Literary Soulmates

Have you longed to make a meaningful connection with fellow writers, but don't know how to start? Do you dream of a bond based on mutual encouragement and gentle nudging, but are afraid to take the first step? We have all been there. Finding you literary soulmate doesn't have to be difficult. Like all relationships, the first step is to be yourself and - here's the hard part - put yourself out there. No, I am not talking about an ad on craigslist (although that could work). I am talking about as you go through your daily life, talking to people about your plan to start a MasterMind Writer's Group aimed at helping everyone reach their publishing goals faster while having fun doing it. Here are a few places to look for potential groupies:

Friends and Family (they aren't just for loans anymore). You already know that you enjoy spending time with them; why not schedule a coffee once a week devoted to the sharing, brainstorming, goal setting of a structured MasterMind Group?

Library Bulletin Boards. Readers often make the best writers and your library might even have a room you could use once a month to discuss upcoming projects and remind each other of deadline set at the last meeting.

New Media Messages. Put a note on your Facebook or Twitter page (in 140 characters or less of course) that you are looking to start a MasterMind Writer's Group. Geography need not be a barrier to like-minded conversations when free resources such as Skype make it possible for anyone to nudge you toward completion. You can even post your request in the comment section on this site.

In the book Writer's Secret, we provide suggested questions to ask potential literary soulmates before forming a MasterMind linking, but don't worry too much about picking the perfect person. In fact, a diverse group of writing genres and personalities can add perspective to a conversation. A Writer's Group is not set in stone; it is a living, breathing organization that can change as the writers' goals change. If personalities aren't working, then you part ways; no worries. 

There is no perfect size for a group. Two people can effectively keep each other on the straight and narrow just as effectively as a dozen. In the end it is a balance between the intimacy of another person who understands your limitations and a group that brings more resources and ideas to the table. After about eight to ten people, meeting space and sharing time can become problematic, but there are no absolute rules for establishing a quorum. 

A MasterMind Group is also not a full-time job. While members must commit to attending the meetings and sharing their progress, there are no poems or chapters to read. It is not a critique group; it is a support network. 

Now, enough talking about it, get out and start your group. And report back your progress. 

Yours in Writing,

Promptmasters

Jennifer Sander

JT Long