on literary fiction, poetry and non-fiction writing. Commercial and genre-based fiction is frowned upon. If you wish to write a sci-fi/fantasy series, don’t expect to get a lot of support for your work.

If you decide that an MFA program isn’t right for you, there are educational alternatives (thankfully). Try the slow, steady pace of the self-study or DIY MFA. This way you learn about the writing craft at your own pace. Take classes from local writing studios or schools, attend conferences and read self-help books about writing. This approach might take longer to teach yourself the proper techniques, but you control the subject matter and the timing of lessons. The self-study route also provides more flexibility so you can fit lessons around a full-time job or other obligations.

You can also join a writer’s group to get feedback for your pieces. Most important, write, write and write some more. Most published authors agree that writing a little bit every day is the best way to learn to write.

Still not sure whether an MFA is right for you? Check out Flavorwire’s roundup of opinions from 27 writers. The opinions are mixed. For example, Elizabeth Gilbert (author of Eat, Pray, Love), advises people to get “an advanced degree in the school of life…”

“After I graduated from NYU, I decided not to pursue an MFA in creative writing. Instead, I created my own post-graduate writing program, which entailed several years spent traveling around the country and world, taking jobs at bars and restaurants and ranches, listening to how people spoke, collecting experiences and writing constantly,” Gilbert writes.

For more information about MFA programs, check out these additional resources:
Association of Writers and Writing Programs: Guide to writing programs
Poets & Writers Magazine: 2019 MFA Index and Guide

Good luck and happy writing!

Five Signs That You’re Ready to Share Your Writing

~ The Regal Writer ~ Leave a comment

Remember to check out the weekly writing prompt on my website.

Most writers I know are private people, especially when it comes to their writing. I’m certainly one of them. It’s always been difficult for me to share my writing with others because I have a terrible fear of criticism. I always breathe a sigh of relief when I get few minor comments on my drafts. It’s why I take great care to make my writing as clean and complete as possible before I submit it to an editor or share it with anyone else. I want to minimize the chance of painful criticism that damages my confidence.

You may be torn between sharing your story and keeping it to yourself. The words you put on the page are personal, and you wonder if it’s worthwhile to share something so personal with others. Getting it down on paper is the first step, of course. It’s the direct path from inspiration to reality. But reading it to others, and letting people view your work, is a huge and difficult step. It’s like crossing a rushing stream when you can’t see how deep the water is, and you don’t know how to swim. Or it’s like crossing a rickety bridge that you fear might collapse under your weight.

But there’s comfort in knowing that most writers have survived those moments. They realize that to be taken seriously as writers, they had to share their work at some point. As Paul Coelho, author of The Alchemist, writes, “Writing means sharing. It’s part of the human condition to want to share things – thoughts, ideas, opinions.”

As you continue your writing practice, you may notice several signs that you’re ready to share your work with others.

Sign 1: You feel stuck in your current work-in-progress.

After working on a story for weeks, you’ve made steady progress toward the conclusion. Then at about the midpoint, you hit a brick wall in the plot. Your brain draws a blank. How do you get unstuck? Maybe you’re too close to the story or too emotionally involved in the plot to see what needs to be done to move it forward. Sometimes having someone you trust read the piece can provide insights on what to do next. It might mean having to rewrite an earlier scene or introduce a new character who interrupts the status quo. Sharing your writing at this point can provide the insight and motivation to keep writing despite the road block.

Sign 2: You feel the story is “finished” as far as you can take it.

When you feel the story is finished, or as good as you can make it, it might be a good time to share it with others. Perhaps this is the third draft of the story and it’s as complete as you can make it. Sharing your piece with others at this point can tell you if readers will appreciate the story. You might read it out loud to a writer’s group or class, have a teacher or mentor review it, and get it published in a small literary magazine. On the other hand, reading out loud may reveal cracks in the foundation of the story that you need to fix.

Sign 3: You’re too excited about the story to keep it to yourself.

You’ve finished a piece on a topic that excites you and you’re eager to share it with others. Maybe you’ve labored over a 3000-word essay for weeks and you’re thrilled with how it turned out. Thrilled too at the topic you wrote about because it has a lot of personal meaning to you. It might be time to share your work with others to revel in your accomplishment.

Sign 4: You’re bored with the current work-in-progress.

