I have two circles of authors I talk to: Online - those folks I communicate with primarily via Facebook, Twitter, Skype, and e-mail, and Offline - people I see in person.
I think it's equally important to have both.
Why?
Because, the first kind, the online folks, are easy to reach out to and ask questions or get advice. I never have to worry if one of my author friends online have my back, because I know they'll be there if I need an ear. It gives me a safe place to vent frustrations, get encouragement, and find knowledge. In return, they know I'm there, too.
But the second kind, the offline authors, are the ones who force me to get out of the house, see and interact with people, and actually use my voice. We swap author war stories, opinions, and advice on all things authorly. These are the ones I know on sight, and these are the ones I hug each and every time I see them.
We schedule get-togethers because we realize the importance of interacting on a larger scale. Oh, and the place we go has amazing coffee. Because all writers need fuel.
I always leave my coffee days with a new burst of energy and tons of ideas on marketing, plots, and other things. There's a spot on my calendar every month with a giant X over top of it. This means I don't schedule anything else on that day. It's my day off to spend with people who are in the same line of work as I am, and those folks I can bounce ideas off of.
I went all the way to Utopia (400 miles) to meet them the first time, but it was worth every minute in the car.
So, I urge you to reach out. Find those people nearby that you can get out of your writing cave with and have some human time.
It matters. You'll have a whole new sense of self afterward. My group of ladies are the best, and I wish you luck in finding a small tribe that means as much to you.
Do you have a nearby tribe of writers? Have you considered looking for them?
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
