Why Join A Writing Group?

Reasons you might not have guessed

Cecil Murphey, (front left) ghostwriter and author of 140 books speaks to The Write Circle Group in Sinclairville, NY. “Cec” is author of Gifted Hands, the Story of Ben Carson, 90 Minutes in Heaven and other bestsellers.

The writer’s life can be lonely. Whether you’re an aspiring or occasional writer,

finding the illusive words to develop your deepest thoughts and ideas can be a challenge. There are those rare occasions when stars align and one gets lost in the “zone,” seemingly unaware of time and space. But more commonly, procrastination is the rule; or, in other words, the spirit is willing, but the attention span weak.

Reason #1: Develop community and your network.

There was help on the way for me (and others) when I found a writing group which met weekly at a nearby library. I learned about it by accident, when I reached out to a friend on Facebook who posted short, funny pieces each week. Are you a writer? I asked. His response: “Well I have fun; I’m part of a group called the Write Circle which meets on Friday mornings at a local library. People come and go; others are dedicated regulars. We have a good time and find inspiration.” (My paraphrase.)

That was over ten years ago. Previously, I worked as a journalist and feature writer. People were always interesting to me and, I loved to write. Whether it was a CEO or a deer processor; it didn’t matter, I wanted to know, what’s their story?  What do they care about? 

So, it was a natural extension that I would start a personal history business in 2014 to help people preserve their life stories in books. As an extrovert, I needed to meet and get the support of other writers. I decided to attend that first meeting, and I’ve never looked back. 

There were doubts. At first, Write Circle didn’t seem to be a good fit for me. I was surrounded by some people who had a master’s in fine arts—some wrote poetry, other novels, or short story authors. Some were retired academics. But many were writing hobbyists. I hung on and the found out that the diversity was actually an asset.

Reason #2 Get informed and objective opinion on your writing. Get free editing and proofreading.

Then came my time to share a piece of writing for “critique” or feedback, which was a selection of memoir.  After hearing both positive feedback and suggestions for improvement, it became easier (and an enjoyable challenge).  I found out that all writers and writing styles share commonalities. Elements of fiction, for instance. have a place in non-fiction; for example, when describing a scene, or the development of a character or theme. 

Reason #3 Accountability

In addition, this group also provides a weekly writing prompt (with much creative latitude) for participants. This makes for great discussion, insights (and may I say, laughter). What I’ve gained has been immeasurable, and the “intangibles” are too many to list, but good friendships, learning, and yes, accountability, are at the top. 

Reason #4: Share knowledge, have fun and gain new experiences

This experience has led to other opportunities for growth. I’ve had a chance to participate in memoir meetings, where contributors share their writing. It’s nothing short of magic for stimulating the memory and shared experiences.

In addition, I’ve become familiar with a guided autobiography approach known as the “James Birren Method.” Classes using this technique are held across the country and I helped a client find one near her home in Florida. She was grateful and later thanked me for connecting her to the group, which helped her on her memoir journey.

Interested in joining a group for connecting and honing your writing skills? Check out your local library for free classes, and online at Eventbrite. For information on the Birren Method of guided autobiography, which uses the method of stimulating autobiographical memories in groups using life themes and priming questions, click https://thebirrencenter.org, or, visit www.reallifelegacies.com for additional resources to help with your life story.