This might seem counterintuitive, writes Michael Gallant at the BookBaby blog. But when you’re bored with the piece you’ve been working on, it might help to share that piece with someone else. Their excitement at reading your piece can galvanize you into further action, and their joy can be contagious. With their input, you may look at the piece with fresh eyes and see that it isn’t as boring as you first thought.

Sign 5: You sense that someone can benefit from the story you’ve written.

You may write because they want to inspire readers and share your experiences with them. Maybe you write with someone specific in mind. Perhaps that person has gone through some difficult times, overcome hardships. Sharing your work with that person or with others just like them can cheer them up, and motivate them to stay optimistic despite those difficult times.

There is one caveat to these signs. Never let anyone see your first draft. Wait until after your second draft before allowing someone else to see it. The first draft is usually a disorganized mess where you are still working out the structure of the piece. The first draft is usually written just for you, not for outside consumption. Better to wait for a cleaner second or third draft to get an objective opinion of your piece.

Another rule of thumb, writes Patrick Ness at the BookTrust blog, is don’t show you work to friends. They may be overly enthusiastic about your work and may not critique it the way you need in order for you to grow and improve your writing. It may be better to have an agent, editor, fellow writer or mentor review your work because they have the knowledge and experience to know what will work.

As many writers and published authors can tell you, writing is meant to be shared. So don’t hold back. Don’t keep it to yourself. If you’ve written something, no matter how good, bad or indifferent it may be, don’t be shy about sharing your work with others. It will allow you to see your work through a reader’s eyes.

Feedback vs. Criticism: How They Are Different and Why Writers Should Care

~ The Regal Writer ~ 2 Comments
Photo by Ann H on Pexels.com

As writers, getting feedback for our work is a normal part of the development process. Without feedback, we would never know how readers will respond to our story. Without feedback, we won’t understand how we can improve our work. Without feedback, we will never know how to become better writers.

Notice I did not say the word “criticism,” which opens a Pandora’s box of problems. It does nothing more than stop a writer’s progress in its tracks.

Why do we tend to cringe at criticism, but not feedback? Even the sound of both words brings different images to mind and produces kneejerk reactions. Feedback sounds softer, gentler, and kinder. Feedback might remind us of a beloved grade school teacher who provided helpful instructions to complete an assignment. Even when feedback is negative, its intent is to help you improve your effort.

By comparison, criticism sounds harsh, starting with the first hard C in the word. It immediately calls to mind negative experiences, like the day your first love dumped you with a scathing, hateful speech. Criticism seeks to tear you down. There is no intent to be helpful, instructive or kind.

Now look up both words in the dictionary. At first glance, they may seem to be similar, but in fact, they are different. For example, according to Google’s online dictionary:

Feedback is “information about the reactions to a product or a person’s performance of a task, which is used as a basis for improvement.”

Criticism is “the analysis and judgment of the merits and faults of a literary or artistic work; the expression of disapproval of someone or something based on perceived faults or mistakes.”

Take a closer look at the two definitions. What words jumps out at you? For feedback, the prominent words are: information, performance and improvement. For criticism, the words that jump out appear to be more severe: judgment, faults, disapproval, and mistakes.

It’s no wonder that writers (and all of humankind for that matter) cringe at the word criticism. All criticism does is judge others, find mistakes and seek reasons to disapprove something or someone. There’s no apparent room for improvement.

But feedback does encourage improvement. Is it any wonder that we all may be more open to receiving feedback than criticism?

Amber Johnson at the Center for Values-Driven Leadership at Benedictine University succinctly describes the five differences between feedback and criticism in this Forbes article.

Criticism is focused on what we don’t want; feedback is focused on what we do want.
Criticism is focused on the past; feedback is focused on the future.
Criticism is focused on weakness; feedback helps to build up strengths.
Criticism deflates; feedback inspires.
Criticism says, “You are the problem.” Feedback says, “You can make this better.”

How do you spot a critic? Professional ghostwriter Laura Sherman at the Friendly Ghostwriter blog says that critics are usually frustrated artists themselves. “The harsh critics of today are the failed artists of yesterday,” she writes. Pay attention to how you feel after you’ve read their comments. If you feel worthless, develop a terrible case of writer’s block, or are tempted to quit writing, then you’ve been attacked by a nasty critic. Sherman advises writers to disregard their “advice” which is meaningless and harmful.

As you move forward with your writing practice, think about the role of feedback in your writing development. When you seek guidance from others, whether they are your beta readers, your writer’s group or your family and friends, be clear with them. Ask for feedback to help you improve your craft. Anything else might crush your creative spirit.

Also think about how you give feedback to others. Avoid being overly critical and nit-picky. Always look for something positive that they’ve done before presenting negative comments. Then suggest ideas for how to improve it. When someone asks you for feedback, be kind, be helpful and be instructive.

While feedback and criticism might be related, like distant second cousins, they serve different purposes and live on different sides of the tracks. Let feedback be your guide to a better, stronger writing life.


Best Ideas from the Freelancers Union Conference

~ The Regal Writer ~ Leave a comment
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As a follow up to my post last week about virtual conferences, below are some of the best ideas gleaned from the recent Freelancers Union virtual conference. While I’ve heard many of these suggestions in the past, it never hurts to hear them again.

1. Say YES to opportunities. In his keynote speech, activist and suicide survivor Darryl Stinson described how important it is to say yes to opportunities and to life. In one of the best quotes of the conference, Stinson says, “Massive success isn’t dependent on all the tasks you need to do; it’s dependent on the decision you need to make.” That singular decision is whether to say YES to your future. By saying YES, you open yourself up to people and situations that can help you achieve your goals. Saying YES puts you in a positive mindset to embrace opportunities as they come.

2. For better clients, find a niche. If you’re struggling to find quality clients, it might help to focus on a specific industry. Throwing a wider net might attract more clients, but they may not be the type of clients you need to be successful for the long term. There will be haters too – people who don’t understand your business or don’t need your product or service. Not everyone will need your services, and that’s okay. If they aren’t interested, move on. Instead, focus on the clients who do like you and want to do business with you.

3. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance. Freelancers may work solo, but it’s still important to surround yourself with a support team, like mentors, colleagues and other freelancers. Join groups on LinkedIn and Facebook who share your interests, and be willing to give advice as much if not more than you receive. You can learn from each other.

4. Be ready to adapt to changing circumstances. It’s during those times that you can experiment and innovate. Some experiments will work out, while others won’t. Don’t be afraid to fail either. Through failure, you can learn something new about yourself and the creative process. You never know if that experimentation might turn into a viable product or service later.

5. Never start with the ask; focus on building relationships with prospects instead. A good place to prospect for clients is through social media. On LinkedIn, for example, you can check the company page for a list of employees, then search for individuals who have job titles that appear to be the person you want to reach. Next, search the person’s profile page to find out their interests and hobbies, if any. Then when you message them, begin a conversation by mentioning your common interest. Always focus on building relationships with potential clients. Offer to help, give advice, share information, recommend someone for a job, etc. Give, give, give and eventually that giving will be returned to you.

6. Build your personal brand that reflects the real you. Branding expert Diane Diaz defines a brand as “a gut feeling that a person has about a product, service, organization or a person.” When you build your brand, think about how you want to be perceived by potential clients. Then review all your social media channels to see if your outgoing message accurately reflects who you really want others to see. The right message will attract the best individuals and organizations that can help you achieve your goals.

7. Give yourself permission to brag. Diaz also says it’s important to tell others what you have achieved. Most women have been brought up to downplay their accomplishments. But bragging is perfectly okay if it’s done with honesty, Diaz says. “It’s not bragging if you are honest about what you bring to the table.” 

8. Maintain an “I am awesome” file. Collect thank-you notes, press clippings, announcements, memos from bosses and anything else from past employers and clients. Then whenever you feel discouraged, browse through them to remind yourself of what you have already accomplished and that you are appreciated.

9. Practice the art of “Act as if…” This exercise is intended to put your into a more positive frame of mind and erase any feelings of lack. The concept is simple: You act as if you already are the person you want to become, then you will eventually feel that way. If you lack confidence, for example, act as if you are confident. In time, you will begin to feel confident. Act as if you have already achieved the success you want, then you will feel successful. If you act it first, you will eventually become it.

What is the best idea you’ve ever received from a conference?

WordPress users, have you registered for WordPress.com Growth Summit on August 11-12? If you want to grow your blog business, this is a can’t-miss event. (Yes, I will be there too. No, I do not work for WordPress.com, but I thought this was worth passing along in light of my topic today.)

Six Takeaways from a Virtual Conference Weekend

~ The Regal Writer ~ Leave a comment
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Three days. Two virtual conferences. One head spinning with ideas.

That essentially sums up the recent weekend’s activities.

Imagine sitting in front of a laptop screen for three consecutive days attending online workshops, keynote presentations and education sessions. It was wall-to-wall education. By the end of three days, my head was throbbing with so many ideas, and my to-do list became as long as Merlin’s beard.

Virtual meetings have come a long way since the very first virtual set-up by AT&T in 1964. At that time, it was one closed-circuit TV screen connected to another in a different location. After the explosion of the Internet in the early 1990s, it was only a matter of time before the first virtual trade show was held in 1993. 

Then in the late 2000s, virtual conferences became more popular as the recession hit and companies looked for cost-effective ways to hold meetings for large groups of people. Today’s platforms are more sophisticated, allowing people from all over the world to gather in one virtual meeting place to listen to keynote speeches, attend online networking events, and meet one-on-one with clients or entire teams. There are more software and platforms available for online meetings than ever before.

AS the pandemic hit this spring, even more companies jumped on board, converting their in-person trade shows to the online platform, including Spring Fling 2020 which I had been looking forward to attending since the beginning of the year. Would the online presentation water down the conference experience? I answered that question this past weekend.

Below are my takeaways about my experiences with virtual conferences in general. In the near future, I’ll do more specific roundups of the individual conferences I attended hosted by Freelancers Union and Spring Fling 2020 (regional event of the Romance Writers of America).

Takeaway #1: The current pandemic crisis has made technology even more vital to our familial and collegial connections. Without technology tools and event platforms like Zoom, staying in touch with friends, family, colleagues and fellow volunteers would not be possible. Many platforms are fairly easy to use, even for novice users. Still both virtual conferences had their share of tech issues. Some speakers had difficulty staying connected to the platform while others experienced drop outs of sound and/or visuals. Some platforms work better with certain browsers over others. For example, the Accelevents conference worked better with Chrome than other browsers.

Takeaway #2: If you decide to attend a virtual conference, make goals for yourself about what you want to get out of it, just as you would if you were attending it in person. However, some feature may require more effort on your part. For example, if your goal is to meet at least three new people during the event, you might need to make the extra effort to attend the networking sessions since they occur in a separate hub, and most interactions aren’t likely to be by happenstance as they might be if you were there in person.

Takeaway #3: Pace yourself. There are as many sessions and workshops to attend during a virtual conference as there are at in-person events. It’s tempting to visit every one of them. If the experience becomes overwhelming, take a time out. Keep in mind your educational goals. That said, the nice thing about virtual events is you can jump from one session to another quickly without having to get up from your seat and move to another room.

Takeaway #4: Take good notes. There may not be handouts so make sure your notes are crystal clear. Since there are so many sessions, take time to review them a day or two later to refresh your memory. Even better, write one or two summaries of the sessions you attend and post them to a blog – just like I’ve done.

Takeaway #5: Chat rooms can be fun, but they can also be a distraction. It was fun to see the ongoing conversation going on in the chat room that ran alongside the presentation. Even the speakers would get involved in a side chat. It allowed for added interactivity that you might not get in an in-person event. The live chat also allowed participants to post questions, which speakers addressed at the end of the session. Still, it was tempting to get caught up in the commentary and lose track of what speakers were talking about. Other times, it was downright annoying, much like hearing people making snarky remarks about a movie that’s showing in a theater.

Takeaway #6: You can’t replace the energy of a live event. No matter how well planned the conference organizers make the event, it still feels like something is missing from the experience. In-person events seem to have a stronger collaborative energy. You can’t help but start conversations with people around you while you’re waiting for a session to start. You don’t get that with online events – or at least I didn’t. Sure, there is an ongoing chat during the sessions, but it’s more about commenting on what the speaker is presenting. Not sure if any of those chats led to a meaningful connection with a fellow attendee, however.

By the way, if you’re interested in participating in a virtual conference, check out WordPress.com’s Growth Summit event August 11-12, 2020 in the U.S. (No, I do not work for WordPress, but thought it was an interesting and timely item to share considering my topic today.)
 
Bottom line: You get out of a virtual conference what you put into it. I’ve always been interested in the education sessions rather than networking, so that’s where I put most of my effort. But if your goal is expanding your network, there are plenty of people to connect with at these virtual conferences.

With the end of COVID-19 nowhere in sight, virtual conferences will only get more commonplace. It will be interesting to see if they become a permanent fixture in the business world.

Have you ever attended a virtual conference? What was your experience like? Would you attend another one in the future?